How to apply and enrol at Otago

To be eligible for admission you must:

• be at least 16 years old by the first day of classes in your period of study
• hold (or expect to gain) a university entrance qualification
• meet language requirements

For more information see:

• Entrance requirements for domestic students
• Entrance requirements for international students
• English language requirements

Otago offers a wide range of study options. Whether you're just finishing school, new to studying, or seeking advanced study options, we've got a programme that fits your journey.

• Explore your study options

If you're a postgraduate student, you may also need a supervisor. You can contact the appropriate department to discuss possible research opportunities.

• List of departments and schools
• Postgraduate research opportunities

Different types of programmes have different entry requirements.

• General bachelors’ degrees all have the same entry requirements.
• Specialised bachelors' degrees have their own specific entry requirements, restricted choice of papers and admission procedures.
• Postgraduate programmes are normally for students who have already completed a bachelor's degree. They have their own specific entry requirements.

For more information see:

• Entry requirements for General bachelors' degrees
• Specialised bachelors' degrees
• View all available qualifications

Entry requirements for specific programmes, including for postgraduate qualifications, are also listed on their qualification pages.

While you can start the application process via eVision as early as May, you must submit your application by certain due dates.

Make sure to take note of the due date that applies to the programme you're interested in to avoid missing out – some programmes will not accept late applications.

Important application dates

eVision is the University's student management system, and is your one-stop shop for study-related information.

To start your application, you'll need to first create your eVision account.

How to create your account

To complete and submit your application you'll need to log into your eVision portal and complete the required sections.

How to complete your application

• If you're a new or recommencing student, or a returning student applying for a new programme, we'll assess your application against the programme's admission criteria.
• If you're a new or recommencing student, University staff will also check if you are eligible for University admission.

We may also request any additional documentation that may be required.

You’ll be notified of the outcome of your application via eVision.

After you submit your application

Remember to regularly check your eVision portal for notifications or requests for additional information.
Log into your eVision portal

If your application was successful and you've received an offer of a place to study at Otago, you'll get a notification in your eVision portal. You'll need to have accepted the offer in eVision before you can proceed to course enrolment.

Log into your eVision portal

You need to provide two types of details as a student at Otago:

• personal and contact details
• annual details as required by the New Zealand Government and/or the University.

How to provide your details

Applies to: International students

If you're an international student studying in New Zealand, you'll also need to answer additional questions about your visa and apply for StudentSafe travel and health insurance.

Visa and insurance requirements

eVision guides you through the process of selecting papers. Once you have selected your papers, and applied for any special or departmental permission you may need, you must submit your paper selection for course approval.

How to select your papers

Your paper selection will be reviewed and you'll be advised via your eVision portal whether your paper selection has been approved or declined, or if we need more information.

What happens after you submit your paper selection

Remember to regularly check your eVision portal for notifications or requests for more information.
Log into your eVision portal

Once we've approved your papers, you're ready to finalise your enrolment by completing your online declaration.

Completing it as early as possible means you can:

• Finalise your StudyLink application sooner (if applicable)
• Avoid late fees
• Collect your student ID card and get access to University resources

Online declaration and deadlines