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| 1. Location | Program Structure | Travel |
| 2. Dates | Academic Structure | Financials |
| 3. Cost | Eligibility | Insurance |
| 4. Housing | Credit | Health |
| 5. Food | Orientation |
Where is the program located?
University of Auckland: Auckland, North Island
University of Otago: Dunedin, South Island
Victoria University of Wellington: Wellington, North Island
What are the dates for this program?
Term Date Fall Semester Late June/early July-mid/late Nov. Academic Year Late June/early July–late June Calendar Year Early Feb.–mid/late Nov. Spring Semester Early Feb.–late June
How much will it cost me to participate in this program?
Go to the Dates and Fees section for the University of Auckland, the University of Otago, or Victoria University of Wellington to find out the program fee.
Are there any fees I will have to pay to apply?
Yes, there is a $30 application fee which you will pay directly to AustraLearn.
Where will I live?
University of Auckland: students live in pre-arranged accommodation.
University of Otago: students can choose between on or off-campus accommodations.
Victoria University of Wellington: students can choose between on or off-campus accommodations.
When will I find out where I am living? Who I will live with?
In most cases, you will find out your housing placement prior to departure. Who you will live with depends on the type of housing you select.
How close will my housing be to my classes?
It will vary depending on your housing.
Will I be able to meet and interact with people from the country I am studying in?
Yes; your classes will be with Kiwi students.
Where will I be eating my meals?
If you have a meal plan, you will eat on-campus. If you do not have a meal plan, you will cook your own meals.
Are there food options available for vegetarians or vegans?
Yes.
Who is in charge of this program?
This program is offered in partnership with AustraLearn.
Who will I work with for all my pre-departure planning?
You will work with the Learning Abroad Center staff as well as a coordinator at AustraLearn.
How much work will I need to do on my own to prepare?
You need to fill out the application, complete an Academic Planning form, obtain the necessary travel documentation (passport and visa), clear all holds, and register. It is also important to study about New Zealand prior to arrival.
What subjects can I study?
You will be able to choose from the full course offerings at each university. See the Academics section of each university for more information. 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?
You will have an idea of which classes you have been approved to take prior to departure.
How many students are accepted into the program and does the program usually fill before deadline?
In general, the programs do not fill. However, space at the University of Otago is limited, so you are encouraged to apply early.
Who will I be taking classes with and who will teach my classes?
All classes are held with host country nationals and are taught by University faculty.
How often will I attend class?
It will vary depending on your final course schedule.
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 for this program and do I have to take any prerequisite classes before I go?
University of Auckland: sophomores and above, 3.0 GPA
University of Otago: sophomores and above, 3.0 GPA
Victoria University of Wellington: sophomores and above, 2.7 GPAThere are no additional prerequisites. Some classes might have specific prerequisites.
Do I have to be an undergraduate student at the University of Minnesota to participate?
Yes.
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 University of Minnesota 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 semester.
How will I know if these credits will count toward my degree requirements?
You are encouraged to do academic planning before you depart. This process will help you determine how the courses you take abroad will fit into your degree.
Will I attend an orientation before I leave?
Yes. You will attend a Learning Abroad Center orientation about six weeks before the program starts.
Will I have an orientation once I arrive on site?
Yes. You will participate in AustraLearn's four-day orientation in Rotorua. After that, you will attend your university 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?
An optional group flight is coordinated by AustraLearn.
Will someone meet me at the airport when I arrive?
Yes.
Can I travel during this program?
Yes, during official university breaks.
Are there any excursions planned during this program, 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?
You can apply financial aid after obtaining a Study Abroad Cost Estimate (SACE) from Learning Abroad Center. Details on obtaining a SACE will be included in your acceptance materials.
What next steps are necessary to access my financial aid for study abroad?
1. Complete the FAFSA
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 offers scholarships.
Will I be covered by insurance while abroad?
You will be fully covered by CISI insurance, the University of Minnesota's comprehensive international insurance policy.
Do I need to keep my US insurance while I'm abroad?
Yes. You are only covered by CISI insurance while overseas. It is very important to also have insurance here in case you need continued medical care when you return.
Are there any vaccinations I will need to get before going?
You need to check the Centers for Disease Control website for an update on possible shots. Currently there are no vaccinations required in order to enter New Zealand.
What should I do about the prescription medicine I take?
You must take all prescriptions with you and keep them in their original containers. If you run out, medicines can NOT be mailed through FedEx or any other mail company.
Last modified on February 26, 2009 |