University of Otago Acceptance Rate, Rankings, Fees, Courses and Accommodation

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University of Otago is a prestigious institution that has been shaping the future of students since 1869. Nestled in the heart of Dunedin, the university boasts a sprawling campus spanning approximately 45 hectares. With an impressive QS World University Ranking of 214 in 2025 and a coveted spot among the top 1% of global universities, Otago is a beacon of academic excellence.

Whether you’re eyeing a career in Medicine, Dentistry, Law, or Business, the University of Otago courses offer something for everyone. Its 58% acceptance rate signifies a competitive yet inclusive admission process, welcoming talented students from around the globe. With annual tuition fees averaging NZD 27,700 for international students, coupled with world-class infrastructure, Otago promises an unparalleled academic and cultural experience.

From its top-notch accommodations, including residential colleges and private rentals, to its remarkable rankings in sustainability and teaching excellence, Otago is more than just a university—it’s a thriving community. Let’s dive deep into what makes Otago a dream destination for students worldwide.

University of Otago Highlights 2025

Below are some of the highlights of the University of Otago 2025:

Particulars	Details
Year of Establishment	1869
Campus Size	The main campus in Dunedin spans approximately 45 hectares.
QS World University Ranking (2025)	Ranked within the top 1% of universities globally, placing 214th in the QS World University Rankings.
Top Courses (International Students)	Medicine, Dentistry, Physiotherapy, Law, Commerce, Sciences, Humanities.
English Proficiency Exam Required	IELTS, TOEFL, PTE Academic.
Acceptance Rate	58%
Annual tuition Fee (International Schools)	27,700 NZD
Website	https://www.otago.ac.nz/

University of Otago Acceptance Rate 2025

The University of Otago acceptance rate is approximately 58%, reflecting its moderately selective admission process. This means that out of every 100 applicants, about 58 are granted admission. The university continues to attract a diverse and talented student body, both domestically and internationally.

In 2024, the total number of Indian students enrolled increased to 120, marking a significant rise compared to 2023, when the number stood at 99. This steady growth demonstrates the university’s appeal to Indian students seeking quality education in New Zealand. Below is a table summarizing University of Otago international student enrollment statistics for 2024:

Particulars	Student Enrollment
Total first-year students	4,050
Undergraduate (UG) international students	1,500
Postgraduate (PG) international students	900
Female students	13,000
Male students	8,300

University of Otago UG and PG Admission Requirements 2025

To secure a place at the University of Otago, applicants must meet specific criteria based on their desired program of study. Below, we’ve detailed the University of Otago undergraduate (UG) and postgraduate (PG) admission requirements to help you navigate the process.

University of Otago Undergraduate Admission Requirements:

Academic Qualifications: Successful completion of secondary education equivalent to New Zealand’s National Certificate of Educational Achievement (NCEA).

English Language Proficiency:
- IELTS: Overall score of 6.0 with no band less than 5.5.
- TOEFL iBT: Overall score of 80 with a writing score of 21.
- PTE Academic: Overall score of 50.

University of Otago Postgraduate Admission Requirements:

Academic Qualifications: A bachelor’s degree in a relevant field from a recognized institution, typically with a minimum GPA of B+ or equivalent.
English Language Proficiency:
- IELTS: Overall score of 6.0 with no band less than 5.5.
- TOEFL iBT: Overall score of 80 with a writing score of 21.
- PTE Academic: Overall score of 50.
Additional Requirements: Some programs may require a research proposal, portfolio, or relevant work experience.

University of Otago Ranking 2025

The University of Otago rankings highlight its global reputation for academic and research excellence. As New Zealand’s first university, it consistently performs well in international rankings, affirming its position as a leading institution. Here is a concise overview of the University of Otago’s notable rankings and achievements for 2024-2025:

Category	Details
Global Ranking	Top 1% of universities worldwide, ranked 214th in QS World University Rankings 2025.
New Zealand Ranking	#1 in NZ for educational performance, including retention and qualification completion rates.
Sustainability	Ranked #2 in NZ and in the Top 100 globally in QS World Sustainability Rankings.
5 Stars Plus Rating	Received QS 5 Stars Plus for Teaching, Facilities, Life Sciences, Medicine, and Employability.
National Teaching Excellence	Won Prime Minister’s Supreme Award for Teaching Excellence 8 out of the last 11 years.
Top-Ranked MBA	Otago Online MBA ranked #1 in NZ, #37 globally, and #1 in the world for Online Classroom Experience.
Sports-Related Subjects	Ranked #12 globally, only NZ university in the Top 20 QS Subject Rankings.
Top 50 Global Subjects	– Sports-Related Subjects (#12) – Anatomy & Physiology (#30) – Dentistry (#40) – Hospitality & Leisure Management (#44)
Top 100 Global Subjects	– Nursing – Archaeology – Philosophy – Theology and Religious Studies
ARWU Rankings	Top 50 for Hospitality & Tourism Management, Top 75 for Dentistry and Oral Sciences.
Top NZ Subjects	– Dentistry – Human Biological Sciences – Nursing – Public Health
US News Rankings	Top in NZ for: Immunology, Infectious Diseases, Molecular Biology, Microbiology.
Notable Areas of Excellence	Ranked #1 in NZ for Psychiatry/Psychology, Environment/Ecology, and Public Health.

University of Otago: Courses, Duration, Fees, and Eligibility 2025

The University of Otago courses cater to diverse academic interests, offering over 200 undergraduate, postgraduate, and research programs. These programs span disciplines such as health sciences, law, commerce, and humanities. Here’s a detailed breakdown of popular programs, tuition fees, durations, and eligibility criteria at University of Otago:

Program	1st Year Tuition Fees	Duration	Eligibility Requirements
Master of Science (MS)	INR 17 L – 23 L / NZD 35,000 – 48,000	1-2 years	Academic: Bachelor’s degree in a related field with a minimum GPA of 5.0 (or equivalent). Language Proficiency: IELTS: 6.5+, TOEFL: 90-95, PTE: 58-64.
Bachelor of Science (B.Sc.)	INR 13 L – 21 L / NZD 27,000 – 44,000	3 years	Academic: Completion of high school with science subjects. Language Proficiency: IELTS: 6+, TOEFL: 80+, PTE: 50-58.
MBA/PGDM	INR 23 L – 28 L / NZD 48,000 – 56,000	12-15 months	Academic: Bachelor’s degree in any discipline. Experience: 3-5 years of work experience (preferred). Language Proficiency: IELTS: 6.5+, TOEFL: 90-95, PTE: 58-64.
Bachelor of Arts (B.A.)	INR 15 L – 18 L / NZD 30,000 – 38,000	3 years	Academic: Completion of high school with relevant arts or humanities subjects. Language Proficiency: IELTS: 6+, TOEFL: 80+, PTE: 50+.
Master of Arts (M.A.)	INR 20 L – 26 L / NZD 42,000 – 55,000	12-18 months	Academic: Bachelor’s degree in arts or related field. Language Proficiency: IELTS: 6.5+, TOEFL: 90+, PTE: 58+.
Bachelor of Pharmacy (B.Pharma)	INR 18 L – 19 L / NZD 37,000 – 40,000	3 years	Academic: Completion of high school with Biology and Chemistry as mandatory subjects. Language Proficiency: IELTS: 6+.
Bachelor of Engineering (B.E. / B.Tech)	INR 16 L – 20 L / NZD 33,000 – 42,000	3 years	Academic: Completion of high school with Mathematics, Physics, and Chemistry as mandatory subjects. Language Proficiency: IELTS: 6+, TOEFL: 80+, PTE: 58+.
Bachelor of Commerce (B.Com)	INR 15 L / NZD 30,000	3 years	Academic: Completion of high school with Business or Economics. Language Proficiency: IELTS: 6+, TOEFL: 80+, PTE: 58+.
MBBS	INR 20 L / NZD 40,000	6 years	Academic: High school completion with Biology, Chemistry, and Physics as mandatory subjects. Additional: Interviews may apply. Language Proficiency: IELTS: 6.5+, TOEFL, PTE.
Bachelor of Business Administration (BBA)	INR 16 L – 19 L / NZD 33,000 – 39,000	3 years	Academic: Completion of high school. Language Proficiency: IELTS: 6+, TOEFL: 80+, PTE: 50+, Duolingo: 105+.
Bachelor of Dental Surgery (BDS)	INR 20 L / NZD 40,000	5 years	Academic: High school completion with Biology and Chemistry as mandatory subjects. Language Proficiency: IELTS, TOEFL, PTE.
Bachelor of Journalism & Mass Communication (B.J.M.C.)	INR 15 L – 17 L / NZD 30,000 – 35,000	3 years	Academic: High school completion with English or communication-related subjects. Language Proficiency: IELTS: 6+, TOEFL: 80+, PTE: 50+.
Master of Dental Surgery (MDS)	INR 21 L – 56 L / NZD 42,000 – 110,000	1-2 years	Academic: Bachelor’s degree in Dentistry. Language Proficiency: IELTS: 6.5+, TOEFL, PTE.
Master of Science in Nursing (MSN)	INR 21 L / NZD 42,000	2 years	Academic: Bachelor’s degree in Nursing or equivalent. Language Proficiency: IELTS: 6.5+.

University of Otago Accommodations 2025

Finding the right place to live is essential for a fulfilling university experience. The University of Otago accommodation options include on-campus housing and private rentals, ensuring a range of choices for students.

University of Otago On-Campus Accommodation 2025:

Residential Colleges: Fully catered accommodations with inclusive meal plans, communal facilities, and vibrant social activities.

Self-Catered Flats: Independent living options for students who prefer to cook their own meals.

University of Otago Off-Campus Accommodation 2025:

Private Rentals: Houses or apartments near the campus, ideal for students seeking more independence.

Homestays: Living with local families, offering cultural immersion and a supportive environment.

Here’s a breakdown of the accommodation costs:

Accommodation Type	Catering	Weekly Cost (NZD)	Annual Cost (NZD)
Residential Colleges	Fully Catered	300 – 350	14,000 – 18,000
Self-Catered Flats	Self-Catered	200 – 250	10,000 – 12,000
Private Rentals	Self-Catered	180 – 300	9,000 – 14,000
Homestays	Meals Included	250 – 300	12,000 – 15,000

Conclusion

Choosing a university is one of the most crucial decisions in shaping your future, and the University of Otago is undoubtedly a standout option. With its stellar rankings, wide-ranging courses, and commitment to academic excellence, Otago offers more than just education—it provides an experience that enriches and empowers.

From competitive tuition fees to a vibrant student community, this is a place where learning meets adventure. Whether you’re staying in a residential college or exploring private rental options, Otago ensures you feel at home while pursuing your dreams.

As you embark on your academic journey, remember that the University of Otago is not just a place to study—it’s a place to thrive. Ready to take the leap? Otago awaits with open arms and endless opportunities!

Frequently Asked Questions

What is the University of Otago's global ranking?

The University of Otago is ranked 214th globally in the QS World University Rankings 2025. It also holds a 5+ QS Star rating for its excellence in teaching, facilities, and research.

How many programs does the University of Otago offer?

Otago offers a wide array of programs, including 102 undergraduate programs and 166 postgraduate programs, catering to diverse academic interests.

What is the tuition fee for international students at the University of Otago?

The annual tuition fee for international students is approximately 27,700 NZD, depending on the chosen program and study level.

Is the University of Otago a public or private institution?

The University of Otago is a public research university located in Dunedin, New Zealand. It is one of the oldest and most prestigious institutions in the country, with a strong focus on academic and research excellence.