The University of Waikato

Welcome to the University of Waikato, where students will find a world of possibilities and opportunities. Whether students are searching for a degree that will prepare them for a rewarding career, a research programme that will challenge them and make an impact, or an enriching study abroad experience, they'll find it here.

Waikato is ranked in the top 3 universities of New Zealand, placing 235^th in the QS World University Rankings 2025.

The university was established in 1964, with two campuses to explore. The original is in Hamilton city, while the other opened in Tauranga in 2019. Both campuses form part of the heart of New Zealand's export focused economy.

Students will find modern facilities and a vibrant student life at the university, with easy access to recreation and natural landscapes. It's a close-knit academic community, where students are an individual and well-supported by a dedicated team of international student support advisors. Other support includes peer-to-peer student buddies, on-campus nurses and doctors, to counselors and career advisors. There are also numerous bursaries and scholarships to apply for.

The University of Waikato has strong partnerships across government, industry and community organizations, allowing them to provide students with wider career options and practical learning opportunities.

Work-integrated learning papers, internships and industry projects provide hands-on experience – across both undergraduate degrees and many of its taught master's programmes.

Waikato is perfect for international students due to its supportive academic environment and culturally diverse community of students. Students can apply now and start their amazing journey at a university that is overwhelmingly recommended by its students (as per the 2023 student barometer survey).

The University of Waikato looks forward to welcoming students to its whānau (family)!

At the University of Waikato, students gain a globally recognised education.

The university's courses are designed and taught so that when students complete their degrees, they can transition easily from the classroom to the workplace.

The faculty at the University of Waikato are passionate about the areas of study in which they are experts and are dedicated to helping students build their knowledge and skills which are essential for them to be successful in the careers they choose.

16 subjects and subject areas ranked by QS Rankings by Subject 2024, 11 in the top 350 globally. Waikato Management School has achieved Triple Crown Accreditation from AACSB, AMBA, and EQUIS and is in the top 1% of business schools globally.

The School of Education is one of New Zealand's largest providers of initial teacher education as well as providing national and international in-service teacher professional development.

The university's School of Computing and Mathematical Sciences became the first New Zealand member of the international group of iSchools in 2016, a partnership of the world's leading information technology schools. In 2021, Waikato launched The Artificial Intelligence Institute to better leverage AI for the benefit of local and global communities.

The University is internationally recognised for its excellence across the arts, humanities and social sciences, law, science, engineering and more.

Te Pua Wānanga ki te Ao, the Faculty of Māori and Indigenous Studies, provides global leadership in sustainable development and indigenous issues, with staff including leading researchers in issues pertaining to Māori and Pacific Development, indigenous studies and culture and language revitalization.

Culturally diverse, beautiful, and safe, New Zealand has a work-life balance that is the envy of the world. It is why these locations have consistently led international quality-of-life surveys. Hamilton and Tauranga city, and surrounding regions offer a wealth of nature-based activities and attractions, as well as world-class university education and vibrant city life.

The University of Waikato has two campuses located in Hamilton and Tauranga city. Both cities are centrally located in the north island of New Zealand and are relaxed and safe cities. Many popular tourist destinations such as the Hobbiton film set, Rotorua, and Auckland city are within close proximity.

Hamilton City

Hamilton is a vibrant and multicultural city immersed in Indigenous Māori culture and is New Zealand's 4th largest city. Located on the banks of the Waikato River, Hamilton boasts magnificent parks and gardens.

Tauranga City

Tauranga is New Zealand's fifth largest city and is bustling with cultural, sporting and recreational activities. The cosmopolitan city is well known for its blue skies, warm climate, beautiful beaches, stunning harbour and relaxed lifestyle.

There are several ways students can gain admission to degree study at the University of Waikato. The University of Waikato teaches in the English language and requires all students to demonstrate proficiency in written and spoken English. The university has an extensive list of entry requirements based on a large number of qualifications.

Undergraduate

Academic entry requirements are dependent on which country the international student's previous study was completed in and each application is assessed on a case-by-case basis.

Postgraduate

Students will need to meet the English language and academic requirements. Generally, an undergraduate degree in a similar area of study is required. Requirements are identified on the qualification pages of the university website.

Pathways options

There are pathway options available for students who do not meet entry requirements. These enable students to begin a shorter foundation course and then transition into their chosen subject once ready. Students should visit the university website for more details on entry requirements.

University of Waikato International Progression Bursary – Up to NZD 10,000

The University of Waikato International Progression Bursary was established in 2022 to support international students to progress from undergraduate to postgraduate level study for the first time at the University of Waikato. No application is required for this Bursary.

University of Waikato International Excellence Scholarship – Up to NZD 15,000

The University of Waikato International Excellence Scholarship contributes up to NZD 15,000 towards tuition fees for international students enrolling in undergraduate or postgraduate-taught studies.

Applicants must be recipients of either a conditional or unconditional offer of place from the university. Applications for the International Excellence Scholarship may be submitted at any time.

University of Waikato International Entrance Scholarship for School Leavers – Up to NZD 15,000 towards institution

For international students completing Year 13 (or equivalent) at a high school/ learning institution in 2024 and intending to enrol full-time in an undergraduate degree at the University of Waikato in A Trimester 2025.

Researchers at the University's School of Engineering have developed a prototype asparagus harvester set to revitalise New Zealand's asparagus industry. Now they have developed an electronic fruit bin for the kiwifruit industry designed to automate kiwifruit harvesting and open up picking jobs to a wider range of people.

Researchers are also working with scientists and engineers to develop a robotic vehicle designed to thin apple orchards, pick blueberries or prune vineyards.

That work is part of a USD 17 million, five-year project, funded by the Ministry of Business Innovation and Employment, and managed by Auckland University, helping develop robots and artificial intelligence technologies for New Zealand's horticulture and viticulture industries.

The project, known as MaaraTech, was started in 2018 and will soon see field trials of the new technology.

The university is proud of its positive research impact in the world and its recognition on the Times Higher Education Impact Rankings. The university's Bachelor of Climate Change degree was the first of its kind in the world, helping to meet the United Nations' 17 Sustainable Development Goals.

Career development services

The career development services are offered for the university's students, recent graduates as well as alumni with tools and support for career development.

This service helps students with developing their CV and cover letters, career planning, interview skills, volunteering, enhancing their employability skills, and also refining the students' personal brand. The services can connect students with employers through employer campus visits, career fairs, and also promotion of graduate opportunities.

MyCareer

An online system, MyCareer allows students to manage their own career development. Students can set up personal profiles, book-in for tutorials and workshops, create appointments with career advisors, as well as search and apply for volunteer and graduate opportunities.

Students graduate job ready

Waikato's work integrated programmes create a link between academic learning and the practical applications of learning in the workplace. Each year students have the opportunity to take part in over 2,000 industry placements and internships. Enabling students to gain essential professional skills in the workplace and build key relationships with future employers.