The vaccine mandate
The University of Otago requires all staff, students, contractors, visitors and members of the public to be vaccinated to enter any University-owned or leased premises, from Monday 10 January 2022.
Existing students
Students who are fully vaccinated or hold a Government-approved exemption, and have a valid My Vaccine Pass can attend University activities as normal. You will be asked to validate your Pass online during your enrolment.
The mandatory vaccination policy at Otago means that almost all classes, labs, tutorials and lectures will take place in person without physical distancing, allowing the University to deliver most, if not all study in person rather than online, for those who are vaccinated or exempt.
Because we have verified the status of all students through their enrolment, you will not need to verify your My Vaccine Pass on campus except at places like cafes and Unipol.
Students who have chosen not to be vaccinated may choose from a limited selection of online courses and papers.
Please contact AskOtago if you have questions about your options for 2022 and you are not vaccinated.
New students
Students who are beginning their studies at the University of Otago and have a valid My Vaccine Pass, can attend all on-campus University activities. You will be asked to validate your Pass online during your enrolment.
The mandatory vaccination policy at Otago means that almost all classes, labs, tutorials and lectures will take place in person without physical distancing, allowing the University to deliver most, if not all study in person rather than online, for those who are vaccinated or exempt.
Because we have verified the status of all students through their enrolment, you will not need to verify your My Vaccine Pass on campus except at places like cafes and Unipol.
2022 on-campus teaching
The mandatory vaccination policy at Otago means that almost all classes, labs tutorials and lectures will take place in person without physical distancing, allowing the University to deliver most, if not all study in person rather than online, for those who are vaccinated or exempt.
If any of our campuses move to Red Level under the COVID-19 Protection Framework, we will still be able to deliver on-campus teaching, although physical distancing and additional health measures such as mask wearing will be implemented.
Vaccination dates
The University mandate requires all staff, students, contractors, visitors and members of the public to be full vaccinated and have a verifiable My Vaccine Pass to enter any University of Otago owned or leased premise from 10 January 2022.
In the case of someone only having one vaccine dose by that date, an extension may be granted under exceptional circumstances.
Please contact AskOtago if this applies.
Refunds
Those students who have already paid for their course and are now not able to attend due to their vaccination status may apply for a full refund.
Support services fees
Students who are only taking online courses will not be charged the compulsory Student Services Fee.
Contact us
Please contact AskOtago with any questions.
