NZ · Bachelor's
University of Otago (Faculty of Law)
Bachelor of Laws (LLB)
University of Otago (Faculty of Law)
Course Overview
Otago's LLB is one of only six law degrees in New Zealand and is recognised for admission to the Bar in NZ, Australia and Fiji. First-year is shared with other Otago degrees (any subject combination), and entry to the second-year Law programme is competitive — based on first-year LAWS101 results plus academic standing.
The four-year programme covers public, criminal, contract, tort, property and equity law, with strong electives in international law, environmental law and Māori legal traditions. Sri Lankan students who already hold a UK or Australian-recognised law degree can apply for advanced standing or pursue the LLB(Hons) one-year top-up instead.
Entry Requirements
Academic
- check_circle Sri Lankan A/Levels: 3 passes (minimum 2 Bs and a C) in approved academic subjects.
- check_circle Or completed first-year university study at a recognised institution with a B+ average.
- check_circle Entry to second-year Law is competitive — based on LAWS101 result plus first-year GPA.
- check_circle Foundation year available at Otago's UniPrep if A/L profile doesn't meet direct entry.
English Proficiency
- check_circle IELTS Academic: 6.0 Overall (no band below 5.5).
- check_circle TOEFL iBT: 80 Overall (min 20 in writing).
- check_circle PTE Academic: 50 Overall (no band below 42).
- check_circle Waived if prior education was taught in English for 3+ years.
Estimated Cost of Study
| Expense Category | Amount (NZD) | Approx. LKR |
|---|---|---|
| Tuition Fee (per year) | NZD 38,069 | Rs. 7,233,100 |
| Living Expenses (per year) | NZD 19,820 | Rs. 3,765,800 |
| Student Visa & Insurance | NZD 1,250 | Rs. 237,500 |
| Books & Course Materials | NZD 1,400 | Rs. 266,000 |
| Total Year-1 Investment | NZD 60,539 | Rs. 11,502,400 |
*LKR conversion based on current bank rates. Subject to change.
Career Outcomes & PR
Otago Law graduates can sit the NZ Bar examination directly. After admission, the NZ Post-Study Work Visa (PSWV) offers 3 years of open work rights. Recent graduates have joined Bell Gully, Russell McVeagh, Chapman Tripp, MinterEllisonRuddWatts and the Crown Law Office. The LLB is also accepted by the Sri Lankan Bar for re-qualification via the Sri Lanka Law College exemption pathway.
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