University of Otago Accommodation for International Students
Accommodation for international students
The International Office provides a guarantee of accommodation placement services to all international students who receive an academic offer.
There are several accommodation options for international students and it is important to consider whether you prefer an independent lifestyle or enjoy living in a community.
The Student Accommodation Centre staff look after the application process for University-managed Accommodation. Once international students have received an offer of an academic place, their accommodation application will be forwarded to their first preference for consideration.
If your first choice of accommodation is not available, the University will offer you an alternative where possible. Aquinas College, Salmond College and Toroa College are the approved residential colleges for international students under the age of 18 and comply with the University of Otago Code of Practice for the Pastoral Care of International Students.
More detailed information:
- Aquinas College
- Salmond College
- Toroa College
- Residential colleges
- University Flats (University managed flats/houses)
- Accommodation costs
International students who are accepted for a residential college are expected to be active participants in the social, cultural and recreational programmes organized by the residents’ association.
If you are arriving before your booked accommodation is available or if you wish to find your own accommodation on arrival, you should book temporary accommodation.
Contact the Accommodation Adviser for more information. Email international.accommodation@otago.ac.nz
Please apply online for accommodation in the University Flats or residential colleges
Key dates
- Applications for full year accommodation may be made from 1 August each year.
- Applications for first semester may be made from 1 August and close 1 December each year.
- Applications for second semester may be made from 1 April and close 1 June each year.
- There is no closing date for applications from postgraduate students for Abbey College
University Flats
Families and couples
A limited number of University Flats are available for small families and couples. Please contact the Accommodation Office for more information. Alternatively the Accommodation Office can provide lists of privately-owned accommodation.
NB: University Flats are not centrally heated. Most housing in Dunedin is heated by electric heaters and New Zealanders do not keep their homes as warm as you may be used to. You are advised to bring warm clothing.