Victoria University of Wellington

Victoria University of Wellington, full name Te Herenga Waka—Victoria University of Wellington, was founded in 1897 and is one of New Zealand’s largest and most prestigious universities. Victoria University of Wellington ranks in the top 1 percent of the world’s universities in 15 subject areas (QS World University Rankings by Subject 2024). The University is located in the heart of New Zealand’s vibrant capital city and its three city campuses are all within easy walking distance of one another, as well as local attractions, shopping districts, and cafés.

The University’s central location gives students access to a variety of national organisations in the areas of business, government, politics, culture and heritage, the arts and filmmaking industry, as well as the science and technology communities. Wellington is a compact city where students can easily explore nature trails, beaches, galleries, museums, and events. It is multicultural, safe, friendly, and has a reputation for great food and coffee—it regularly ranks as one of the world’s most liveable cities.  

Victoria University of Wellington at a glance

• 170+ subjects
• 18 undergraduate programmes
• 180 postgraduate programmes
• 40+ research institutes
• 4 libraries
• 3,000 of our 17,000 students are international students, from 120+ countries
• 140+ clubs and societies.
  
  

Top rankings

• 5+ stars from the latest QS Stars Rating of Excellence
• #1 in New Zealand for research intensity (in the latest six-yearly assessment of the Performance-Based Research Fund)
• Top 2 percent of the world’s universities (QS World University Rankings 2025)
• Top 100 in the world in 10 subjects (QS World University Rankings by Subject 2024)

Victoria University of Wellington consistently ranks among the world's best universities. In addition to receiving Five Stars Plus in the latest QS Stars audit, the University earned five stars in each of the eight audited categories: arts, employability, facilities, inclusiveness, global engagement, research, teaching, and library and information management.

"People in Wellington are so friendly and diverse. As an international student, there are a lot of people who you can relate to here. It is so easy to meet new people and make friends here, whether it’s from clubs or volunteering activities, you always meet the friendliest people in Wellington."

—Brijva Modi (India), International Buddy Programme

Graduate outcomes*

• 96% of students employed within 6 months of graduating
• 76% were in full-time employment.

*Based on those who completed the 2022–2023 Graduate Destinations Survey.

"For me, graduating with my degree from Victoria University of Wellington means having a strong foundation in my field of study, thanks to the guidance and support from the school. It also signifies the successful exploration of my academic interests and prepares me for my next academic journey."

—Tianwei Jia (China), Bachelor of Arts

Entry requirements

To study at Victoria University of Wellington, international students need:

• a good command of the English language
• a good record of academic achievement.

Entry requirements are provided under each programme. The University considers each student’s academic and English-language background when assessing applications. If a student doesn’t meet entry requirements, our team can help them meet their study goals.

If a student doesn’t meet the entry requirements for:

• English language
  Students can apply for our English for Academic Purposes programme
• Undergraduate study
  Students can apply for our Foundation Studies programme
• Postgraduate study
  Students can talk to us to help build a pathway to their degree.
  
  

Student support

The University offers complete support for students through a range of wellbeing and learning services, including a specialised team that is dedicated to supporting international students during their studies, from meeting new friends to settling into the everyday bustle of university and Wellington life.

Some of the support services include:

• help with international applications and admissions
• dedicated international student orientation and events
• an arrival meeting service at the airport
• the International Buddy Programme, where you get paired with a ‘buddy’ from the get-go
• personal, cultural, and academic support and referrals
• Studentsafe insurance support
• student visa support.

At Victoria University of Wellington, there are over 140 clubs, societies, and sports to choose from. Students can make the most of the many opportunities to get involved in different communities, embrace new experiences, and develop skills for their future careers. Victoria University of Wellington encourages all students to develop strong global citizenship skills through their studies and extracurricular programmes such as the Wellington International Leadership Programme, which is also free to join.

"I joined the Victoria University Tramping Club and went on two overnight trips, something I had never done before. This was outside my comfort zone but being able to live on just what I brought in my backpack was very exciting and I bonded with so many people through those experiences.”

— David Shapiro (United States of America), Study Abroad and Exchange

Chat to a current student

Interested in finding out what studying at Victoria University of Wellington and living in Wellington, New Zealand is like? Connect with one of our international student ambassadors now.

The University’s campuses

We have three main campuses, each focused on specific areas of study. These are the Kelburn campus, Pipitea campus, and Te Aro campus, and they are all within walking distance from one another around Wellington city. Students may also be eligible for a free bus pass if they are travelling between campuses for classes on the same day.