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General information applicable to all AustraLearn Semester and Year Abroad Programs:
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Victoria University of Wellington is located in Wellington, New Zealand’s vibrant and cosmopolitan capital city. Victoria offers students the opportunity to live and study in New Zealand’s cultural, political, and intellectual capital.
Victoria has a strong research focus and was established in 1899 making it among the oldest universities in New Zealand. Victoria prides itself as a university with a significant international focus and a strong domestic base.
Wellington is known for its city buzz as well as the number of good cafes and lively night life. It is an energetic, compact city situated at the southern tip of New Zealand’s North Island, between a beautiful harbor and rolling green hills. The region offers a healthy lifestyle in a mild to temperate climate.
The University is home to over 21,000 students, including around 2,700 international students.
 
LocationWellington is a compact, dynamic, and fun city with all the trappings of a thriving metropolis, but all the comforts of a close community. It boasts world-class facilities, inspired arts and culture, and an expanding economy. Wellington is also the perfect staging point for students wanting to travel and enjoy the whole of New Zealand.
Wellington is known for its city buzz as well as the number of good cafes and lively night life. It is a vibrant, compact city situated at the southern tip of New Zealand’s North Island, between a beautiful harbor and rolling green hills. The region offers a healthy lifestyle in a mild to temperate climate. Extracurricular ActivitiesWith a student body of over 21,000, students are part of a community the size of a small town. Facilities include a main library, cafes, a bank, book center, computer shop, complimentary newspapers, recreation and cultural facilities, and a medical center.
The Students Association helps students in many ways and funds almost 100 social, sporting, cultural, and ethnic clubs, which help to make students feel at home in their new learning environment.
At the newly renovated Recreation Centre, open up to 16 hours a day, students can get involved in a wide variety of health and fitness activities, outdoor pursuits, dance classes, as well as arts and crafts.
Wellington has one of the best sports stadiums in New Zealand where international rugby and cricket games are played. With the stadium only minutes from the entertainment district, the chance to enjoy a home team win and continue the night’s festivities is never far away.
As the capital city, international and local performing artists also frequently visit Wellington.Academic HighlightsLocated in Wellington are Crown Research Institutes, the Museum of New Zealand Te Papa, and national cultural assets such as the New Zealand Symphony Orchestra. Victoria has strong links with these institutions in both teaching and research, as well as with the city’s many other museums, archives, libraries, scientific institutes, cultural bodies, financial, legal and business institutions, and political and government agencies.
Victoria University prides itself on being world class in the areas of Earthquake and Antarctic Research and Music, where Victoria is home to the acclaimed New Zealand String Quartet. The University’s strengths also run to Film and Media Studies, Political Science and International Relations, Architecture and Design, and Earth Sciences.
In 2008, Humanities and Social Sciences at Victoria were ranked in the Top 100 in the world by the UK Times Higher Education Supplement (THES). Study abroad students have the opportunity to take a wide range of courses at different levels depending on the individual student’s background in the subject area.
Victoria University of Wellington's four campuses each host specific academic faculties:
- Kelburn Campus: Faculty of Humanities and Social Sciences, Faculty of Science, Faculty of Engineering
- Pipitea Campus: Faculty of Commerce and Administration, Faculty of Law
- Te Aro Campus: Faculty of Architecture and Design
- Karori Campus: Faculty of Education
View Available Subjects
Classes are offered in a wide range of subjects. To see if the classes you need are available at this university, review the course catalog.
View courses/subjects available at this university.
Be sure to use the "help pages" for assistance on finding the courses that you need. University ServicesStudy abroad students have access to a full range of student services. Victoria International (VI) is the first point of contact for international students. Students are met at the airport, delivered to pre-arranged accommodation, and must attend International Orientation.
Ongoing support is coordinated by VI with separate services including health services, counseling, disability support, mediation services, an accommodation service, student finance advisors, and learning support. Each Faculty also has an Academic Advisor for study abroad students.HousingAs an AustraLearn student you are guaranteed pre-arranged accommodation to fit your lifestyle. There are a variety of housing options available which you will apply for after acceptance. Read below for more specific options offered at this university:
Accommodation is within walking distance to the Kelburn campus or close to one of the many public transport routes. Most study abroad students are sophomores or juniors, so the preferred option is often apartment style accommodation.
The Accommodation Service has a policy of placing students with a mixture of Kiwi students and other international students. This is seen as the best way for students to adjust to life in Wellington and to make new friends. It is important to apply for accommodation in advance of the appropriate deadline to have the best chance of securing your favored option. OrientationThe orientation program takes place one or two weeks prior to the first week of lectures. The program includes an official welcome, a traditional Maori welcome, performances, tours of the city and campus, an introduction to the VI staff, student services, and academic and course advice. After an enrollment briefing students finish the rest of the week by formally enrolling in courses.Special Programs/ExcursionsVictoria International Leadership Program
The Victoria International Leadership Program (VILP) is open to all Victoria students, including study abroad students. VILP is the first of its kind in New Zealand and requires participants to attend seminars, speaker events and experiential activities during the trimester. VILP enables students to better understand pressing global issues and develop valuable skills of interest to employers.
The program is a new internationalization initiative and extra-curricular opportunity for students to enhance their global competency, intercultural awareness and leadership potential while studying at Victoria University of Wellington. It takes advantage of the capital city by involving the diplomatic community in seminars, as well as senior members of the public sector.
VILP is open to all students for no additional cost and, upon successful completion, acknowledged with a Certificate of Participation for study abroad students.
Rugby or Golf Study Abroad
Victoria University of Wellington also offers AustraLearn students the opportunity to expand their knowledge and develop their skills in the sports of golf or rugby. For an additional fee of $840 USD, semester/year abroad students can participate in either the Golf or Rugby Study Abroad Program as an add-on to their standard semester experience.VUW's Rugby Study Abroad ProgramVictoria University of Wellington offers a study abroad experience that combines New Zealand’s strengths of its rugby culture and quality university education. For an additional fee, semester/year abroad students can participate in the Rugby Study Abroad Program.
Men and women rugby players at all levels have the opportunity to enroll at VUW for one or two semesters and join the local club competition. You can indulge your passion in rugby while studying full-time at VUW. This program is only available during the February-June semester. Students should bring gear (playing gear and boots), but can purchase items in Wellington if necessary.
Features:
- Membership to the Old Boys University Rugby Club
- Free tickets to five Super 14 International games played in Wellington, the finest rugby in the world
- Free gym membership - train with the professionals
- Playing uniform from your team
VUW's Golf Study Abroad ProgramVictoria University of Wellington offers AustraLearn students the opportunity to indulge their passion for golf as part of a unique and exciting study abroad experience. For an additional fee, as a study abroad student at Victoria University of Wellington, you will have the opportunity to incorporate your passion for golf into your semester abroad and experience a different side of the New Zealand culture. This program is exclusively offered to students studying abroad with AustraLearn.
Features:
- A full-time course load and credit to your home degree
- Full membership package at Shandon Golf Club, including five lessons with a PGA professional, comprehensive golf improvement plan, and free range balls
- Full membership at Paraparaumu Beach Golf Club, including one playing round with a PGA professional
- Branded starter pack including tees, balls, cap and pitch repairer
- Limited travel vouchers for local train & bus travel to the value of $100 NZD
Golf clubs, clothes, and shoes may be rented upon arrival for an additional cost. Community InvolvementWhile abroad, we recommend getting involved in your local community. It's an awesome way to meet locals, experience the true New Zealand culture, and create long lasting memories. From volunteering to festival-going, we challenge you to make the most of your international experience... See a sample of community involvement opportunities available in Wellington or discover your own upon arrival!
You'll get a taste of how enriching community involvement can be during your first few days in New Zealand on AustraLearn's Culture and Adventure Program. The program includes one day of pre-arranged volunteering with the local community. You'll interact directly with locals while giving back to and sharing your own culture with the community that first welcomes you to New Zealand. Plus, you can continue your volunteer efforts later in the semester by signing up for AustraLearn's Conservation Volunteer Weekend.
   Enhance Your Experience While studying at VUW, you can maximize your study abroad experience by enrolling in the Global Identity course (EdPA 3103 Connecting Your International Experience to Your Future). The course will help you articulate the value of your experience to future employers, demonstrate your intercultural development and skills, and understand intercultural interactions.
This one-credit, online course is offered by the University of Minnesota - Twin Cities exclusively for students studying with AustraLearn. LEARN MORE>Meet Your AustraLearn CoordinatorEilis McNamara-Olde is the AustraLearn Coordinator for Victoria University of Wellington
View SubjectsClasses are offered in a wide range of subjects. To see if the classes you need are available at this university, review the course catalog.
View courses/subjects available at this university.
Be sure to use the "help pages" for assistance on finding the courses that you need. Fees| Program Fees | $11,000.00 | | Housing | | With Meals | Starting at $4,245 | | Without Meals | Starting at $2,805 | | Housing Deposit | | With Meals | Refundable housing deposits range from approximately $200 - $1,200 and are billed in addition to the housing fees. | | Without Meals | Refundable housing deposits range from approximately $200 - $1,200 and are billed in addition to the housing fees. |
Fee IncludesProgram fees are in U.S. dollars. Program Fees include tuition for 3 to 4 subjects, university administrative fees, membership in the student union (where applicable), overseas health coverage, ISIC Premium (International Student Identity Card), 25% Lonely Planet Book discount, also included is our renowned 6-day Bridging Cultures Program in Auckland and Rotorua, New Zealand. Fees include all pre-trip services such as: orientation materials, visa-processing service (excluding the visa fee), housing placements, personal advising, subject selections, liaise with your home university, credit transfer assistance, and financial aid services. As a study abroad student, you will be required to enroll as a full time student. Your semester is equivalent to 12-16 U.S. credits. Additional tuition and/or fees may apply in some subject areas not limited to the following: science, engineering, fine arts, and journalism. Students who undertake subjects where the university requires additional fees will be billed by the host university. Several universities have included the Sports and Rec. membership. Activities are usually extra. The Housing Fees are approximates and are in addition to the Program Fees. Housing fees listed include the least expensive option available for single accommodation in flats, houses and/or dormitories. AustraLearn offers a wide variety of accommodation options and costs allowing for individual budget considerations. Students who choose to arrange their own accommodation upon arrival will be charged the Program Fee only, as they will be responsible for making payment directly to the housing provider once accommodation has been arranged. Fee SemesterThe Program Fees listed are for the July 2010 semester. Fees are subject to change for future terms.
The Victoria University of Wellington Golf Program Fee is $11,690 and the Victoria University of Wellington Rugby Program Fee is $11,690. These Program Fees are for the July 2010 and are subject to change for future terms.
The Housing Fees listed are approximate figures based on the least expensive option available for accommmodation in flats, houses and/or dormitories. AustraLearn offers a wide variety of accommodation options and costs allowing for individual budget considerations. FactsLocation: Wellington, North Island
Overseas Students: 2700
Staff: 1900
Total Enrolment: 21000
Dates| All dates are provided by each university and are subject to change. AustraLearn will attempt to provide you with the most up-to-date information as we receive it. Be sure to confirm dates before finalizing any travel plans. | |
| February 2011 Semester - Spring | Application Deadline: November 1, 2010
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| Anticipated Departure | February 9, 2011 | | Start Date | February 11, 2011 | | End Date | June 29, 2011 | | Mid Semester Break #1 | April 18, 2011 - May 1, 2011 | | Mid Semester Break #2 | - |
| February 2011 Year - Spring | Application Deadline: November 15, 2010
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| Anticipated Departure | February 9, 2011 | | Start Date | February 11, 2011 | | End Date | November 11, 2011 | | Mid Semester Break #1 | April 18, 2011 - May 1, 2011 | | Mid Semester Break #2 | August 29, 2011 - September 5, 2011 |
| July 2011 Semester - Fall | Application Deadline: April 15, 2011
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| Anticipated Departure | June 30, 2011 | | Start Date | July 2, 2011 | | End Date | November 11, 2011 | | Mid Semester Break #1 | August 29, 2011 - September 5, 2011 | | Mid Semester Break #2 | - |
| July 2011 Year - Fall | Application Deadline: April 15, 2011
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| Anticipated Departure | June 30, 2011 | | Start Date | July 2, 2011 | | End Date | June 22, 2012 | | Mid Semester Break #1 | August 29, 2011 - September 5, 2011 | | Mid Semester Break #2 | April 25, 2012 - April 2, 2012 |
| February 2012 Semester - Spring | Application Deadline: November 1, 2011
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| Anticipated Departure | February 8, 2012 | | Start Date | February 10, 2012 | | End Date | June 29, 2012 | | Mid Semester Break #1 | April 25, 2012 - May 7, 2012 | | Mid Semester Break #2 | - |
| February 2012 Year - Spring | Application Deadline: November 1, 2011
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| Anticipated Departure | February 8, 2012 | | Start Date | February 10, 2012 | | End Date | November 9, 2012 | | Mid Semester Break #1 | April 25, 2012 - May 7, 2012 | | Mid Semester Break #2 | August 31, 2012 - September 7, 2012 |
| July 2012 Semester - Fall | Application Deadline: April 1, 2012
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| Anticipated Departure | July 1, 2012 | | Start Date | July 3, 2012 | | End Date | November 9, 2012 | | Mid Semester Break #1 | August 24, 2012 - September 7, 2012 | | Mid Semester Break #2 | - |
| July 2012 Year - Fall | Application Deadline: April 1, 2012
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| Anticipated Departure | July 1, 2012 | | Start Date | July 3, 2012 | | End Date | November 9, 2012 | | Mid Semester Break #1 | August 24, 2012 - September 7, 2012 | | Mid Semester Break #2 | April 5, 2013 - April 12, 2013 |
Entry RequirementsApplicants must have the required GPA and have completed at least the equivalent of one year of full-time study at the university/college level.
Required GPA: 2.70
University Specific ScholarshipsIn addition to the scholarships offered by AustraLearn, Victoria University of Wellington offers scholarships to the value of $2,000 USD per year allocating the awards in two separate scholarships.AustraLearn Coordinator| Name: | Eilis McNamara-Olde | | Title: | Sr. Coordinator, Outreach and Student Services | | Department: | Semester or Year Abroad in Australia, New Zealand, and Fiji |
BIO:
Eilis manages study abroad admission and participant pre-departure services for AUT University, Lincoln University, Massey University, University of Auckland, University of Canterbury, University of Otago, University of Waikato, and Victoria University of Wellington.
She holds a B.S. degree in Public Relations and International Studies from the University of Evansville . Studying abroad at Harlaxton College in England awakened her passion for traveling and she has since traveled extensively in Europe and the South Pacific.
Advice From The Coordinator:
What a better place to study Maori Culture than in New Zealand?! Students report that Maori 123: Maori Society and Culture provides a great background of this exciting culture. |
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