The Study Abroad and Exchange programme allows you to spend a trimester or a year studying at Victoria University of Wellington, while earning credits towards your home university qualification.

In Wellington you’ll be in the political, scientific, and cultural heart of New Zealand, surrounded by arts, culture, mountains, ocean, and lots of great food. You’ll be living in a compact, vibrant, safe, and fun city that Lonely Planet called the coolest little capital in the world.

Te Herenga Waka—Victoria University of Wellington has relationships with over 140 partner universities in 35 countries. The Exchange programme is only open to students of these partner universities, while the Study Abroad programme is available to all students—whether they're studying at one of these universities or not.

If you are not sure if you would be a Study Abroad student or an Exchange student, refer to our Apply and Contact page.

Programmes

Why study in Wellington?

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Learn from the best

Victoria University of Wellington is internationally ranked and its outstanding research has received national and international recognition. The University offers courses in over 120 subjects. Make the most of your study experience by choosing subjects and courses that are unique to New Zealand and the University.

Enhance your study abroad by getting involved with our community service and leadership programmes Wellington Plus and the Wellington International Leadership Programme (WILP), or join one of over 100 different clubs. Our leadership programmes offer tailored award programmes especially designed for Study Abroad and Exchange students.

Get an International Buddy

Meet local university students by signing up for the International Buddy programme. Offering a range of relaxed social events and activities, the International Buddy programme will let you immerse yourself in kiwi culture and Wellington life. If you want to get involved, meet new people, and try new experiences, this programme is for you.

Accommodation

Accommodation is guaranteed for international students if you apply by the accommodation application deadline.

There are 14 university accommodation options for you to choose from, including both catered and self-catered. All University accommodation is within easy walking distance of each campus and the central city.

Scholarships for Study Abroad

These scholarships are available to students in the Study Abroad programme:

Visiting the Botanic Gardens

Visiting the Botanic Gardens

Cricket at the Westpac Stadium

Hiking through nature

Experience the thrill of a Flying Fox

Sunset views with friends

Enjoying coffee with friends at an outdoor cafe

Taking in the Wellington sights

Selfie time at the Karori Reservoir

Relaxing on a jetty at Lyall Bay beach

Cycling through Makara Peak mountain bike park

Yoga at Victoria Recreation

Getting into the kiwi spirit at Study Abroad Orientation

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I have been so happy with my experience at Victoria University of Wellington and recommend it to anyone going abroad for school. My time here has been nothing short of incredible and I will be sad to leave.

Meagan Hughes, Purdue University, USA

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Full story

Wellington is a compact and diverse capital city. It hosts more than 40 embassies and consulates, contributing to a vibrant cultural scene. There's always something going on and it's easy to get around so you'll have the opportunity to experience something new every day.

UGCoP Undergraduate Study Abroad or Exchange

  • Duration trimester
  • Intensity Full time only
  • Schedule Lectures
  • Fees Study Abroad students:NZ$13,500for the full programme Exchange students: Continue paying your home institution fees
  • Type Coursework
  • Location Wellington campuses
  • Complete 60 points (3-4 courses)
  • Entry At least one year of a Bachelor's degree or equivalent, with above average grades. You may also be required to demonstrate your proficiency in English.

PGCoP Postgraduate Study Abroad or Exchange

  • Duration trimester
  • Intensity Full time only
  • Schedule Lectures
  • Fees Study Abroad students:NZ$13,500for the full programme Exchange students: Continue paying your home institution fees
  • Type Coursework
  • Location Wellington campuses
  • Complete 60 points (3-4 courses)
  • Entry Bachelor's degree or equivalent, with above average grades. You may also be required to demonstrate your proficiency in English.

CGCOP First Year Abroad

  • Duration trimester
  • Fees TBA
  • Schedule Lectures
  • Intensity Full time only
  • Type Coursework
  • Location Wellington campuses
  • Complete 60 points (3-4 courses)
  • Entry Achieve the International Baccalaureate Diploma, or three GCE Advanced Level passes at C grade, or equivalent. You may also be required to demonstrate your proficiency in English.