Study in Wellington, New Zealand

Wellington City (or Welly as it’s fondly called by the locals) is the capital of New Zealand. The city is well known as ‘the windy city’, in addition to being a cultural hub of art, food and music and the home of New Zealand’s government. It’s home to a diverse range of people which contributes to its unique culture, enabling university students to live alongside politicians and government officials and everything in between. 

As an international student, you'll find yourself immersed in a welcoming and interesting environment (Wellingtonians are known for their friendliness and touch of quirkiness) where you can pursue your academic aspirations while enjoying a dynamic lifestyle. From a thriving arts scene and quirky cafes to the world-class New Zealand education system, Wellington is a city that captivates and inspires.

Wellington boasts several top-ranked universities and institutions, each with its own unique strengths and areas of expertise.

Students in Wellington have ample choices for pursuing study paths in humanities, social sciences, law, science, hospitality, and more. Additionally, as a leading provider of vocational education and training, Whitireia and WelTec offers a wide range of industry-relevant programmes for students who want a more practical, applied course of study. 

These institutions, along with others in Wellington amongst the top universities in New Zealand, contribute to the city's reputation as a global centre for academic excellence and research. Whether you're interested in pursuing a traditional university degree or a vocational qualification, you'll find a programme that aligns with your goals and aspirations.

While the benefits of studying in New Zealand are plenty, Wellington stands out for the following: 

• High-quality education: Wellington's universities are consistently ranked among the best in the world, offering rigorous academic programmes, innovative research opportunities, and experienced faculty. Specialised institutions such as the world-renowned culinary school Le Cordon Bleu also has a campus in Wellington, which offers a more affordable option for Singaporeans than pursuing a similar course in Europe.  

• Safe and student-friendly environment: Wellington’s safe and welcoming environment, with low crime rates, makes it an ideal choice for international students. The city is also committed to sustainability and innovation, 

• Thriving job market: As New Zealand's political and tech hub, Wellington offers a thriving job market with ample opportunities for internships and graduate employment in renowned companies. 

• Natural beauty and outdoor activities: Surrounded by stunning natural landscapes, Wellington is a paradise for outdoor enthusiasts. Take a mountain bike up Mount Victoria, have a leisurely stroll through the Botanic Garden, or indulge in water sports like rafting, diving, snorkelling and more at the various nature spots around the city. Once you’ve done it all (if that’s possible), Wellington makes the perfect starting point to venture forth to other top places to visit in New Zealand. 

• Vibrant cultural scene: Wellington boasts a lively arts and culture scene, from studio tours at Weta Workshop to weekend markets to plenty of festivals and shows to fill your social calendar. There’s CubaDupa, Wellington on a Plate (WOAP), World of Wearable Arts (WOW), and so many more opportunities to immerse yourself in the city's creative energy. Singaporean students will also find plenty of Asian food options such as PappaRich and Monsoon Poon, bringing a taste of home along with new dining experiences. 

Financing your studies is a crucial aspect of planning your overseas education. Fortunately, there are various scholarship opportunities available for international students in New Zealand, including those headed to Wellington. These can help cover tuition fees, living expenses, or other study-related costs. Some popular options include: 

• New Zealand International Student Scholarships: Offered by the New Zealand government to international students from selected countries, to recognise academic excellence, leadership potential, and potential for contributions to your field of study. 

• University-specific scholarships: Many universities in Wellington offer scholarships based on academic merit specifically for international students. 

• Commonwealth scholarships: If you are a citizen of a Commonwealth country (Singapore is a Commonwealth country) you may be eligible for a postgraduate Commonwealth Scholarship to New Zealand.

Before you can embark on your Wellington adventure, you'll need to secure a student visa. The New Zealand student visa application process involves several steps: 

• Offer of Place: Obtain an offer of place from an approved New Zealand education provider. 

• Evidence of Funds: Demonstrate that you have sufficient funds to cover your tuition fees and living expenses. The estimated living costs are NZ$15,000 for a full year of study or NZ$1,250 per month. 

• Health and Character Requirements: Meet the health and character requirements, which may include a medical examination and police clearance certificate. 

• Online Application: Submit your visa application online through the New Zealand Immigration website. 

• Visa Interview: You may be required to attend a visa interview. 

Find out more about New Zealand student visa requirements on our dedicated page.

Planning your budget is essential for a successful study abroad experience. Here's a breakdown of the typical costs associated with student life in Wellington: 

• Tuition Fees: Tuition fees vary depending on the university, course, and your residency status. International students may also explore if their institution offers any scholarships, bursaries, or grants that may help offset student fees. 

• Accommodation: Student accommodation options in New Zealand include on-campus halls of residence, private rentals, and shared apartments. Costs vary depending on the location, type of accommodation, and amenities. 

• Living expenses: Groceries, utilities, transport, and other daily expenses of living in New Zealand can add up. Look for areas where you can save without sacrificing too much comfort – for instance, on a bicycle for convenient and affordable travel. 

• Healthcare: International students are generally required to have health insurance. You can purchase private health insurance or explore options through your university. 

The New Zealand healthcare system provides subsidised healthcare to all New Zealand residents, including international students who meet certain criteria. Universities in Wellington typically offer a range of health and support services to ensure your physical and mental well-being, such as on-campus medical centres, counselling and mental health support, disability support services, and international student support. However, even with government and institutional support, you may be required to foot the bill for some of your healthcare costs through comprehensive private medical insurance (required for all international students).

As an international student in Wellington, you are generally allowed to work part-time for up to 20 hours per week during the academic year and full-time during scheduled breaks. This can be a great way to earn some extra cash, gain valuable work experience, and enhance your CV. Sectors such as hospitality, F&B, retail, and tourism are popular sources of part-time employment for students in New Zealand, and you may even find placements in administration, customer service, or industry-specific positions depending on your field of study.

Wellington's dynamic economy offers a diverse range of career opportunities for students and graduates. Key in-demand fields for employment include government and public policy, technology, creative industries, education, and tourism and hospitality. Wellington's tech sector, in particular, is booming, with a growing number of startups and established companies driving innovation in areas like software development, data analytics, cybersecurity, and digital marketing.

While Wellington offers a unique blend of urban excitement and natural beauty, New Zealand boasts other fantastic student cities, each with its own charm and appeal. 

As New Zealand's largest city, studying in Auckland grants students access to a bustling metropolis with a diverse multicultural scene, international shops and restaurants, and a vibrant nightlife. It's a great choice for those who thrive in a fast-paced environment with endless entertainment options. However, Auckland generally has a higher cost of living compared to Wellington. 

The "Garden City," Christchurch, is known for its beautiful parks, relaxed vibe, and strong focus on innovation and technology. Student life in Christchurch better suits students who prefer a quieter environment with plenty of green spaces, and the city is generally more affordable compared to Wellington. 

Dunedin – a charming student city with a strong Scottish heritage – is particularly beloved for its historic architecture, vibrant student life, and ample wildlife experiences. Studying in Dunedin is also generally more affordable than Wellington, particularly for accommodation costs. 

Students studying in Hamilton are fortunate to have access to one of New Zealand’s key educational hubs while also immersing themselves in the city’s rich Māori history and culture. The city is also more affordable than Wellington for everyday living costs. 

Ultimately, the best city for you depends on your individual preferences and priorities. Consider factors like the cost of living, university rankings, programme offerings, and lifestyle when making your decision. Also keep in mind that with transport options across New Zealand, you can still enjoy and experience the diverse people and culture of New Zealand no matter where you study and stay.

Embarking on your study abroad journey in Wellington can be both exciting and overwhelming. But you don't have to do it alone. IDP's team of experienced education counsellors is here to provide personalised guidance and support every step of the way. From helping you choose the right course and university to navigating the visa requirements, we’ll help you turn your overseas study dreams into reality. 

Enter your details and one of our expert counsellors will reach out to you so we can connect you to the right course, country, university – and even scholarships!