Having spent a little over a year in Wellington, New Zealand, both as a study … Read more
Victoria University of Wellington
Victoria University of Wellington’s main campus, is elevated in an idyllic setting with views of this artsy and quirky city. With an assortment of courses to choose from and amazing access to the wonders of both New Zealand’s North Island and South Island, you’ll quickly find yourself in love with your new home. Students participating in our Victoria University of Wellington program enjoy courses that are ranked in the top 100 internationally-recognized programs for arts and humanities, social sciences and management while living in apartment-style university housing with new friends from around the world.
Overview
Victoria University of Wellington is ranked in the top 250 universities in the world while its Arts & Humanities programs are ranked 73rd internationally by the QS World University Rankings (2019)
Get an exhilarating crash course in Kiwi living during our Orientation Excursion in the country’s largest city, Auckland, and the nature-filled, culture-rich Rotorua
Experience the local student living experience, with accommodation in apartments and houses within minutes’ walk to campus
Live in Wellington – an artsy college town that just happens to be the capital of the country and is perfectly located to explore the North and South Islands
Spend time wandering the city on a lazy Sunday when the local market is in full-swing, take in some of “Windy Welly’s” bohemian cafes, or learn more about local Maori history at the world-renowned Te Papa Tongarewa
Go on an adventure with our mid-semester excursion option to Thailand’s culture-rich cities and beautiful beaches
Appreciate access to TEAN’s in-country Resident Director and Wellington-based Resident Advisor for continued support throughout the semester
Program Details
Housing
TEAN places students into university housing with a choice of residential apartments or houses, all within a short walk of campus. While the university offers a range of housing options, TEAN recommends a couple of accommodation options that students have most enjoyed. Your TEAN New Zealand Program Manager will provide more advice on your housing options upon application.
TEAN Staff
Our team works with you from start to finish through the study abroad process. Our programs staff will help guide you through the application process to go abroad, then upon arrival in New Zealand, you will meet our team who will provide assistance during your time in-country. Throughout your semester you will meet with the Wellington Resident Director for informal discussions and excursions. Our staff is readily available and able to assist you with any academic, social, or cultural questions or issues that you may face during your time abroad.
Meet the TeamUniversity
About the University
- Established in 1899, Victoria University of Wellington is comprised of three campuses located within Wellington.
- The main campus of Kelburn houses the Departments of Humanities and Social Sciences, Science, and Engineering. Many Business courses are also taught at Kelburn. Kelburn is elevated in an idyllic setting with views of the harbor. The Department of Business and Law is located on the Pipitea campus which is opposite Parliament and the High Court. The Te Aro campus houses Architecture and Design. Most TEAN participants study at the Kelburn campus, however all of the campuses are walking distance from each other.
- For students who are interested in learning about New Zealand, Māori and Pasifika people and cultures there is a broad range of courses available at Victoria University.
- Victoria University ranks in the top 250 universities in the world based on the QS World Rankings, and in the top 100 internationally for arts and humanities and psychology.
Location
Victoria University of Wellington has three campus locations all within walking distance, located within Wellington. Visit the google map link below to see the main Kelburn campus location.
View MapCourses
Courses
Update to: Courses are available in the below disciplines. For detailed instructions on how to find and select courses, and a list of popular courses, see our course selection instructions. Students enroll in 3-4 courses per semester (45-75 VUW points) which usually transfers as 12-16 US semester credits or 18-24 US quarter credits.
Students enroll approximately two weeks prior to departure through Victoria University of Wellington’s online system. Enrollment will be finalized once students are on-campus at the Victoria University of Wellington International Orientation.
Find CoursesAcademic Departments and Schools at Victoria University of Wellington are divided into 9 academic divisions: Faculty of Architecture and Design Innovation, Faculty of Education, Faculty of Engineering, Faculty of Health, Faculty of Humanities and Social Sciences, Faculty of Law, Faculty of Science, School of Business and Government, and School of Music.
Discipline |
Subject Area |
| Business |
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| Communications & Media |
|
| Education |
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| Engineering |
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| Environment |
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| Health |
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| Humanities & Social Sciences |
|
| International Studies |
|
| Science |
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| Visual, Performing Arts & Design |
|
Eligibility
Eligibility
- 2.7 GPA
- Minimum sophomore standing at a four-year institution at the time of participation.
Events & Excursions
Activities / Immersion
Our local staff arrange various activities during the semester designed to help immerse you into the local culture. These activities are included in your semester program. In addition, if you have a specific interest or hobby, your Wellington-based Resident Director will be able to point you in the right direction. Below are examples of previous activities arranged for students. Note that activities may change each semester.
In addition to the TEAN events, to make sure you don’t miss out on any opportunities, our local staff send out frequent emails letting you know what is happening in Wellington and throughout New Zealand – ranging from community events to music festivals. We aim to tap you into the local culture right from the start.
Rugby
It’s the national sport! Cheer on the local team, the Hurricanes, or when available TEAN students are treated to an All Blacks rugby game.
Live Theatre
Wellington is the creative capital of the country so TEAN students join local theatre-goers for a show at the iconic BATS theatre, where most of the productions are New Zealand works.
Coffee Breaks
Wellingtonians love their fabulous coffee. We follow their lead and meet up for coffee and cake at various times during the semester. This is a great opportunity to catch up with your TEAN local support staff.
Program Dates
APPLICATION DEADLINES
TEAN has a rolling admissions process. We recommend submitting your application anytime from June for Spring applications, and from January for Fall applications. Late applications may be considered. Contact TEAN if the application deadline has passed.
| Spring Deadline | Nov 15 |
| Fall Deadline | April 1 |
Fall 2022
| Depart the US | June 28 | |
| Arrive in New Zealand | June 30 | |
| TEAN Orientation | June 30 | July 3 |
| Housing Move-In | July 3 | |
| University Orientation | July 4 | July 8 |
| Classes Begin | July 11 | |
| Semester Break | Aug 22 | Sept 4 |
| Classes End | Oct 14 | |
| Study Period | Oct 15 | Oct 20 |
| Exam Period | Oct 21 | Nov 12 |
| Program Ends | Nov 13 |
Fees & Inclusions
Fall 2022
- Tuition and program fees: $14,850
- University on/off-campus housing: $4,775
spring 2023
- Tuition and program fees: $14,950
- University on/off-campus housing: $4,875
What’s Included
- Full tuition (4 courses)
- Guaranteed, pre-arranged housing including internet
- Bedding Pack
- Comprehensive health and travel insurance
- Services of local TEAN support staff throughout the semester
- 4-day Orientation Excursion Program with meals, excursions, accommodations and transportation
- Local SIM card
- Cultural events and catch ups during the semester such as attending a rugby match
- Access to unique and exciting optional mid-semester excursions, which may include New Zealand’s South Island, Thailand and other places
- Access to pre-arranged flight itineraries and booking agent
- Extensive pre-departure advising
- University and course selection advice
- Official academic transcripts from host institution
- Credit approval and transfer assistance
- Help with student visa preparation
- Financial aid transfer planning
- Airport pickup and reception upon arrival at TEAN Orientation and in host city
- Student association fees
- Host university orientation
- Farewell Dinner at conclusion of program
WHAT’S NOT INCLUDED
- International airfare ($1,800)
- Domestic airfare in U.S. ($500)
- Books ($200)
- Meals during the semester ($1,700)
- Student visa ($30)
*Numbers are estimated based on previous student experience and budget. Actual amounts will vary depending on the student.
Scholarships
Other New Zealand Study Abroad Scholarships
Additional scholarships are available for students planning to study abroad in New Zealand ranging from $500 – $15,000. For more information see our list of New Zealand Study Abroad Scholarships.
We Love Welly
Ashley Stewart
Resident Assistant - Wellington
Wellington Tip
Best Dessert
If you’re a sweets fiend check out Strawberry Fare. The restaurant also does meals but is well established for its generously portioned and elaborate desserts. They’re big enough to share but you may have second thoughts once you tuck into something as decadent as the black forest tower (my fave).
Q&A
What helps set up a student for a successful experience abroad?
An open mind. People in New Zealand love to help each other and we want you to enjoy your time here and understand why our little corner of the world is so special. There will be strange animals, phrases and food all around you and you’ll be able to appreciate it all more if you take it all in with enthusiasm and curiosity.
What makes New Zealand a great place to study or intern abroad?
Almost anywhere in New Zealand, you are only ten minutes away from wildlife or amazing vistas. It can be surprising to feel like you are miles away from civilization and then be back at work or school within the hour but that’s what makes it special. I can almost guarantee that every local has a hidden spot nearby that they like to visit for hiking, fishing, surfing or simply an isolated place with a gorgeous view.
What should every study abroad student have on their bucket list for a semester in New Zealand?
Watch the Lord of the Rings and then see how many locations from the movies you can find. It may take you around the country or to hidden spots around your local city that were carefully picked because of their wondrous feel.
What previous experiences have led to your current role?
Throughout high school, I could be found in the International Department talking with the students coming from around the world. I wanted to know what drove them to come to New Zealand because to me their home countries seemed so much more interesting. They gave me a perspective about their home and my own, and what made each one special, which then led me to start to explore the Pacific a bit more. My studies took me to the Otago Museum, where I shared the history and culture of New Zealand/Polynesia to people from across the world and the passion just hasn’t stopped. TEAN attracts some of the most interesting and driven students I have ever met, and it is an honor exploring my home country with them and helping them bring out their best selves.
What do you love about living in New Zealand?
The passion of the people living here. At my doorstep I can guarantee that there will be exotic birds that were on the brink of extinction only 20 years ago and are now flourishing in this region due to the rapid actions of New Zealanders. We may be small, but we make up for it with our drive and passion. Go to any game of rugby and you will see and feel the energy of thousands of fans celebrating our national sport. Or ask anybody about places to visit and they will tell you about hidden gems around the country ranging from golden beaches to glaciers that are sometimes only an hour away from the city center. With the exception of overnight delivery options from Amazon, there is very little that you can’t find in New Zealand.
WELLINGTON TIP
Havana Bar
Havana Bar is sweet as cocktail bar and restaurant that is directed at more of a folk/indie/rock audience. The place is amazing inside! Very old school décor. It boasts a great atmosphere, and of course spectacular coffee.
Q&A
Tell us a little about what you do at TEAN?
I currently work on our New Zealand, Fiji, Japan and Southeast Asia programs. My role as team lead and Program Manager is to make sure everything on these programs is running smoothly working with our team. It includes everything from making sure students have pre-departure information on time to making sure they submit all of the items they need to study abroad (i.e. transcripts, courses, contracts, arrival details, payments, visa confirmations).
Where did you study abroad?
I studied with TEAN in Melbourne, Australia at Deakin University. It’s a more traditional campus, just outside the city but being able to live in the city and commute gave me the best of both worlds. Honestly, Melbourne has something for everyone – think sporting events, art, music, theatre, comedy, laneway cafes/restaurants/bars, shopping, the list goes on. Melbourne is consistently ranked as one of the world’s most liveable cities, so why wouldn’t you choose to study there? If you’re looking for a Melbourne equivalent in New Zealand, check out Wellington known as the coolest little capital in the world. It’s a smaller city, but that makes it an easy city to get around by foot. It’s a very accessible city for study abroad students.
What brought you back to Melbourne to live and work after graduation?
When I graduated, I knew I wanted to return to Australia. My time studying abroad had given me that exposure to living abroad and I wanted to spend more time there as a professional. For my career, It was great to gain work experience at a university abroad. I’m so glad I went down this path or I might not have ended up at TEAN today!
Packing for study abroad is always a challenge and popular topic, as a frequent flyer – what insider tips do you have for someone packing for the semester?
I’ve become pretty good at packing light over the years since there have been so many times earlier on where I’ve overpacked. I took half of my closet and never touched the majority of it. You will hear the advice – pack everything you think you’ll need then take half of it – and it’s so true. My other advice is to pack articles of clothing you can mix and match to create different outfits to help reduce items. Also try to keep the shoe situation under control, they take up a lot of room. Bring a couple pairs that are super versatile (and comfortable).
If you were going to study abroad tomorrow on a TEAN program where would you go?
I’m biased, but I would study on one of our New Zealand programs. Since working with our TEAN New Zealand students, I’ve had the opportunity to travel to New Zealand several times and have visited all program locations. I also recently lived in New Zealand for a year based out of Auckland. I love the idea of going for a semester, joining a tramping club on campus and getting out into the beauty of New Zealand in my free time!
Wellington Tip
Coastal Walk
Red Rocks is a fantastic coastal walk where you can experience the local sea life (seals) face to face between May and August. Public transport can get you there and back and the walk along the beach takes less than an hour. Alternatively you can take the Windmill Track and head through the hills. This way is longer, steeper and offers a 360 degree views of Wellington.
From the Blog
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One Weekend in Wellington
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Jan 19
Packing for my Semester in New Zealand
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Jan 13
10 Lessons from Studying Abroad in New Zealand
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Nov 02
Tour of Victoria University of Wellington Campus
It’s easy to forget about school when you are deciding where you want to study … Read more
Oct 01
Weekend Guide to the Wellington Markets
One of the best parts about studying abroad in Wellington are all of the different … Read more