Applications close on the 1st of June, 2012

Please note: International applications for semester two will close on the 1st of June, 2012

How to Apply

Your Step-by-Step Guide to our Application process

Step #1: Choose your academic programme.

Ensure you meet the entry criteria.

>> You can find our programmes here.

Do you plan to study English (English for Speakers of Other Languages, ESOL) or a Certificate programme? Contact us first: internationalop.ac.nz

Deadlines: There are different application deadlines for various programmes. Please check the Otago Polytechnic Prospectus or the programme information on the website to make sure you are not late in applying for your programme of choice.

Step #2:  Submit your application.

Do this at least three (3) months before your programme starts, as a scanned PDF by email, by mail or online.

>> Apply here

We require with your application:

  • Your Academic History: Certified [1] English language translations of your academic records, including your academic transcripts from your previous study (such as from secondary school or tertiary study) and a copy of your final award (the diploma or degree you received) and any other qualifications you have (if applicable).
  • Proof of your English Language Capabilities: A copy of your official English Language Test results (if applicable). Remember: You can apply anytime for our ESOL programmes.  For ESOL, we will not require an English Language Test Result.
  • Official Identification.: A copy of the photo page of your current passport.
  • Background information: A copy of your resume of curriculum vitae (if required).
  • Other Requirements: References, a portfolio or other information, as described in your programme’s entry criteria (if required or requested)

Remember: Your application will not be processed until all required documents have been received.

Step #3: Acknowledgement of Your Application.

We will confirm that we have received your application and advise of the application processing time.

Step #4: Offer of Place.

Otago Polytechnic will assess your application and offer you one of the following:

  • If  you are successful, you will be sent (usually by email) an unconditional Offer of Place package. Go to Step #5.
  • If you are unsuccessful, and do not meet all of the required entry criteria, you may be sent a conditional offer of place that will require you to provide additional documentation or evidence of meeting the entry requirements.  Contact us for help or to discuss an entry pathway that may include English or Certificate Studies first.

The Unconditional Offer Package includes:

  • Offer of Place letter and Statement of Fees;
  • Acceptance documents;
  • Student Visa and Travel/Medical Insurance Information;
  • Other important information to help you prepare for your Otago Polytechnic studies.

Step #5: Accept your Offer of Place.  Pay your Fees.

Accept your offer of place and return it to us as a scanned document, by email, or as an original by mail. 

Pay your fees (tuition and ancillary fees) and we’ll receipt your payment to us.  You will need this receipt to obtain your Student Visa from Immigration New Zealand.

Read about our policies and conditions

  • Otago Polytechnic policies about refunds and withdrawals can be found here.
  • More information about our Terms and Conditions can be found here.

Step #6: Obtain your Student Visa.  Make your travel arrangements.

  • Make your travel arrangements to New Zealand, and Dunedin.

Step #7: Find Accommodation.  Tell Us about your Arrival.  We Can Help.

  • Complete and return to us the accommodation and arrival response form, (it’s part of your offer package).  Let us know if we can help you find accommodation, or place you in a local homestay. 
  • We can also arrange your airport pick-up in Dunedin or Queenstown (for Central Otago programmes). Email internationalop.ac.nz 

Step #8:  Arrive in New Zealand

Your final destination will be our Dunedin or Cromwell (Central Otago) campus. 

Attend our international students’ orientation where you will register, enrol in your programme and learn more about being a student here.

Step #9: Start your Studies.  Enjoy your life as a student with Otago Polytechnic!

Things to consider:

  • Have you thought about your accommodation?
  • Have you made contact with your school?
  • Are you aware of extra course materials, resources & costs?
  • Have your read the Terms and Conditions of your acceptance?
  • If you are attending the Auckland International Campus, please refer to the AIC Terms and Conditions
  • Have you made sufficient travel plans and preparations for living in New Zealand?

Any questions?

Our dedicated International Admissions Office can help you through the process of applying to Otago Polytechnic. Don’t hesitate to contact us via email or phone with your application questions.

If you are a student enquiring about a programme, please fill out the enquiry form.

For all other enquiries please contact our Contact Centre:

Telephone: +64 3 477 3014
Fax: +64 3 474 7285

Email: internationalop.ac.nz

 

[1] A certified copy is a photocopy that has been officially stamped or endorsed by a person who can confirm that the copy is a true copy of your document.  The person who certifies the copy must be authorized to do so by law in your home country, or New Zealand, such as a Lawyer, a Justice of the Peace, a Court Official, a Notary Public or an MP.  Otago Polytechnic customer services and liaison team or current Agents may also certify documents.

In Your Language

It's easy! Download our introductory brochures as a PDF document in these languages:

Apply online now!


Download our: See us on YouTube

In this section: