New Zealand, Hamilton: University of Waikato
Links & Downloads
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University of Waikato Fact Sheet 2025 -
University of Waikato Study abroad and exchange guide
New Zealand, Hamilton: University of Waikato
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Academy of Performing Arts University of Waikato -
Campus Art University of Waikato -
Hamilton Campus University of Waikato -
Waikato River Hamilton and Waikato Tourism -
Student excursion Ingrid Hansen -
Students on an excursion Yui Kishimoto
Application
The academic year at the University of Waikato in Hamilton, New Zealand, is divided into two trimesters. Trimester A (February/March - end of June) and Trimester B (beginning of July - beginning of November). Students of all disciplines at Bachelor's level (at least 3rd Bachelor's semester) can apply. The programme is taught in English (= official language). For organisational reasons, the tuition fees at the University of Waikato must be paid by the exchange students themselves. These amount to approx. 7,200 EUR for courses totalling 30 ECTS. Please note that Bafög recipients can receive a partial refund of these costs through the Auslandsbafög programme. Further details can be obtained from the Studentenwerk Frankfurt (Oder).
Study
The University of Waikato is located in the city of Hamilton, in the north-east of New Zealand's North Island. It was founded in 1964, making it one of the younger universities in the country. The founding of the university was a response to the Waikato region's desire for higher education opportunities and the need to establish a university in the region. The university was founded by an act of the New Zealand Parliament and opened in 1964 with around 200 students.
In the early years, the university mainly offered courses in the humanities, natural sciences and social sciences. In the 1970s, the university experienced a period of growth and diversification, with the introduction of new courses and departments such as Computing Science, Law and Education. In the 1980s, the university continued its growth and established itself as a major educational institution in New Zealand.
Today, the University of Waikato is a leading university in New Zealand with a wide range of degree programmes and research opportunities. The university has around 13,000 students and offers courses in the arts, business, education, engineering, humanities, law, computing science, natural sciences and social sciences.
Everyday life
Hamilton is a city in the north-east of New Zealand's North Island and the fourth largest city in the country. The city is known for its beautiful gardens and parks, its cultural diversity and its friendly community.
Here are some interesting facts and highlights of Hamilton:
- Hamilton is known for its gardens and parks, including Hamilton Gardens, an award-winning public park with over 20 different gardens representing various historical and cultural themes from around the world.
- Hamilton is also known for its cultural diversity, with many festivals and events celebrating Maori and Pacific cultures as well as the city's international community.
- Hamilton is also a sports-loving city with many sports clubs and venues, including Waikato Stadium, the home stadium of the Waikato Chiefs rugby team.
- The city is an important business centre with many companies and jobs in sectors such as agriculture, education, healthcare and technology.
- Hamilton is an ideal base from which to explore the natural beauty of the region, including the Waitomo Caves, one of New Zealand's most famous tourist attractions, and the Raglan Coast, a popular surfing spot.
Overall, Hamilton offers a vibrant and diverse living environment that offers a combination of urban living and natural beauty and has a friendly and welcoming community.
The cost of living in Hamilton, New Zealand, can vary depending on lifestyle and individual needs. In general, the cost of living in New Zealand is considered relatively high compared to other countries, but still slightly lower than in the country's larger cities such as Auckland or Wellington. The average rent for a one bedroom flat in Hamilton is around 300-400 NZD per week. The cost of groceries depends on your dietary and shopping habits, but on average you can expect to spend around NZD 100-150 per week on food. The cost of public transport in Hamilton is relatively cheap, with a single bus pass starting from NZD 3 and a weekly pass from NZD 27.
More information on the cost of living (for Hamilton) can be found here.
Formalities & interesting facts
If you want to study in New Zealand as a German student, there are a few important things you should bear in mind.
Here are some tips and advice:
- To study in New Zealand, you need a student visa. You can apply for a student visa online and will need to submit some documents, such as proof of your academic qualifications, confirmation of acceptance at the university, proof of sufficient funds and a health check.
- It is mandatory for all international students to take out health insurance before arriving in New Zealand. You must take out health insurance for the entire duration of your stay in New Zealand.
- The nearest New Zealand embassy is located in Berlin and should be contacted with sufficient time in advance for visa issues. Please note: Travel documents must be valid beyond the end of your trip.
- It is strongly recommended that you take out additional international or travel health insurance. It is also advisable to check any other insurance policies you may have (accident and liability insurance).
The Examinations Office at the University of Oldenburg makes it easy for you to transfer credits relevant to your studies in Germany.