About the University

• The University of Otago, founded in 1869 by an ordinance of the Otago Provincial Council, is New Zealand’s oldest university.
• Today the University has about 20,000 students, from all over New Zealand and from nearly 100 countries around the world.
• The University of Otago is New Zealand’s most research-intensive university and is the country’s top-ranked university for research quality. Otago also enjoys an international reputation for the quality of its teaching and is a world leader in many fields.
• Particular academic strengths are in the Biomedical and Health Sciences; Economics, Marketing and Tourism; Philosophy, Psychology, Theology and History, and Music.
• The University of Otago School of Business is AACSB accredited.
• Students interested in field studies should consider geology and ecology studies at Otago.
• The University of Otago campus is in the center of the city of Dunedin and, as a result, much of Dunedin’s commerce, music, entertainment and sport has evolved around its student culture. Dunedin offers students the variety and entertainment of larger cities, but is small enough to be friendly, uncrowded and safe.
• Located on the edge of the Botanic Gardens, the Otago campus is very beautiful. The Water of Leith winds its way past the majestic stone Clock Tower, a visible reminder of the University’s history and tradition of learning.

Location

The University of Otago is located in the center of the college town of Dunedin. Visit the google map link below to see the campus location.

Courses

Courses (called “papers” in New Zealand) are available in the below disciplines. For detailed instructions on how to find and select courses, and a list of popular courses see our course selection instructions. Students enroll in 3-4 papers per semester (between 54 and 72 Otago credits), which usually transfers as 12 – 16 U.S. semester credits.

Academic Departments and Schools at the University of Otago are divided into four academic divisions: School of Business; Division of Health Science; Division of Humanities and the Division of Sciences.

ELIGIBILITY

• 3.0 GPA. Students with a 2.8-3.0 are encouraged to apply and may be admitted on a case-by-case basis.
• Minimum sophomore standing at a four-year institution at the time of participation.

Activities / Immersion

Our local staff arrange various activities during the semester designed to help immerse you into the local culture. These activities are included in your semester program. In addition, if you have a specific interest or hobby, your Dunedin based Resident Director will be able to point you in the right direction. Below are examples of previous activities arranged for students. Note that activities may change each semester.

In addition to the TEAN events, to make sure you don’t miss out on any opportunities, our local staff send out frequent emails letting you know what is happening in Dunedin and throughout New Zealand – ranging from community events to music festivals. We aim to tap you into the local culture right from the start.

Rugby

It’s the national sport! Cheer on the local team, the Highlanders, or when available TEAN students are treated to an All Blacks rugby game.

Otago Peninsula Tour

Take an afternoon to explore the untouched beaches and wildlife of the Otago Peninsula including the world’s largest fur seal colony.

Coffee Breaks

Kiwis love their fabulous coffee. We follow their lead and meet up for coffee and cake at various times during the semester. This is a great opportunity to catch up with your TEAN local support staff.

APPLICATION DEADLINES

TEAN has a rolling admissions process. We recommend submitting your application anytime from June for Spring applications, and from January for Fall applications. Late applications may be considered. Contact TEAN if the application deadline has passed.

Spring 2021

Fall 2020

Fall 2020

• Tuition and program fees: $14,350*
• University off-campus housing: $3,950

*Tuition for 4 courses. Students are permitted to enroll in 3 courses but there is no tuition discount.

Spring 2021

• Estimated tuition and program fees: $14,350*
• Estimated university off-campus housing: $3,950

*Tuition for 4 courses. Students are permitted to enroll in 3 courses but there is no tuition discount.

What’s Included

• Full tuition (4 courses) 
• Guaranteed, pre-arranged housing including internet
• Bedding Pack
• Comprehensive health and travel insurance
• Services of local TEAN support staff throughout the semester
• 5-day Orientation Excursion Program with meals, excursions, accommodations and transportation
• Local SIM card
• Cultural events and catch ups during the semester such as attending a rugby match
• Access to unique and exciting optional mid-semester excursions, which may include New Zealand’s South Island, Thailand and other places
• Access to pre-arranged flight itineraries and booking agent
• Extensive pre-departure advising
• University and course selection advice
• Official academic transcripts from host institution
• Credit approval and transfer assistance
• Help with student visa preparation
• Financial aid transfer planning
• Airport pickup and reception upon arrival at TEAN Orientation and in host city
• Bus transfer from Queenstown to Dunedin after TEAN Orientation
• Student association fees
• Host university orientation
• Farewell Dinner at conclusion of program

WHAT’S NOT INCLUDED

• International airfare ($1,800)
• Domestic airfare in U.S. ($500)
• Books ($200)
• Meals during the semester ($1,700)
• Student visa ($30)

*Numbers are estimated based on previous student experience and budget. Actual amounts will vary depending on the student.

University Scholarships

In addition to the above TEAN scholarships, University of Otago provides an additional two US$1,000 for the fall semester in scholarship funding. Any TEAN Otago students that apply for a TEAN scholarship will automatically be considered for this Otago specific scholarship.

Other New Zealand Study Abroad Scholarships

Additional scholarships are available for students planning to study abroad in New Zealand ranging from $500 – $15,000. For more information see our list of New Zealand Study Abroad Scholarships.