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University of Otago : Fees, Rankings, Courses, Reviews
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Last updated on 10 Sep '25Otago UniversityWhat's new?
- The application deadline for Semester 1 in 2026 at University of Otago is Nov 15, 2025.
About University of Otago
University of Otago was first founded as a public research collegiate university in 1869 under the act of the Otago Provincial Council. According to various sources, University of Otago has an overall acceptance rate of around 65% making it somewhat selective for admissions.The university has more than 19,000 full-time students on campus including over 1,000 international students coming from different countries in the world.
According to Shiksha Popularity Rankings, the University of Otago has an overall ranking of #248 in world and #2 in New Zealand. Currently, the university has been divided into four academic departments; Otago Business School, Division of Health Sciences, Division of Humanities, and Division of Sciences. Otago University is also known to be ranked in the top 1% of the universities in the world.
What to study in New Zealand? Check the video listed below:
University of Otago Things To Know
Some of the important things to know about University of Otago are given as follows:
| Parameters | Statistics |
|---|---|
|
Establishment |
1869 |
|
Location |
Dunedin, New Zealand |
|
Shiksha Popularity Rankings |
#248 in World and #2 in New Zealand |
|
University Type |
Public |
|
University Ratings on Shiksha (Out of 5) |
4.5 |
|
Acceptance Rate |
Around 65% |
|
Placement Rate |
96% |
|
Average Salary |
INR 45.15 LPA |
|
UG Annual Fee |
INR 13.37 L - 21.72 L |
|
PG Annual Fee |
INR 17.52 L - 57.17 L |
|
Popular Streams |
Finance | Business | Economics |
University of Otago History
The University of Otago was founded in 1869 by the ordinance of the Otago Provincial Council and is known to be New Zealand's oldest university. The university campus first opened in 1971 with only three professors in English Language, Mathematics and Mental Philosophy. During 1878 and 1879, the university was moved to a building on the site of the John Wickliffe House located at Princes Street.
Between the years 1907 and 1947, the School of Dentistry, School of Home Sciences and the School of Physical Education was established on the university campus. By the year 1961, the University of New Zealand was disestablished and University of Otago was able to confer degrees by the University of Otago Amendment Act 1961. The Dunedin College of Education was merged with the university on Jan 1, 2007 and added another campus located in Invercargill.
Also read: Study Guide to New Zealand
Check out the below videos of University of Otago for more Information:
University of Otago Ranking 2026
University of Otago secured its place in the year 2025 among the top universities in the world with #214 ranking according to the QS. This ranking has seen a declined trend when compared to its past year rank of #206 in 2024.
On the other hand, Shiksha Polpularity Ranking ranked the university at #2 position and THE (Times Higher Education) ranked it at #301 in 2024 at University Ranking.
The University of Otago courses have also secured ranks #5, #3, #1 for its MIM, MS, MBA/PGDM courses, respectively.
#254
#2
Commonly asked questions On Rankings
The University of Otago is ranked in the top 1% of universities in the world, and has the highest-possible rating of 5 Stars Plus in the QS global university performance ratings. The university is ranked #247 in Best Global Universities by US News, #206 in QS World University Rankings 2024, #301-350th in World University Rankings 2024 by Times Higher Education, and #351 in the Center for World University Rankings.
University of Otago Programs
The University of Otago offers a broad spectrum of graduate-level, Ph.D., and postgraduate-level courses in several fields of education like Finance, Economics, Entrepreneurship, Business, Management, Marketing, Medicine, Pharmacy, Law, Arts, Social sciences, Chemistry, Physics, Mathematics, Zoology, Botany, and Computer science. The university houses more than 19,000 students and over 4,000 staff members.
Also read: Study in New Zealand: Colleges, Eligibility & Scholarships
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University of Otago Admissions 2026
The University of Otago offers admissions during the Semester 1 and 2 for international students.
The admission deadlines for international applicants are given as follows:
| Intake | Deadline/Date |
|---|---|
| Semester 1, 2026 | Nov 15, 2025 |
| Semester 2, 2026 | Apr, 2026 (Tentative) |
University of Otago Acceptance Rate
According to various sources, University of Otago has an overall acceptance rate of around 65% making it somewhat selective for international student admissions.
University of Otago Application Fee
University of Otago does not charge any application fees for international student applicants.
University of Otago Eligibility
The eligibility requirements for international students are given as follows:
- Overall average of a minimum of 75% In CBSE or CISCE
- Proof of English Language Proficiency
- Academic Mark sheets and Transcripts
- Copy of Passport
Also read: IELTS score for New Zealand Universities
- Application fees :No Fees
- Type of deadline :Depends on course
Commonly asked questions On Admissions
Yes, you can get admission to the University of Otago with an IELTS score of 6.5 and 5.5 in one module. The University of Otago's English language requirements for the IELTS (Academic module) for postgraduate programs are an overall score of 6.5, with no individual band below 6.0. The University of Otago accepts several alternative English language proficiency tests in addition to IELTS. These include TOEFL, PTE, CPE (Cambridge English Proficiency), and CAE (Cambridge Advanced English).
Otago UniversityUniversity of Otago Scholarships 2026 for Indian Students
The University of Otago offers a range of scholarships for international students at the UG and PG levels. Some of the international scholarships are given as follows:
- Vice Chancellor Scholarships for International Students
- University of Otago Entrance Scholarships
-
Vice-Chancellor's International Postgraduate Scholarships
-
University of Otago International Master's Research Scholarship
-
University of Otago Coursework Master's Scholarship
-
New Zealand Excellence Awards (India) 2025
| Scholarship Name | Target Level | Value / Benefit | Eligibility / Highlights |
|---|---|---|---|
| New Otago Scholarships (2025 India outreach) | Undergraduate | Ranges from NZD 15,000 (INR 7.77 L) (undergrad) to NZD 45,000 (INR 23.33 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 5.18 L) to - NZD 45,000 (INR 23.33 L) | For domestic and onshore international students, applies to multiple scholarships (V-C, Leaders of Tomorrow, etc.) |
| Global Scholarship (?t?kou Whakaihu Waka) | Undergraduate (certain regions) | NZD 15,000 (INR 7.77 L) credit towards tuition (one-year); semester 2 starters get splitted payments | For students from select countries including India; paid as tuition credit; 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 51.85
Commonly asked questions On Scholarships
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 scholarships offered by Otago University are listed below:
| Scholarship Name | Target Level | Value / Benefit | Eligibility / Highlights |
|---|---|---|---|
| New Otago Scholarships (2025 India outreach) | Undergraduate | Ranges from NZD 15,000 (INR 7.77 L) (undergrad) to NZD 45,000 (INR 23.33 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 5.18 L) to - NZD 45,000 (INR 23.33 L) | For domestic and onshore international students, applies to multiple scholarships (V-C, Leaders of Tomorrow, etc.) |
| Global Scholarship (? t? kou Whakaihu Waka) | Undergraduate (certain regions) | NZD 15,000 (INR 7.77 L) credit towards tuition (one-year); semester 2 starters get splitted payments | For students from select countries including India; paid as tuition credit; cannot be deferred |
2 yearsOtago UniversityStudents Ratings & Reviews
2 Verified Reviews- 33% students never faced discrimination in this university
University of Otago Placements
The University of Otago is highly regarded for offering high placement rate in the New Zealand. Otago University placement rate attracts international students the most. The University of Otago placement rate stands at 95%, and the graduates are employed within 6 months of graduation. This figure states that out of every 100 students, around 95 students secured employment. Otago graduates are constantly in high demand worldwide.
Alumni Statistics: Sectors Placed
The alumni placement highlights at University of Otago are given as follows:
- Some of the top alumni organizations at University of Otago include ANZ, Deloitte, Fonterra, EY, KPMG New Zealand, Westpac New Zealand, Health New Zealand, etc.
- A few of the top alumni industries at University of Otago include Business Development, Community and Social Services, Operations, Sales, Education, Information Technology, Research, etc.
- The top alumni course preferences at University of Otago are Marketing, Psychology, Economics, Accounting and Social Services, Business Administration and Management, Finance, etc.
ROI After Education from Otago University
According to unofficial scources, the average salary of University of Otago graduates is NZD 87,400 (INR 44.79 LPA), per year.
Top Employers
Some of the top employers at University of Otago are listed below:
- University of Otago
- Health New Zealand | Te Whatu Ora
- University of Auckland
- ANZ
- Deloitte
- Fonterra
- University of Canterbury
- Victoria University of Wellington
- ASB Bank
- EY
- Westpac New Zealand
- Air New Zealand
- University of Melbourne
- New Zealand Rugby
- Microsoft
Also read: Part-Time Jobs in New Zealand for International Students
Commonly asked questions On Placements
The University of Otago is highly regarded for offering the highest placement rates in the New Zealand. Otago University placement rate attracts international students the most. University of Otago placement rate stands at 95%, and the graduates were employed within six months of graduation. This figure states that out of every 100 students, around 95 students secured employment. The university graduates are highly skilled Strategic Planning, Team Leadership, Strategy, Marketing, Business Strategy, Marketing Strategy, Business Development, etc. The university graduates are in high demand all over the world. University of Otago graduates work in leading sectors such as Business Development, Healthcare Services, Operations, Education, Research, Sales, Finance, Information Technology, and more. Furthermore, some of the top recruiters at Otago University are listed below:
- University of Otago
- Health New Zealand | Te Whatu Ora
- University of Auckland
- ANZ
- Deloitte
- Fonterra
- University of Canterbury
- Victoria University of Wellington
- ASB Bank
- EY
- Westpac New Zealand
- Air New Zealand
- University of Melbourne
- New Zealand Rugby
- Microsoft
University of Otago Fees
The University of Otago does not charge an application fee for international students. The annual tuition fees for undergraduate students ranges between INR 13.69 Lakhs and INR 21.73 Lakhs and for postgraduate students it ranges between INR 17.94 Lakhs and INR 58.53 Lakhs. The standard living costs for international students at University of Otago are given as follows:
| Category | Residential College | Shared Flat | Studio Room |
|---|---|---|---|
| Accommodation Fee | NZD 18,696 | NA | NA |
| Average rent (52 weeks) | NA | NZD 10,400 | NZD 13,000 |
| Food (40 weeks) | NA | NZD 4,200 | NZD 4,200 |
| Gas/electricity, internet (52 weeks) | NA | NZD 2,000 | NA |
| Total for accommodation | NZD 18,696 | NZD 16,600 | NZD 17,200 |
| Personal costs (40 weeks) | NZD 3,200 | NZD 3,200 | NZD 3,200 |
| Entertainment (40 weeks) | NZD 2,200 | NZD 2,200 | NZD 2,200 |
| Medical and travel insurance | NZD 750 | NZD 750 | NZD 750 |
| Total | NZD 24,856 | NZD 22,750 | NZD 23,350 |
| Courses | 1st Year Tuition Fees | Duration & Eligibility |
|---|---|---|
MS(34 courses) | INR 18 L - 25 LGet Fee Details | Duration: 1 year-2 years Exam Accepted: IELTS: 6.5 & Above, PTE: 58 - 64, Duolingo: 120 & Above, TOEFL: 90 - 95 |
MBA/PGDM(5 courses) | INR 28 L - 38 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 |
MIM(4 courses) | INR 28 L - 32 LGet Fee Details | Duration: 12 months-1 year Exam Accepted: IELTS: 6.5 & Above, TOEFL: 90 & Above, PTE: 58 & Above, Duolingo: 120 & Above |
B.Sc.(31 courses) | INR 14 L - 23 LGet Fee Details | Duration: 3 years Exam Accepted: IELTS: 6 & Above, PTE: 50 - 58, Duolingo: 105 & Above, TOEFL: 80 & Above |
MASc(11 courses) | INR 30 L - 31 LGet Fee Details | Duration: 12 months-1 year Exam Accepted: IELTS: 6.5 & Above, PTE, Duolingo |
B.E. / B.Tech(6 courses) | INR 17 L - 22 LGet Fee Details | Duration: 3 years Exam Accepted: IELTS: 6 & Above, PTE: 50 - 58, Duolingo: 105 & Above, TOEFL: 80 & Above |
M.A.(19 courses) | INR 21 L - 28 LGet Fee Details | Duration: 12 months-2 years Exam Accepted: IELTS: 6.5 - 7, PTE: 58 & Above, Duolingo: 120 & Above, TOEFL: 90 - 95 |
BDS(1 course) | INR 21 LGet Fee Details | Duration: 5 years Exam Accepted: IELTS: 6 & Above, TOEFL: 80 & Above, PTE: 50 & Above, Duolingo: 105 & Above |
BBA(3 courses) | INR 17 L - 20 LGet Fee Details | Duration: 3 years Exam Accepted: IELTS: 6 & Above, PTE, Duolingo |
M.Sc.(1 course) | INR 25 LGet Fee Details | Duration: 2 years Exam Accepted: IELTS: 6.5 & Above, TOEFL: 90 & Above, PTE: 58 & Above, Duolingo: 120 & Above |
Commonly asked questions On Fees and Eligibility
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 first year tuition fees for international students at University of Otago are given as follows:
| Courses | 1st Year Tuition Fees |
|---|---|
MS (35 courses) | INR 17 L - INR 21 L |
BSc (31 courses) | INR 13 L - INR 20 L |
MA (18 courses) | INR 20 L - INR 24 L |
MBBS (1 course) | INR 19 L |
MBA/PGDM (1 course) | INR 31 L |
BE/BTech (5 courses) | INR 16 L - INR 19 L |
BA (23 courses) | INR 16 L - INR 18 L |
MIM (3 courses) | INR 23 L - INR 26 L |
MASc (11 courses) | INR 28 L - INR 29 L |
MSN (1 course) | INR 21 L |
University of Otago Notable Alumni
The university has an existing network of more than 100,000 alumni across 142 countries. Some of the popular alumni members at the university are given as follows:
| Name | Profession | Photograph |
|---|---|---|
| Sir Simon William English | New Zealand former National Party politician |  |
| James Whitinui Joseph | New Zealand-born Japanese former rugby union player |  |
| Juliet Marillier | New Zealand-born writer |  |
| Nicola Laura Kaye | New Zealand Politician |  |
| John Allan Clinton Hattie | New Zealand education academic |  |
| Grant Murray Robertson | New Zealand Politician |  |
Otago University vs Auckland vs Waikato
The University of Otago, University of Auckland, and University of Waikato are some of the most prominent universities in the New Zealand. Each university offers a large variety of programs, top-notch infrastructure, welcoming environment, and more. Every student has its own needs and requirements when choosing a university. Also, each university has its advantages and disadvantages. When considering a university, students must check crucial factors such as fees, location, programs, average salary, and more.
According to Shiksha Popularity Rankings, the University of Otago has an overall ranking of #248 in world, University of Auckland ranks at #128 in world, and University of Waikato at #348 in world. In terms of Shiksha Popularity Rankings, the University of Auckland has an upper hand. Check the comparison listed below between University of Otago, Auckland University, and University of Waikato. The below comparison will surely assist international students in gaining more clarity on these universities:
|
Parameters |
University of Otago |
University of Auckland |
University of Waikato |
|---|---|---|---|
|
Establishment |
1869 |
1883 |
1964 |
|
Location |
Dunedin, New Zealand |
Auckland, New Zealand |
Hamilton, New Zealand |
|
Shiksha Popularity Rankings |
#248 in World |
#128 in World |
#348 in World |
|
University Type |
Public |
Public |
Public |
|
University Ratings on Shiksha (Out of 5) |
4.5 |
3.8 |
4.5 |
|
Acceptance Rate |
Around 65% |
Around 73% |
Around 70% - 72% |
|
Placement Rate |
96% |
97% |
95% |
|
Average Salary |
INR 45.15 LPA |
INR 36.16 LPA |
INR 34.61 LPA |
|
QS Rankings 2025 |
#214 |
#65 |
#235 |
|
UG Annual Fee |
INR 13.37 L - 21.72 L |
INR 17.87 L - 43.89 L |
INR 8.96 L - 22.02 L |
|
PG Annual Fee |
INR 17.52 L - 57.17 L |
INR 9.33 L - 30.24 L |
INR 8.79 L - 31.74 L |
|
Popular Streams |
Finance | Business | Economics |
Accounting | Law | Economics |
Arts | Social Sciences | Education |
Compare Otago University with other similar colleges
| College | 1st Year Tuition Fees | Ranking |
|---|---|---|
| INR 18 L - 25.4 L | #197 QS, 2026 | |
| INR 17.91 L - 33.62 L | #410 QS, 2026 | |
| INR 18.81 L - 27.62 L | #230 QS, 2026 | |
| INR 17.88 L - 32.6 L | #281 QS, 2026 | |
| INR 22.52 L - 27.51 L | #65 QS, 2026 | |
| INR 20.41 L - 24.63 L | #301 THE, 2025 |
CompareOtago UniversityStudying in New Zealand
Key Facts About New Zealand
Insights on education, demographics & weather.
University of Otago Campus Life
The main campus of University of Otago located at Dunedin is known to be one of the most extensive campuses in the world. It includes a mixture of historic and state-of-the-art and purpose-built buildings, green spaces and the Leith river in the middle of the campus. Other than the Dunedin main campus, University of Otago has other campuses in locations such as Auckland, Wellington, Christchurch and Invercargill.
Campus Location
University of Otago is located on the Southeast Coast of the South Island and is known to be an urban hub for the students.
University of Otago FAQs
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.
Otago University
Student Forum
Anything you would want to ask experts?Answered 2 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 8
Answered 2 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 8
Answered 3 months ago
The University of Otago is highly regarded for offering the highest placement rates in the Australia. Otago University placement rate attracts international students the most. Deakin University placement rate is 93%, for undergraduate students. This figure states that out of 100 students, around 93
R
Contributor-Level 10
Answered 5 months ago
Yes, there are admission deadlines at the University of Otago as there are two main intakes in a year at this university.
International students can apply before these intakes which are one in February (Semester 1) and the other one in July (Semester 2). For programs like PhD (Thesis) level, the app
M
Contributor-Level 8
Answered 5 months ago
Internataional students are required to meet certain admission requirements by the University of Otago.
These admission requirements for the University of Otago courses are mentioned below:
Undergraduate (UG) Admissions:
- International students must have completed 12 years of schooling with a minimal o
L
Contributor-Level 8
About the author
Otago University
University of Otago
Aerial View
Aerial View
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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