International
Student stories
International students share their stories about studying and living in New Zealand in their own words. Find out about student life at Otago Polytechnic.
The best part about studying in Dunedin, New Zealand is that it’s a student city so you know you’re going to have fun
Hi I'm Thileena, I’m from Sri Lanka and this is what my life looks like studying at Otago Polytechnic in Dunedin.
I live at the Otago Polytechnic Student Village, Te Pā, which is right on campus and here I am surrounded by all my friends.
Living on campus is awesome and I love that we're so close to the main city with cafes, shops and libraries within reach. I enjoy hanging out with my friends and exploring new places.
I came here to study the Bachelor of Accounting. I chose Otago Polytechnic because of their small class sizes and I love how practical their teaching style is.
My lecturers have helped me learn so much. They are always available for a chat and they take the time to answer all my questions about assignments and provide advice about my career options in New Zealand.
There is so much support outside of class too. Student Support are great at giving study advice, so I always reach out to them when I need help with anything as I really want to do well on my assignments.
But sometimes it’s nice just to have someone to talk to when I’m feeling homesick.
I’ve met so many cool people here both in my course and outside of it. Everyone has been welcoming, and I feel like I belong here.
After class I love to get out and explore Dunedin. I love the historic buildings and the relaxed city life. The nature around here is gorgeous so I love going for a walk or out to the beach which isn’t far from campus.
There’s always something to do here.
If you want to live in a beautiful city and enjoy a vibrant and welcoming student lifestyle then, Otago Polytechnic in Dunedin is the perfect place for you.
You will love it here.
“I started from scratch, with no knowledge whatsoever about construction. My lecturers have been quite helpful and patient with me.”
Carlo Guevarra, Bachelor of Construction (Quantity Surveying)
“I have a sense of belonging here. And it's so good. I feel like I’m from here, not an international student anymore. It’s awesome. I feel included here.”
Thileena Jayakody, Bachelor of Accounting student
“This is where my learning experiences at Otago Polytechnic came in handy. I was taught to be resilient and embrace change when faced with new obstacles.”
Muhammed Faizel Adam, Graduate, Bachelor of Information Technology
"Dunedin is a student city so it is a really good study environment and Otago Polytechnic will give you a really good foundation to study, work and live in an English-speaking country."
Wang Xin, English Language and Culinary Arts and Cooking
“I’m actually thinking of staying in New Zealand once I graduate. I have had such a nice quality of life here so far."
Linru Li (Victor), English Language
“Occupational Therapy allows you to work with such a variety of different people, in different settings, with different focuses. ”
Maisha Loveday, studied the Bachelor of Occupational Therapy
“I'm very much enjoying my studies at OP. The lecturers are very welcoming, kind and helpful. They provide great guidance.”
Akaljot Singh Sodhi
"I want my children to see me succeed so that they have a goal as well to be successful.”
Malak Akkam, Business Owners and Studied English Language
“They [Student Success] are very supportive, especially with essay writing. I finished all my essays with good results.”
Gevelind Condino, Bachelor of Nursing graduate
“With passionate lecturers and small class sizes you get a lot of personal attention. The lecturers really care about you."
Suzanne Sun, Graduate Diploma in Tourism Management
Frequently asked questions
You can apply directly through our website. Begin the application process by clicking anywhere you see the Apply Now button on our website.
Check our helpful application guide for more information, or get in touch if you need any assistance.
Begin your application online. Our application portal will guide you through the process. All required documents must be uploaded, and each section must be marked as complete before we can assess your application.
Check our helpful application guide for more information, or get in touch if you need any assistance.
Your main cost will be tuition fees. Estimated tuition fees are listed on each programme page. Additional costs include the Student Services Fee, insurance, and other course-related expenses. Your Offer of Place will include your invoice for all study-related costs.
Remember to plan for travel and living expenses, as your study fees do not cover these costs.
We are pleased to offer the 2026 Otago Polytechnic International Scholarships for new international students enrolling in selected programmes. These scholarships offer up to a NZ$4000 reduction in tuition fees for full-time students beginning their studies in 2026.
These scholarships are awarded automatically as part of the admissions process, so you do not need to fill out a separate application. Visit the 2026 Otago Polytechnic International Scholarships page for a list of eligible programmes and for more details.
For programmes not eligible for the scholarship, no further discounts will apply.
For more information about scholarships, please visit our International Scholarships page.
You are welcome to submit an application yourself, though we recommend contacting an agent if you would like assistance with the visa and application process.
For further support, please get in touch with our international team.
Programmes have different English language requirements. You can check the IELTS score required on the programme page.
Many programmes accept alternatives to the required IELTS score. Find out more on our English language requirements page.
Please contact us if you are unsure whether your test will be accepted.