University of Waikato: Acceptance Rate, Application Process, Deadlines & Fees

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University of Waikato

Unlock world-class education at the University of Waikato, New Zealand. Trust The Student Helpline, your expert study abroad consultants, to guide your journey!

The University of Waikato is one of the most popular universities in New Zealand, with over 13,000+ students admitted every year. Being the #1 university in New Zealand renowned for research and development, it has been driving innovation at a persistent pace since its establishment in 1964. To this date, the university keeps adding to its list of achievements.

After extensive research, The Student Helpline has provided an in-depth overview of Waikato University's admission procedure, scholarships, and other features below.

An Overview Of University Of Waikato, New Zealand

According to QS World University Rankings 2025, it is placed #1 in New Zealand and #235th in the world, proving its position on the world stage.

According to research, the University of Waikato acceptance rate is 72%, where 70% is for UG programmes and 71% for PG programmes.

Parameters Overview
University Type
  • Public Research University
University of Waikato Campuses
  • Hamilton Campus
  • Tauranga Campus
  • Hangzhou City Campus
University of Waikato Acceptance Rate
  • Overall 72%; Moderately Competitive
Application Deadline
  • 29th May 2025
Application fees
  • INR 24,000/ USD 282
University of Waikato Application Decision 30 days to review
University of Waikato Tuition fees
  • UG: INR 8.5L-20.5L per year
  • PG: INR 7.5L-30.9L per year
No. of Indian Students
  • Approx 200+ students
Placement Rate
  • 95% (as of 2023-24 survey)
Waikato University's Cost of Living
  • INR 8,73,687 per year (approx.)

Table 1: Key highlights of Uni of Waikato (Source: University of Waikato official website, Career Outcome Survey, Ministry of External Affairs India)

What Is The University Of Waikato Acceptance Rate?

Around 72% is the overall University of Waikato's acceptance rate for international students. The university has a selective entrance system and is moderately competitive. As per various sources, its acceptance rate for:

  • Undergraduate Courses: 70-72%
  • Postgraduation Courses: 70-71%

Short-Term Courses At University Of Waikato

Study in New Zealand at the University of Waikato College, which offers over 90 undergraduate, 100 postgraduate, and 30 online degrees across more than 135 subjects, providing one of the most extensive course selections among universities in New Zealand

List Of Short-Term Courses At University Of Waikato

S.No. Top University of Waikato Online Diploma Courses Duration of the Course Average Course Fees in INR
1 Diploma in Law 1 year 17.5L
2 Diploma in Artificial Intelligence 1 year 16L
3 Diploma in Computer Science 1 year 17L
4 Diploma in Agribusiness 1 year 16L
5 Diploma in Materials and Processing 1 year 21L

Table 2: Short-term courses at the University of Waikato and fees.
(Source: University of Waikato)

Here is a list of the 10 best University of Waikato courses popular among students:

S.No. 10 Best Courses At The University Of Waikato Duration Annual Tuition Fees
1 Master of Cyber Security 18 Months INR 19.5L/USD 22,925
2 Master of Science in Artificial Intelligence 12 Months INR 20.2L/USD 23,748
3 Master of Arts in Mathematics 12 Months INR 24.6L/USD 28,921
4 Master of Computer Graphic Design 12 Months INR 17L/USD 19,986
5 Master of Environmental Planning 12 Months INR 19.3L/USD 22690
6 Bachelor of Computer Science 3 Years INR 18.2L/USD 21,397
7 Bachelor of Engineering (Hons) 4 Years INR 19.5L/USD 22,925
8 Bachelor of Computing and Mathematical Sciences 4 Years INR 17.2L/USD 20,221
9 Bachelor of Management Studies with Hons 4 years INR 16.2L/USD 19,045
10 Bachelor of Arts in Economics 3 Years INR 15.7L/USD 18,458

Table 3: Most popular courses offered at the University of Waikato as per data from QS Subject Rankings

Admission Requirement For Waikato University, New Zealand

Prospective students from different countries are welcomed to the university, but there are certain academic requirements that a student must meet before being considered for admission.

List of University of Waikato Admission Requirements For Indian Students

  • Diploma of Secondary School Equivalence to the Dutch VWO
  • Standardized Entry requirements (SAT, GMAT, GRE as per the course)
  • New Zealand University Entrance (UE) (for UG)
  • 75-80% in High School and at least 65% in English
  • An undergraduate degree or its equivalent (for master's)
  • Three years or more of work experience (for few master's programme)
  • Minimum English language proficiency requirements:
    • IELTS overall 6.0 band score
    • 105 in Duolingo
    • 169 in C2 Proficiency
    • PTE overall 50 score

Document Requirements For Students At University Of Waikato

Here is the required document checklist for the University of Waikato admissions, take a look:

  • A Valid Passport
  • Valid ID Proofs
  • Application Form
  • Application fee receipt
  • Academic transcripts
  • Proof of English language proficiency
  • Proof of Sufficient Funds
  • 1 Statement of Purpose
  • 2-3 LORs
  • Recent CV
  • Scholarship Essay (if applicable)

Waikato University Hamilton Admission Intake

The Waikato College offers several flexible entry points at the Hamilton site. The university has three intakes for its students:

  • Trimester A begins in January.
  • Trimester B begins in July, and
  • Trimester C begins in November

University Of Waikato Scholarships For International Students

There are various scholarships for international students at the University of Waikato which help students to finance their education.

List of Top Scholarships Provided At The University Of Waikato

  • Vice-Chancellor's International Excellence Scholarship
  • International Excellence Scholarship
  • Sir Edmund Hillary Scholarship Programme
  • Waikato International Student Scholarship
  • Summer Research Scholarship Programme
  • University of Waikato Foundation Scholarships
  • Postgraduate Research Scholarships
  • School-Leaver Scholarships
  • New Zealand Development Scholarships
  • Education Future International Scholarship
  • CSIRO Alumni Scholarship in Physics
  • International PhD Scholarships

Take your career to new heights with an MBA in New Zealand! Reach out to The Student Helpline, your trusted study abroad experts, and start your journey today!

University Of Waikato Placements

95% of graduates from the University of Waikato were placed within 3 months of their graduation as per the 2023 career survey at the campus. The average salary offered to the graduate is around INR 32,20,413 (NZD 67,000) per annum. There are more than 2,000 placements and internships at University of Waikato of about 90% of Indian students, where:

  • Undergraduate average annual salary: INR 38,45,270 (NZD 80,000)
  • Postgraduate average annual salary: INR 52,87,246 (NZD 1,10,000)

Final Thoughts On University Of Waikato Admission

The University of Waikato is one of the most reputable universities in New Zealand, offering high-quality academic programs. Located in Hillcrest, Hamilton, the University of Waikato remains the favorite destination of students. To get detailed counseling on admissions, scholarships, and other services, contact The Student Helpline.

FAQs Regarding The University of Waikato, New Zealand

How Do You Qualify For The University Of Waikato Scholarship?

Academic achievements of the students, leadership, and community involvement are required to get the University of Waikato scholarships. To gain insights on the scholarship application process, connect with the study abroad consultants at The Student Helpline.

Does Waikato Accept Duolingo?

Yes, a Duolingo English Test (DET) score of 95 is the minimum English language requirement at University of Waikato.

What Is the Minimum GPA Required for the University of Waikato?

2.9 or above is the minimum GPA required to get into the University of Waikato. However, the score requirement varies by course.

Can I Work in New Zealand While Studying at the University of Waikato?

Yes, with a student visa, you can work up to 20 hours per week. Work permits are given to international students to help them manage their finances in New Zealand.

Is Waikato University public or private?

The University of Waikato is a public university in New Zealand. It is particularly recognized for its popular courses including Business, Management, Computer Science, Engineering, Environmental Science, and Māori and Indigenous Studies.

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About the Author
Vikash
Written by Vikash Vikash Study Abroad Expert

I'm a Study Abroad Consultant with 3+ years of experience, helping 1000+ students secure admission to top universities. Certified in TOEFL and Business English, he focuses on IELTS preparation and practical advice to guide students toward their academic goals.