Applying to Aquinas College
Applying to Aquinas College
Do your research
It is not easy to decide which college to select. Be assured that every college at the University of Otago will provide you with the best support, service and experience for your first year at Otago. Before you make the decision there are a few things you can do to help you make that decision. Read the prospectus, read the web sites and if you have the opportunity visit colleges to have a tour and talk to the staff. If you know people who have lived there in the past talk to them about their experience. This will hopefully give you more information with which you can make your decision.
Apply online
To apply for a space in any University of Otago college including Aquinas, you can apply online through the Otago Accommodation Office. To apply for a place at Aquinas and join our community simply choose us as your first choice.
When to apply
Applications for full year accommodation at Aquinas College are accepted by the Accommodation Office from August 1st each year and it is a good idea to have this completed by 30 September.
The application process
Once completed, your application is sent to the college you select as your first choice. Each college selects applicants for their college and returns any unsuccessful applications to the accommodation office where it is sent on to the college you selected as your second choice. The process is repeated for the third choice. If your application is not selected by a college through this process it is sent to the accommodation office to go on the general wait list. Once your application is on the general wait list it is considered by any college with spaces available.
Sometimes a college fills with first choice applications so they do not have the opportunity to select second and third choice applications. If your application is not selected initially and you are placed on the general wait list please do not be concerned. Each college receives a higher number of applications than beds available.
Selection of students
The Head of Aquinas College reviews all applications who select Aquinas as one of their choices. The academic ability of each candidate is assessed to ensure each resident is able to cope with tertiary study. The Head of College also reviews activities applicants are involved in and any achievements gained. The confidential reference from your secondary school plays a pivotal role in the selection process. The Head of College selects candidates to build a community of people who have similar interests and backgrounds while also trying to incorporate a good mix of cultures, backgrounds and interests so there is always something new for you to experience. No limit or goal is set for a number of people studying a particular course. If you have questions about the selection process you can contact us here. Decisions on entry into Aquinas College are made by the Head of College in October.
Fees
2013 Compulsory College Fees
Entry Fees
- Student placement and Activities Fee $630
- Bond $100
Total payable within 14 days of receiving your offer: $730
Boarding Fees
38 week contract period (mid-Feb to mid-Nov): $12882 for a single room and $10602 for a place in a twin share room
Payment Options
3 payment options are available to you. These are outlined in the fees schedule sent with your offer and in our handbook in the financial section. Please contact us if you require more information or wish to discuss these payment methods. If you wish to make a payment by credit card please click here.

