How it works
- Apply for exchange in eVision
- We place you at a partner university
- You receive and complete your Exchange Learning Agreement
- We nominate you to the host university and send you their application details
- You apply to the host university
- Attend a pre-departure seminar
- Receive formal acceptance documents from your host institute
- Prepare to go (visa, accommodation, flights, insurance)
- Go on exchange
- Complete your exchange evaluation
- Transcript sent to Otago
- Transfer credit added to your Otago transcript
How to apply
Before applying
Important:
- Full year exchange = 2 applications
- Short course (< 1 semester): select “short course”
- No documents required
When to apply
| Application processing period | Otago semester on exchange |
|---|---|
| 1 March 2026–1 September 2026 | Semester 1 2027 |
| 1 September 2026–1 March 2027 | Semester 2 2027 |
Note:
- You will be contacted during the processing period
- Late applications may be considered
Email exchange@otago.ac.nz
Considering your destination
Before you apply, take time to research your preferred Otago exchange partners. This will help you choose destinations that are a good academic and personal fit.
Make sure that:
- Places are available in your exchange semester
- The institution accepts students at your level of study (undergraduate/postgraduate/MBA)
- The partner is approved for your division (if required)
- Your key courses are not restricted or highly competitive
- A range of courses are available
- Courses are taught in English (if required) and in the correct semester
Also consider:
- Accommodation options
- Cost of living
- City and region
- Student visa requirements (cost, timing, appointments, document format)
Good to know:
- You can choose up to five institutions
- Your first choice is not guaranteed
- Entry into specific courses is never guaranteed – flexibility is essential
How exchange placements are confirmed
From 2026, Otago Global will use a lottery system when more students apply to a host institution than there are available places. This provides an equitable and transparent way to allocate exchange spots.
Exchange placement process:
- Eligibility check: We confirm you meet partner requirements (e.g. GPA, academic fit)
- Lottery allocation
- Preferences are considered in the order you list them in your application
- If you are not selected for your first choice, the system moves to your next preference
- Placement confirmed within a week from the lottery round via eVision
Key Deadlines S1 2027:
- Round 1 Lottery:
- Apply by 25 March 2026, 11:59pm
- Round 2 Lottery:
- Apply by 15 April 2026, 11:59pm
- Rolling weekly placement (after 15 April)
- Apply by Thursday, 11:59pm
- Continues until 1 September 2026
Key Deadlines S2 2027:
- Round 1 Lottery:
- Apply by 25 September 2026, 11:59pm
- Round 2 Lottery:
- Apply by 15 October 2026, 11:59pm
- Rolling weekly placement (after 15 October)
- Apply by Thursday, 11:59pm
- Continues until 1 March 2027
Tūrangawaewae, Pōkai Whenua Exchange
The Tūrangawaewae, Pōkai Whenua Exchange (TPW) Programme is available to students of Māori descent. Applications are considered and approved by the Office of Māori Development, in line with the 1 March–1 September application processing period.
Find out more about Tūrangawaewae, Pōkai Whenua – Indigenous Exchange
Further information
Contact the Otago Global team for personalised advice and support.
They can help you explore destinations, understand requirements, and plan your exchange journey.