New Zealand’s first university

University of Otago
New ZealandŌtākou Whakaihu Waka

2024–2025

Study Abroad and Exchange Guide

Kia ora!
Welcome to the
University of Otago,
New ZealandA once in a lifetime experience.
Immerse yourself in the New Zealand culture
here in Oceania’s only true student city. Discover
our unique Kiwi hospitality and an energy andatmosphere you won’t find anywhere else.
Embark on a culturally enriching adventure
guaranteed to expand your worldview andbroaden your horizons.
New Zealand’s iconic natural environment andpicturesque landscapes await you.

2

The University of Otago is an approved signatory to the Education(Pastoral Care of Tertiary and International Learners) Code of Practice 2021.

3

Contents
New Zealand at a glance2

Our location - Dunedin city

4

Why Otago?

14

What can I study at Otago?

16

Otago academic year

31

UniFlats accommodation

34

Getting involved

38

Recreation at Otago

40

How to apply – Study Abroad

42

English + Study Abroad

44

Otago Exchange partners

46

Living costs48

Student support and essential information

50

1

New Zealandat a glance

Population: 5 million
Official languages: English, Te Reo Māori,NZ Sign Language
2nd safest country in the world1
2nd least corrupt in the world2

1. Global Peace Index 2022 2. Transparency International 2022 3. World Economic Forum Global Gender Gap Report 2022

2

Auckland

4th most gender-equal country in the world3
10th happiest country in the world4
15th on the Global Sustainable Competitiveness Index5
World-class education: #1 English-speaking country
in preparing students for the future6

Wellington
Christchurch
Dunedin
University of Otago main campus

4. World Happiness Report 2022 5. Global Sustainable Competitiveness Index 2021 6. Economist Intelligence Unit 20193

Our location – Dunedin city
Otago’s main campus

Population 130,000
Welcome to Ōtepoti Dunedin! Ōtepoti is the Māoriname used for the city and refers to the upper harbour
area where Dunedin city was developed.

A walkable city
Dunedin is located on the East Coast of New Zealand’s
South Island, and unlike larger cities, you don’t need a car
to get around. It’s a 10-minute walk from the University
into the centre of town, and Dunedin has an extensive
inner and outer-city bus network that makes it easy to
explore. Most of our cafés, music venues, boutique stores,
museums and galleries are just a short walk from campus.

Wildlife capital of New ZealandDunedin is home to an amazing variety of uniquewildlife, such as the Yellow-Eyed Penguin, New Zealand
Sea Lion and the Royal Albatross. The coastal terrain,secluded beaches and bush clad hills of the Otago
Peninsula are the perfect backdrop for students toconnect with nature.

4

Gateway to New Zealand’s best
No other university campus in New Zealand has thesame range, quality and accessibility of outdoor activities.
From surfing and kayaking to mountain biking andsnowboarding, students love to make the most of their freetime and weekends here at Otago.

Getting around the South Island
Dunedin’s proximity to some of New Zealand’s most iconic
natural scenery makes travelling easy. Within a 3.5-hour
drive, find yourself in Queenstown – the adventure capital of
the world and the perfect setting for skydiving, skiing, bungy
jumping and white-water rafting. Visit Fiordland, one of
the most dramatic and beautiful parts of New Zealand, andexperience the “Great Walks” of the Routeburn, Milford and
Kepler tracks – just a 4.5 hour drive away.

Small city, big personality
We might be a small city, but we don’t sacrifice on fun. Fromworld-famous performers and international sports events
at New Zealand’s largest stadium, to a burgeoning local
culinary, cultural and arts scene – there is something foreveryone, no matter your interests. Discover more of what
Dunedin has to offer at dunedinnz.com

5Dunedin city

Adventure on your doorstep

Mapoutahi Pa Site – Purakaunui Bay
6

St Clair beachFlagstaff walking track

Otago Peninsula

7

New
Zealand’s
only true student city8Forsyth Barr Stadium

9Gateway to

New Zealand’s best

Roy’s Peak10

Lake Wānaka

Blue Pools

Moke Lake

11

Explore the stunningSouth Island

Routeburn track12

Lake Tekapo

WānakaQueenstown

13

Why Otago?

New Zealand’s first university

14

1%

Top 1% of universities in the world,
ranked 206th globally (QS ranking 2024).

#1

in New Zealand for education performance(TEC Educational Performance Indicators 2023).

5th

most beautiful campus in the world(Times Higher Education, The Student Voice 2022).

48th

in the world (QS Sustainability Rankings 2024).

86%

of our students come from outside Dunedin,from over 90 countries.

170+

student clubs and societies.

200+

undergraduate and postgraduate programmes.

15

What can I
study at Otago?
With more than 3500 courses to choose from across Commerce, Humanities,
Sciences and Health Sciences, there’s something for everyone. The next few
pages feature some popular themes and course options for our incoming Study
Abroad and Exchange students. Keep an eye out for fieldwork and New Zealand/
Pacific focused options to maximise your time here.

16

17

Environment,
Sustainability and Climate Change
Course example. Explore full list of options at otago.ac.nz/courses/subjects.
Semester 1
ECOL 111

Ecology and Conservation Diversity

EMAN 204 Renewable Energy Technologies

ECON 207 Environmental Economics

ENVI 211

Environmental History of New Zealand

ENVI 111

Environment and Society

ENVI 312

Interdisciplinary Aspects of Climate Change

ENVI 311

Understanding Environmental Issues

FINC 320

Sustainable Investing

GEOG 216 Environmental Management: Principles and Values

GEOG 102 Geographies of Sustainable Futures

GEOL 265 Natural Hazards of NZ and Beyond

GEOG 228 Geographies of Global Development and Sustainability

MANT 337 Organisations and Sustainability

GEOG 286 Climatology

PHIL 235

Environmental Philosophy

GEOG 287 Plants, People and the Environment

PHSI 243

Environmental Physics

GEOG 397 Environmental Management: Policy and Practice

POLS 307 Nature, Conflict and the State

GLBL 201 Cultures of the Environment

TOUR 306 Ecotourism and Sustainable Development

TOUR 422 Tourism and Global Environmental Change

Key
Fieldwork
18

Semester 2

New Zealand focused

MarineScience, Animals and Life Sciences
Course example. Explore full list of options at otago.ac.nz/courses/subjects.
Semester 1

Semester 2

BTNY 201 Plant Functional Biology and Biotechnology

ANTH 321 Archaeozoology

BTNY 301

Plant Ecology

BIOA 101

Introduction to Biological Anthropology

ECOL 111

Ecology and Conservation of Diversity

BTNY 202 Plant and Fungal Diversity

ECOL 211

Ecology of Communities and Ecosystems

BTNY 203 Marine and Freshwater Botany

ECOL 313

Ecology Field Course*

BTNY 302 Plant Interactions

MARI 201

Oceanography: The Physical Ocean

ECOL 212

Ecological Applications

MARI 301

Marine Ecology and Ecosystems

ECOL 321

Ecology of Species Introductions and Invasions

MARI 302 Biology and Behaviour of Marine Vertebrates

GEOG 287 Plants, People and the Environment

ZOOL 221

Animal Designs for Living

MARI 112

ZOOL 313

Animal Function and Environment

MARI 202 Ecology and Biology of Marine Invertebrates

Marine Biology: The Living Ocean

ZOOL 315

Behavioural and Evolutionary Ecology

MARI 322

Coastal and Shelf Seas Oceanography

ZOOL 222 Evolutionary Biology
ZOOL 223 Animal Physiology
ZOOL 314

Neurobiology

ZOOL 318

Freshwater Ecology

ZOOL 319

Conservation Biology*The fieldwork component of this paper commences prior to Semester 1 start.
19

Physical
Sciences
Course example. Explore full list of options at otago.ac.nz/courses/subjects.
Semester 1

Semester 2

CHEM 202 Organic Chemistry

ASTR 101

Introduction to Astronomy

CHEM 301 Physical Chemistry

CHEM 111

Chemistry: Molecular Architecture

EAOS 111

EMAN 204 Renewable Energy Technologies

GEOG 101

Physical Geography

GEOG 102 Geographies of Sustainable Futures

GEOL 251

Minerals and Rocks

GEOG 397 Environmental Management: Policy and Practice

GEOL 252 Field Studies and NZ Geology*

GEOL 112

GEOL 265 Natural Hazards of NZ and Beyond

GEOL 264 Magmas and Volcanoes of Zealandia

GEOL 272

GEOL 273

Evolution of New Zealand Biota

Dynamic Earth: A New Zealand Perspective
Modern and Ancient Sedimentary Systems

MATH 202 Linear Algebra

MATH 201 Real Analysis

PHSI 131

MATH 203 Calculus of Several Variables

Fundamentals of Physics I

SURV 120 Surveying and Spatial ScienceKey
Fieldwork
20

CHEM 201 Physical Chemistry and its Applications

Earth and Ocean Science

EMAN 201 Thermoprocesses 1

New Zealand focused

PHSI 222

Electromagnetism

SURV 130

People, Place and the Built Environment*The fieldwork component of this paper commences prior to Semester 1 start.

Technology,
Information and Computer Science
Course example. Explore full list of options at otago.ac.nz/courses/subjects.
Semester 1
COSC 201

Semester 2
Algorithms and Data Structures

COMP 151

Programming for Scientists

COSC 202 Software Development

COMP 210 Information Assurance

COSC 301

Network Management and Security

COSC 203

COSC 342

Visual Computing: Graphics & Vision

COSC 204 Computer Systems

INFO 203

Human-Computer Interaction and User Experience

COSC 312

Cryptography and Security

STAT 210

Applied Statistics

COSC 343

Artificial Intelligence

INFO 302

Information Systems Strategy and Governance

INFO 351

Special Topic: Virtual and Augmented Reality

Web, Databases, and Networks

21

Sport,Nutrition and Wellbeing
Course example. Explore full list of options at otago.ac.nz/courses/subjects.
Semester 1

Semester 2

ANAT 101

Anatomy for Sport Exercise

HUNT 141

HUNT 141

Understanding Human Nutrition

HUNT 345 Applied Sports Nutrition

HUNT 241 Fundamentals of Nutrients and Health

PACH 201 Pacific Health: New Zealand and the Pacific Region

HUNT 245 Sport and Exercise Nutrition

PHSL 101

MART 207 Sports Marketing

PUBH 202 Health Promotion

SOCI 209

Health and Society

SPEX 102

SPEX 101

Sport, Science and Society

SPEX 204 Psychology of Sport and Exercise

SPEX 203

Exercise Physiology

SPEX 205

SPEX 207

Understanding Sports Coaching

SPEX 206 Te Pū o te Ora: Māori Physical Education and Health

Physiology for Sport and Exercise
Principles of Exercise for Health and Performance
Physical Activity and Health

SPEX 209 Sport Development and Management

SPEX 208 Sociology of Sport and Exercise

SPEX 304 Sport Psychology

SPEX 307

TOUR 216 Sport Tourism

Key
Fieldwork
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Understanding Human Nutrition

New Zealand focused

Coaching, Leadership and MentoringHealth
and Biomedical Sciences
Course example. Explore full list of options at otago.ac.nz/courses/subjects.
Semester 1

Semester 2

BIOC 221

Molecular Biology

BIOA 101

Introduction to Biological Anthropology

BITC 201

Bioethics and the Life Sciences

GENE 222 Genes, Chromosomes and Populations

FORS 201

Analytical and Forensic Science

MICR 222

Microbes in Action

GENE 221

Molecular and Microbial Genetics

MICR 223

Infection and Immunity

HUNT 141

Understanding Human Nutrition

PATH 201

Foundations in Human Pathology

MICR 221

Microbes to Medicine

PHAL 211

Introduction to Pharmacology and Toxicology

MICR 334

Advanced Immunology

POPH 192 Population Health

PHSL 231

Neurophysiology

STAT 115

Introduction to Biostatistics

PUBH 204 Hauora Māori Challenges and Opportunities
		(Māori public health)
PUBH 211

Epidemiology of Global Health Conditions

23

Business,
Tourism, Marketing and Management
Course example. Explore full list of options at otago.ac.nz/courses/subjects.
Semester 1

Semester 2

BSNS 111

Business and Society

BSNS 111

Business and Society

BSNS 114

Financial Decision Making

BSNS 114

Financial Decision Making

ECON 303 Economics of Developing Countries

FOSC 112

Introduction to Food Marketing

ENTR 101

MANT 101 Managing for Performance

How to Start a Venture

GEOG 216 Environmental Management: Principles and Values

MANT 251 Managing Organisations

MANT 217 International Management

MANT 252 Developing Responsible Leadership

MANT 222 Interpersonal/International Business Communication

MANT 330 Leadership and Change

MANT 250 Managing People

MANT 332 International Management

MANT 301 Managing Innovation and Growth

MART 112

MANT 303 Entrepreneurship

MART 201 Integrated Marketing Communications

MANT 334 Operations and Supply Chain Strategy

MART 211

MANT 337 Organisations and Sustainability

MART 326 International and Export Marketing

MART 112

TOUR 101

Marketing

Products to Market
Introduction to Tourism

MART 207 Sports Marketing

TOUR 102 Global Tourism

MART 210 Consumer Marketing

TOUR 217

Tourist Behaviour

MART 308 Integrated Digital Marketing

TOUR 301

Cultural and Heritage Tourism

TOUR 101

Introduction to Tourism

TOUR 219 Destination Management
TOUR 418 Tourism Destination Development

Key
Fieldwork
24

Marketing

New Zealand focused

New
Zealand Māori, Pacific and Indigenous Studies
Course example. Explore full list of options at otago.ac.nz/courses/subjects.
Semester 1

Semester 2

ANTH 204 Pacific and New Zealand Archaeology

MANT 340 Indigenous Management and Organisation

ANTH 205 Anthropology and the Contemporary Pacific

MAOR 102 Māori Society

MAOR 102 Māori Society

MAOR 110 Introduction to Conversational Māori

MAOR 108 Waiata: Te Tīmatanga (Māori performing art)

MAOR 203 Ngāi Tahu Society (Māori tribe local to the Otago region)

MAOR 110 Introduction to Conversational Māori

PACH 201 Pacific Health: New Zealand and the Pacific Region

MAOR 202 Māori and Tikanga (culture/customs)

PACI 101

Pacific Societies

POLS 319 Treaty Politics (Treaty of Waitangi)

25

Law,
Criminology, Psychology and Sociology
Course example. Explore full list of options at otago.ac.nz/courses/subjects.
Semester 1
CRIM 201

Crime, Justice and Society

GEND 102 Bodies, Sexualities and Society

GEND 101

Gender in Everyday Life

GEND 206 Gender, Work and Consumer Culture

GEND 205 Gender and the MediaLAWS 421 International Environmental Law

GEND 209 Critical Victimology

POLS 202 Theories of Justice

LAWS 440 Environmental Law

PSYC 112

Human Thought and Behaviour

LAWS 455 Māori Land Law

PSYC 203

Abnormal Psychology

PSYC 111

Brain and Behaviour

PSYC 211

Brain and Cognition

PSYC 204 Justice, Race and ClassPSYC 329

Cultural Psychology

PSYC 325

Psychology in Legal Contexts

PSYC 330

Drugs, Behaviour, Addiction and Policy

SOCI 101

Sociology of New Zealand Society

SOCI 102

Cultural and Social Identities

SOCI 202

Big Ideas in Sociology

SOCI 103

Crime, Deviance and Social Transformation

SOCI 209

Health and Society

SOCI 203

Young People and Society

SOCI 211

Colonisation, Globalisation and Social Justice

SOCI 205

Social Inequality

SOCI 207

Families and Society

SOCI 213

Concepts of the Self

SOCI 302

Theories of Social PowerSOCI 305

Family Demography

Key
Fieldwork
26

Semester 2

New Zealand focused

History,
Anthropology, Politics, Philosophy and Society
Course example. Explore full list of options at otago.ac.nz/courses/subjects.
Semester 1

Semester 2

ANTH 103 Introduction to Anthropology

ANTH 105 Global and Local Cultures

ANTH 204 Pacific and New Zealand Archaeology

ANTH 106 Human Origins and Civilisations

ANTH 205 Anthropology and the Contemporary Pacific

ANTH 321 Archaeozoology

ANTH 330 New Zealand Archaeology

CLAS 105

Greek Mythology

GLBL 101

Introduction to Intercultural Communication

GLBL 201

Cultures of the Environment

GLBL 202

A World of Stories: Global Storytelling in the Digital Age

HIST 102

The Global Twentieth Century

HIST 107

New Zealand in the World from the 18th Century

HIST 231

Special Topic: An Introduction to Pacific History

HIST 245

Global Migrations: From Slavery to Refugees

HIST 327
		Interpreting Māori Lives: Rebels,
Radicals and Reformers

LING 217

What's Behind Language: Sound and Structure

LING 230

Interaction and Identity in Context

PHIL 101

Mind and Reality

PHIL 106

Radical Philosophy

PHIL 105

Critical Thinking

PHIL 228

EthicsPOLS 104

International Relations – Introduction

POLS 102New Zealand Politics – Introduction

POLS 105

Comparative Politics – Introduction

POLS 221

New Zealand Political Parties and Elections

POLS 250 International Security in a Globalising World
POLS 306 Politics and the Media in New Zealand
RELS 102

Introduction to Hinduism and Buddhism

27Media, Literature,
Communications
and Performing Arts
Course example. Explore full list of options at otago.ac.nz/courses/subjects.
Semester 1

Semester 2

DANC 101

Dance and Popular Culture

ENGL 128

Essentials of Communication

ENGL 120

Creative Writing: How to Captivate and Persuade

ENGL 251
		Special Topic: Creative Writing for Gamesand Interactive MediaENGL 121

English Literature: The Remix

MFCO 102 Media, Power, Society

GEND 205 Gender and the MediaMFCO 213

MFCO 101

Screen Form and Culture

MFCO 223 Documentary and Reality MediaMFCO 103

Introduction to Communication Studies

MFCO 312

Communication and the City

MFCO 212 Media and Intercultural Communication

MFCO 315

Digital Media and Society

MFCO 216 New Zealand Cinema

MUSI 132

Music Production 1

MFCO 220 Writing for the MediaTHEA 122

Drama on Stage and Screen

MFCO 318

Indigenous MediaMUSI 103

Popular Music

POLS 306 Politics and the Media in New Zealand

28

THEA 151

Improvisation

Key
Fieldwork

New Zealand focused

Media Genres

Education and Teaching

Course example. Explore full list of options at otago.ac.nz/courses/subjects.
Semester 1

Semester 2

EDUC 102

Human Development

EDCR 102

The Languages of Children

EDUC 105Disability Studies: An Introduction

EDUC 101

Education and Society

EDUC 252 How People Learn

EDUC 251

Education in New Zealand: Policy and Treaty Issues

EDUC 254 Family Resources, Culture, and Education

EDUC 259 Educating Global Citizens for the 21st Century

EDUC 307 Child Development

EDUC 318

Gender Issues in Education

EDUC 308 Future-Focused Literacies

EDUC 321

Educational Psychology

EDUC 313

Equity in Education

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30

Otagoacademic year
Semester 1
Mid-February to mid-June
Starts in the New Zealandsummer and finishes
as winter sets in.

Semester 2
July to mid-November
Starts in winter and finishes
as the New Zealandsummer season begins.

Finding a course (paper)

Workload/credits

At Otago, stand-alone courses ormodules are called ‘papers’.

Most Otago papers are single semester and are typicallyworth 18 points each.

To find Otago’s full range of papers,
go to: otago.ac.nz/courses/papers/ andsearch by subject, keywords or semester.

A full-time course is generally 54–72 points in any one
semester (three to four papers).

Alternatively, you can browse throughsubject themes: otago.ac.nz/courses/
subjects/index.html
Levels of study are indicated by the
paper code number – 100 level is firstyear of undergraduate study, 200 is
second year and so on.
Be sure to check the semester ofstudy and any pre-requisites (or theequivalent at your home institution).

Summer School
January/February
Six weeks – limited
course options.

It is important to speak to your home institution before
selecting your papers, in case of workload or paper
requirements at Otago.
You can expect to spend approximately 15 hours per week
for each single-semester paper (18 points). These hours are
made up of a combination of lectures, tutorials/laboratories,
assignments and readings.
18 points at Otago are worth approximately 9 ECTS and 3–5
US credits.

An updated list of papers for thefollowing academic year is published by
September each year.

31Uniquely Otago
Where weekend playgrounds
are our weekday laboratories

32

33

UniFlatsaccommodation
The classic Otago student flatting experience34

More than just a room, a
University Flat (UniFlat) offersa memorable experience withlike-minded flatmates.
UniFlats are shared, villa-style houses
with four to six students, locatedaround the heart of the Otago campus– getting to class is just a short 2–10
minute stroll.
The best part? We match you with otherstudents who share similar interests,
so you’ll have a group of international
friends as soon you arrive.
For many of our flats, you will also havea ‘Kiwi Host’ – a friendly New Zealandstudent already studying at Otago. They
will help you with all the best tips forsettling into student life and exploring
this part of the country.

otago.ac.nz/uniflats

35

Why choose UniFlats?
• Guaranteed* room for Study Abroadand Exchange students.
• Unique opportunity to live the Otago
student lifestyle.
• Fully furnished private bedrooms andshared living spaces. Each flat has its
own laundry.
• Close walking distance to campus.
• Easiest way to secure a trustworthy
rental agreement that is in line with
the Otago academic calendar.
• Great value with an all-inclusive
semester fee to cover Wi-Fi,
electricity, utilities, flat maintenanceand activities.
• Opportunity to drop off your bags
and explore the South Island before
Semester 1 starts, or stay on afterSemester 2 exams to explore before
your flight home.
• Uniflats community events andactivities to get involved in.

*Applications made after the annual deadline may not be guaranteed.
36Sustainability
neighbourhood
A joint initiative between
UniFlats and the Sustainability
Office, the Otago Sustainability
Neighbourhood is aunique flatting experience
with the added layerof making an impact.
The Sustainability
Neighbourhood is a limitedgroup of flats dedicatedto selected environmentallyconscious students who
actively work to reduce theirenvironmental impact. The
neighbourhood is set up forresidents to:​• grow their own food​• compost​• recycle​• be energy efficient• lead an active, healthy lifestyle• work as a team to stayaccountable.

37Getting

involved
Become the best version of
yourself at Otago, where volunteeringand good citizenship are partof our University culture.

38

Through our Social Impact Studio,
UniCrew volunteers, Otago University
Students’ Association (OUSA) andUniversity groups, there are many
opportunities to get connected andbecome socially, environmentally andinclusive global citizens.
• Tree planting• Good Deed and Feed
• Food drives• Mending café and other sustainablefashion initiatives• OUSA Queer Support• Global Citizenship programme• Silverline student-led mental healthinitiative• Multi-faith chaplaincy.
Experience the benefits of getting
involved and contribute positive change
in the community while gaining valuable
experience and strengthening yourfuture career prospects.

Over 170 student-led clubs andsocieties!
Our Study Abroad and Exchange
students particularly love these popular
clubs, but there are so many more to
get involved with, such as: snow sports,
tramping (hiking), canoeing, climbing
and scuba diving.

ousa.org.nz/clubsandsocs/clubs/clubs-list

39

Recreation40

It’s not difficult to maintain ahealthy, balanced and fun lifestyle
while studying at Otago. With somany opportunities for recreation
on and off campus, there reallyis something for everyone.
Unipol is a comprehensive, free student
facility that includes weight training andcardio rooms, team sports, subsidised
fitness classes and social areas wherestudents can meet up and keep active.

Student outdoor equipment
rentals
Whatever you’re into – whether it behiking, surfing or skiing – Unipol also
has your outdoor rental equipment
needs covered.
High-quality rental equipment includes:• personal locator beacon (a must-havefor hiking)• snow equipment and clothing• surfboards and wetsuits• tents and sleeping bags
• sports equipment (tennis, volleyball,cricket, etc.).
Learn more: otago.ac.nz/recreation

41

How to apply forStudy Abroad
1. Talk to your home institution
The first step is to talk to your home institution’s Study Abroad/Exchange office, or a specialist Study Abroad
provider/education consultant. They can help you with the nomination application process and check that thecredits earned at Otago can be transferred back to your degree at your home institution.

2. Check Otago’s entry requirements
To be eligible for Study Abroad at Otago, you usually must:• be currently enrolled and have completed at least one semester of study at an accredited institution• have a cumulative grade point average (GPA) of 3.0 minimum on a 4-point scale, or have a credit, “good”,
or above average results.
Students who do not meet these criteria are welcome to make an application and individual eligibility will beconsidered.

3. Check English language requirements
If English is not your first language, you must provide evidence of English language proficiency with one of
the following:• IELTS: 6.0 in the academic module (with no individual band below 5.5).
• TOEFL iBT: Overall score of 80 and a writing score of 20.
• Denmark: 7 in English A, and 10 in English B in the Upper Secondary School examination/
Studentereksamen.
• Germany: 3 or below (6–1 grading scale) or 8 or above (1–15 grading scale) in Abitur English Language;or B2 or C1 in the DAAD test.
• Norway: 4.0 or higher in the student’s final year of English for Vitnemål for videregående opplæring.
• Sweden: Grade of C (VG) or better in English 5 and 6 (English A and B) for Slutbetyg/Examensbevis frånGymnasieskolan.
If the above options are not able to be provided, a statement from the student’s home institute testifying thatthe student’s language ability is deemed sufficient to meet language entry requirements may be considered.
For a full list of accepted English language proficiency evidence, visit:
otago.ac.nz/international/future-students/entrance-requirements/english-language-requirements

4. Otago application tips
Whether an application is submitted by you directly, or by your home institute/specialist Study Abroad
provider/education consultant, please note the following:• You must select ‘Certificate of Proficiency – Incoming Study Abroad’ in our Otago eVision application system(do not select the name of the degree programme you are studying at your home institution).
• Your ‘sponsor’ is either your home institution, specialist Study Abroad provider or education consultant.
• Your passport must be officially certified by either your home institution, specialist Study Abroad provider
or education consultant.
Other academic transcripts and English language evidence must be official ‘certified true copies’ that
include the certifying person’s position, name, signature and official stamp. This can be done by your homeinstitution, specialist Study Abroad provider, education consultant or Notary Public.

42

5. Accept your offer
You will receive a digital Offer of Place letter in your eVision portal – use the buttons at the bottom of theletter to accept your place at Otago. You will need your Offer of Place as part of your student visa application.

6. Select your papers
Once you have accepted your Offer of Place, you can select papers in your eVision portal. Please check withyour home institution for any workload or prescribed course requirements. Review pages 18–29 in this guidefor inspiration or check the subjects and papers section on the University website to search for papers on offer.
Make sure the papers you’re interested in studying are offered in the same semester that you will be at Otago.
otago.ac.nz/courses/subjects/

7. Special Permission process
For papers above 100-level (first year) that require Otago prerequisites, students need to apply for Special
Permission. This is a normal step for most Study Abroad students. The relevant department(s) will review
your request and your previous studies. Once a decision has been made, this will be communicated to you
via an alert in your eVision portal.

8. Apply for UniFlats housing
Apply for your place in a UniFlat by navigating to the ‘Residential Colleges and UniFlats’ section in youreVision portal. Provide as much information about yourself as possible, as this is used to match you withother like-minded international students.
Your offer of accommodation will be sent to you directly from the UniFlats team. It is important you reply tothe offer within the specified timeframe to guarantee your placement.

9. Pre-departure
Keep an eye out for information about our pre-departure steps and what to expect at orientation. Stayconnected through our ‘Your Otago’ newsletter series and pre-departure webinars.

Otago Study Abroad application deadlines
Semester 1 (February–June): 1 December
Semester 2 (July–November): 30 April
Summer School (January–February): 31 October

UniFlats
Semester 1: Applications open 1 August. Applications received before 1 November will be processed in thefirst round of placements. Later applications will always be considered depending on availability.
Semester 2: Applications open 1 April. Applications received before 15 May will be processed in the firstround of placements. Later applications will always be considered depending on availability.
Please note: Your home institute, specialist Study Abroad provider or education consultant may haveadditional important deadlines connected to your nomination and application.

otago.ac.nz/study-abroad

43

English+ Study Abroad

44

Have the full experience! Improveyour English language skills
before transitioning into a Study
Abroad semester at Otago.
Spend your first semester settling
into New Zealand life by gaining new
language skills and confidence in yourEnglish communication level, whileliving with a friendly homestay family.
Next, get the full Otago experience bystudying our popular academic
course options as a Study Abroad
student. Join your international peers
and develop your independent living
skills in our popular UniFlats student
accommodation*.
*See pages 34–36
Contact
englishlanguage.groups@otago.ac.nz

otago.ac.nz/pathway

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Otago Exchange partners
The University of Otago has formal exchange agreements with many institutions worldwide, allowing forthe reciprocal exchange of students. If you are enrolled at an institution listed below, please contact yourinternational office for further information on the exchange nomination and application process and deadlines.
otago.ac.nz/student-exchange
If your university does not have an exchange agreement with the University of Otago, you are welcome toapply as a Study Abroad student.
ARGENTINA
AUSTRALIA

AUSTRIABELGIUM
BRAZILCANADACHILECHINA (Mainland)

CZECH REPUBLIC
DENMARKENGLANDFINLANDFRANCEGERMANY

46

Pontificia Universidad Católica Argentina
University of Melbourne
University of Sydney
University of Tasmania
University of Western Australia
Wirtschaftsuniversität Wien
Catholic University of Louvain (Business School)
Fundação Getulio Vargas (FGV-EAESP)
Pontificia Universidade Católica do Rio de Janeiro
Brock University
Dalhousie University
McGill University
Memorial University of Newfoundland (Indigenous)
Mt Allison University
Queen’s University
University of Alberta
University of British Columbia
University of Toronto
Western University, Western Law and Richard Ivey 				School of BusinessYork University, Schulich School of Business
Pontificia Universidad Católica de Chile
Dalian University of Foreign Languages
Fudan University
Shanghai University
Tsinghua University and Tsinghua University School of Economics and Management
Charles University
Prague University of Economics and Business
Aarhus University and Aarhus Universit School of Business and Social Sciences 		
University of Copenhagen and Copenhagen Business School (CBS)Aston University, Aston Business School
Durham University
University of Bristol
University of East Anglia
University of Essex
University of Exeter
University of Leeds
University of Manchester and Alliance Manchester Business School
University of the West of England
Aalto University School of Business
University of Helsinki
Grenoble Ecole de Management
Université Sorbonne Nouvelle (Paris 3)
Friedrich-Alexander-Universität Erlangen-Nürnberg
Universität Heidelberg (Ruprecht-Karls-Universität)Universitat Leipzig, Social Sciences and Philosophy
Universität Tübingen
University of Cologne Faculty of Management, Economics and Social Science
HONG KONG
Chinese University of Hong Kong and CUHK Faculty of Business
University of Hong Kong
HUNGARY
Corvinus University of Budapest
ICELAND
University of Iceland
IRELAND
University College Dublin, National University of Ireland
Lochlann Quinn School of Business
Trinity College Dublin
ITALY
Università Commerciale Luigi Bocconi
Università of Bologna
JAPAN
Hirosaki University
Hokkaido University
Keio University
Kyoto University
Otaru University of Commerce
Rissho University
University of Tokyo
Yokohama National University
MEXICO
Instituto Tecnológico Autónomo de México (ITAM)
Tecnológico de Monterrey
Universidad Veracruzana
NORWAY
University of Bergen
POLAND
Warsaw School of Economics
PORTUGAL
Universidade Nova de Lisboa, Faculdade de Economia
SCOTLAND
University of Edinburgh
University of Glasgow
University of Strathclyde
SINGAPORE
National University of Singapore
SOUTH KOREA
Yonsei University
SPAIN
ESADE
Universidad Complutense de Madrid
SWEDEN
Lund University
Stockholm School of EconomicsUmeå University
Uppsala University
SWITZERLAND
Universität St Gallen
TAIWAN
National Taiwan University
THAILAND
Chulalongkorn University
Mahidol University, College of Management
THE NETHERLANDS
Erasmus University, Rotterdam School of Management
Leiden Univerisity
University of Amsterdam
TURKEY
Graduate School of Social Sciences, of Middle East Technical University
USA
Boston College
Duke University, Fuqua School of Business MBA
Indiana University, Kelley School of Business MBA
University of California (9 campuses)
University of Colorado Boulder
University of Hawai’i at Manoa
University of Minnesota Carlson School of Management and Department of 				 Food Science and Nutrition
University of North Carolina at Chapel Hill, UNC Kenan-Flagler School of 				 Business and UNC MBA Programme
University of Richmond
University of Texas and McCombs School of Business
University of Virginia
Willamette University (Indigenous)
WALES
Cardiff University

47

Living costs48

Dunedin is one of New Zealand’s
most affordable cities. With students
at the heart of the community,
there are entertainment, food andtransport options for all budgets.
Study Abroad and Exchange students
should plan for the following budget
per semester:$NZD
Approximate
total living costs
per semester*

$USD

€EUR

12,000 7,500

6,800This amount is sufficient to coveraccommodation, food, getting aroundand general leisure.
We recommend you bring extra funds
for additional travel and activities
outside of Dunedin.

*Based on currency conversion at the time of publication.
49

Student supportand essential information
Our top-quality education and facilities are matched by our range of student support services – dedicated tohelping you get the very best out of your time at Otago.
• International Student Support Services, Orientation and Enrolment, Visa and Insurance Services.
• Student Health Services (nurses, doctors, mental health and wellbeing team).
• Disability Information and Support (academic accommodations).
• Multi-Faith Campus Chaplains.
• Otago University Students’ Association (OUSA) support services, including Queer Support.
• Library Services and Resources.
• Course Advice.
• Student Learning Development (workshops, peer tutoring).
• Career Development Centre.
• Student IT Services.
• Ask Otago (one-stop help desk)• Campus Watch (24/7 safety service)Student visa
You must be granted a visa valid for study at the University of Otago before entering New Zealand, and continue
to hold a valid visa throughout your enrolment period. The Immigration New Zealand (INZ) website provides full
information.
immigration.govt.nz/new-zealand-visas
Otago’s Student Visa Services can provide assistance and support, including information for students on campus
who need to renew their visa: student.visa@otago.ac.nz. If you’re planning on bringing your spouse/partner and/or children with you to New Zealand, they will need to apply for an appropriate visa based on their circumstances.

Work rights
Study Abroad students are not granted work rights during the semester. They are granted full-time work
rights during scheduled vacations, only if studying for two semesters. Exchange students are granted parttime work rights during the semester and full-time work rights during scheduled vacations, only if studying
for two semesters. For more information, visit the Immigration New Zealand website:
immigration.govt.nz/new-zealand-visas/preparing-a-visa-application/education-quals-study/working-on-astudent-visa

Working holiday visa (selected countries)
A working holiday visa allows students to study courses in New Zealand that can be completed within six months.
immigration.govt.nz/new-zealand-visas/preparing-a-visa-application/working-in-nz/how-long-can-youwork-in-new-zealand-for/working-holiday-visa

Medical and travel insurance
All international students are required to have comprehensive health and travel insurance while in New Zealand.
The University of Otago’s recommended policy is Studentsafe Inbound University. When you enrol you willautomatically be covered by Studentsafe, and the insurance premium will be added to your student account.
otago.ac.nz/international/healthcare

Accident insurance

50

The Accident Compensation Corporation (ACC) provides accident insurance for all New Zealand citizens, residents
and temporary visitors to New Zealand. However, you may still be liable for all other medical and related costs.
acc.co.nz

The information provided in this guide is, as far as possible, up to date and accurate at the time of publication. Please check the website for themost up-to-date information. The University reserves the right to add, amend or withdraw courses and facilities, to restrict student numbers andto make any other alterations, as it may deem necessary. Published May 2024 by the International Office, University of Otago.

51

Auckland

Wellington

Christchurch

Queenstown

DunedinInvercargill

Get in touch
international.marketing@otago.ac.nz
Website: otago.ac.nz/international
Unibuddy: otago.ac.nz/international/future-students/chatOtagoInternationalOffice@universityofotagointernational
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