Uni prep programme for Pacific students.
What is Kickstart 101?
This six week summer school paper will help prepare you for life at university.
- Kickstart 101 is a mix of lectures, workshops and social activities designed to have you hit the ground running
- You will learn degree-level study skills and habits, learn more about university and how it works and start to become familiar with the University of Otago campus
- You will also meet our amazing Pacific staff who will be there to support you every step of the way. And make friends and do the programme with other like-minded students
Dates for when Kickstart if offered
| 5-16 January 2026 | 2 weeks of distance learning |
|---|---|
| 19 January-13 February 2026 | 4 weeks on-campus (9am–5pm Monday–Friday) |
We will provide free accommodation at one of our residential colleges during the 4 weeks on campus (meals included). You can then focus on your study and not have to worry about finding somewhere to stay, or what to have for dinner.
No fees
Free paper
Free
Accommodation
Who is Kickstart 101 for?
This programme is recommended for year 13 Pacific school leavers who are transitioning out of high school at the end of 2025.
It is designed to support school leavers preparing for further tertiary study at Ōtākou Whakaihu Waka, University of Otago.
Grab your place
Limited places available.
You will need to tell us soon as possible to secure your place in the programme.
We will confirm your place in the programme by email and post.
Acceptance into the Kickstart 101 programme does not imply that application for admission to any other University programme will be accepted.
18 points
To kick-start your degree
Contact us if you want to talk about the programme
Contact us if you are unsure about your eligibility.
We are more than happy to talk to you and your family if you have any questions or concerns.
Please contact the Pacific Islands Centre
Email pacific@otago.ac.nz