It is the first time in 20 years that lights have been used for a league game in Dunedin and both teams put on a good showing in front of a sizeable crowd.
The students played their trademark fast-paced league in the five tries to four victory.
It was an even first half, with University making the most of a high penalty count to lead at the break 14-8 with tries from prop Tom Bywater and hooker Thom Ellery (2).
The Seals responded with tries to wing Ala Siu and hooker Albert Alapati.
The second half continued to be a close-fought affair until Ellery scored his third try in the 50th minute to take the students out to a 20-8 lead. The Seals hit back with a try to centre Mark Semu.
University clinched the game 10 minutes from fulltime when lock Tyler Schreurs crashed over near the posts to give it a 26-12 lead before Seals second rower Manu Matapo scored a consolation try right on fulltime.
It was a fine performance from University, with Ellery having a strong all-round game and Schreurs running hard at the line.
University showed good discipline and composure throughout the match while the Seals made far too many head-high tackles which, in the end, cost them.
