Victoria University of Wellington

Summary

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 22,000 students are international students, from 100+ 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 student...