All fees are in New Zealand dollars. Fees should be paid before the first day of classes. This information including dates and fees is subject to change. All fees are inclusive of the NZ GST rate of 15 per cent.
Currency converter xe.com
English Language Centre tuition fees
| Domestic students 2026 | International students 2026 | |
| General English (full-time) | NZ$348.02 per week | NZ$526 per week |
| English for Academic Purposes | NZ$348.02 per week | NZ$526 per week |
| English for Otago (2026 intakes: 12 weeks) | NZ$3,977.12 per course | NZ$6,550 per course |
Miscellaneous fees
| Student Services fee | NZ$29.34 per week |
|
Insurance Insurance information for international students | Variable – refer to your offer letter |
Foundation Studies Certificate fees
Tuition fee bands
| Domestic students 2026 | International students 2026 | |
| Bridging Programme – all streams | NZ$906.71 | NZ$3,348 |
| Foundation Studies Certificate – Arts / Commerce | NZ$6,144 | NZ$30,801 |
| Foundation Studies Certificate – Health Sciences / Sciences | NZ$6,408 | NZ$32,036 |
Important fees note:
The above fees are indicative fees only.
The above estimate is based on an average full-time course load unless otherwise stated and is applicable to the calendar year in which the course is commenced. The final fee will depend on the papers selected and may differ from this estimate. An invoice, showing the total fee payable, will be provided on completion of enrolment. If the fee on the invoice differs from this estimate, you will be charged or refunded the difference.
Miscellaneous fees
| Student Services fee 2026 – Bridging Programme | NZ$191.34 |
| Student Services fee 2026 – Foundation Studies Certificate full programme | NZ$1,193 |
| Pūtea Tautoko | Student Relief Fund Fee 2026 – Foundation Studies Certificate | NZ$20 |
|
Insurance Insurance information for international students | Variable – refer to your offer letter |
Student Services fee includes gym membership, wireless internet on campus, access to all services and facilities that the University of Otago provides.
Diploma fees
Tuition fee bands
|
Domestic students 2026 | International students 2026 | |
| Diploma in Arts (DipArts) | NZ$7,000 | NZ$37,300 |
| Diploma in Commerce (DipCom) | NZ$7,000 | NZ$36,700 |
| Diploma in Science (DipSci) | NZ$7,900 | NZ$37,380 |
Important fees note:
The above fees are indicative fees only.
The above estimate is based on an average full-time course load unless otherwise stated and is applicable to the calendar year in which the course is commenced. The final fee will depend on the papers selected and may differ from this estimate. An invoice, showing the total fee payable, will be provided on completion of enrolment. If the fee on the invoice differs from this estimate, you will be charged or refunded the difference.
Miscellaneous fees
| Student Services fee 2026 – Diploma | NZ$1,193 |
| Pūtea Tautoko | Student Relief Fund Fee 2026 – Foundation Studies Certificate | NZ$20 |
|
Insurance Insurance information for international students | Variable – refer to your offer letter |
Student Services fee includes gym membership, wireless internet on campus, access to all services and facilities that the University of Otago provides.
Homestay accommodation fees
2026 homestay fees
| Service/fee | Cost |
|---|---|
| Homestay placement fee | NZ$482 |
| Designated Caregiver administration fee | NZ$250 |
| Homestay fee - standard | NZ$62.25 per night |
| Homestay fee – specific dietary requirements | NZ$67.50 per night |
| Homestay fee – sports / training diet | NZ$71.75 per night |
| Homestay extension fee | NZ$40 |
| Homestay refund fee | NZ$100 |
| Airport pickup | Free with Homestay |
Financial matters and the cost of living in New Zealand
In order to live comfortably in Dunedin for 40 weeks of the academic year, we recommend you have between NZ$22,000–$27,000 available for living costs, above the cost of your tuition.
View a breakdown of typical living costs for more information