Name: University of Otago
Brand: University of Otago
SKU: 37416
Rating: 8.44 (9 reviews)

5 Best Universities in New Zealand for International Students to Study Abroad

<p><strong>Which universities in New Zealand for international students are the best?  </strong>Well-done on choosing New Zealand for study abroad, you’ve made a baaah-utiful choice. Now that you’ve narrowed down the location of your study abroad experience, it may have dawned on you that New Zealand has a LOT of excellent colleges and universities to choose from—and even a couple of islands! Don’t fear, that’s why you’ve landed on this article and are continuing your journey towards selecting the perfect place for you (see, you’re already doing a great job).</p>
<p></p>
<div class="awesome-image centered " style=""><img style="" src="https://www.goabroad.com/section_cloudinary/gaplabs/image/upload/images2/program_content/dunedin-from-signal-hill-1548339420.jpeg" alt="study in dunedin"><div class="caption"><p>Grab your new friends & take in a new, sweeping view of your university town—like these students in Dunedin!</p></div></div>
<p>Take a deep breath because no matter which of the many universities in New Zealand for international students you choose to attend, it’ll be an incredible and educational experience abroad. That being said, as you make your final decision, it is helpful to have an idea of what you’re looking for in your overall academic experience. Kiwi colleges and universities come in every size and shape, so it’s up to you to determine which factors matter most. Location? Specific fields of study or professors to learn under? Cost? Built-in community of international students?</p>
<p>Some New Zealand colleges are more accommodating to international students than others. The best New Zealand college for you is out there, you just have to do a little looking to find it. Whether you’re looking for universities in the capital, Wellington, universities in Auckland, universities in smaller, more immersive cities, or simply international universities in New Zealand, you’ve come to the right place. We hope this list of the best universities in New Zealand for international students can help you on your search!</p>
<h2>Why study in New Zealand?</h2>
<p>Earning your degree doesn’t have to be boring, stressful, or an event to trudge through, especially if you take the leap to study at one of the many colleges in New Zealand! Whether you’re looking for the tranquility of sandy beaches, the soft salty breeze of the coast, new perspective from the tops of mountains (the Southern Alps will blow your mind!), or the vibrant energy of cosmopolitan urban centers, New Zealand has you covered.</p>
<p></p>
<div class="awesome-image centered " style=""><img style="" src="https://www.goabroad.com/section_cloudinary/gaplabs/image/upload/images2/program_content/caleb-george-144977-unsplash-1548196029.jpg" alt="5 Best Universities in New Zealand for International Students to Study Abroad"><div class="caption"><p>Two words: FLAT. WHITE.</p></div></div>
<p>You’ll never be want for adventure when it’s time to close the books and get out and play. New Zealand’s two islands—the North and South—offer miles and miles of glorious nature to get up close to. Do one of the great treks over a school break or try to spot the Southern Lights (Aurora Australis) with your new study abroad buds. Taste-test every Whittaker chocolate bar you can get your hands on, and try to spot a daytime-shy kiwi. Wander about the Te Papa museum (it’s free!) to learn more about the indigenous Maori culture, language, heritage, and history. If that doesn’t scratch your itch enough, participate in a homestay on a marae to learn more about modern day Maori life.</p>
<p>With world renowned colleges and universities everywhere you look, you’ll learn as you adventure and ultimately walk away with a world class education. Not bad for a&nbsp;</p>
<h2>Best universities in New Zealand in 2019-2020 for international students</h2>
<h3><span style="color: rgb(51,51,51);font-family: Open Sans;">1. </span><a title="University of Otago" href="https://www.otago.ac.nz/" rel="nofollow" target="_blank" className="clickTracker" rev="domainID=6&amp;refererType=1&amp;refererID=4848&amp;abbreviation=CSCT&amp;clientID=37416" data-ga-client="University of Otago" data-contentlink=""><span style="color: rgb(51,51,51);font-family: Open Sans;">University of Otago</span></a><span style="color: rgb(51,51,51);font-family: Open Sans;">—Dunedin, South Island</span></h3>
<p></p>
<p>Māori: Te Whare Wānanga o Ōtākou</p>
<p>New Zealand’s first university is situated in gorgeous Dunedin on an inlet leading to the vast Pacific Ocean. Dunedin, a foodie and culture capital, is Australasia’s only true student city (rated as the top university in NZ for international student experience!), with nearly 20% of its residents attending the University of Otago! If you dream of accessibility to nature / recreating your fave scenes from Lord of the Rings with friends frequently, the location can’t be beat. Not only is it ultra-walkable, but ski resorts, adventure hubs (we hope bungy-jumping is on your to-do list!), and wildlife reserves are all within campus reach.&nbsp;</p>
<p>There’s even more to be enjoyed on campus. The university is lauded for the field work oriented coursework available for a variety of courses—from Pre-Med (Health Sciences), Humanities, Science, Business, and more.&nbsp;</p>
<div class="awesome-image centered " style=""><img style="" src="https://www.goabroad.com/section_cloudinary/gaplabs/image/upload/images2/program_content/clocktower-and-registry-lawn-1548339487.jpg" alt="studying abroad in new zealand"><div class="caption"><p>Could this university campus *be* any more darling?!</p></div></div>
<p>Take part in their <a title="University of Otago" href="https://www.otago.ac.nz/uniflats/index.html" rel="nofollow" target="_blank" className="clickTracker" rev="domainID=6&amp;refererType=1&amp;refererID=4848&amp;abbreviation=CSCT&amp;clientID=37416" data-ga-client="University of Otago" data-contentlink="">UniFlats program</a> to live with both a local and a fellow international students (we love how this gives students greater immersion into NZ culture!). Want to get even more involved on campus? We have a hunch *at least* one of the 150+ student-run clubs and organizations will catch your attention.</p>
<p></p>
<ul>
<li dir = "auto"><strong>Recommended program</strong>: Direct-enrollment</li>
<li dir = "auto"><a href="https://www.goabroad.com/providers" target="_self"><strong>Read reviews of the University of Otago for study abroad</strong></a></li>
</ul>
<p></p>
<h3><span style="color: rgb(51,51,51);font-family: Open Sans;">2. </span><a href="https://www.goabroad.com/providers/the-university-of-auckland" rel="" target="_self" className="link"><span style="color: rgb(51,51,51);font-family: Open Sans;">University of Auckland</span></a><span style="color: rgb(51,51,51);font-family: Open Sans;">—Auckland, North Island</span></h3>
<p>Māori: Te Whare Wānanga o Tāmaki Makaurau</p>
<p>Look out your dorm room window and lay your eyes on Rangitoto, New Zealand's youngest and most active volcano. Amazing! With coastlines to the east and west, living in New Zealand’s largest city isn’t synonymous with adapting to life in a concrete jungle. The University of Auckland itself is smack dab in the heart of the urban center, giving you unparalleled access to kebab joints, cool coffee shops, international shopping chains, and a trendy bar scene. No wonder the University of Auckland tops of list of New Zealand colleges for international students!</p>
<h4 style="text-align:center;"><span style="color: rgb(51,51,51);font-family: Open Sans;">[</span><a href="https://www.goabroad.com/articles/study-abroad/why-study-abroad-new-zealand" rel="" target="_self" className="link"><span style="color: rgb(51,51,51);font-family: Open Sans;">9 Reasons Why Study Abroad in New Zealand is For You</span></a><span style="color: rgb(51,51,51);font-family: Open Sans;">]</span></h4>
<p>This is a school worth considering if your academic aims focus on civil engineering, psychology, accounting, finance, and education. As a research-oriented institution, you’ll be given plenty of space to dive deep into the topics that most interest you. Give life in the “City of Sails” a try!</p>
<p></p>
<ul>
<li dir = "auto"><strong>Recommended program:</strong> <a href="https://www.goabroad.com/providers/the-education-abroad-network/programs/tean-university-of-auckland-23152" target="_self">The Education Abroad Network</a></li>
<li dir = "auto"><a href="https://www.goabroad.com/providers/the-university-of-auckland" target="_self"><strong>Be the first to review the University of Auckland</strong></a></li>
</ul>
<p></p>
<p></p>
<div class="awesome-image centered " style=""><img style="" src="https://www.goabroad.com/section_cloudinary/gaplabs/image/upload/images2/program_content/christoph-deinet-539273-unsplash-1548195692.jpg" alt="5 Best Universities in New Zealand for International Students to Study Abroad"><div class="caption"><p>One of the biggest perks of studying in New Zealand? Your teachers extend beyond the university classroom</p></div></div>
<h3><span style="color: rgb(51,51,51);font-family: Open Sans;">3. </span><a href="https://www.goabroad.com/providers/university-of-canterbury-1" rel="" target="_self" className="link"><span style="color: rgb(51,51,51);font-family: Open Sans;">University of Canterbury</span></a><span style="color: rgb(51,51,51);font-family: Open Sans;">—Christchurch, South Island</span></h3>
<p>Māori: Te Whare Wānanga o Waitaha</p>
<p>Christchurch: You may recognize the city name from the horrific earthquake that ravaged through a few years ago, but now it’s making a name for itself through its revival. Look no further than your pocket to feel inspired by graduates of this institution: The $100 bill depicts Ernest Rutherford, Canterbury's most distinguished graduate, while the $50 bank note portrays an image of Apirana Ngata of Ngati Porou—the first Maori graduate from a university in New Zealand.</p>
<p>Bike along the Avon River, sip coffee while enjoying the South Island’s largest urban center, and join over 12,000 students in more than 70 different academic programs to see what all the fuss is about in the Garden City!</p>
<p></p>
<ul>
<li dir = "auto"><strong>Recommended program: </strong><a href="https://www.goabroad.com/providers/isa-international-studies-abroad/programs" target="_self">International Studies Abroad (ISA)</a></li>
<li dir = "auto"><a href="https://www.goabroad.com/providers/university-of-canterbury-1" target="_self"><strong>Be the first to review the University of Canterbury</strong></a></li>
</ul>
<p></p>
<h3><span style="color: rgb(51,51,51);font-family: Open Sans;">4. </span><a href="https://www.goabroad.com/providers/victoria-university-of-wellington" rel="" target="_self" className="link"><span style="color: rgb(51,51,51);font-family: Open Sans;">Victoria University of Wellington</span></a><span style="color: rgb(51,51,51);font-family: Open Sans;">—Wellington, North Island</span></h3>
<p>Māori: Te Whare Wānanga o te Ūpoko o te Ika a Māui</p>
<p>We dare say our experience in Wellington can be summarized as: “Love at first sight.” From it’s funky cafes and art shops to it’s quirky fish stands and eclectic coffee scene, there’s never a dull moment in New Zealand’s capital city. Students will be satisfied with life off-campus and on. The Victoria University of Wellington prides itself on its international focus, making foreign students (like you!) feeling ultra-welcome from the get-go. You can feel confident that your studies in Wellington will prepare you for meaningful careers in a variety of industries.</p>
<p>Best part? When you’re bored, you can wander the world class Te Papa Museum on New Zealand’s indigenous culture. For free.</p>
<p></p>
<ul>
<li dir = "auto"><strong>Recommended program: </strong><a href="https://www.goabroad.com/providers/ifsa-institute-for-study-abroad/programs/ifsa-butler-at-victoria-university-2712" target="_self">IFSA-Butler</a></li>
<li dir = "auto"><a href="https://www.goabroad.com/providers/victoria-university-of-wellington" target="_self"><strong>Be the first to review Victoria University Wellington</strong></a></li>
</ul>
<p></p>
<div class="awesome-image centered " style=""><img style="" src="https://www.goabroad.com/section_cloudinary/gaplabs/image/upload/images2/program_content/ye-fung-tchen-1092220-unsplash-1548195925.jpg" alt="5 Best Universities in New Zealand for International Students to Study Abroad"><div class="caption"><p>Is she actually studying or day dreaming about Tim Tams?</p></div></div>
<p><span style="color: inherit;font-size: 21px;font-family: inherit;"><strong>5.  Auckland University of Technology—Auckland, North Island</strong></span><br></p>
<p></p>
<p>Māori: Te Wānanga Aronui o Tāmaki Makau Rau</p>
<p>Auckland is the only city to top our list of New Zealand colleges for international students twice, and it stands strongly as a great option for students pursuing technology-related subjects of study. AUT was founded in 1895 (dang!) and strives to be the “university for the changing world.” This isn’t just a school for our STEM-friends though: You can find a variety of courses in the liberal arts, spanning from hospitality and tourism management to public policy, Maori studies, and more. All that’s missing from this world class education is YOU.</p>
<p></p>
<ul>
<li dir = "auto"><strong>Recommended program:</strong> <a href="https://www.goabroad.com/providers/api/programs" target="_self"><span style="background-color: rgb(255,255,255);">Academic Programs International (API)</span></a></li>
</ul>
<p></p>
<h4 style="text-align:center;"><span style="color: rgb(51,51,51);font-family: Open Sans;">[</span><a href="https://www.goabroad.com/degree-abroad/search/new-zealand/degree-abroad-1" rel="" target="_self" className="link"><span style="color: rgb(51,51,51);font-family: Open Sans;">Browse ALL Universities in New Zealand</span></a><span style="color: rgb(51,51,51);font-family: Open Sans;">]</span></h4>
<h2>Next steps to attend universities in New Zealand</h2>
<p></p>
<div class="awesome-image centered " style=""><img style="" src="https://www.goabroad.com/section_cloudinary/gaplabs/image/upload/images2/program_content/henry-mcintosh-18915-unsplash-1548339563.jpg" alt="studying in auckland"><div class="caption"><p>Be sure to add Auckland to your must-see list, regardless of where you end up!</p></div></div>
<p>Now that you have a general idea of some of the best universities in New Zealand calling international students, you’re hopefully more excited than ever to find your dream university. Here are some helpful tips to keep you moving forward towards achieving your dream of studying in New Zealand:</p>
<p></p>
<ul>
<li dir = "auto"><strong>Location, location, location. </strong>Do you want a bustling city or a more rural setting? Are you a total beach goer or do you melt under the hot sun? Make a list of your ideal geographic and weather qualities, this will help narrow down which region of New Zealand is best for you.</li>
<li dir = "auto"><strong>Do your research</strong>. Given that you’ve made it all the way through this article, it’s likely you’re familiar with the amount of research that goes into making this decision. Keep at it until you settle on your perfect Kiwi university!</li>
<li dir = "auto"><strong>Read program reviews.</strong> While it is always key to take reviews with a grain of salt, take a peek for the general feel of all of the reviews. The students shared their thoughts and feelings to help you in your decision process.&nbsp;</li>
<li dir = "auto"><strong>Trust your gut. </strong>Did you land on a university website that gives you butterflies? Can you picture yourself walking around on a campus from a picture you’ve seen? Research can only get you so far, sometimes you just have to listen to what feels right and go with it.&nbsp;</li>
</ul>
<p></p>
<h2>Who knew finding universities in New Zealand for international students could be so easy?</h2>
<p></p>
<div class="awesome-image centered " style=""><img style="" src="https://www.goabroad.com/section_cloudinary/gaplabs/image/upload/images2/program_content/otago-peninsula-cabbage-tree-sm-1548339607.jpg" alt="studying in new zealand"><div class="caption"><p>*Just a quick break from the books for a cruise around Otago Peninsula*</p></div></div>
<p>Congratulations on making it this far in your journey towards selecting a university in New Zealand for your study abroad! You’re only a few decisions away from finalizing your adventure. And the best part? When it comes to studying abroad in New Zealand, there’s no wrong choice. So, stop making excuses, get out there and...&nbsp;</p>
<h3 style="text-align:center;"><a href="https://www.goabroad.com/onlineadvisor" rel="" target="_self" className="link"><span style="color: rgb(51,51,51);font-family: Open Sans;">Get Matched with 5 Programs for New Zealand Study Abroad Now</span></a></h3>
<p><em>This article was written in conjunction with the </em><a title="University of Otago" href="https://www.goabroad.com/providers/university-of-otago" rel="nofollow sponsored" target="_blank" className="clickTracker" rev="domainID=6&amp;refererType=1&amp;refererID=4848&amp;abbreviation=CSCT&amp;clientID=37416" data-ga-client="University of Otago" data-contentlink=""><em>University of Otago in New Zealand</em></a><em>. The University of Otago specializes in hands-on study abroad courses for all student participants, with subjects varying from Ecology to Anthropology to Politics and Marine Science and beyond. Check out their website to find exciting opportunities to study at New Zealand universities today!</em></p>


Want to study in New Zealand? Check out these top universities in New Zealand for international students! These New Zealand colleges rise above the rest.

5 Universities in New Zealand for International Study Abroad Students

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<p></p><p></p><p><span style="color: inherit; font-family: inherit; font-size: 21px; font-weight: bold;">What inspired you to work for the University of Otago?</span><br></p><p>I work for people, not for an organization. My family, my communities, my students, my colleagues, my friends&mdash;they are my inspiration and I am fortunate to work in an institution that allows me to put them and their needs first.</p><figure class="awesome-image centered" style=""><img style="" src="http://www5.goabroad.com/images/interviews/interviewphoto2-karynparingatai-1537921505.jpg" alt="Group of people posing together under awning"><figcaption class="caption"><p>Teaching in Tahiti</p><p></p></figcaption></figure><h3>Describe a typical day at work.</h3><p>I don't really have a "typical" day at work. My job varies&mdash;I could be teaching, in a meeting, formulating ideas for a journal article, composing a song, talking to students, attending seminars, organizing marketing campaigns, marking assignments all in the space of one day......and then the next day will look completely different. So many baskets to juggle, but variety is what keeps me coming back.</p><h3>Why do you do what you do?</h3><p>I do what I do for the advancement of M&#257;ori knowledge and to equip others with the desire, passion, and skills to carry on with this work when I am no longer here. There is no greater reason for me to do what I do than that.</p><figure class="awesome-image right-aligned" style="width: 50%;"><img style="" src="http://www5.goabroad.com/images/interviews/interviewphoto3-karynparingatai-1537921548.jpg" alt="Women taking selfie of her and students walking on trail"><figcaption class="caption"><p>Ma&#772;ori language students walking up Hikaroroa - get to know the place you are studying in</p><p></p></figcaption></figure><h3>What is your favorite part of your job?</h3><p>The flexibility of my job is my favorite part of working. I get to choose what I research, what I teach, and how I do both of these things. I can experiment with different ideas and test them out, and explore old ways and forms of knowledge and bring them into the now. I get to engage with so many people from all different walks of life and I always learn more from them than what I could ever teach them.</p><h3>What challenges do you often face and how do you overcome them?</h3><p>I go against every stereotype that exists of your typical academic/lecturer&mdash;I am young, female, educated, and M&#257;ori. I often felt invisible and on the periphery of academia, which has been a significant challenge over the years. I realized that I can't change their perception of me and I didn't want to change me just to fit in to "their" world. I realized that academia is "my" world too and I belonged here. I continued to be me, do things the way I wanted to do them, and stood my ground.</p><h3>What are some current projects you are working on?</h3><p>I'm a co-director of a University of Otago Research Theme called Poutama Ara Rau which looks at how M&#257;ori knowledge and M&#257;ori pedagogies can enhance tertiary student success. We are currently working on our book proposal to disseminate the ways in which that is done at my university.</p><p>I teach in the dark so I am always constantly looking at ways to enhance that practice and disseminate my research in that area. I am in the process of developing a book proposal on M&#257;ori forms of oral expressions with a colleague. Finally, I am also embarking on a new research pathway looking at the role of whakapapa (family histories) in genetic research and the lifesaving potential of whakapapa.</p><h3>What makes the University of Otago special?</h3><p>We recognize the potential of our students and we work extremely hard in our research to ensure that our students are getting first hand information and experiences. Our university supports and protects us and enables this to happen.</p><figure class="awesome-image left-aligned" style="width: 50%;"><img style="" src="http://www5.goabroad.com/images/interviews/interviewphoto1-karynparingatai-1537921605.JPG" alt="Woman helping tie costume onto another woman"><figcaption class="caption"><p>Helping a student tie her piupiu up before their concert assessment</p><p></p></figcaption></figure><h3>What makes the University of Otago easy to market to potential participants?</h3><p>Otago University is the only residential university in New Zealand. This means students live on campus. There is a real buzz and a unique vibe that comes from this&mdash;the students breathe life in to our university, and as a result they breathe life into us. We are invigorated by their return to campus and they make/force us to be current, relevant, and alert teachers and researchers. We are the leaders of many cutting-edge and innovative research in New Zealand and from this our students are getting the best there is.</p><h3>What do you hope participants take away from programs at the University of Otago?</h3><p>I hope they take away a global appreciation for the nuances of language and culture of Indigenous cultures around the work, and I know that we achieve this because they do because they tell me that that&rsquo;s what they learn. I hope that they start to probe for understanding of what isn't immediately obvious to the naked eye.</p><h3>Why do you think learning a new language is important?</h3><p>As a M&#257;ori language and M&#257;ori performing arts teacher, there is nothing more important to me than encouraging others to learn a language. Language is tied up with culture&mdash;one thing would not survive without the other.</p><blockquote>&nbsp;When you learn a language you are provided a glimpse in to the soul of another group of people. You learn why and how things are done and you become more holistic in your approach to life.</blockquote><figure class="awesome-image centered" style=""><img style="" src="http://www5.goabroad.com/images/interviews/interviewphoto4-karynparingatai-1537921641.jpg" alt="Woman applying makeup onto another"><figcaption class="caption"><p>Applying a moko kauae to an international student before their concert assessment</p><p></p></figcaption></figure><h3>What advice do you have for individuals thinking about going abroad?</h3><p>Engage with the local people, learn their names, play with their children, and chat with their elders. They are the greatest source of information that you will be able to access to gain deeper insight about the country/city you are going to.</p><h3>What does meaningful travel mean to you?</h3><p>Meaningful travel to me means surrendering yourself to new ways of viewing the world. Nobody is ever going to look at and interpret it in the way that you do. But being open to other forms of knowledge will help you understand your own perceptions of yourself and others around you.</p>


Karyn Paringatai

Get to know the people behind University of Otago! Check out this GoAbroad Staff Interview with Karyn Paringatai.

Karyn Paringatai | University of Otago Staff Interview

Karyn Paringatai - Senior Lecturer

The University of Otago is a prestigious institution of higher education located in Dunedin, Otago, New Zealand. The university was founded in 1869, making it New Zealand's oldest university. It has a rich history and a strong tradition of academic excellence.

The Music program at the University of Otago offers a range of undergraduate and postgraduate degrees, including Bachelor of Arts (Music major), Bachelor of Music, Bachelor of Performing Arts (Music), and postgraduate diplomas and degrees in Music. The Music program provides students with ample performance opportunities. Students can participate in ensembles, choirs, bands, orchestras, and chamber groups, as well as solo performances. Regular concerts, recitals, and workshops showcase student talent and creativity.

The program provides students with a solid foundation in music theory, practice, and critical thinking skills essential for success in the music industry.

The deadline for international applications commencing in semester 2 is April 30, 2024. Apply today!

Bachelor of Music Now Accepting International Applications!

University of Otago

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Established in 1869 the University of Otago is New Zealand’s first university, and boasts an excellent research-led learning environment. The main campus in Dunedin hosts the majority of the undergraduate and postgraduate programs, but there are an additional two schools in Wellington and Christchurch. These three schools work together to offer more than 190 programs, focusing on health sciences, sciences, humanities, and commerce. In addition to standard academics, the University of Otago also offers summer school, international school, and distance learning options.

With “sapere aude” as its motto (“Dare to be wise”), the University of Otago strives to provide world-class standards inspired by international experts and world-renowned teachers. Combined with a truly diverse student dem...

Established in 1869 the University of Otago is New Zealand’s first university, and boasts an excellent research-led learning environment. The main campus in Dunedin hosts the majority of the undergraduate and postgraduate programs, but there are an additional two schools in Wellington and Christchurch. These three schools work together to offer more than 190 programs, focusing on health sciences, sciences, humanities, and commerce. In addition to standard academics, the University of Otago also offers summer school, international school, and distance learning options.

With “sapere aude” as its motto (“Dare to be wise”), the University of Otago strives to provide world-class standards inspired by international experts and world-renowned teachers. Combined with a truly diverse student demographic, atmospheric living quarters, state-of-the-art sporting facilities, and an award-winning library, it is no surprise that Otago is ranked in the top 3% of universities in the world and received a Five Stars Plus QS Stars University ranking in 2018.

Established in 1869 the University of Otago is New Zealand’s first university, and boasts an excellent research-led learning environment. The main campus in Dunedin hosts the majority of the undergraduate and postgraduate programs, but there are an additional two schools in Wellington and Christchurch. These three schools work together to offer more than 190 programs, focusing on health sciences, ...

Study at the University of Otago and spend your weekends journeying into the spectacular South Island of New Zealand 

Enjoy a lifestyle like no other in Australasia's only true student city

The University of Otago's iconic Clocktower building located in one of the world's 16 most beautiful campuses.

Bungy jumping in New Zealand's adventure capital Queenstown - just a few hours drive from Otago University.

Otago Dunedin Beaches Surfing at St Clair

University of Otago Laguage Centre and Gym

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I had a fantastic experience with this study abroad program. The orientation was well-organized and a great opportunity to meet fellow students. The group trips were enjoyable and allowed us to explore new places together. My mentor was exceptional—she was always available to provide medical support and made a genuine effort to check in on us regularly. Overall, the program was well-managed and supportive, making it an unforgettable experience. I highly recommend going abroad with TEAN I would do it again in a heartbeat!!

Unlimited possibilities for growth.

The University of Otago is located in one of the most ideal settings for a study abroad semester. Surfing, fly fishing, hiking, swimming, camping, skiing, professional rugby games, on-campus cooking classes–there are endless ways to spend your semester. The professors are well qualified and approachable. The housing is a blast. Go to New Zealand, travel, and grow as a person. You will not regret it.

Everything you could want & beyond

I don’t even know where to start when explaining my time abroad at Otago. I can honestly say it was one of the best decisions I have ever made in my life thus far. I met the most incredible friends, flat mates, and professors, all who I learned so much from. Yes, studying abroad means you’ll be studying at times. But, your most important learning experiences will happen outside of studying. The everyday walks back home from class with new best friends you met from the other side of the world will be what you’ll learn from the most. Those early morning, spontaneous, and wild road trips you make to the edge of the South Island or the ethereal Southern Alps will be what you’ll learn from the most. And, those conversations you have with strangers who quickly become friends are what you’ll learn from the most. Everyone at The University of Otago is kinder than necessary, which undoubtedly will make your study abroad experience at Otago everything you could want and more.

Beautiful country but limited program direction

New Zealand was a very beautiful country but it wasn't a good choice as far as cultural immersion because it was a direct enroll program with little guidance. I do recommend traveling in the country or to Australia if possible. The academics were for the most part less rigorous than at Macalester and it was similar to America in many ways that were unexpected. But very much appreciated as a homesick student abroad

Poorly organized, but good classes

There is little institutional organization, but once I was settled, I had a blast.  There was good student support, too, which I didn't use, but heard great things about.  I wish the international students were broadly mixed with locals.  Classes were great.

New Zealand is Awesome

New Zealand is Awesome - this was not through Dartmouth but rather just attending summer school at University of Otago.  Good for students who don't want to take prereqs - also your grades don't transfer into your GPA, just the credits do (I got a LIT and a CL). Classes are super easy, and New Zealand is beautiful.  Otago dorms were gross but oh well.  

good classes and time to travel

Awesome.  Classes were interesting and didn't take up a lot of time so we had the flexibility to travel a ton.  Saw most of the Southern Islands and did a lot of different activities including hiking, skydiving, and the beach.

Great people, ample time to travel, good...

Great people, ample time to travel, good school.  BEAUTIFUL!  Bought a car to travel with then sold it back at the end.

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Best Experience Abroad!!

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