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Last updated on 13 Apr '26University of WaikatoWhat's new?
- Waikato University has announced Vice Chancellor's scholarships for Indian students. This is applicable for all the study areas. The applications must be submitted till May 31 for Trimester B
- The Uni of Waikato processes the applications on an ongoing basis. Applications are open for this university and students can apply from the direct university portal.
About University of Waikato
Founded in 1964, the University of Waikato is one of the best public university, located in Hamilton, New Zealand. This university operates on two campuses, Hamilton and Tauranga. There are 13,000+ international students at the University of Waikato from over 135 countries. As per Shiksha Study Abroad Reviews, the University of Waikato has been rated 4.3 out of 5.
In 2025, onshore student enrollment was 1903. In the context of rankings, Waikato University is ranked Top 300 Universities globally in the QS rankings. Also, this university has been ranked at #1 in New Zealand for research. Moreover, Waikato Management School has Triple accreditation. It is accredited by AACSB, EQUIS and AMBA. In terms of admission of selectivity, the University of Waikato acceptance rate is around 71%.
University of Waikato Information
The Uni of Waikato has been ranked at #116 in the world for QS Sustainability rankings 2026. Also, it has been ranked at #201-250 in Times Higher Education Impact rankings. Students who want to study in New Zealand can check the facts of Waikato University-
History
Waikato Uni started its journey with just over 100 students in 1964. Later in 1967, the university celebrated its first graduates of the Bachelor of Arts. By the 1980s, Waikato U was the fastest-growing university in New Zealand. With the increasing demand for Computer Science, the university created a School of Computing and Mathematical Sciences in 1987.
Check out the below videos of Waikato University for more Information:
Commonly asked questions On Highlights
Yes, the University of Waikato offers scholarships as well as bursaries to their international students enrolled in undergraduate, graduate and research degree courses. Most of the University of Waikato scholarships are applied automatically. However, a separate application is required for a few courses.
Scholarships are generally awarded on merit-basis and the award amount provides waivers or discounts on tuition fees. Some of most popular University of Waikato scholarships for international students are:
- International Excellence Scholarship;
- International Excellence – NZ School Leavers Scholarship;
- Doctoral Scholarship; and
- Research Masters Scholarship.
Bursaries offered by the University of Waikato consist of the following:
- Tauranga Bursary;
- Master of Applied Finance International Bursary;
- Master of Engineering Practice Bursary;
- International Bursary for Vietnamese Students;
- High Achievement Bursary; and
- University of Waikato College International High Achiever Progression Bursary.
The Uni of Waikato is a public research university in New Zealand. In the QS world rankings, Waikato Uni ranks among the Top 300 Universities in the world. It is a triple crown accredited business school (accredited by AACSB, AMBA, and EQUIS). Also, this university ranks at #1 in research in New Zealand in QS rankings for 2026, based on citations per faculty.
The Uni of Waikato ranks among the Top 300 Universities in the world for 2026. Also, this university ranks at #1 for research. This university also offers International Buddy Programme, which help transition into New Zealand life. Waikato Uni offers scholarships for international students.
University of Waikato Ranking 2026
In the Shiksha Popularity rankings, University of Waikato ranking is #6 in the National Universities rankings for 2026. In the world rankings, University of Waikato ranks at #389 for 2026. Some of the University of Waikato subjects have also been ranked in Shiksha Popularity rankings 2026.
| University of Waikato Course Name | Shiksha Popularity Ranking 2026 (World) | Shiksha Popularity Ranking 2026 (Country) |
|---|---|---|
| LL.M. | #389 | #5 |
| M.A. | #353 | #6 |
| Others PG | #393 | #7 |
| MS | #546 | #7 |
| MIM | #328 | #3 |
By Other Ranking Bodies
Apart from Shiksha Popularity ranking, QS has also ranked the university globally. The University of Waikato QS ranking is #281 in 2026. University of Waikato ranking stood at #722 as per US News in 2025 and #401-500 by THE in 2026, globally.
#389
#6
Commonly asked questions On Rankings
In 2026, the University of Waikato QS ranking is #281 in the world. A few of the subject rankings of Uni of Waikato in the QS rankings are-
- Accounting & Finance: #201-250
- Agriculture & Forestry: #251-300
- Education: #251-300
- Law: #251-300
The Uni of Waikato Times Higher Education ranking is #401-500 in 2026. This university has maintained this position since 2022. A few of the subject rankings are given below-
- Social Sciences: #176-200
- Business and Economics: #201-250
- Life Sciences: #301-400
- Computer Science: #401-500
Waikato Uni ranks at #722 in the Best Global Universities category in 2025. Also, it ranks at #34 position in the Best Global Universities in New Zealand. Some of the subject rankings are -
- Economics and Business: #177
- Social Sciences and Public Health: #359
University of Waikato Courses
University of Waikato New Zealand offers UG and PG courses. More than 250 courses are offered by Waikato University. Study areas at this university include Arts, Design and Communication, Engineering; Health; Law; Science; Psychology, etc.
Popular Courses
Some popular courses at Waikato University are Master of Cybersecurity, Master of Business Analytics, and MBM. Among Indian students, the most popular course of Waikato Uni is Master of Cybersecurity is 1.5 years.
4.8(2)12 months - 2 years
14.3K+ students got admitted through us.
We can fast-track your application in a week.
Guided 173 students to New Zealand universities.
Commonly asked questions On Popular Programs
University of Waikato offers a plethora of courses in 135 leading fields of study such as Arts, Social Science, Mathematics, Education, Health, Business, Language & Mass Communication, Engineering and Management. As per the US News & World Report 2023 Subject Rankings, the top-ranked University of Waikato courses include:
- Economics and Business (#134); and
- Social Sciences and Public Health (#399).
The Master of Cyber Security course of Waikato University New Zealand is 1.5 years duration. In this course, students are going to learn about the Legal, Technical, Policy, and Management aspects of Cyber Security. Some of the career job roles after studying this course are-
- Cyber Security Analyst
- Malware Analyst
- Security Assessment Consultants
The MBM course of the Uni of Waikato is of one-year. This course for graduates of any Bachelor's degree. Waikato Management School ranks among the Top 1% of the Business Schools globally. Also, for international students, the submission of English language proficiency score is required.
University of Waikato Admissions
Students who want to take part in the University of Waikato admissions have to fill the online application form. Besides online, students can also apply via the approved education agents. Indian students can apply to the Uni of Waikato any time throughout the year.
Eligibility for University of Waikato
Indian students who want to take admission to Waikato University must submit the documents given below-
- Previous studies transcripts
- Proof of English language proficiency
- CV
- Letters of recommendation
Undergraduate Admission Requirements
Indian students who want to take admission to the Uni of Waikato should achieve an average of 75% in best 4 academic subjects of Class 12 (CBSE, Maharashtra Board, West Bengal Board, Karnataka Board with minimum 60% in English. Those students who have completed Class 12 from any othet Board, they must have at least 80% in the best 4 subjects, with minimum 65% in English.
Postgraduate Admission Requirements
A Bachelor's degree is required for admission to the Uni of Waikato Master's courses.
Also Check: Study in New Zealand without IELTS
- Application fees :No Fees
- Type of deadline :Depends on course
Commonly asked questions On Admissions
For majority courses, applicants do not to pay any University of Waikato application fee. However, the university does charge an application fee of NZD 500 = INR 24,434 for the LLD, DLit and DSc applications. Along with this, it charges an examination fee of NZD 1500 = INR 73,304 for the same courses.
Indian students can apply to Waikato Uni via the direct university portal / educational agent. Those who want to take admission to the UG courses of this university should have passed Class 12 with an average of 75% over the best of 4 subjects. For admission to the Master's degree, students must have completed a Bachelor's degree.
Minimum scores required at the UG and PG courses of Waikato University vary. Given below is the range of scores accepted at the Uni of Waikato-
- IELTS: 6.0 - 6.5
- TOEFL iBT: 80 - 90
- PTE: 46 - 56
- Duolingo: 105 - 120
University of WaikatoUniversity of Waikato Scholarships
The Uni of Waikato offers scholarships and bursaries to its international students, undergraduate, graduate and research. Scholarships are generally awarded based on merit and the award amount provides waivers or discounts on tuition fees. The University of Waikato scholarships for international students are International Excellence Scholarship, International Excellence – NZ School Leavers Scholarship, Doctoral Scholarship, Research Masters Scholarship, etc.
| Scholarship Name | Amount Disbursed | Grade |
|---|---|---|
| University of Waikato International Entrance Scholarship for School Leavers | Up to NZD 15,000 | All subject areas |
| Vice Chancellor's International Excellence Scholarship | Up to NZD 15,000 | All subject areas |
| Vice Chancellor's International Excellence Scholarship for India | Up to NZD 15,000 | All subject areas |
How to apply for scholarships at Uni of Waikato?
For some scholarships, the students are considered automatically. But, for some scholarships like Vice Chancellor's International Excellence Scholarship for India, students have to complete the scholarship application process.
Commonly asked questions On Scholarships
The Uni of Waikato Vice Chancellor's International Scholarship for India is for the students at the UG, PG, and Research level. This scholarship is for the all areas of study and is reviewed monthly. An application has to be submitted for this scholarship. The amount for this scholarship is up to NZD 15,000 towards the tuition fees.
The Uni of Waikato International Entrance Scholarships for School Leavers is for students completing Year 13 or equivalent at NZ high school in 2025 and want to join a UG degree in A Trimester 2026. The scholarship amount is up to NZD 15,000.
12 monthsUniversity of WaikatoStudents Ratings & Reviews
8 Verified Reviews- 67% students never faced discrimination in this university
University of Waikato Placements
University of Waikato placements are one of the major attractions for international students and offer a huge return on investment to graduates of the university. Also, the university has its Careers Department that focuses on supporting students throughout their careers by providing advice and opportunities to them. Some of the services offered at the are as follows:
- Explore career options
- Vacancies for part-time jobs and internships
- Prepare CV, cover letter, and application forms
- Prepare for interviews and assessments
- Develop a personal statement and elevator pitch
Waikato University Placement Rate
As per 2022 employment report, the University of Waikato placement rate was 88%. Also, 66% of the students undertook an internship, placement or work integrated learning.
ROI after Education from Waikato University
The average salary of the Uni of Waikato graduates was NZD 60,000 - NZD 69,000 (Around INR 32.4 L - INR 37.2 L). The annual tuition fees for this university is between INR 9.4 L - INR 36.4 L. Studying at this university could lead to a higher ROI.
Top Recruiters
Commonly asked questions On Placements
As per the 2022 placement rate, the Uni of Waikato placement rate is 88%. The average salary of the university's graduates is NZD 60,000 - NZD 69,000. Also, 60% of the graduates undertook either an internship or work integrated learning.
University of Waikato Fees
Studying at Waikato University can be considered slightly expensive as a study abroad option for Indian students as the first year Waikato University fees for UG courses are in the range of INR 9.5 L - 24 L. Whereas, the tuition fee for PG courses lies range between INR 11 L - 37 L.
Cost of Living
The weekly cost of living for Indian student ranges between NZD 351 - NZD 533. The weekly cost of living in NZD and INR is given below-
| Particulars | Weekly Cost of Living for International Students | Cost in INR |
|---|---|---|
| Housing | NZD 276 - 510 | INR 20.5 K |
| Food | NZD 80+ (if not self-catered) | - |
| Mobile Phone | NZD 10+ | INR 358 |
| Transport | NZD 15 - 40 | INR 1.9 K |
| Entertainment | NZD 50+ | INR 2.4 K |
Also Check: Cost of Living in New Zealand for Indian Students
| Courses | 1st Year Tuition Fees | Duration & Eligibility |
|---|---|---|
MS(23 courses) | INR 20 L - 38 LGet Fee Details | Duration: 12 months-2 years Exam Accepted: IELTS: 6.5 & Above, TOEFL: 90 & Above, PTE: 56 - 65, Duolingo: 110 - 125 |
PG Diploma(65 courses) | INR 18 L - 26 LGet Fee Details | Duration: 10 months-1 year Exam Accepted: IELTS: 6.5 & Above, TOEFL: 90 & Above, PTE: 56 - 58, Duolingo: 110 - 131 |
UG Diploma(91 courses) | INR 10 L - 23 LGet Fee Details | Duration: 8-24 months Exam Accepted: IELTS: 5.5 - 6.5, TOEFL: 46 - 80, PTE: 36 - 58, Duolingo: 105 & Above |
MBA/PGDM(9 courses) | INR 22 L - 33 LGet Fee Details | Duration: 12-18 months Exam Accepted: IELTS: 6.5 & Above, TOEFL: 90 & Above, PTE: 56 - 58, Duolingo: 105 - 124 |
MIM(9 courses) | INR 22 L - 33 LGet Fee Details | Duration: 12-18 months Exam Accepted: IELTS: 6.5 & Above, TOEFL: 90 & Above, PTE: 56 - 58, Duolingo: 105 - 124 |
M.A.(17 courses) | INR 20 L - 33 LGet Fee Details | Duration: 12 months-2 years Exam Accepted: IELTS: 6.5 & Above, TOEFL: 90 & Above, PTE: 56 - 58, Duolingo: 127 - 129 |
MEng(10 courses) | INR 23 L - 34 LGet Fee Details | Duration: 12-18 months Exam Accepted: IELTS: 6.5 & Above, TOEFL: 90 & Above, PTE: 56 - 58, Duolingo: 110 & Above |
B.E. / B.Tech(15 courses) | INR 19 L - 24 LGet Fee Details | Duration: 3-4 years Exam Accepted: IELTS: 6 & Above, TOEFL: 80 & Above, PTE: 46 - 50, Duolingo: 105 & Above |
MSN(1 course) | INR 24 LGet Fee Details | Duration: 2 years Exam Accepted: IELTS: 6.5 & Above, TOEFL: 90 & Above, PTE: 56 & Above, Duolingo: 126 & Above |
B.A.(22 courses) | INR 15 L - 20 LGet Fee Details | Duration: 3 years Exam Accepted: IELTS: 6 & Above, TOEFL: 80 & Above, PTE: 46 - 50, Duolingo: 105 & Above |
Commonly asked questions On Fees and Eligibility
University of Waikato accepts country-specific qualifications from Indian undergraduate students and they must be fulfilled by the applicants in order to secure an enrollment in the university. Waikato University entry requirements for Indian students comprise of the following:
Academic Requirements:
- Achieve an average of 75% over the best four academic subjects in the Indian School Certificate (ISC), or the All-India Senior School Certificate (AISSC), and selected state boards: Maharashtra, Karnataka, West Bengal with a minimum of 60% in English; OR
- An average of 80% over the best four academic subjects in all other state boards with Minimum of 65% in English.
English Language Requirements:
In order to get enrolled in University of Waikato for higher studies, all international graduate students are required to fulfill certain admission requirements. Candidates can refer to the listing below for the Waikato university entry-requirements for prospective overseas applicants:
The annual tuition fees for the University of Waikato New Zealand for UG courses is INR 10 L - INR 23.3 L. For PG courses, the first-year tuition fee is between INR 11 L - INR 37 L. Total weekly expenses for international students at Waikato Uni can range between NZD 351 - NZD 533.
University of Waikato Notable Alumni
Uni of Waikato New Zealand has remarkable alumni network of more than 93000 graduates from all over world. It supported and helped in lauching dreams of many famous alumni. Check out some well known names below -
| Alumni Name | Profession/Designation | Image |
|---|---|---|
| Dame Jacinda Kate Laurell Ardern |
A New Zealand Former Politician |
 |
| Warren David Gatland | A New Zealand Rugby Union Coach |  |
| Manasseh Damukana Sogavare | The Prime Minister of Solomon Islands (serving since 24 April 2019) |  |
| Captain Peter James Bethune | A New Zealand Ship's Captain with 500 Ton Master Licence, Published Author, Producer of The Operatives TV Show, and Public Speaker |  |
| Joscha Bach | A German Artificial Intelligence Researcher and Cognitive Scientist |  |
| Robert Norman Waddell | A New Zealand Olympic Gold Medalist, Double World Champion Single Sculler Rower, and America's Cup yachtsman |  |
| Mark Andrew Wilson |
A New Zealand Businessman |
 |
Commonly asked questions On Alumni
Famous personalities who have studied at the Uni of Waikato are-
- Jacinda Ardern (Political Activist)
- Stephen Donald (Rugby Union Player)
- Warren Gatland (New Zealand Former Rugby Union Player)
- Todd Muller (Former Politician)
- Mark Wilson (New Zealand Politician)
College comparison
Compare University of Waikato with other similar colleges
| College | 1st Year Tuition Fees | Ranking |
|---|---|---|
| INR 19.82 L - 37.75 L | #281 QS, 2026 | |
| INR 19 L - 35.65 L | #410 QS, 2026 | |
| INR 19.09 L - 26.94 L | #197 QS, 2026 | |
| INR 20.48 L - 45.07 L | #230 QS, 2026 | |
| INR 23.88 L - 30.64 L | #65 QS, 2026 | |
| INR 8.26 L - 84.86 L | #301 US News, 2026 |
CompareUniversity of WaikatoStudying in New Zealand
Key Facts About New Zealand
Insights on education, demographics & weather.
University of Waikato Campus Life
Located in Hamilton the University of Waikato main campus covers an area of over 158 acres. It offers various laboratories, classrooms, libraries, residences and recreational facilities. Also it owns a satellite campus in Tauranga. The library complex of the university has 3 libraries across the campuses possessing over a million print volumes and about 275,000 e-resources to support teaching research and learning. Other facilities featured on each campus include a gym, medical centre and swimming pool.
Campus Life
The University of Waikato offers housing at Hamilton and Tauranga Campuses. For housing, the applications for 2026 are open. The Halls of Residence at Hamilton Campus are fully catered and self catered.
University of Waikato
Student Forum
Anything you would want to ask experts?Answered a week ago
As per the 2022 employment report, the Uni of Waikato placement rate is 88%. The average salary of this university's graduates was NZD 60,000 - NSD 69,000. Also, 66% of the graduates of this university undertook an internship or work integrated learning.
B
Contributor-Level 10
Answered a week ago
As per the employment report for 2022, the Uni of Waikato placement rate was 88%. The average salary of the university's graduates was NZD 60,000 - NZD 69,000. Also, 66% of the students undertook internship or work integrated learning.
C
Contributor-Level 10
Answered a week ago
Waikato Uni ranks in the Top 300 Universities in the world for 2026. Also, this university ranks at #1 University in New Zealand for research. Indian students studying at Waikato Uni will be eligible for many scholarships.
A
Contributor-Level 10
Answered 10 months ago
The University of Otago and University of Waikato both are among the top choices of international students in the New Zealand. Every university offers something unique for its international students to stand out of the herd. Both universities have its advantages and disadvantages.
The University of O
A
Contributor-Level 10
Answered a year ago
Yes UCIC is cheaper than UW because the UCIC offers programs that are related to foundation studies and pathways for University which are not a full degree programs so these programs are less expensive
On the hand the University of Waikato offers full degree course programs which are expensive enoug
A
Contributor-Level 7
About the author
University of Waikato
Front View
Main Building
Building
Student Centre
Aerial ViewUniversity of WaikatoLocation
| University City | Hamilton, Other - New Zealand, New Zealand |
| Size of city | Medium |
| Population of City | 1,69,300 |
University of WaikatoCampuses
Main campus Knighton Road Hamilton 3240, New Zealand
Visit official siteUniversity of WaikatoContact Information
Gate 1 Knighton Road
Private Bag 3105,
Hamilton 3240, New Zealand
Hamilton ( Other - New Zealand)
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