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University of Otago: Rankings, Popular Courses, Fees
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Last updated on 10 Feb '26Otago UniversityWhat's new?
- The application deadline for Semester 2 in 2026 at University of Otago is Apr 30, 2026.
About University of Otago
Founded in 1869, the University of Otago is a public research university based in Dunedin, New Zealand. Shiksha considers it one of the best universities in New Zealand. The Uni Otago is divided into 4 academic divisions. These deliver hundreds of courses in fields like Health Sciences, Humanities, Science, and Commerce. 2 of the university's alumni, Maurice Wilkins and Sir John Eccles, both received a Nobel Prize in Medicine. Otago University hosts 21,000 students, including 3,000 international students from more than 100 countries. The Otago University Campuses are based in Dunedin, Auckland, Christchurch, Wellington, and Invercargill.
University of Otago Information
Some interesting facts about Otago University New Zealand are mentioned below.
| Fact | Validation |
|---|---|
| Address | 362 Leith Street, North Dunedin, Dunedin, New Zealand |
| Budget | NZD 892.1 million |
| Total Students | 20,099 |
| Full-time Students | 18,690 |
| Indian Students | 137 |
| Total Staff | 4,013 |
|
Student to Faculty Ratio |
15:1 |
| Sporting Affiliation | Otago University Rugby Football Club (OURFC) and University and Tertiary Sport NZ (UTSNZ) |
University of Otago History
The University began by the ordinance of the Otago Provincial Council and is known to be New Zealand's oldest university. The main campus opened in 1971 with only three professors of English, Mathematics, and Mental Philosophy. During 1878 and 1879, the university moved to a building on the site of the John Wickliffe House, at Princes Street.
Also read: Study Guide to New Zealand
Check out the videos below to know more about studies at Otago University.
Commonly asked questions On Highlights
The minimum IELTS score required for admission to the University of Otago is an overall score of 6.0, with no individual band below 5.5 for undergraduate programs, and an overall score of 6.5, with no individual band below 6.0 for postgraduate programs. However, you can take the EFO admission test even if you don't have proof of your minimal level of English ability. Only those who have been offered a spot at Otago may take the free EFO admission exam. The following are the needed EFO admission exam results:
EFO Minimum for Undergraduates: 55/100
EFO Graduate Requirement 60/100.
The University of Otago has a total of five campuses and 14 residential colleges. The campuses are listed below:
- Dunedin
- Auckland
- Christchurch
- Invercargill
- Wellington
The 14 residential colleges are divided across 4 departments, viz. Business, health sciences, humanities, and sciences. The residential colleges of the University Of Otago are listed below:
- Aquinas College
- Arana College
- Caroline Freeman College
- Carrington College
- Cumberland College
- Hayward College
- Knox College
- St. Margaret’s College
- Salmond College
- Selwyn College
- Studholme College
- Te Rangi Hiroa College
- Toroa College
- University College
It provides numerous accommodation facilities to the international students who study at its various campuses. The university's accommodation is ideal for the newcomers until they get acquainted with the region's lifestyle and environment. The university is located near the campus and other important parts of the city, making it easy for the residing students to access everything.
The neccesary documents required in the visa process for University of Otago, New Zealand include:
- Valid passport: Upon your stay in New Zealand, your passport has to be valid for at least three months.
- Filled-out Application for Student Visa (INZ 1012)
- An offer of admission: A space must be extended to you by a New Zealand institution or university. Typically, the forms are sent upon the receipt of the tuition payments.
- A confirmation letter from your present university stating that you are enrolled in a study abroad programme
- Receipt for health insurance
- You may be required to show Health and Character certificates
- Two passport-sized photographs
- Scores from tests that your college required, such as TOEFL, GRE, or GMAT scores.
University of Otago Ranking 2026
One of the top universities in the New Zealand, University of Otago ranks at #2 nationally in 2026, as per Shiksha Popularity rankings. For 2026, University of Otago stood at #265 in the world rankings. Subject rankings of University of Otago are also provided below:
| University of Otago Course Name | Shiksha Popularity Ranking 2026 (World) | Shiksha Popularity Ranking 2026 (Country) |
|---|---|---|
| MSN | #136 | #3 |
| LL.M. | #145 | #4 |
| M.A. | #186 | #3 |
| Others PG | #151 | #2 |
| MBA/PGDM | #223 | #1 |
| MS | #393 | #3 |
| MIM | #340 | #6 |
By Other Ranking Bodies
Apart from Shiksha Popularity ranking, QS has also ranked the university globally. It ranks University of Otago at #197 in 2026. University of Otago ranking stood at #296 as per US News in 2025 and #351 by THE in 2026, globally.
#265
#2
University of Otago Courses
The University offers a range of over 200 courses across the UG, PG, and PhD levels of higher studies. Finance, Economics, Entrepreneurship, Business, Management, Marketing, Medicine, Pharmacy, Law, and Arts, are just some of the areas in which students can pursue University of Otago Programs. The programs are delivered across the university's 4 academic divisions and schools, listed below.
| University of Otago Academic Divisions and Schools | |
|---|---|
| Division of Health Sciences | Division of Humanities |
| Division of Sciences | Otago Business School (Division of Commerce) |
University of Otago Popular Courses
Listed below are some popular course options for international students to consider at the Otago University.
- MSc in Computer Science
- Bachelor of Health Sciences
- Full-time MBA
- BA in Psychology
University of Otago Online Courses
The Otago University offers several online programs that can be pursued in a very short time and at a student's own pace. Some popular ones include:
- Creative Marketing for Behaviour Change
- Sustainability and the English Language
Also read: Study in New Zealand: Colleges, Eligibility & Scholarships
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University of Otago Admission 2026
Students interested in Otago University admissions would need to submit an online application. The University has somewhat competitive admissions, and international students are encouraged to apply a few weeks in advance of the upcoming deadlines. The University of Otago Admission Process is simple and can be completed in a few quick steps.
University of Otago Application Deadlines 2026
Mentioned below are the upcoming deadlines for international students at Otago University.
| Application Type | Application Deadline |
|---|---|
| Semester 2 - Most UG Courses | Apr 30, 2026 |
| Dental or Pharmacy Courses - UG | Aug 13, 2026 |
| PG Courses | Vary by Program |
University of Otago Eligibility Criteria for International Students
The course-specific requirements can vary significantly. However, some conditions are to be satisfied by all students interested in higher studies at Otago University. This includes submtting the list of documents mentioned below.
| Condition | Required |
|---|---|
| Documents |
|
| English Test Scores |
|
University of Otago Admission Requirements for International Students Master's
A bachelor's degree from an Indian college or university. Additional requirements include an up-to-date CV, academic records from past study, an indication of the program one is interested in. Students interested in a PhD are encouraged to submit a research proposal.
University of Otago Entry Requirements for International Students UG
Class 12th from AISSC, ISC, or Karnataka, Maharashtra, or West Bengal State Boards, with an overall average of 75%, and a minimum of 60% in English. For all other state boards, an overall average of 80%, with a minimum of 65% in the English subject is required. Students can also submit additional qualifications like the International Baccalaureate.
- Application fees :No Fees
- Type of deadline :Depends on course
Otago UniversityUniversity of Otago Scholarships for Indian Students
The University of Otago offers a range of scholarships for international students at the UG and PG levels of study. These scholarships cover a large portion of a student's cost of studies. Most financial aids offered by the university are given to students based on merit. Mentioned below are some popular University of Otago Scholarships for International students to apply to.
| Scholarship Name | Target Level | Value / Benefit | Eligibility / Highlights |
|---|---|---|---|
| New Otago Scholarships (India outreach) | Undergraduate | Ranges from NZD 15,000 (INR 8.2 L) to NZD 45,000 (INR 24.5 L), including first-year residential college fee | Aimed at top academic achievers as part of the new India-targeted scholarship rollout |
| Undergraduate Entrance Scholarships (Ongoing) | Undergraduate | NZD 10,000 (INR 5.45 L) to NZD 45,000 (INR 24.5 L) | For domestic and onshore international students, applies to multiple scholarships (V-C, Leaders of Tomorrow, etc.) |
| Global Scholarship | Undergraduate (certain regions) | NZD 15,000 (INR 8.2 L) credit towards tuition (one-year); semester 2 starters get split payments | For students from select countries including India; it is paid as tuition credit and cannot be deferred |
| Scholarship Name / Initiative | Level | Award Value | Includes |
| University of Otago Undergraduate Scholarship | Undergraduate | NZD 15,000 – NZD 45,000 (~?7.8 – 23.4 L) | Tuition + first-year accommodation |
| Otago Experience Student Outreach | Application Support | N/A | Admission and scholarship guidance |
Source: University of Otago Official Website
Conversion used: NZD 1 - INR 54.49
2 yearsOtago UniversityStudents Ratings & Reviews
3 Verified Reviews- 33% students never faced discrimination in this university
University of Otago Graduate Outcomes
The University of Otago graduates are working across some of the best companies in industries like Business Development, Healthcare Services, Education, Operations, and Research, after the latest round of University of Otago Placements. The Career Development Centre provides students with all the support they need related to their careers.
University of Otago Placement Rate
95.6% of the Class of 2024 graduates were able to find jobs, according to the latest annual report published by the university. Mentioned below are the top industries they found jobs in.
| Industry | Percentage of Graduates Employed |
|---|---|
| Business Development | 11.54% |
| Healthcare Services | 9.7% |
| Education | 8.1% |
| Operations | 7.7% |
| Research | 5.8% |
ROI After Studies at the Otago University
The university has not officially released the average salary earned by its graduates. However, according to Payscale, the average salary earned by graduates in Dunedin is NZD 71,000 or INR 38.65 Lakhs.
1 NZD = INR 54.44
Commonly asked questions On Placements
The University of Otago placement rate is 95%, and the graduates were employed within six months of graduation. University of Otago graduates are working in leading sectors such as Sales, Media and Communication, Marketing, Human Resources, Finance, Entrepreneurship, etc. Some popular companies that hire Otago Uni graduates are mentioned below.
- ANZ
- Deloitte
- Fonterra
- University of Canterbury
- Victoria University of Wellington
- ASB Bank
- EY
The University of Otago placement rate stands at 95%, and the graduates are employed within 6 months of graduation. According to the student reviews on Shiksha, the University of Otago graduates can earn from NZD 80,000 – NZD 87,000 (INR 40.98 LPA – INR 44.57 LPA), per year. According to University of Otago reviews posted by students on Shiksha, the university has been rated 4.5 stars for the quality of its faculty. The students rated the University of Otago for placement is as follows:
Parameters | Rating (out of 5) |
|---|---|
Internships | 3.0 |
Part Time Work | 4.5 |
Post Study Jobs | 3.5 |
Conversion used above NZD 1 - INR 51.66
University of Otago Fees for International Students
The Otago University tuition fees for most courses are between NZD 35,000 and NZD 55,000 or INR 19 Lakhs and INR 30 Lakhs. Students interested in an MBA have to pay the University of Otago MBA fees are NZD 72,612 or INR 39.54 Lakhs for 15 months. Students should also budget for the cost of living in New Zealand.
University of Otago Cost of Attendance
Students can refer the sample budget mentioned below and plan their funds accordingly for studies at Otago University.
| Component | Cost in NZD for 40 Weeks | Cost in INR for 40 Weeks |
|---|---|---|
| Rent | NZD 19,988 | INR 10.88 L |
| Activity Fee | NZD 949 | INR 51.4 K |
| Food and Utiliities | Included in fees | - |
| Personal Expenses | NZD 3,200 | INR 1.75 L |
| Entertainment | NZD 2,200 | INR 1.2 L |
| Medical and Travel Insurance | NZD 855 | INR 46.5 K |
| Total | NZD 27,192 | INR 14.8 L |
Source: University of Otago
1 NZD = INR 54.47
| Courses | 1st Year Tuition Fees | Duration & Eligibility |
|---|---|---|
MS(34 courses) | INR 18 L - 26 LGet Fee Details | Duration: 1 year-2 years Exam Accepted: IELTS: 6.5 & Above, TOEFL: 90 - 95, PTE: 58 - 64, Duolingo: 120 & Above |
B.Sc.(31 courses) | INR 14 L - 24 LGet Fee Details | Duration: 3 years Exam Accepted: IELTS: 6 & Above, TOEFL: 80 & Above, PTE: 50 - 58, Duolingo: 105 & Above |
MBA/PGDM(5 courses) | INR 28 L - 39 LGet Fee Details | Duration: 12-15 months Exam Accepted: IELTS: 6.5 & Above, TOEFL: 90 & Above, PTE: 58 & Above, Duolingo: 120 & Above, GMAT: 550 & Above |
M.A.(19 courses) | INR 21 L - 29 LGet Fee Details | Duration: 12 months-2 years Exam Accepted: IELTS: 6.5 - 7, TOEFL: 90 - 95, PTE: 58 & Above, Duolingo: 120 & Above |
MASc(12 courses) | INR 30 L - 35 LGet Fee Details | Duration: 12 months-1 year Exam Accepted: IELTS: 6.5 & Above, TOEFL: 90 & Above, PTE: 58 & Above, Duolingo: 120 & Above |
MIM(4 courses) | INR 28 L - 33 LGet Fee Details | Duration: 12 months-1 year Exam Accepted: IELTS: 6.5 & Above, TOEFL: 90 & Above, PTE: 58 & Above, Duolingo: 120 & Above |
BBA(3 courses) | INR 17 L - 20 LGet Fee Details | Duration: 3 years Exam Accepted: IELTS: 6 & Above, TOEFL, PTE, Duolingo |
B.E. / B.Tech(6 courses) | INR 18 L - 23 LGet Fee Details | Duration: 3 years Exam Accepted: IELTS: 6 & Above, TOEFL: 80 & Above, PTE: 50 - 58, Duolingo: 105 & Above |
B.A.(22 courses) | INR 17 L - 21 LGet Fee Details | Duration: 3 years Exam Accepted: IELTS: 6 & Above, TOEFL: 80 & Above, PTE: 50 & Above, Duolingo: 105 & Above |
B.Com(2 courses) | INR 16 LGet Fee Details | Duration: 3 years Exam Accepted: IELTS: 6 & Above, TOEFL: 80 & Above, PTE: 58 & Above, Duolingo |
University of Otago Notable Alumni
The university has produced many prominent individuals and personalities over the course of its history. This includes New Zealand politicians like Sir Simon Williams, Psychiatrists like Mason Durie, food journalist Alison Holst, among others. Mentioned below is some more on them and others who are part of the University of Otago Notable Alumni network.
| Name | Known For | Alumnus |
|---|---|---|
| Mason Durie |
|
|
| Alison Holst |
|
|
| Kamisese Mara |
|
|
| Murray Brennan |
|
 |
College comparison
Compare Otago University with other similar colleges
| College | 1st Year Tuition Fees | Ranking |
|---|---|---|
| INR 18.43 L - 26.01 L | #197 QS, 2026 | |
| INR 18.21 L - 34.19 L | #410 QS, 2026 | |
| INR 19.78 L - 43.52 L | #230 QS, 2026 | |
| INR 19.14 L - 36.46 L | #281 QS, 2026 | |
| INR 23.06 L - 29.44 L | #65 QS, 2026 | |
| INR 8.2 L - 84.19 L | #301 US News, 2026 |
CompareOtago UniversityStudying in New Zealand
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Otago University
Student Forum
Anything you would want to ask experts?Answered 7 months ago
The University of Otago is among the top choices of international students for pursuing higher education in New Zealand. Otago University offers a large variety of scholarship for its Indian students. The University of Otago scholarships attracts students from all over the world. Some top scholarshi
P
Contributor-Level 10
Answered 7 months ago
International students are required to meet certain admission requirements to study an MBA at the University of Otago. This is a two-year program, and below are its eligibility requirements:
- International applicants must have an undergraduate degree with an acceptable level of management experience
L
Contributor-Level 9
Answered 7 months ago
The Otago MBA is ranked the best in New Zealand, and it is internationally accredited by EQUIS and AACSB, which are two of the most reputed accreditations in the world, and very universities have both of these. Below are the key features of the Otago MBA:
- It is a two-phase full-time programme starti
P
Contributor-Level 9
Answered 7 months ago
Like all the Otago University MS programs, the MS in Toxicology also includes coursework and research preparation, while the second year focuses on thesis research. This programme is for studying the harmful effects of drugs, industrial chemicals, etc. The coursework includes papers such as Master's
D
Contributor-Level 9
Answered 9 months ago
The University of Otago is highly regarded for offering the highest placement rates across the nation. University of Otago placement rate stands at is 95%, and the graduates were employed within 6 months of graduation. This figure states that out of 100 students, around 95 students secured employmen
I
Contributor-Level 10
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Otago University
University of Otago
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William James Building
Adams BuildingOtago UniversityLocation
| University City | Dunedin, Other - New Zealand, New Zealand |
| Size of city | Medium |
| Population of City | 1,28,800 |
Otago UniversityContact Information
362 Leith Street, North Dunedin, Dunedin 9016, New Zealand
Dunedin ( Other - New Zealand)
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