The Pūtea Tautoko Student Relief Fund was established to support students who are experiencing financial hardship that is impacting their studies. Established in 2020 during COVID-19, the Fund has evolved to meet a wider range of student financial needs.
From 2026, enrolment fees at the University of Otago will include a compulsory annual fee to fund a larger and more accessible Pūtea Tautoko Student Relief Fund. This change removes restrictive eligibility criteria requirements (such as hardship needing to be "unforeseen"), allowing more students in genuine need to access support, provided they can supply appropriate evidence.
The NZ$20 (incl GST) Pūtea Tautoko Student Relief Fee will be paid once per year at the time of first enrolment; it does not change in relation to the enrolment period. For example, you will pay NZ$20 if you are:
- Enrolling in just one Summer School paper, or
- Enrolling in papers in Summer School, semester 1, and semester 2 in one calendar year
Domestic, international, full-time, part-time, undergraduate, and postgraduate students enrolled on any campus or by distance will be charged the fee. The following enrolment groups are exempt:
- Incoming Study Abroad and Exchange students
- Interest only enrolments
- Secondary school students
- English Language Centre students
- Students in Pathway's Bridging Programme
- University of Otago staff enrolled as students
- Students enrolled in PCEXMA01 and PDEXMA01
If you are taking out a student loan through StudyLink, the Pūtea Tautoko Fund fee will be covered alongside your tuition fees.
In exceptional circumstances, a refund of the fee may be authorised. Requests are made by emailing student.relief@otago.ac.nz
Further information
Pūtea Tautoko | Student Relief Fund