University of Otago

New Zealand

The University of Otago was founded in 1869, making it the oldest university in New Zealand and one of the oldest in Oceania. Between 1874 and 1961, it was part of the University of New Zealand but is again a university on its own right now. Its main campus is in Dunedin, but it also has campuses in Auckland, Wellington, Christchurch, and Invercargill.

It has more than 21,000 students, including more than 3,000 students from 100 countries worldwide. The University of Otago is ranked in the top 1% of universities in the world, at number 184 in the QS World University Rankings 2023. It has also been rated 5-Stars Plus by QS Stars for its facilities, teaching, graduate employability, internationalisation, and inclusiveness.

What is the University of Otago acceptance rate?

The University of Otago acceptance rate is 58%.

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Facilities

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The University of Otago has 15 residential colleges on or near the Dunedin campus. Catered and self-catered options are available so students can choose according to their preferences. Four residence halls are on the Dunedin campus, offering catered accommodation and a supportive living environment. Students can opt for the independent lifestyle of a flat or private rental apartment either on or off campus.

Many international students choose to live with a local family via a homestay arrangement. It is often viewed as an accessible way to grasp the local culture and improve English language skills.

Employability

95% of The University of Otago graduates go directly into work or further study, according to the Graduate Opinion Survey. Its Career Development Centre team works with students and graduates to hone employability skills through the Otago Student Employability Programme. This involves workshops, guidance, and tips on self-promotion, applications, job interviews, and opportunities to meet employers. Otago graduates are recognised for their interpersonal and negotiating skills, conceptual and analytical skills, and independent judgement.

FAQs

The acceptance rate for the University of Otago is 58% as of 2023. A minimum GPA of 2.8 is required for entry to the University of Otago.

The University of Otago is ranked 217th in the world by QS rankings.

The University of Otago offers more than 200 courses spanning four academic faculties: Science, Commerce/Otago Business School, Health Sciences and Humanities.

Graduates from the University of Otago are highly regarded both nationally and internationally.

The student-to-faculty ratio at the University of Otago varies depending on the program of study but is generally around 19:1.

The University of Otago has a strong sports program and is known for its rugby, netball, and basketball teams.

The campus life at the University of Otago is vibrant and diverse, with various clubs and societies, cultural events, and recreational activities for students to get involved in.

International students can apply for a range of scholarships. The University of Otago International Scholarship provides partial tuition fee waivers for international students enrolling in undergraduate or postgraduate coursework programs. It is awarded based on academic merit. The New Frontiers Scholarship provides partial tuition fee waivers for international students enrolling in undergraduate or postgraduate coursework programs. It is awarded based on academic excellence and demonstrated leadership potential. The Performance Entrance Scholarship is awarded based on academic merit and performance in a relevant subject area. It provides partial tuition fee waivers for international students enrolling in undergraduate programs. The International Research Master’s Scholarship offers a full tuition fee waiver for international students enrolling in a research-based master's degree and is awarded based on academic merit—the International Ph.D. Scholarship provides a full tuition fee waiver and a living allowance for international students enrolling in a Ph.D. program. It is awarded based on academic merit and research potential.

Ranking

  • by QS

    by QS

    217th