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| Location | Program Structure | Travel |
| Dates | Academic Structure | Financials |
| Cost | Eligibility | Insurance |
| Housing | Credit | Health |
| Food | Orientation | Internships |
Where is the program located?
In Sydney, Australia, at the Center for Academic Programs Abroad (CAPA).
What are the dates for this program?
Go to the Dates & Fees page for the most up-to-date information.
How much will it cost me to participate in this program?
Go to the Dates & Fees page for the most up-to-date information.
Are there any fees I will have to pay to apply?
Yes, there is a $50 application fee.
Where will I live?
You have two housing choices: you can live in UniLodge on Broadway, or in a homestay with an Australian family.
When will I find out where I am living? Who I will live with?
If you have a roommate preference, you can request one on your housing form. Room assignments are made approximately two weeks before the program begins. We will email you with your roommate information.
How close will my housing be to my classes?
Housing is about a 20-minute walk from the school.
Will I be able to meet and interact with people from the country I am studying in?
Your classes will be with other US students on the program. There will be many opportunities to interact with the people in Sydney, especially if you have an internship.
Where will I be eating my meals?
Either at UniLodge or your homestay, and in local restaurants and eateries.
Are there food options available for vegetarians or vegans?
There are shared kitchens in the residence so you will be able to prepare some of your own meals.
Who is in charge of this program?
The Learning Abroad Center at the University of Minnesota.
Who will I work with for all my pre-departure planning?
The Learning Abroad Center.
How much work will I need to do on my own to prepare?
You need to fill out the application, purchase your airline ticket, 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 Australia prior to arrival.
What subjects can I study?
You can choose from the range of classes listed on the Sydney Academics page. 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 most likely know which classes you are taking before you go.
How many students are accepted into the program, and does the program usually fill before deadline?
It varies, but we usually can accept all qualified students.
Who will I be taking classes with, and who will teach my classes?
You will take your classes with other US students on the program. Your classes will be taught by Australian faculty.
How often will I attend class?
Monday through Thursday.
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?
There is a 2.5 GPA requirement. There are no prerequisites. Junior status is preferred in order to participate in an internship.
Do I have to be an undergraduate student at the University of Minnesota to participate?
No, but you must be 18 years of age or older.
How many credits will I receive and what kind of credit will I get?
You will enroll in 13 to 16 credits. You will receive University of Minnesota resident credit.
How long will it take for my credits to show up on my transcript?
Six to eight weeks after your return.
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.
Are there any other meetings I will have to attend?
If you use financial aid, you will need to obtain a Study Abroad Cost Estimate (SACE) from the Learning Abroad Center.
Will I have to arrange my own travel or will it be arranged?
Optional group flights are available. If you choose not to take the group flight, you are responsible for arranging your own travel.
Will someone meet me at the airport when I arrive?
Usually there is not a group pick-up at the airport. You will receive directions on how to get from the airport to your housing prior to departure.
Can I travel during this program?
The three-day weekends are free for travel. During the semester sessions there is a one-week break.
Are there any excursions planned during this program, and will I have to pay for them separately?
There is an excursion to the Blue Mountains, which is included in the program fee.
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?
Follow the steps outlined on the Financial Aid page.
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. Visit the Scholarships page for more information.
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?
Vaccinations are not required to enter Australia at this time. 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?
You must take all prescriptions with you and keep them in their original containers. If you run out, medicines can NOT be mailed through Fed Ex or any other mail company.
Will I get paid?
No, all internships are non-paying.
How many hours a week will I work?
In general, semester students will complete a 20 hour/week internship. Summer students will complete a 40 hour/week internship. Often, students are taking courses in addition to the internship. The student will arrange their work schedule with the supervisor at the site. The student must be available for at least one full day and can then work two or more half days. It is important that the student is flexible in order to gain the most from the internship experience.
What fields are available for an internship?
Internships can be arranged in just about any field. However, there may be specific requirements in very specialized areas such as medical and engineering placements. If a student is requesting investment banking, it will not only be necessary to have completed relevant coursework but work experience in a related field may be required.
Will I require any security clearance?
A police check/security clearance is required for all students seeking an internship.
What kind of responsibilities can I expect to be given?
Responsibilities vary greatly depending on the field in which you are interning. However, you should expect to be working on a project in addition to some administrative tasks.
How long does it take to find a placement?
The length of time it takes to find a placement is dependent on the particular field of interest. Some placements are confirmed within a couple of weeks while others may take a couple of months.
When will I receive information about my internship site?
You will usually receive information about the organization before you leave the US. If you have requested a specialized field, it is very possible that you will only learn about your placement at the intern orientation in Sydney. Some companies are able to provide a position description in advance but many prefer to discuss this with you at the interview.
Is my placement guaranteed?
All placements are dependent on a successful interview. On the rare occasion that someone fails an interview, CAPA will discuss the situation with the student and try to find them an alternative internship.
What happens if my internship does not work out?
It is the student's responsibility to arrange an appointment with the CAPA Internship Supervisor to discuss the situation, and an alternative internship may be necessary.
How will I be assessed?
The supervisor at your internship will complete an evaluation on your performance. Depending on the program on which you are enrolled or your credit granting institution, you will also be required to complete a portfolio and/or a paper on your internship experience. These will determine your final grade.
How long will it take me to get to my site?
Traveling time will vary depending on the site, but you should expect a commute of up to one hour each way.
What kind of clothes should I bring for my internship?
This varies greatly according to the field in which you are working. All students should bring a suit for the interview. You will be given more specific information prior to departure, and the type of clothing will depend on the site at which you are placed.
Last modified on November 20, 2008 |