University of Canterbury

About the University of Canterbury

• Established in 1873, the University of Canterbury is the second oldest university in New Zealand.
• Ranked in the top 250 universities in the world and third in New Zealand by the QS World University Rankings.
• The University of Canterbury has an international reputation for academic excellence in teaching and research. The university’s teaching is research-based, so you can expect to be taught by lecturers who are at the forefront of knowledge in their discipline.
• The University of Canterbury School of Business and Economics is AACSB accredited.

Location

The University of Canterbury is located in the Christchurch suburb of Ilam. Visit the google map link below to see the campus location.

Courses

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 (45-60 Canterbury points), which usually transfers as 12-16 US semester credits or 18-24 US quarter credits. 

Students will enroll approximately one month prior to departure through the University of Canterbury’s online system. Students will finalize their enrollment on-campus during the University of Canterbury International Orientation. 

Academic Departments and Schools at the University of Canterbury are divided into five academic divisions: College of Arts; College of Business and Law; College of Engineering; College of Science and the College of Education, Health and Human Development.

Optional Internship

TEAN students have the opportunity to complete a for-credit internship organised by UC’s College of Arts. Students will work with a local New Zealand organisation or business on a special assignment under the supervision of a specific lecturer. Offered as a 15 point class (based on UC’s standard semester load of 60 points), this internship can be completed throughout the semester or during term breaks and will have specific requirements for completion.

Eligibility

• 2.8 GPA. Students with a 2.7-2.8 are encouraged to apply and may be admitted on a case-by-case basis.
• Minimum sophomore standing at a four-year institution at the time of participation.

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 Christchurch-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 Christchurch and throughout New Zealand – ranging from community events to music festivals. We aim to tap you into the local culture right from the start.

Tekapo hot springs 

Located in beautiful Lake Tekapo in the heart of the South Island in New Zealand.  At the base of Mount John which you can hike up and see supreme views of iconic Lake Tekapo and the mountain ranges beyond.  The hot springs will provide an ultimate soak in relaxation amongst the natural beauty of a pristine alpine environment.  

Adrenalin Forest 

An afternoon of aerial adventure using  your own adrenaline and independence.  Experience the first course of its kind, right here in Christchurch.  The courses are a fun and challenging way to climb through the trees. 

 Antarctic Centre 

 Discover the cold continent with real experiences of the incredible storm room, all-terrain vehicle tour; make friends with huskies and see the little blue penguins.  Here you can learn about the history and modern life on Scott Base, as well as the unique connection of the US and NZ in Antarctica. 

OPTIONAL EXCURSIONS

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.

PAYMENT DEADLINES

Your signed program contract and full payment for the program are due by the program deadline. Please note we do have options for using financial aid and enrolling in a payment plan if you cannot make full payment by the payment deadline. You can find more information about funding your program here

spring 2025

fall 2025

spring 2025

• Tuition and program fees: $17,250
• University on-campus housing: $5,500

fall 2025

• Tuition and program fees: $16,450
• University on-campus housing: $4,850

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
• 5-day Bridging Cultures Orientation Excursion in Queenstown with meals, excursions, accommodations and transportation
• Cultural events and catch ups during the semester such as attending a rugby match
• Access to unique and exciting optional excursions in Fiji, Cairns, or New Zealand’s South Island
• 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 ($70)

*Numbers are estimated based on previous student experience and budget. Actual amounts will vary depending on the student.

PASSPORT

Students must submit a current passport valid for at least 6 months after the program end date for acceptance.

If you do not currently hold a valid passport, please apply for one immediately as processing times can be very lengthy.

Visa

All students participating in a semester program are required to obtain a Student Visa. Students can apply for their student visa once required documents are received from the university in New Zealand.

Visa application will be 2-3 Months prior to departure

• Fall semester visa application will start in late April
• Spring semester visa application will start on late October

You cannot apply for your visa until you receive the required documents from your Program Manager. Once documents are received from the university in New Zealand your Program Manager will email you the documents along with step-by-step instructions. The application is electronic.

TEAN SCHOLARSHIPS 

Apply for TEAN scholarships – starting at $1,000 – for the chance to receive money specifically for studying abroad. Each year we award thousands of dollars in need- and merit-based scholarships, diversity scholarships, a full ride scholarship and more. Visit our scholarships page for details!