Otago Polytechnic

Otago Polytechnic dates back to the foundation of the Dunedin School of Art in 1870 and the Dunedin Technical School in 1889. The two merged in 1921 and in 1966 became Otago Polytechnic, which itself became part of the New Zealand Institute of Skills & Technology in 2020. It has campuses in Central Otago, Dunedin and Auckland. </span></span> </span></span>

More than 8,000 students study at Otago Polytechnic each year, including around 1,200 international students from around the world. Its international students study at the Auckland campus. It focuses on career-focused education and training with a range of accredited postgraduate qualifications, degrees and diplomas. </span></span> </span></span>

What is the Otago Polytechnic acceptance rate for International Students? </span></span> </span></span>

The Otago Polytechnic acceptance rate is 85%. </span></span> </span></span>

Overview

The Polytechnic has several libraries on campus, which provide convenient access to books, journals, databases, and other resources to support research and study. The Polytechnic has a gymnasium, sports fields, and a sports centre for students. The sports centre includes basketball, volleyball, badminton, and other sports facilities. There is also a medical centre on campus and readily available counselling services.

Campus Life

Māori Principles are a big part of campus life at Otago Polytechnic. Students find an emphasis on embedding mātauranga Maori and kaupapa Māori principles into the learning that takes place there. This means exploring New Zealand’s bicultural heritage but also its unique perspective when it comes to studies. As well as having many international students, Otago Polytechnic is committed to being a diverse and welcoming environment. It won the Medium-Large Organisation section of the Ngā Āhuatanga o Te Tiriti category at the 2022 Diversity Awards NZ.

Accommodation

Otago Polytechnic offers a range of accommodation options for students studying at their Dunedin campus. The Student Village is Otago Polytechnic's main accommodation option, within walking distance of the campus. It offers fully furnished apartments with shared living areas, kitchen facilities, and private studio apartments. The Village also has a common room, study spaces, and outdoor areas for students to socialise. Otago Polytechnic can assist students in finding private rental accommodation in the local area so students can live with friends and family. For those who prefer a more homely environment, Otago Polytechnic offers homestay options. Students live with a local family in their home and are provided with their room and meals.

Employability

Otago University is a careers-focused institution, so many courses are accredited and designed to prepare students for work. It also has a Careers Services team offering guidance to help students make informed career decisions. This includes individual career planning, drop-in support and employability workshops and is available to students and graduates.

City Life

Otago Polytechnic is centred in Dunedin, with additional campuses in Cromwell and Auckland. Dunedin. Dunedin is a city in New Zealand known for its Scottish and Maori heritage and multicultural community. The student population is sizable, so there are plenty of bars and events for young people to attend. Relaxation outside of studies comes easily in surveying the breathtaking scenery they live amongst or the award-winning Victorian and Edwardian architecture. Tourist attractions include the adjoining Otago Peninsula, home to albatross colonies, sea lions and rare yellow-eyed penguins.