Designed for all students, this semester, academic-year or calendar-year program allows students to take courses in a variety of areas related to their field of study at the University of New South Wales (UNSW) in Sydney, Australia. Potential course offerings include classes in business, communications, health science, humanities, engineering and much more. The University of New South Wales is one of the only Australian universities that offers a similar academic year to our own, allowing students to enroll in a study abroad program in January or September.

The University of Iowa partners with The Education Abroad Network (TEAN) to offer students the opportunity to study at the University of New South Wales in Sydney, Australia. Students from the University of Iowa join others from around the world on this program. University of Iowa students earn transfer credit for this program.

Academic Program

Academic Departments and Schools at the University of New South Wales are divided into eight academic divisions: Art and Design; Arts and Social Sciences; Built Environment; Business; Engineering; Law; Medicine and Science.

Courses (called "subjects" at UNSW) are available in a wide variety of disciplines.

Students typically enroll in 3 subjects per semester (18-24 UNSW credits, usually equivalent to 12-16 sh, but may be less, depending on the weight of the UNSW course).

Course schedules are determined by UNSW. The academic culture and schedule may be different than you are used to here at Iowa, so be sure to discuss advice for the transition with your study abroad advisor. Students with a GPA of 3.7 and above can take four courses during the standard program dates, with special permission and an added fee. Please note: All MDIA, LAWS and PPEC courses are not available to study abroad students. Often times, HESC and ANAT will be closed to study abroad students as well. Courses in the School Of Medical Sciences are often not approved for study abroad students, so please pick several suitable back-ups when considering these courses.

Course Levels:

• 100-level is the equivalent of a 2000-level/sophomore level U.S. course.
• 200-level is the equivalent of a 3000-level/junior level U.S. course.
• 300 level is the equivalent of a 4000-level/senior level U.S. course. (Note: these courses require a high level of competency and you will most likely need to fulfill numerous prerequisites).
• 400-level + courses are graduate level and, for the most part, are not open to study abroad students.

TEAN students also have the option of enrolling in an internship in the media or business sectors for two full days per week. Offered as a six credit course (3-4 sh), assessment will be based on workplace performance, a journal, a final research project and an exit report.

Course Enrollment Process

How to Find Courses

The UNSW course enrollment process is very layered. Your courses must be approved by UNSW before you can be enrolled in them and it can take 4-6 weeks for courses to be approved. We highly advise students have 6-8 courses approved by the University of Iowa and UNSW before the enrollment period begins a couple months before departure. Follow the below steps to begin exploring potential coursework.

• Visit the UNSW online handbook.
• Select “By Teaching Period” on the upper right hand side of the page. This will allow you to filter by semester and campus location. You will want to make sure you’re looking at courses offered at the Kensington Campus (Sydney) and at the undergraduate level.
• Note: Many Art courses will be offered on the Paddington Campus which is a few bus stops away from the Kensington Campus. There is a free shuttle.
• Select “Teaching Period One” for U.S. spring semester courses or “Teaching Period Three” for U.S. fall semester courses. Ignore the options with A, B, C listed after the name.
• This page gives you each Subject Area in alphabetical order. Click on the Subject Area of interest, then the specific course you want to view. On each course page you can verify the teaching period, course instructor, meeting times, etc. You can also click on “Online Handbook Record” in the upper right hand corner of the page to view a description of the course.
• Once you identify 6-8 courses that match your criteria, enter them into your TEAN application under “TEAN Course Selection”.
• Note: In order to comply with your student visa, you may only take one online course during the semester.
• Courses will be approved by UNSW once TEAN submits your application materials for review. The courses uploaded into your TEAN Course Selection form are preliminary; they are not binding in any way. The sooner you can complete your TEAN form, the sooner UNSW can review your selections.

For more information on course selection procedures, visit TEAN's informational page on course selection.

For updated course offerings, descriptions, and syllabi, visit TEAN's program webpage and visit the UNSW online handbook.

Cultural Activities

Orientation

TEAN’s exclusive “Welcome Abroad” Orientation Program takes place in Cairns in the north of Australia, famous for its tropical setting and access to the Great Barrier Reef. Your Australia Orientation is designed to set you up for a successful semester by introducing you to the local culture and academics while you get to know your soon-to-be friends and have an exciting journey in the process. On the final day of Orientation, students travel to their host city, where they are met by their local TEAN Resident Director and introduced to their housing and local area.

Students, depending on programs dates and semester abroad, may participate in optional excursions. Travel plans may include four pre- or post-semester days spent relaxing, kayaking and sunning in Fiji and/or a weekend trip to Melbourne, Australia where students have explored the city's hidden gems and been introduced to the sporting culture of Aussie (Pronounced Ozzie) Rules Football and/or an eight pre-semester days packed with hiking, bungee jumping and whitewater rafting on New Zealand's South Island.

TEAN staff also arrange a wide assortment of cultural immersion activities throughout the semester. Past activities have included surf lessons, a behind-the-scenes tour of the world-famous Sydney opera house and joining local audiences at games in cheering for the rugby leagues.

Program Dates

Fall: Mid-August - mid-December

Spring: Early January - mid-April

Summer programs are only available to students planning to stay on for Fall semester.

For more information

 

Steps to Studying Abroad

1. Before initiating an application with TEAN, students must complete a Discover Study Abroad session at the University of Iowa. 
2. After completing the Discover Abroad session, students must call the Study Abroad office at 319-335-0353 to be assigned to the appropriate study abroad advisor.
3. Once assigned, students must meet with their study abroad advisor to receive  program application instructions.

  

 

Study Abroad
1111 University Capitol Centre
Iowa City, IA 52242

Phone: 319-335-0353
Email: study-abroad@uiowa.edu  

University of New South Wales (UNSW)

UNSW is ranked among the top 50 universities in the world, and for good reason. First established in 1949, UNSW has maintained and built upon a stellar educational reputation in scientific, technological and professional disciplines; today, almost 20 different areas of study offered by UNSW are ranked among the world's top 50 subjects (QS World University Rankings 2019). It is currently ranked as Australia's top engineering school. Along with its commitment to innovation and research, UNSW is also known for its convenient location close to both the city center and stunning Coogee Beach. Over 50,000 students take advantage of the cosmopolitan experience UNSW provide each year, with international students from over 128 countries choosing to make UNSW a part of their educational experience.

Sydney

Sydney, Australia's oldest and largest city, is located next to the ocean on the east coast and has a population of approximately 5 million people. While the appeal of the warm weather and beautiful beaches is undeniable, studying abroad in Sydney will make you realize that there is a lot more to this region than just the beach—though it’s true that the UNSW campus is only minutes away from some of Australia's finest! Sydney frequently ranks among the most livable cities in the world; with over 2.5 million acres of nature reserves and parks, world-famous institutions of the arts and a bustling entertainment scene, there's something in this thriving metropolis for everyone.

Australia

Australia is home to some of the globe's most stunning and recognizable World Heritage Sites, such as the Great Barrier Reef, Daintree National Park and Uluru. Its major cities, including Melbourne, Sydney and Perth, regularly rank among the most liveable and safe destinations in the world, and for good reason. Australia has a well-earned reputation not only for its beautiful environment and sunny days, but also for the sunny disposition of its hospitable locals. Beyond surfing, kangaroos and coffee, Australia is also well known for its robust healthcare and technology industries, as well as its rich arts and culture scene, which encompasses everything from Aboriginal art, to contemporary dance companies, to classical opera. A world leader in environmental conservation, with over 500 national parts and 2,700 nature conservation areas, you'll always be near an adventure.

US Department of State Country Information

The US Department of State provides safety and security information for every country of the world to help you assess for yourself the risks of travel. Each country information page contains a Travel Advisory, Alerts, and other important details specific to that country that could affect you.

Pay close attention to the entry and exit requirements, local laws and customs, health conditions, and other details to help decide whether traveling to any given country is right for you. Non-US citizen travelers may also wish to seek guidance from the embassy of their country of citizenship. The UI International Travel Policy for Students addresses restrictions on student travel to high-risk locations and engagement in high-risk activities abroad.

Living Arrangements

TEAN students participating in this program have three housing options: UNSW on-campus housing, off-campus apartments near Coogee Beach or Bondi Junction beachside apartments. Students will have their choice of housing and will work directly with TEAN to secure their choice. The cost of accommodation will be paid directly to TEAN. The cost of the housing options varies greatly. Please be aware of your budget for housing when picking one of the three options.

UNSW On-Campus Housing

Students can choose to be fully immersed within campus life by living alongside other international and local students. Housing may vary from older accommodations to modern dorms and purpose-built student apartments. All on-campus housing offers single rooms. Linens are supplied, but towels are not. On-campus housing is self-catered and meals are not included. On-campus housing is ideal for students who want to walk to class, be a part of the local university environment, meet students from all over the world and be involved with campus activities.

Off-Campus Coogee Beach Apartments

TEAN offers off-campus housing in Coogee Beach, one of Sydney’s most beautiful and iconic beaches. Surrounded by cafes, pubs and anything else you may need within walking distance, Coogee is like a village within the city. Apartment units are right across the street from the beach. They include cable television, internal laundry with a washer and a dryer, air-conditioning, access to a monthly cleaning service, linens, towels and Internet access. Bedrooms are shared between two TEAN students. Meals are not included. From these apartments, it is about a 35 minute walk or a 7 minute bus ride to the UNSW campus.

Bondi Junction Beachside Apartments

Located in Bondi Junction, these apartments have the world-renowned Bondi Beach on one side and Sydney Harbour and the city on the other. A bus and train interchange located below the apartment building offers convenient access to the city and beaches. Bondi Beach is a short bus ride or a 30 minute walk away, and downtown Sydney can be reached via a short train ride. These apartments are directly across the street from Australia’s second largest shopping center; various grocery stores, pharmacies and basic necessities are all within walking distance.

Each bedroom houses two students within a two- or three-bedroom apartment. Apartments include cable television, air-conditioning, full-sized and fully equipped kitchens, laundry units, Internet, landline phone services, linens, towels, on-site building management, 24-hour security access, balconies and a weekly cleaning service. The complex also allows access to a lap pool, an exercise room, a whirlpool, basketball courts, a sauna, a virtual golf center and tennis courts. Meals are not included. From these apartments, it is about a 15-25 minute bus ride to the UNSW campus.

For more information about housing options for UNSW with TEAN, please see the following link: TEAN UNSW Housing Information.

Passport

If you do not have a passport, it is important that you apply for one as soon as possible to ensure you receive it before the program begins. US citizens can find more information about how to apply for a passport on the US Department of State’s website.

Important notice for students without a valid passport or whose passport will expire within the next 12 months:

US citizens can find more information about how to renew a passport on the US Department of State’s website.

Students with a valid passport should check the expiration date. Passports must be valid for at least 6 months AFTER the anticipated return to the US from studying abroad. If your passport is not valid for at least 6 months after your anticipated date of return to the US, you must renew your passport before applying for the visa you will need to enter your host country.

Expedited processing service is available for US passports (although this still takes several weeks and is at an additional cost). UI Study Abroad encourages students to ask the passport agency at the time of application whether expedited service is recommended.

Non-US Citizens

Students who are not US citizens should contact their consulate for more information if they need to get a new passport or renew their passport.

Travel Arrangements

Students may either book the group flight itinerary through TEAN or book flights independently. Participants are responsible for being at the orientation site on time. Orientation is typically in a different city from the program location. As such student will not usually be flying directly to their host city.

Local Transportation

There is excellent public transportation in Sydney. There are buses that depart from the downtown/beach area to the campus on a regular basis. In addition to buses, there are trains and trams that service Sydney.

Eligibility

This program is open to UI students who fulfill the following requirements:

• Minimum 2.75 cumulative GPA: Students must have at minimum a 2.75 cumulative GPA to participate in this program.
• Minimum sophomore standing at a four-year institution: Minimum sophomore standing at a four-year institution, such as the University of Iowa, at the time of participation. Second semester freshmen may be admitted on a case-by-case basis.
• Good academic and disciplinary standing: Students must be in good academic and disciplinary standing at the University of Iowa. Academic and disciplinary history will also be considered when determining whether a student is prepared to represent the University of Iowa as part of this program. Students who, even after being accepted into a program, are put on either academic and/or disciplinary probation for any period of time overlapping with the study abroad program dates are ineligible to study abroad. In these cases, students must forfeit their acceptance, will not be allowed to study abroad, and are wholly responsible for any and all financial expenses incurred.

Cost

The most recent cost sheet for the program is included below. The cost sheet outlines the total estimated costs associated with participating in this program and can be used for financial aid and planning purposes. It includes fees charged on students’ U-Bill (TEAN program fee, Study Abroad Administrative Fee, and mandatory Iowa Regents CISI Travel Insurance), as well as out-of-pocket expenses. Actual out-of-pocket expenses will vary from individual to individual. Quoted estimates are conservatively high, yet realistic. Please see the respective websites for further details. Contact the designated UI Study Abroad advisor with questions regarding the cost sheet.

Cost Sheets

Cost Sheet for TEAN University of New South Wales (UNSW), Fall 2024

Cost Sheet for TEAN University of New South Wales (UNSW), Spring 2025

Scholarships & Financial Aid

For more information about receiving financial aid while studying abroad, please review the following:UI Financial Aid Information

You can find more information about options for funding your study abroad experience including scholarships on Undergraduate Scholarships for Study Abroad. UI students may also qualify for TEAN Affiliate Scholarships.

In addition, take a look at TEAN’s Scholarship website

How to apply

Interested students should make an appointment with the designated UI Study Abroad advisor to discuss the program and the application process. Appointments can be scheduled by calling 319-335-0353. During the appointment, the advisor will provide full application instructions. Note: Application materials will not be reviewed unless a student has already met with the advisor to discuss the program.

The application process consists of the following steps:

• Complete the UI Online Application for Study Abroad. Applicants will be charged a $50 non-refundable application fee. As part of the UI Online Application for Study Abroad, applicants will need to upload a copy of their passport picture page, a list of courses to take while abroad, and a statement of purpose.

Complete the TEAN online application.

Post Acceptance

After the application cycle has finished, students will receive an email, an acceptance letter, and more information about accepting their place in the program as well as information on applying for visas and purchasing plane tickets.

Application Deadlines

• Spring Semester: September 24
• Fall Semester: March 15

Health & Safety Planning

In addition to submitting their Confirmation of Participation form, students should review the following:

Prepare for Departure

Iowa Regents CISI Health Insurance Information

Students are also encouraged to complete the Health Preparation Guide for International Travel form with their medical practitioner. This document is intended to help you plan for your medical needs abroad. Please DO NOT turn this form in to UI Study Abroad.

Visa

US passport holders must obtain a student visa from Australia in order to participate in this program. US passport holders should follow the visa application instructions provided by TEAN. Non-US passport holders should consult with TEAN regarding their visa requirements.

Your passport should be valid for at least six months after the conclusion of your semester to satisfy Australia’s entry requirements. TEAN and the UI Study Abroad staff can provide some assistance and advising on the visa application process, but ultimately the individual traveler (the student) is the person who is responsible for providing correct information on the visa application and securing the visa and all other required documentation prior to travel.

Orientation

In order to prepare for your time abroad, you are required by the University of Iowa to complete two orientations. These are in addition to TEAN's pre-departure and onsite orientations. See below for more information.

Online Education Abroad Pre-Departure Orientation

You are required to complete the International Programs online “Education Abroad Pre-Departure Orientation” course distributed through ICON prior to departure. This orientation is mandatory for all students going abroad under the auspices of the University of Iowa. It covers many practical matters about living overseas, such as health and safety, communication, money, goals and much more. You will be enrolled in this course by International Programs and an email will be sent to you once enrolled. If you have any questions you can email safety-abroad@uiowa.edu.

Program-Specific Orientation

This orientation will be facilitated by your study abroad advisor and will cover content specific to your program and host country. It could be conducted in a group setting or one-on-one depending on your type of planned activity abroad. Your study abroad advisor will send you more information about this mandatory session after you have been accepted to the program.

In-country Orientation

TEAN provides a pre-semester orientation program in Cairns, Australia. After the TEAN orientation, students will depart for their respective campuses, and will partake in an orientation program on their host university's campus.