University of Otago: Admissions 2024, Rankings & Acceptance Rate
Are you aware of New Zealand's world-class education? Are you thinking about starting your education and career in New Zealand? Then look no further, as you can choose the University of Otago! Picture this: a place where every class is a doorway to discovery and every day brings you closer to your dreams. Sounds cool, right? Well, it's a journey to the heart of knowledge, wrapped in mystery and excitement. Are you ready to explore the unknown and shape your future in 2024? Let's start the adventure at Otago!
Highlights of Otago University
- Established: 1869, New Zealand's first university.
- Rankings: Consistently ranked in the top 1% of universities worldwide.
- Courses Offered: Over 195 undergraduate and postgraduate programs across various disciplines.
- Research Excellence: Ranked in the top 100 for 15 subjects globally (QS World University Rankings by Subject).
- Student Population: Approximately 21,000 students, with over 2,800 international students from 100+ countries.
- Clubs and Societies: More than 150, catering to a wide range of interests and activities.
- Location: Dunedin, offering a unique combination of cultural richness and natural beauty.
- Support Services: Extensive, including academic support, health and wellness services, and career advice.
- Location: Dunedin, offering a unique combination of cultural richness and natural beauty.
- Support Services: Extensive, including academic support, health and wellness services, and career advice.
University of Otago Admissions Process
Afraid of its admission process? Don't worry! University of Otago always ensures a stress-free environment for its students. So its admission also follows the same.
Let's get a quick overview of the admission process.
- Choose Your Program: Start by selecting the course or program you're interested in from Otago's wide range of offerings.
- Check Requirements: Each program has specific entry requirements. Ensure you meet the academic, language proficiency, and any additional criteria.
- Submit Your Application: Apply online through the University of Otago's application portal. You'll need to provide personal details, academic records, and any other required documentation.
- Application Review: After submission, your application will be reviewed by the admissions team. This process can take several weeks, during which they may contact you for additional information.
- Receive Your Offer: If successful, you'll receive an offer of admission. This can be a conditional offer (requiring you to meet certain conditions) or an unconditional offer.
- Accept Your Offer: To secure your place, accept the offer by the given deadline and fulfil any conditions if applicable.
- Enrol and Register: Once your offer is accepted and conditions are met, you'll be guided through the enrollment and course registration process.
- Prepare for Arrival: International students will need to apply for a student visa and make travel and accommodation arrangements.
Looks too simple, right? Of course, it is! Let's move into detail.
University of Otago Acceptance Rate
From our survey, we tabulated the acceptance rate and intake rate of Otago for your reference.
International students |
2022 |
2021 |
2020 |
2019 |
2018 |
Undergraduate |
733 |
790 |
1,256 |
1,833 |
1,819 |
Postgraduate |
747 |
900 |
1,099 |
1,139 |
1,096 |
Total |
1,480 |
1,690 |
2,355 |
2,972 |
2,915 |
With a 59% acceptance rate at the University of Otago, your dreams of studying at this renowned university are closer than you think! This means more than half of those who apply get the chance to join the Otago family. So, why not you? Gear up, put your best foot forward, and get ready to start on an exciting academic adventure. Your place among Otago's inspiring community is waiting – let's go for it!
University of Otago Rankings 2024
Here's a table summarising the University of Otago's rankings in various fields for 2024:
Field of study |
NZ rank |
World rank |
Overall |
2nd |
206th |
Liberal Arts and social science |
2nd |
204th |
Chemistry |
2nd |
355th |
Occupational Safety and Health |
1st |
14th |
Epidemiology |
2nd |
77th |
Orthodontics |
1st |
94th |
These rankings showcase the University of Otago's excellence and leadership in both New Zealand and the global academic community across a variety of disciplines
Do you know: 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.
University of Otago UG Courses
You know what? The University of Otago has A-Z subjects. Can't believe it right? But it's true, it has! Let's explore some of them.
Faculty |
Course Name |
Duration |
Description |
Humanities |
Bachelor of Arts (BA) |
3 years |
Provides a broad education in the humanities, social sciences, and languages, offering flexibility and diverse major options. |
Sciences |
Bachelor of Science (BSc) |
3 years |
Covers a wide range of scientific disciplines, including Biology, Chemistry, Physics, and Geology, emphasising research and practical skills. |
Law |
Bachelor of Laws (LLB) |
4 years |
Prepares students for a career in law, focusing on legal theory, practice, and ethics. |
Dentistry |
Bachelor of Dental Surgery (BDS) |
5 years |
A professional degree focusing on dental science, clinical skills, and patient care, leading to a career in dentistry. |
Pharmacy |
Bachelor of Pharmacy (BPharm) |
4 years |
Prepares students for a career in pharmacy, with an emphasis on medication management, patient care, and health promotion. |
Physical Education |
Bachelor of Physical Education (BPhEd) |
3 years |
Focuses on the study of physical activity and its impact on health, society, and quality of life. |
University of Otago PG Courses
Faculty |
Course Name |
Duration |
Description |
Humanities |
Master of Arts (MA) |
1-2 years (full-time) |
Offers advanced study in a wide range of disciplines in the arts and humanities, emphasising research and critical thinking. |
Sciences |
Master of Science (MSc) |
2 years (full-time) |
Provides in-depth knowledge and research experience in a specific scientific field, such as Biology, Chemistry, or Physics. |
Law |
Master of Laws (LLM) |
1 year (full-time) |
Advanced legal study offering a range of specialisations, including international law and environmental law. |
Medicine |
Doctor of Medicine (MD) |
3 years (full-time) |
A research-based doctoral degree for medical graduates looking to pursue advanced clinical research. |
Dentistry |
Master of Community Dentistry (MComDent) |
1-3 years (full-time) |
Focuses on improving oral health at the community level, including epidemiology and health promotion. |
University of Otago Scholarships
Dreaming of Otago? Scholarships for all, from here to the horizon! Let's dive in.
Vice-Chancellor's Scholarships for International Students
- Who's Eligible? New international undergrads who haven't been admitted to Otago before.
- What Do You Get? NZD$10,000 towards your tuition.
- Criteria? Planning to undertake full-time, full-year undergraduate study.
- Opening date: 1 May 2024
- Closing dates: 10 December 2023 for Semester 1, and 30 April 2024 for Semester 2.
University of Otago Entrance Scholarships
- Who's Eligible? New students (including internationals) are planning to start full-time undergraduate study. Completing Years 12 and 13 in an NZ school or an equivalent foundation program is needed for internationals.
- What's Included? Varies, with many targeting specific achievements or needs.
- Applications open on 1 July each year. Closing dates vary, but many close on 15 August.
Doctoral Scholarships
- Who's Eligible? Both domestic and international students are applying for a Ph.D.
- What Do You Get? The scholarship details, such as value and duration, were not specified in the cited sources, but it's aimed at supporting high-achieving Ph.D. candidates.
- Criteria? High academic achievement. For domestic students, a straight A (GPA of 8 or 'A' grade) in an Honours or Master's degree with a research component from a NZ university is often a benchmark.
Prestige and Named Scholarships
- Who's Eligible? Students completing their third year in specific degree programs (e.g., Applied Science, Dentistry, Medicine, Pharmacy, Law, Surveying, Physical Education, Physiotherapy) or the 300-level major subject requirement in other programs.
- What's Next? You must enroll in a full-time course at 400-level or 500-level towards a degree or postgraduate diploma in the same discipline the following year
Be aware of some conditions on scholarships
- Scholarship credits towards tuition only.
- Open for semester 2 starters.
- Applicable once per eligible program, awarded only once.
- Invalid if the study start is delayed without reassessment.
- Not for government-sponsored students.
- Cannot combine with another Undergraduate Entrance Scholarship.
- May apply to students with prior university study outside NZ, subject to credit transfer.
- Scholarship deferral is not usually allowed.
University of Otago Cost of Living
Off to Otago University? Let's quickly break down the costs, making it super easy to budget for your awesome year ahead in Dunedin. Ready for a budget-friendly adventure? Let's go!
What’s On The List? |
Residential College |
Living With Mates (Shared Flat) |
Your Own Space (Studio Room) |
Home Sweet Home |
NZ$18,696 (all-in) |
- (You’ll pay rent below) |
- (Rent’s coming up!) |
Rent |
- |
NZ$10,400 (Year-round) |
NZ$13,000 (For the year) |
Eats |
- |
NZ$4,200 (Mmm, food) |
NZ$4,200 (Still gotta eat) |
Bills, Bills, Bills |
- |
NZ$2,000 (Keep those lights on) |
- (Included in rent) |
Pocket Money |
NZ$3,200 |
NZ$3,200 |
NZ$3,200 |
Fun Times |
NZ$2,200 |
NZ$2,200 |
NZ$2,200 |
Stay Insured |
NZ$750 |
NZ$750 |
NZ$750 |
Total |
NZ$24,856 |
NZ$22,750 |
NZ$23,350 |
Amazing fact: Student surveys show 98% satisfaction with administration and support; 98% with campus safety; 99% with libraries; 98% with residential colleges; and 97% with sport and recreation facilities.
University of Otago Career Prospects
- Diverse Careers: Not just Accountancy & Finance! Whether it's the sciences, arts, health, or law, Otago's got the tools and connections to launch you into your dream career.
- Global Community: Join an alumni network that's truly global. It's your treasure trove for opportunities, mentorship, and support.
- Research & Innovation: Engage in groundbreaking research and projects. Start making an impact even before you graduate!
- Entrepreneurial Spirit: Got a business idea? Otago's incubators and competitions can help bring your vision to life.
- Essential Life Skills: It's not all about the books. Develop the leadership, communication, and teamwork skills that employers love.
- Real-World Experience: Boost your resume with internships and part-time work, gaining invaluable experience in your field.
- Unwavering Support: The Career Development Centre is more than a service; it's a dedicated team ready to support you from day one until you land your dream job.
At Otago, it's more than just a degree; it's about preparing you for success in life and your future career. Ready to start your journey?
Conclusion:
Hope this guide's been a whole package for you! Ready to leap into a future filled with possibilities?
- Get into your future at the University of Otago! Ranked globally and packed with diverse courses, it's your ticket to dream big. Don't worry, getting in is smoother than you think At the University of Otago, doors open to a world where education meets opportunity, innovation, and connection.
- Looking to go global? AECC is your sidekick, guiding you from IELTS prep to finding your perfect course. Whether it's groundbreaking research, entrepreneurial dreams, or building essential life skills, Otago's got you covered. Plus, with internships and a supportive career centre, you're set for success from day one.
- So, are you ready to start your Otago journey with AECC by your side?