Designed for all students, but with a particular focus in management, the humanities, social sciences and arts, 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 Victoria University of Wellington in Wellington, New Zealand. Potential course offerings include classes in business, visual, performing arts and design, social science, humanities, international studies and much more.

The University of Iowa partners with The Education Abroad Network (TEAN) to offer students the opportunity to study at Victoria University of Wellington, New Zealand.

Academic Program

Academic Departments and Schools at Victoria University of Wellington are divided into 7 academic divisions: Faculty of Architecture and Design, Faculty of Education, Faculty of Engineering, Faculty of Humanities and Social Sciences, Faculty of Law, Faculty of Science, and the Business School.

Courses (called “papers” in New Zealand) are available in a wide variety of disciplines.

Students enroll in 3-4 papers per semester (45-75 Victoria credits, usually equivalent to 12-16 sh)

Course Levels:

• 100-level is the equivalent of a 200-level/sophomore level U.S. course.
• 200-level is the equivalent of a 300-level/junior level U.S. course.
• 300 level is the equivalent of a 400-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.

Course Enrollment Process About the Courses

• The New Zealand academic year begins each February. As you select courses, keep in mind: Semester 1 is February – June and Semester 2 is July – November. Ensure that you select courses from the correct semester.
• Courses for Semester 1 (February/March start) are generally not available until October. Although courses do not change tremendously from year to year, please be aware that you may need to make additional selections once papers are officially published.
• New Zealand universities have a drop/add period of one week once classes begin. The first week of courses allows you to visit other lectures to “shop around” for your best options.

How to Find Courses

• Visit Victoria University of Wellington's online course catalog.
• Select ‘Undergraduate’ from the dropdown menu to the left of the search box.
• Select a Subject to view in the dropdown menu or use the search box to enter in a keyword.
• Scroll down and you will find the available courses (called papers) listed in their level. Click on a specific course name or course code to see the full course description.
• Pay attention to the course level indicated. As a study abroad student at Victoria, you will be able to take courses at the 100, 200 and 300 levels. Also be sure to pay attention to which semester the class is offered. The Spring (February-June) term will be listed as Trimester 1 and the Fall (July-November) term will be listed as Trimester 2.
• Once you identify 6-8 courses that match your criteria and you have had your selected courses approved by your home university, enter them into your TEAN application under “TEAN Course Selection”.
• Courses will be approved by Victoria University of Wellington 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 the Victoria University can review your selections.
• Please note: Depending on the paper, you may be required to travel to a different campus (other than the main campus of the university). You will be responsible for any additional transportation costs, so please take this into consideration when finalizing your schedule.

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 website and visit Victoria University of Wellington's online course catalog

Cultural Activities

This program will start with a 4-day orientation excursion. TEAN’s in-country staff will be there to personally guide you through orientation sessions. Visit TEAN’s website for the latest orientation itinerary.

Students, depending on programs dates and semester abroad, may participate in optional excursions to South Island New Zealand, Thailand, or Melbourne, Australia.

TEAN staff also arrange a wide assortment of cultural immersion activities throughout the semester. Past activities have included attending shows at the iconic BATS theatre, coffee meet-ups and joining local audiences at games in cheering for the rugby leagues.

Program Dates

• Spring (New Zealand's Semester 1): February - June
• Fall (New Zealand's Semester 2): July - November

Winter and Summer programs are not available.

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

 

Victoria University of Wellington

First established in 1899, Victoria University of Wellington has four campuses located within the city. The main campus, Kelburn, is located in an adyllic and elevated setting with beautiful views of the harbor. Most TEAN participants study at the Kelburn campus; however, all of the campuses are within easy walking distance of each other if you want to explore. The university is ranked internationally among the top 100 best institutions to study the arts, the humanities and psychology. Each year, over 22,000 students from more than 110 countries take advantage of a university that is not only internationally recognized among the top 250 higher educational establishments in the world, but which also holds the highest ranking for research quality among all of New Zealand's tertiary education organizations.

Wellington

New Zealand's capital city, Wellington, is the country's second most populous city with a population of just over 210,000 people. Wellington is the globe's southernmost capital city and has been ranked among the top 20 best places to live in the world. Boasting 2000 hours of sunshine, the sun shines in Wellington more often, and the city has less rainfall than Auckland. Almost all of Wellington's residents live within 3 km of the coastline, so access to coastal waterways and beaches is quick and easy. The city is also home to many cultural institutions, such as the National Library of New Zealand, Te Papa (the Museum of New Zealand), historic homes, art galleries, lush gardens and more. It is considered to be a hub for the arts, and for good reason; every year Wellington hosts international arts, jazz, comedy and film festivals and its eastern suburb of Miramar has been transformed into a production center for filmmakers such as Sir Peter Jackson and Sir Richard Taylor, both known for their work on the Lord of the Rings movie trilogy.

New Zealand

Whether you’re drawn to its natural beauty, adrenaline-inducing adventure activities, national sport of rugby or friendly people, New Zealand won’t disappoint. Surrounded by water, home to more animals than people, and featuring some of the most unique landscapes and natural wonders in the world, New Zealand is the place to be for environmental science and wildlife studies. Here students can jump right into what they’re studying with real-life examples and experiences all around them. Beyond the stunning scenery, this island nation is known for its progressive political history and being a champion of women’s rights, as well as having extensive dairy and tourism industries. Art and culture are also front and center thanks to Maori influences, a flourishing film scene, and one of the best design schools in the world.

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

Important note: Because of the semester dates for Victoria University of Wellington, students may be placed in temporary accommodation (student hostel or hotel) after the TEAN Orientation until the official move-in date which is set by the Victoria University of Wellington accommodation office. TEAN arranges the temporary accommodation and is included in your program. If you wish to discuss this further, please contact your TEAN program manager.

Once you apply to this study abroad program, your TEAN program manager will provide you with detailed housing information. Students who select this program will be housed in Kelburn Flats.

Kelburn Flats

Kelburn Flats is located in a residential area near campus. Students should expect a 5–15-minute walk to campus from their flat. The housing units are individual houses that range in location, size, and quality. The units vary in degree of upgrade and modernity. Note: TEAN has no control on the type of unit you receive, as housing assignments are decided by the host university's housing offices. TEAN and the housing office will be able to provide assistance if you have any issues with your housing.

Students will be housed with international students and/or other study abroad students. Most flats are co-ed. The flats will have a Kiwi RA either living in your flat with you or assigned to your flat (will live nearby).

Students will have a single private bedroom within a shared flat. The flat is self-catered meaning you will have a full kitchen and will do your own grocery shopping and cooking. Bedrooms have a single size bed, desk, chair, wardrobe, heater, and pinboard. TEAN includes a linen pack for students (sheets, duvet and cover, pillow and pillowcase). In the shared space in your flat you’ll have a TV, lounge chairs, a dining room table and chairs. The flats have wi-fi. Your flat will typically have a washing machine and dryer. If that is not the case, you will have access to communal laundry facilities.

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

One of the best ways to explore Wellington is on foot. The city center is compact; you can walk from one side to the other in under 20 minutes. Wellington has an excellent public transportation system, which is widely used by the locals. There is also a cable car that leaves from downtown Wellington to the suburb of Kelburn. At the top of the cable car, you will find some of the best views of Wellington.

Eligibility

The TEAN New Zealand: Victoria University of Wellington program is open to undergraduate UI students who fulfill the following requirements:

Minimum 2.7 cumulative GPA: Students must have at minimum a 2.7 cumulative GPA to participate in this program.

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.

Sophomore, junior, or senior standing: Students must have sophomore, junior, or senior standing at the time of application. First-year students cannot participate in this program.

Costs

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 Victoria University of Wellington, Spring 2024

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 1

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 New Zealand 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 New Zealand’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 in-person session after you have been accepted to the program.

In-country Orientation

TEAN provides a four-day orientation excursion. After the TEAN orientation, students will depart for their respective campuses, and will partake in an orientation program on their host university's campus.

There are no photos available for this program yet. Do you have any photos to share with us? If you do, please contact us at:

1111 University Capitol Centre
The University of Iowa
Iowa City, Iowa 52242-1802
USA

Phone: (319) 335-0353
Fax: (319) 335-0343
E-mail: study-abroad@uiowa.edu