Bachelor of Biomedical Sciences

From 2026, the BBiomedSc will no longer be a restricted-entry programme, and Biomedical Sciences First Year (BSFY) enrolment will be discontinued.

BSFY enrolment is still required for new students beginning study in semester 2, 2025. These students can then apply directly to the BBiomedSc for 2026, without having completed BSFY.

To enrol in the BSFY in 2025, and/or the BBiomedSc in 2026, you still need to meet the general entry requirements for studying at Otago.

General entry requirements

A university entrance qualification is essential for admission to the University of Otago for all types of programmes. You must also be at least 16 years of age by the first day of classes in your period of study and meet English language requirements.

Domestic students

You need to have met the New Zealand University Entrance standard, based on your achievement in secondary school or other prior study. Learn about the different categories for achieving University Entrance and what information you may need to provide with your application.

• University Entrance

International students

Check recognised entry qualifications by country, and find out what documents you need to provide for a successful application.

• International university entry requirements
• Documents required

English language requirements

All students must be proficient in the use of English. If your first language is not English, there are several ways you may provide evidence of English proficiency, including through prior secondary or tertiary study, internationally recognised English language tests, and foundation language programmes.

The level of English proficiency required for undergraduate study is equivalent to an overall IELTS score of 6.0, with no individual band below 5.5.

For details about what is accepted as evidence of English proficiency, please refer to:

• English language requirements and evidence categories