Application instructions and entry criteria
Applying to study abroad at the University of Waikato is a simple process and all applications are made online. Follow the steps below to find out more.
When can I study?
The University of Waikato is split into three(3) main periods of study, plus short programmes:
- Trimester A: late February - late June
- Trimester B: early July - early November
- Trimester C: late November - mid February
The university follows the calendar year, meaning most new students start in trimester A, however you can start in any trimester. Each trimester is about the same study length as a traditional semester with the exception of our summer trimester (C), which is shorter.
How many points and papers do I enrol in?
At Waikato we call our courses, papers. A normal full-time load of papers for A and B trimesters is 3 to 4 papers each trimester; C trimester is slightly shorter in length and therefore the normal number of courses to take for a full-time load is 2-3 papers.
A or B trimester: 45-60 Waikato points (12-16 US credits / 22.5-30 ECTS)
Full year / A and B trimester: 90-120 Waikato points (24-32 US credits / 45-60 ECTS)
C trimester: 45 Waikato points (if you choose to study in C trimester, and another trimester, there is flexiblity to enrol in 30 points worth of papers in C trimester as long as you enrol in 60 points in the other trimester (A or B).
Papers (courses)
The University of Waikato has many papers across departments and schools, and most papers are open to Study Abroad and Exchange students.
Some papers require prerequisites, or proof of prior knowledge or specific courses, in order to be admitted entry. The paper page should list if there are any required prerequisites.
Papers are generally not limited in class size, therefore you don't need to be too concerned about missing out on enrolling in a specific paper.
Note: Before making your application to enrol, please find 5-6 papers that you would like to enrol in before you make your application to enrol. You won't end up attending all classes, but this is just incase you don't meet the requirements for one or two papers. Changing or switching to other papers can occur, free of penalties, up until the end of the first week of classes.
Study Abroad or Exchange?
Find out if you should apply as a Study Abroad or Exchange student.
Check out our list of Exchange Partners to see if your university is listed. If your university is listed, please check with your adviser to check if you are going to be nominated to study at Waikato, as an exchange student. Some of our partners are both Exchange and Study Abroad.
If your university is not listed then please apply as a Study Abroad student.
- Select "Create an account"
- In the Qualification Search, select "Study Abroad and Exchange" as your qualification
All applications are done online through the Waikato website
When making your application you will need the following
- Transcript(s) from current and previous tertiary study. This must be a scanned copy signed & stamped by home university or official electronic copy. If transcript is not in English, include the transcript in original language and an official English translation.
- Evidence of English language proficiency (if applicable)
- Copy of your passport
Our study abroad and exchange programme is open to the following students
- Completed at least two trimesters/semesters of study and be currently enrolled at a recognised tertiary institution (unless you're applying as a Gap Year Experience student)
- Achieved a minimum GPA B average (NZ scale)
- English proficiency
Application Deadlines
- A trimester: 1 December
- B trimester: 1 May
Once you've completed and submitted your online application check out our Next Steps page.
Tuition fees
Study Abroad students - Fees for 2022
| Trimester | $12,500 NZD | 60 Waikato points: 12-16 US credits/30 ECTS credits |
| Academic year (2 trimesters) | $25,000 NZD | 120 Waikato points: 24-32 US credits/60 ECTS credits |
Exchange students
If you're an exchange student, you pay tuition to your home university. No tuition fees will be paid to the University of Waikato.
Costs and Scholarships
See our Costs and Scholarships page for all fees, scholarships, and living costs