Uni Exchange Aotearoa is a new pilot programme for second-year domestic undergraduate students, offering the chance to spend a semester at another New Zealand university without interrupting your degree.
Through a first-of-its-kind collaboration between Victoria University of Wellington, Auckland University of Technology, and the University of Otago, students can experience a different city, academic environment, and student community while continuing to earn credit towards their qualification. Successful applicants will receive a $1,200 travel grant in 2026.
Who can apply?
You are eligible to apply for Uni Exchange Aotearoa if:
- you are a second-year domestic undergraduate student,
- you are available to study away from your home university in semester 2, 2026, and
- your degree includes eligible subjects at a partner university.
Each university will offer up to 10 exchange places for this pilot programme, so places are limited.
Applications close 20 April 2026.
What subjects are eligible?
You can study a wide range of subjects at your host university, provided they align with your degree and meet eligibility requirements.
You may be eligible for exchange if you are studying in one of these subject areas at Otago:
- Anthropology
- Classics
- Communication and media studies
- Criminology
- Economics
- Education (not teacher education)
- German
- Global Studies
- History
- Human Resources
- Linguistics and languages
- Management
- Marketing
- Mathematics and Statistics
- Politics
- Psychology
- Social sciences
- Sociology
Available courses
See the full lists of courses available for exchange students at AUT and Victoria University of Wellington:
FAQs
Will my papers count towards my degree?
Yes.
All papers taken as part of Uni Exchange Aotearoa will count towards your Otago degree, subject to approval.
Credit may be applied to:
- Your major or minor, and/or
- Your points or elective requirements
How the credit applies will depend on your degree structure. We strongly encourage you to seek advice before applying, to ensure your study plan remains on track. The Student Advisers in Student Development can help you plan your exchange:
Request an appointment with a Student Adviser
What about my student allowance or student loan?
If you meet eligibility criteria, you should be able to continue receiving your student allowance or student loan entitlement while on exchange. You will need to submit a new StudyLink application, as your enrolment and fees will be managed by the host university, not Otago.
Submit a new application – StudyLink
Are there scholarships or grants available for exchange students?
Yes.
All Otago students participating in Uni Exchange Aotearoa in 2026 will receive a $1,200 travel grant to help with the costs of relocating and settling into a new city.
What are my accommodation options at the exchange university?
Accommodation may be available through your host university in 2026.
Students can also choose to make their own accommodation arrangements if they prefer. Further information will be provided to successful applicants once placements are confirmed.
What if I have more questions?
Please get in touch with AskOtago with any questions about Uni Exchange Aotearoa.
Applications are open now for semester 2, 2026
Places are limited, so early planning is encouraged. Otago students should start by contacting AskOtago to find out how to apply. Applications close 20 April 2026.
Contact AskOtagoLearn more about our exchange partner universities
A semester in Wellington
Victoria University of Wellington
A semester in Auckland
Auckland University of Technology
Apply via your home university
Are you a student from Victoria or AUT looking to spend a semester at Otago? Application is through your home university. Find more information on your university's website: