NEW ZEALAND · WELLINGTON
Victoria University of Wellington
public · Founded 1897 · Languages: en
In short
Victoria University of Wellington, known as Te Herenga Waka, is a public university in New Zealand's capital city, offering a wide range of programs with a strong research focus. It provides international students with opportunities to engage with government and industry, supported by dedicated services and a vibrant campus life.
Key facts
- Type
- Public
- Founded
- 1897
- Students
- 22,000
- International students
- 3,000
- Acceptance rate
- 50%
- Tuition (intl)
- €22–28k/yr
- Languages
- EN
- Location
- Wellington, New Zealand
Victoria University of Wellington, known in Māori as Te Herenga Waka, is a public university located in Wellington, New Zealand. Established with a strong research focus and a commitment to academic excellence, the university offers a wide range of undergraduate and postgraduate programs across various faculties including Architecture and Design Innovation, Business and Government, Education, Health, and Psychological Sciences, Humanities and Social Sciences, Law, and Science and Engineering. The university is deeply integrated with New Zealand's capital city, fostering strong connections with government, businesses, and the wider community. It prides itself on a supportive environment for all students, including dedicated services for Māori and Pasifika students. Victoria University of Wellington aims to provide a transformative educational experience, equipping students with the skills and knowledge needed for future careers and societal contributions. The academic year typically consists of three trimesters, with courses offered across different periods. The university emphasizes practical learning, interdisciplinary studies, and research that addresses contemporary global challenges.
Why study here
- Benefit from strong connections with New Zealand's government and industries, offering practical experience and networking opportunities.
- Engage in a research-intensive environment that tackles significant global issues and contributes to real-world solutions.
- Experience a diverse and inclusive university culture with dedicated support services for international students, Māori, and Pasifika communities.
- Study in Wellington, a vibrant capital city known for its culture, arts, and beautiful natural surroundings, providing an enriching student life beyond academics.
- Access a wide array of programs across multiple faculties, allowing for flexible study paths and interdisciplinary learning.
Student life
Victoria University of Wellington offers a vibrant student life with numerous clubs, events, and support services. Students can access library facilities, academic support, and financial guidance. The university promotes a sense of community through various initiatives, including those tailored for Māori and Pasifika students. Accommodation options are available to ensure a supportive living environment for all students. Being in Wellington provides access to city-wide cultural events, outdoor activities, and diverse social opportunities.
Fees
InternationalInternational student fees per 15-point course range from NZ$4,848.90 to NZ$5,806.35. Full-year tuition will depend on the total points enrolled.
Home—
LivingEstimated annual living costs in Wellington for international students are around NZ$20,000 to NZ$27,000, covering accommodation, food, transport and personal expenses; New Zealand visa rules require students to show evidence of sufficient funds.
These are per-course fees. A typical full-time undergraduate degree usually comprises 120 points per year, meaning annual international tuition could range from approximately NZ$38,791.20 to NZ$46,450.80. Specific program fees and living costs are available on the university's international student pages.
Admissions
General AdmissionAdmission requirements vary by program and level of study (undergraduate, postgraduate). Students should refer to specific course prerequisites.
IELTS AcademicOverall 6.0, with no band below 5.5 (undergraduate); 6.5 with no band below 6.0 for many postgraduate programmes
TOEFL iBTOverall 80, with a writing score of 20 (undergraduate); higher for some postgraduate programmes
Rankings
QS World University Rankings 2025#240 in the world
QS World University RankingsTop 2% of universities globally
Tertiary Education Commission Performance-Based Research Fund#1 in New Zealand for research intensity (historic TEC PBRF)
University scholarships
Tongarewa ScholarshipNZ$5,000 to NZ$10,000 toward first-year tuition
Accreditation
Victoria University of Wellington is a publicly accredited university in New Zealand, recognised under the Education and Training Act and quality-assured by the New Zealand Qualifications Authority and Universities New Zealand.
Programs
a selectionVictoria University of Wellington · New Zealand
Bachelor of Music (BMus)
If you have a passion for music, whether it's listening, performing, composing, or singing, and want to deepen your understanding at New Zealand's leading music institution, the Bachelor of Music (BMus) is the ideal undergraduate degree for you. This three-year program is designed to prepare you for a career in the dynamic music industry or other professional fields. You will develop your musical abilities in performance or composition under the guidance of internationally recognized musicians and academics, encouraged to explore your creative potential and graduate as a skilled and confident musician. The degree also provides a strong academic foundation, equipping you with valuable skills in writing, critical thinking, teamwork, and communication applicable to various career paths.
Bachelor's
Level
—
Tuition
36 mo
Duration
Victoria University of Wellington · New Zealand
Certificate in Deaf Studies—Teaching New Zealand Sign Language
This professional certificate program is designed for individuals who are fluent in New Zealand Sign Language (NZSL) and are typically members of the Deaf community. It aims to deepen your understanding of Deaf culture and society, as well as the structure and use of NZSL. You will explore principles of teaching NZSL, develop curriculum design skills, and gain practical experience through a required practicum. The program is delivered primarily in NZSL through lectures, discussions, and practical tasks.
Certificate
Level
—
Tuition
12 mo
Duration
Victoria University of Wellington · New Zealand
Coding and Cryptography - MATH 324
This course, MATH 324 Coding and Cryptography, delves into the mathematical foundations of secure communication and data protection. It explores the principles behind codes and ciphers, examining how they are designed, implemented, and potentially broken. The course provides a comprehensive understanding of modern cryptographic techniques, essential for securing digital information in an increasingly connected world. Students will gain insights into both theoretical concepts and practical applications of cryptography.
Bachelor's
Level
—
Tuition
36 mo
Duration
Victoria University of Wellington · New Zealand
Concurrent Programming - NWEN303
This course, NWEN303 Concurrent Programming, focuses on the principles and practices of developing software that can perform multiple tasks simultaneously. It delves into the complexities of managing shared resources, preventing race conditions, and ensuring data integrity in multi-threaded or distributed environments. You will gain a deep understanding of concurrent programming paradigms, synchronization mechanisms, and debugging techniques essential for building robust and efficient systems. The course covers theoretical concepts as well as practical applications, preparing you for advanced software development challenges. This course is part of the postgraduate offerings within the Faculty of Engineering and Computer Science, suitable for students looking to specialize in advanced software development and system design.
Master's
Level
—
Tuition
—
Duration
Victoria University of Wellington · New Zealand
Conflict and Reconciliation—ANTH 209
Conflict and Reconciliation (ANTH 209) is an undergraduate course offered at Victoria University of Wellington. It explores the complex dynamics of conflict and the processes involved in achieving reconciliation within societies. The course delves into the social, cultural, and political factors that contribute to conflict, as well as the various strategies and challenges associated with peacebuilding and post-conflict recovery.
Bachelor's
Level
—
Tuition
—
Duration
Victoria University of Wellington · New Zealand
Differential Equations—MATH 461
Differential Equations (MATH 461) is a postgraduate course offered at Victoria University of Wellington. This course delves into the fundamental principles and advanced topics of differential equations, which are crucial for modeling and understanding phenomena across various scientific and engineering disciplines. It builds upon foundational knowledge to explore complex mathematical concepts and their applications. The course is part of the Faculty of Science and Engineering, highlighting its emphasis on rigorous mathematical and analytical skills.
Master's
Level
—
Tuition
—
Duration
Scholarships
for New Zealandfull fundingTe Herenga Waka - Victoria University of Wellington
Craig Buck Andrews PhD Scholarship
Open to domestic and international applicants of all nationalities who are admitted to, or enrolled in, a full-time PhD in the School of Accounting and Commercial Law at Victoria University of Wellington. The doctoral thesis must address financial reporting or financial management in developing countries, with a focus on capacity building in primary industries or industries operating under concession agreements. Preference may be given to applicants from developing nations who intend to return home after completing their studies. Applicants must meet the university's standard doctoral entry requirements.
full
Funding
€57k
Max
Oct 31, 2026
Deadline
full fundingNew Zealand Ministry of Foreign Affairs and Trade (MFAT) – New Zealand Aid Programme
Manaaki New Zealand Scholarships
For citizens of eligible developing countries (Pacific, Asia, Africa, Latin America, and the Caribbean) who meet age, work-experience, and academic requirements, and who commit to returning home for at least 2 years after study. Applicants apply online and, for some countries, through local processes.
full
Funding
€45k
Max
Feb 28, 2027
Deadline
partial fundingLincoln University, New Zealand
Lincoln University New Zealand International Scholarships
Open to new international students enrolling in undergraduate, foundation/pathway, or 180-credit taught master's programmes at Lincoln University in New Zealand. Award lines have their own rules: the Taught Master's Merit Scholarship requires a B+ average in the final bachelor's year, while undergraduate awards target new school leavers and degree entrants. English language requirements are generally IELTS 6.5 overall with no band below 6.0. Each scholarship line has its own application route and deadline.
partial
Funding
€6k
Max
Jan 31, 2027
Deadline
full funding
Wellcome Trust
Wellcome Trust Fellowships and Grants (for international researchers)
For researchers at different career stages working on health-related science. Wellcome funds a family of fellowships and grants — early-career, career-development, and discovery awards, plus team and translational funding — each with its own eligibility, value, and call deadline. There is no single scholarship application; you apply to the specific scheme that fits your stage and project.
full
Funding
€3000k
Max
Rolling
Deadline
full funding
Wellcome Trust
Wellcome International Training Fellowships
For early-career researchers based in low- and middle-income countries (outside the high-income world) who want protected time and support for research training in health, often including a PhD or postdoctoral research. Wellcome's scheme names and exact criteria change over time, so applicants should check the current relevant Wellcome funding scheme.
full
Funding
€150k
Max
Rolling
Deadline
full funding
European Commission - European Research Executive Agency (REA)
Marie Sklodowska-Curie Actions Postdoctoral Fellowships
Open to researchers of any nationality who hold a PhD (or will have defended their doctoral thesis by the call deadline) and have at most 8 years of full-time-equivalent research experience after the PhD. Applicants apply jointly with a host organisation - a university, research institution, business, SME, or other body based in an EU Member State or a country associated to Horizon Europe. European Postdoctoral Fellowships are open to all nationalities for a project inside the EU or an associated country; Global Postdoctoral Fellowships are reserved for EU nationals or long-term residents who carry out a phase in a third country before returning to Europe. Researchers who have been displaced by conflict and those restarting a research career after a break are explicitly encouraged to apply.
full
Funding
€100k
Max
Sep 10, 2026
Deadline
Frequently asked questions
What are the estimated tuition fees for international students at Victoria University of Wellington?
+
International student fees per 15-point course range from NZ$4,848.90 to NZ$5,806.35. A full-time undergraduate degree, typically 120 points per year, could cost between NZ$38,791.20 and NZ$46,450.80 annually.
What are the estimated living costs for international students in Wellington?
+
Estimated annual living costs in Wellington for international students are approximately NZ$20,000 to NZ$27,000. This covers accommodation, food, transport, and personal expenses.
Does Victoria University of Wellington offer scholarships for international students?
+
Yes, Victoria University of Wellington offers the Tongarewa Scholarship for new international undergraduate and postgraduate students. This merit-based scholarship ranges from NZ$5,000 to NZ$10,000 toward first-year tuition and is awarded competitively to high-achieving students.
What are the English language requirements for international students?
+
For IELTS Academic, international students generally need an overall score of 6.0 with no band below 5.5 for undergraduate programs, and 6.5 with no band below 6.0 for many postgraduate programs. TOEFL iBT requirements are an overall score of 80 with a writing score of 20 for undergraduate studies, with higher scores for some postgraduate courses.
Why should I choose Victoria University of Wellington?
+
You can benefit from strong connections with New Zealand's government and industries, engage in a research-intensive environment, and experience a diverse and inclusive university culture. Studying in Wellington offers a vibrant urban student life.
Last updated