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The three-step process to apply for your first year at Salmond as a University or Polytechnic Student
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1
Apply via the University Student Accommodation Centre
Submit your application for accommodation through the University of Otago's Student Accommodation Centre and list Salmond College as your first preference.
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2
Hear from us
Offers go out from early October; from here you can either accept or decline the offer.
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3
Accept and enrol
Accept your offer online through the Salmond student portal, sign the agreement & pay your entry fee, and you're in.
We want to know who you are
A primary consideration for admission is academic merit, but the confidential reference provided by your school is another important factor in the selection process.
The College seeks students who are:
- from a wide variety of backgrounds;
- keen to participate in College life;
- excited to engage with others in the community;
- committed to applying themselves to their course of study.
Preference may be given to those who have proved themselves proficient in cultural areas, in the sporting arena, in leadership roles and in their contribution to the community at large. Salmond values people who value others, and who contribute to and enjoy community life.
An application will be judged solely on the information submitted by applicants and information provided by referees, so when applying, we encourage you to include as much relevant information as possible.
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2027 fees
Please be aware that StudyLink do not make bulk accommodation payments, see their website for further information.
Fees for 2027 are made up of:
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Entry fee
$1,050
The Entry fee is paid as part of the acceptance of your accommodation offer (comprises an administration fee, building levy and student activities' fee)
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Accommodation fees for University of Otago students (38 weeks)
$22,998
Total including entry fee = $24,048.00
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Accommodation fees for Polytechnic students (40 weeks)
$24,209
Total including entry fee = $25,259.00
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Please be aware that StudyLink do not make bulk accommodation payments; see their website for further information.
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Useful documents
We're here to help
You can apply for an Accommodation Award.
The Foundation for Knox College and Salmond College invites applications for accommodation awards of up to $4,000 each for attendance at Salmond College in 2027.
Applications close on 30 September 2026.
Late applications may be considered by emailing the Head of College at head@salmondcollege.ac.nz.
Preference will be given to applicants who have listed Salmond College as their first-choice College.
Application Criteria
- Be New Zealand citizens or permanent residents who have completed Years 12 and 13, or are currently completing Year 13, at a school in New Zealand or equivalent qualification overseas, OR
- Be International students who have completed Years 12 and 13, or are currently completing Year 13, at a New Zealand school.
- Be intending to enrol full-time at the University of Otago or the Otago Polytechnic for the first time and intending to pursue study for the entire academic year, or be a returning student whose application is endorsed by the relevant College Head (Knox or Salmond).
- Normally, having at least NCEA Level 2 with a merit endorsement, or equivalent evidence of academic ability.
- In exceptional circumstances, the trustees may approve an award for a student who does not meet the above criteria.
- Submit an 'Application for a Residential College' through the University of Otago's Student Accommodation Centre.
Application Process
If you want to apply for an accommodation award, you must:
- Complete the online application form by midnight on 30 September 2026, saying why you are applying for this award, and providing details of activities in which you have taken responsibility, shown leadership, or contributed to your community.
- Arrange for a reference from a senior member of staff at your school (e.g. Principal, Assistant Principal, Year 13 Dean).
- Upload your most recent results in NCEA or equivalent to your application.
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Key Dates for 2027 Applications
To view key academic dates visit the University & Polytechnic website
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1st August
Applications for the 2027 year open
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30th September
Applications deadline
You can still apply after this date but you will not be included in the initial round of offers.
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October
Offers go out
You will hear from us via email.
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Mid October
Deadline to accept or decline the offer
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20th January 2027
First payment due
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20th February 2027
Move-in and welcome week commences
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Frequently asked questions
The entry fee is payable when you accept an offer. We then provide a fee payment schedule with payment options and due dates.
Note, StudyLink does not make bulk accommodation payments but makes weekly payments (which in most cases only cover around half of the fees), so plan your payments with that in mind.
The Foundation for Knox College and Salmond College offers accommodation awards for capable students facing financial barriers. Get in touch, and we'll point you to the details.
At Salmond College you have your own room, all your meals sorted, and people around you who genuinely care how you're doing. It's a community and a home away from home, at a cost comparable to the equivalent in rent, food & living costs elsewhere.
Yes, we welcome students from every corner of the world.
Our Food Service Team works hard to provide for the dietary needs of all residents. Vegetarian, vegan, gluten-free, and dairy-free options are available. We ask all residents with dietary requirements to talk to the Head Chef during their first few days at the college to ensure their needs can be met.
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Come and see The 'Mond for yourself
You don't know until you come and have a look...