Christchurch, New Zealand

Direct Enrollment - University Of Canterbury

Study Abroad
Program Options:
Direct Enrollment, Experiential Learning, Part-Time Internship
Length:
Calendar Year, Spring, Academic Year, Fall

At a glance

Housing:

Apartment

Credits:

15 to 16 per Semester

Language of Instruction:

English

Language Prerequisites:

None

Part-Time Internship (Optional):

Included in Program Fee

Visa Required:

Yes

About the Program

During your time in Christchurch, you directly enroll in the University of Canterbury (UC), one of the top three universities in New Zealand. You also have access to more than 50 academic departments and more than 100 on-campus clubs and organizations—ideal opportunities to connect with Kiwi (local) students. Spread over 215 acres of beautifully landscaped grounds and gardens, the University’s campus is located only 15 minutes from the city.

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Predeparture & Enrollment Advising

We offer you predeparture advising that’s specific to your needs.

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Join Hands-On Field Study Excursions

Explore the University’s four field stations throughout the South Island. 

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Intern with a Local Organization or Business

Enroll in an internship that helps you contextualize what you’re learning.

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Travel to Cook Islands

Discover the culture and traditions of this small island nation.

Spring 2024

Program dates:

Early February - Late June

Application Deadline:

Program Advisor

Liat Wasserman headshot

Liat Wasserman

Once you’ve applied for a program, I’ll be your direct point of contact. From housing to course registration and everything in between, I’m here to help you prepare to study abroad. Once you’re accepted to your program, you’ll find even more detailed information about what you need to know before you depart in your Predeparture Guide. Let’s get started!

📱 800.995.2300 ✉️ study@iesabroad.org

About the Destination

New Regent Street mall in Christchurch

Why Christchurch?

When you look outside your window in Christchurch, you know exploration awaits you—hiking, fishing, kayaking, or swimming—that’s just a typical day here. Enjoy the adventurous, yet relaxed, lifestyle that Christchurch has to offer. Ski slopes, mountains, native bush, rivers, lakes, hot springs, and beaches are all within 1.5 hours of Christchurch, making this an ideal place to study and experience New Zealand’s outdoor lifestyle. We want you to feel at home in Christchurch, so we do everything we can to help you integrate into life in the city. From housing to cultural events, our job is to make sure you have the most authentic study abroad experience possible. We also offer many opportunities to meet with Kiwis and learn about their culture.

Learn More About Christchurch

Get to Know Your New City

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Visit Kaikoura

Swim with dolphins, kayak on the sea, and experience whale watching.

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Bike Christchurch

Why not get out on the road to discover your favorite view from your bike?

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Hike on the Port Hills

See spectacular views of Christchurch and Lyttelton Harbour.

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Sample Some Local Flavors

Visit the Christchurch Farmers' Market or the Lyttelton Market on Saturday.

The Student Experience

A green, thriving garden with flowers sprinkled throughout, and a small garden shed in the background.
Anna Marie Riner,

Growth From the Rubble

A post recognizing the massive lasting impact of the 2010-2011 Christchurch earthquakes, and the many inspiring ways the city and the people have healed and...

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Housing

A tall gray building with four stories. These are located in Ilam Village in Christchurch.
  • Apartment

Apartment

You have your own bedroom in a four- to six-person suite. The apartments are fully furnished with kitchens, communal living areas, and free Internet connections.

The apartments complex also offers a large recreational room where community events and social activities are held. There are table tennis and pool tables, Sky (cable) television, DVD players, board games. There are also outdoor barbecue facilities and sports equipment you can borrow. For study space outside of your room, the university apartments offers large, quiet study areas.

There are a number of Kiwis who live at the apartments, but we also encourage you to join student clubs and organizations as a way to make friends with local students.

Academics