More than 85 per cent of our first-year students come from outside Dunedin, so we place great emphasis on providing high-quality accommodation and support through our residential colleges.
Most students go flatting in their second year, although some opt for a flat in their first year. If you choose to live in a flat, you’ll find that living costs in Dunedin are generally lower than in bigger cities.
The table below provides an estimate of living costs in NZ$ and is based on 2017 charging. The costs assume a single student on campus for a period of forty weeks (one academic year). Actual accommodation costs will be supplied once you have been accepted for study at Otago.
| Residential College | Shared Flat | |
|---|---|---|
| Accommodation Fee | $15,390 | - |
| Average rent (52 weeks @ $150) | - | $7,800 |
| Food (40 weeks @ $80) | - | $3,200 |
| Gas/electricity, internet (52 weeks) | - | $1,300 |
| Total for accommodation | $15,390 | $12,300 |
| Personal costs (40 weeks @ $60) | $2,400 | $2,400 |
| Entertainment (40 weeks @ $50) | $2,000 | $2,000 |
| Total | $19,790 | $16,700 |
Notes:
- Residential college contracts are normally for 38 weeks. Some colleges may charge a higher fee than the fee listed in the table.
- In addition to the accommodation fee, the residential colleges charge a small amenity fee.
- Food costs reflect the purchase of some lunches and takeaways. If all cooking is done in the flat they could be reduced.
- Personal costs vary considerably depending on lifestyle. The estimate represents a restrained style of living.
- This estimated budget does not include travel costs or any significant personal expenditure items.
