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| Location | Program Structure | Travel |
| Dates | Academic Structure | Financials |
| Cost | Eligibility | Insurance |
| Housing | Credit | Health |
| Food | Orientation |
Where are the programs located?
The University of Melbourne in Melbourne, Victoria; James Cook University (JCU) in Townsville or Cairns, in tropical Queensland; or the University of Wollongong in Wollongong, south of Sydney in New South Wales.
What are the dates for this program?
| Term | Date |
| Fall Semester | early July–late Nov. |
| Spring Semester | early Feb.–mid June |
| Academic Year | early July–mid/late June |
| Calendar Year | early Feb.–mid/late Nov. |
How much will it cost me to participate in these programs?
Go to the Dates and Fees section for James Cook University, the University of
Wollongong, and the University of Melbourne.
Are there any fees I will have to pay to apply?
Yes, there is a $30 application fee.
Where will I live?
You will choose between on-campus or off-campus housing options.
Will I be able to meet and interact with people from the country I am studying in?
Yes, all classes are integrated with Australian students, and you will have full access to campus clubs and activities.
Where will I eat meals?
Your meal plan depends on the housing option you select.
Are there food options available for vegetarians or vegans?
If you are cooking your own meals, you can prepare vegetarian or vegan options if you wish. Options for vegetarians and vegans are widely available in university housing.
Who is in charge of this program?
The Learning Abroad Center offers these programs in partnership with AustraLearn.
Who will I work with for all my pre-departure planning?
You will work with both your Learning Abroad Center adviser and AustraLearn, depending on which program you choose.
How much work will I need to do on my own to prepare?
Students are required to read all pre-departure materials, complete the academic planning process, and are encouraged to read about Australia.
What subjects can I study?
You can register for any classes at each university. See the Academics pages for James Cook University, the University of Wollongong and the University of Melbourne for more detailed information on the classes available. Students are advised not to select courses in departments for which there is no University of Minnesota equivalent.
Will I know the exact classes I'll be taking before I leave?
Students must submit their course of study for approval with their applications. Course selection is finalized once the student arrives in Australia.
How many students are accepted into the programs, and do the programs usually fill before deadline?
There is no acceptance limit for any of these programs, but housing is often assigned on a first-come, first-served basis.
Who will I be taking classes with and who will teach my classes?
All classes are held with Australian students and are taught by university faculty.
How often will I attend class?
Course load is typically four classes per semester. Students are in class approximately 15 hours per week.
What language are my courses taught in?
English.
Is the Global Identity course required?
No, but this course is highly recommended and will help you make sense of the new ideas and experiences you encounter while abroad. Global Identity is a 1-credit, online course that will help you gain a better understanding of how to apply your new intercultural skills to your post-graduation plans.
What are the eligibility requirements, and do I have to take any prerequisite classes before I go?
James Cook University: sophomores and above, 2.8 GPA
University of Wollongong: sophomores and above, 3.0 GPA
University of Melbourne: sophomores and above, 3.0 GPA
There are no additional prerequisites for these programs, but there may be prerequisites for specific courses.
Do I have to be an undergraduate student at the University of Minnesota to participate?
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Yes.
How long will it take to find out if I am officially accepted?
Once your complete application has been forwarded to the university for review, you can expect to hear in approximately three to four weeks.
How many credits will I receive and what kind of credit will I get?
This depends on your exact course load, but typically you will receive 13–16 credits per semester; you will receive resident credit.
How long will it take for my credits to show up on my transcript?
Credits will appear 12–16 weeks after the end of the Australian semester.
How will I know if these credits will count toward my degree requirements?
Students are strongly encouraged to complete academic planning prior to departure. Please see the Academic Planning for Study Abroad form for more information.
Will I attend an orientation before I leave?
Yes. Orientation is held about six weeks before departure.
Will I have an orientation once I arrive on site?
Yes. You will participate in AustraLearn's four-day orientation in Cairns, Australia, and then go to your university's week-long orientation.
Are there any other meetings I will have to attend?
You will attend meetings with your advisers and financial aid staff if appropriate, but after your orientation, there are no other mandatory meetings with the Learning Abroad Center. You are welcome to visit with your Learning Abroad Center adviser if you have questions at any time during the process.
Will I have to arrange my own travel or will it be arranged?
Optional group flights are available for all programs. They are coordinated by AustraLearn and it is possible to add a stopover to various locations (e.g. New Zealand, Fiji) on the way home.
Will someone meet me at the airport when I arrive?
AustraLearn staff will meet you at the airport if you take the group flight.
Can I travel during this program?
Yes, during official University breaks.
Are there any excursions planned during the programs, and will I have to pay for them separately?
You will receive further information from AustraLearn.
How can I use my financial aid for this program?
See Financial Aid for more information.
What next steps are necessary to access my financial aid for study abroad?
1. Complete the FAFSA
2. Schedule a Financial Aid Preview Meeting
2. Obtain a SACE
3. Meet with Office of Student Finance
Can I use my scholarships for this program?
Scholarships can usually be applied. Check with your scholarship provider.
Are there any scholarships that I can apply for?
The Learning Abroad Center and AustraLearn offer several scholarships. Check Scholarships for more information.
Will I be covered by insurance while abroad?
You will be covered by Learning Abroad Center CISI insurance as well as OSHC (Overseas Student Health Coverage), both mandatory. The cost makes up part of your total program fee.
Do I need to keep my US insurance while I'm abroad?
Yes. It is recommended that you maintain your current insurance in order to cover pre-departure, return, and pre-existing conditions.
Are there any vaccinations I will need to get before going?
Vaccinations are not usually required. Refer to the Centers for Disease Control website, and be certain all regular vaccinations (including tetanus) are up-to-date.
What should I do about the prescription medicine I take?
Consult with your local physician and with the Australian Embassy. In most cases, take medication along and bring your prescription. If significant medication is required (for diabetes, etc.), be certain that your specific dosage exists in Australia and, if needed, identify an alternative.
Last modified on April 9, 2009 |