Founded in 1897, Victoria University of Wellington (Te Herenga Waka) is one of New Zealand’s leading research universities, located in the vibrant capital city of Wellington. With over 20,900 students from New Zealand and more than 100 countries, the university is renowned for its excellence in teaching, research, and innovation.
Victoria University offers 170+ undergraduate and postgraduate programs across diverse disciplines, including Law, Business, Humanities, Science, Engineering, and Creative Arts. Over 129 years of academic excellence, the university has produced highly skilled graduates who excel globally in their careers.
The university provides a supportive and dynamic learning environment, with world-class research facilities, extensive scholarships worth over NZ$28 million annually, and strong connections to government, industry, and cultural institutions.
At Victoria University of Wellington, students benefit from a student‑centred learning environment where class sizes are moderate and academic support is tailored; with around 20,900 enrolled students, the university emphasises individual engagement with faculty and a focus on Creativity.
The University fosters a strong residential community with a variety of on‑campus accommodation options close to study hubs and vibrant city life, complemented by 130+ clubs and societies that help students connect, develop leadership skills, and build lasting friendships across cultures and academic disciplines.
Students can choose from 20+ undergraduate programmes and 180+ postgraduate programmes spanning arts, sciences, business, law, engineering, health and more, giving Victoria University of Wellington one of the broadest academic portfolios in New Zealand with 170+ subjects available for study.
As one of New Zealand’s top research universities, VUW is ranked in the top 2% of the world’s universities, with leadership in fields such as Antarctic and climate research, organic chemistry and public policy, and more than 40+ research institutes and centres driving innovation and global impact.
The University provides comprehensive support services including specialised international student support, wellbeing and learning services, orientation programs, and career guidance, ensuring students have academic help future career readiness throughout their studies.
Victoria University of Wellington awards more than NZ$28 million in scholarships annually, including merit‑based, international, equity and research awards to help students fund their degrees and recognise academic excellence at undergraduate, postgraduate and doctoral levels.
Victoria University of wellington provides vibrant and inclusive campus communities that inspire learning experiences and personal development.
Victoria University of Wellington offers comprehensive career and employability support for graduates through its Wellington Careers and Employment team, providing one‑to‑one career consultations, CV and interview guidance, job search resources, and access to CareerHub, which connects students with employers and job opportunities. Graduates can also participate in workshops, networking events, and career fairs to build professional skills and industry connections, ensuring strong support in transitioning from study to the workforce.
The university provides a wide range of scholarships and financial support for international and domestic students, including undergraduate and postgraduate international scholarships, the Tongarewa International Scholarship, Mātātoa International Sport Scholarship, study abroad awards, and alumni fee waivers. These awards can cover tuition fees or provide one‑off grants, with millions in scholarship funds distributed annually, alongside guidance on government or private loans for eligible students to help make study in New Zealand more affordable.
Victoria University of Wellington offers dedicated support for international students through its International Student Experience team, which assists with applications, arrival, visas, insurance, and settling into life in New Zealand. Students have access to academic advising, wellbeing support, cultural guidance, and personalised one‑to‑one services, as well as orientation programs, buddy systems, and social activities that help international students adjust and thrive both academically and personally during their studies.
The university has a vibrant and diverse international student community, with the Victoria International Students Association (V‑ISA) and numerous cultural, academic, sporting, and recreational clubs helping students connect, celebrate their cultures, and build networks. Through extracurricular activities, leadership opportunities, volunteer programs, and student-run associations, international students can engage in campus life, make lasting friendships, and gain valuable social and professional connections while studying at Victoria University of Wellington.