The University is located in Christchurch on New Zealand’s south Island. Christchurch has a mild summer and a cool winter with some snowfall and regular rainfall. The University of Canterbury is one of the leading research university’s in New Zealand. There is plenty to get involved in outside of campus with ski areas an hour away and beaches and mountains to explore. On campus accommodation is available for exchange students.
Christchurch is a recreational hot spot within easy reach of all the fun and adventure the region has to offer. It is the gateway to the South Island with a population of around 380,000. UC is on the doorstep of a huge outdoor “playground” with 10 ski fields within a two hour drive and beautiful beaches close by, you can surf and ski in the same day. Christchurch’s location on the East Coast makes it perfect for water sports, with six swimming beaches within 30 minutes’ drive from UC. The city’s Port Hills are popular for walking, rock climbing and mountain biking.
It will not be possible to complete a year abroad at this University if you have any assessments, such as supplementary or deferred exams, during the August assessment period at Swansea University.
Who can study here?
This university is not open to Swansea University students for exchange in 2025/26.
Swansea has a ‘university-wide’ partnership with this university which means that it is open to all subject areas except for American Studies or Law.
Important information
ACADEMIC YEAR: Classes runs from mid-July to mid-June.
COSTS: The cost of living in Canterbury will vary depending on the type of accommodation and meal plan you select. For visa purposes, you will be required to provide financial evidence for a specific amount. Further details are below.
VISA: You will need an Exchange Student visa and will be required to provide financial evidence of at least NZ$15,300, based on the 2024-2025 academic year (subject to change). The visa application fee is approx. NZ$850. Your host university will provide you with more information about the application process. You must allow enough time to complete the visa application and for your visa to be sent to you. There can be significant delays, so please do not leave this until the last minute as you cannot travel to New Zealand without it.
ACCOMMODATION: Exchange students can apply for on-campus accommodation. You are required to apply before the appropriate deadline and return all subsequent accommodation contracts by the required deadlines.
HEALTH INSURANCE: Exchange students must have appropriate and current medical and travel insurance while studying in New Zealand. UC requires all enrolled international students on campus to have approved health and travel insurance for the duration of their enrolment. UC's preferred provider is the Studentsafe Inbound University Policy. You are automatically registered under the Studentsafe policy when you complete your enrolment in person, and the charge is added to your invoice at enrolment.
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