Study Abroad at the University of Auckland, NZ

Name: Study Abroad at the University of Auckland, NZ
Brand: The University of Auckland
SKU: 42645
Rating: 4.52 (277 reviews)

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4.52 Rating

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Location

New Zealand
- Auckland

Term

Academic Year, Fall, Spring, Summer

Subject Areas

Accounting Anthropology Biology Business Chemistry Computer Science Earth Sciences Education Engineering English Film Finance Geography Global Studies Health Sciences History Māori Studies Mathematics Pacific Studies Philosophy Physics Political Science Psychology Sports Science Statistics +15

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Program Details

Program Type

Direct Enrollment

Degree Level

Bachelors

Housing

Apartment Dormitory

Language

English

Pricing

Starting Price

9000

Price Details

Study Abroad program students pay a single flat fee (NZ$) which covers tuition fees for a full-time program of study and the student services fee.

In 2025 the Study Abroad fee is NZD13,200 per semester.

Please note accommodation costs and other living expenses are additional to this fee.

What's Included

Classes

What's Not Included

Accommodation Activities Airfare Domestic Airfare Airport Transfers Meals SIM cards Transportation

Last Updated: Aug 28, 2024

Last Reviewed: Jun 10, 2025

Wish List

82 travelers are looking at this program

About Program

Combine an unforgettable travel experience with studying at a top-100 ranked university. We are New Zealand’s leading university and offer world-class facilities, excellent teaching and a friendly and supportive learning environment.

In our Study Abroad program, choose from more than 120 subjects to earn credits for your major or explore new areas including disciplines not offered at your home university. Subjects popular with our Study Abroad students include Anthropology, Māori/Pacific Studies, Wine Science, Marine Science, Environmental Science and Film, TV & Media Studies.

Auckland is flanked by two harbors, with stunning beaches on both coasts, beautiful islands a short ferry-ride away and lots of water-related activities. For those who prefer their feet firmly on land, Auckland offers lush subtropical forests for hiking and (dormant) volcanoes to climb. Urbanites will enjoy the city’s many cultural and sporting events, festivals, restaurants and vibrant shopping precincts.

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Video and Photos

Study Abroad students participating in the Generation Changemaker programme

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Program Highlights

Enjoy living close to stunning beaches, untouched forest and tranquil islands while studying in the heart of New Zealand’s largest and most diverse city!
Make kiwi friends and experience the New Zealand lifestyle - live with local students and other international students at guaranteed campus housing
Immerse yourself in rich Māori culture, history, arts and stories
Explore courses that complement your degree or that immerse you in New Zealand cultural and environmental heritage
Be a part of UoA community through more than 240 student clubs and sports teams to join

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Program Reviews

4.52 Rating

based on 277 reviews

Leave a Review

Rating Spread Study

5 rating 52.71%
4 rating 46.93%
3 rating 0.36%
2 rating 0%
1 rating 0%

Academics 4
Support 4.25
Fun 4.2
Housing 4.15
Safety 4.7

Good for Adventure travelers, Photographers

Showing 161 - 168 of 277 reviews

I've only been here for half of a semester, and the students as well as the faculty have been amazing. Everyone is incredibly welcoming and I've had no issues settling in and trying new things out. Being located in Auckland has opened up so many opportunities and the University has provided so many chances to take advantage of those opportunities as they are made available. Without a doubt, my life has been changed for the better, due to studying here, and I still have a full half-semester to take advantage of the opportunities that await!

This semester was my first time studying abroad so I did not really know what to expect when I came to the University of Auckland. It did take a bit of getting used to, but now I am really enjoying my experience here. I have found the study abroad office to be a great resource; they have been very knowledgeable and have given me helpful answers to any questions regarding the university that I have had. One thing that I did not expect was that the University did not really help international students to become involved in the campus community. I came here by myself and the first few weeks of class it was quite hard to know who to talk to or how to succeed in the University environment because there wasn't really any events for me to get to know other local or international students (and lecture sizes are large so its not easy to meet people there either). However, I found a lot of different and interesting clubs here and eventually ended up making most friends through those. Another aspect of studying abroad here that I did not expect was how different the class environment is. I appreciate how much the lecturers take students into consideration through class reps and I really like that lectures are recorded and posted online right away. The city of Auckland in itself is a great urban environment (though quite expensive compared to what I'm used to). I really enjoy exploring all the cool restaurants and shops and a lot is in reasonable walking distance of the University. Overall I love the experience in Auckland and would recommend it!

What would you improve about this program?

One thing that could be improved about this program is campus orientation. I found the information presented to international students to be very repetitive. Much of what was being addressed was covered in the several emails that were previously sent out. I also was quite confused about which orientation to attend as it was not really clarified if international students go to both the international orientation and a faculty orientation.
In the future, it would be nice to also see more events organized for international students to meet each other before the semester begins, that way anyone who came here alone (such as myself) would have more of a support system when classes actually start.
As a side note, while I have found University accommodation to be clean and high quality, it is quite expensive and I felt like I was presented with no other accommodation information or options but to pay more than a few hundred dollars per week to stay in University housing. For anyone coming to the UoA in the future I would highly consider looking into other housing options around central Auckland.

I have been at the University of Auckland for half of the semester and so far I am greatly enjoying my experince. The study abroad office at the Unvierust has been incredibly helpful throughout the entire study abroad process, from initial questions about the program to the application process, and throughout the semester at the University. That being said, the study abroad office does not offer that much support for connections among study abroad students, so for a student coming to study abroad at the Universty of Auckland from a home university without a larger program, connections with other students, and assimilation to the university is primarily independent. It would be helpful to have more events run by the Study abroad office to connect study abroad students and inform them of resources available to them to help them succeed at a new university. Despite this, the professors and other students at the University that I have encountered are all friendly, approachable, and caring.

I have been very impressed by the university accommodations. I live in a university apartment with three other university students and the apartment is spacious, modern, clean, and has a beautiful view of the Auckland skyline. The city of Auckland is wonderful, filled with activities and sights to see. It can be difficult to access areas outside of the city without a car but it is relatively simple to rent a car to travel or you can always befriend a kiwi with a car as well! Within the city, it is simple to get around either by foot or through simple to use public transport. Overall, I have greatly enjoyed my experience at the University of Auckland and highly recommend the program to other interested studnets.

I am currently at the midway point of my study abroad experience at the University of Auckland. Below you'll find my top five relevant takeaways:

1. I have had a very pleasant experience living Carlaw Park Student Village.
2. I was surprised to learn that most extra-curricular clubs require a small membership fee (not used to this back in U.S.)
3. Great variety of group fitness classes! I have enjoyed the kickboxing class very much, the instructor is fantastic.
4. Orientation was not great- some parts were redundant as international students are encouraged to attend different orientations depending on focus of study.
5. I have met amazing people here, very excited about my diverse group of friends.

I'm a danish social work student, and I'm here in Auckland at University of Auckland to do one semester at Epsom Campus.

It was a long process to get here and the support was really not that good. I find that the student support are really good at sending out automatically answers and don't really replay to you as an individual with specific questions.

The university stats online and on their brochure that they guaranty accommodation for all international students, however they don't and this has been a stressful and disappointing experiences as I trusted that, also knowing that we in Denmark have the same service - with the only difference that we actually DO provide the accommodation.

The introduction only refers to young students who never has been abroad, me and several others left the introduction day as a result of the not relevant or useful information. They send you SO many emails before the semester begins, that it is more confusing than helpful. Also the most information is about city campus, they don't really share or know anything about other campuses.

Luckily the teachers are amazing, and fellow students are just as well. I love going to lessons, as the teachers are well prepared and are really well educators, as well as role models to us as future social workers. I'm so happy that I chose this university as I have learned so much and this is really a life time experience.

I would recommend people to go, but I really hope that the administrators would step up.

What would you improve about this program?

The administrates really need to improve and step up. When ever a question is asked, they send you automatically answers, showing that they really did not read your question.

They send WAY to many emails, it is so confusion instead of informative - keep it simple.

The information day needs to be more specific and about introducing the studies in Auckland, and not about how to make friends and not drink and drive in the same time - oh my.
The is no information available for international students at Epsom Campus. It would be nice with a tour to know how to find your way and understand the rules of the Campus.
If your do not intend to provide accommodation for all international students - then don't say so on the web page.
When international students apply, provide specific details about that specific course. I really don't think that the person who helped me has any idea about what Epsom Campus is, an example could be that it would be nice to know that most students follow the same schedule, if I had known before hand, I would have liked to join just one group, and not 4 different as I am now.

Response from The University of Auckland

Hi Line,
Thank you for detailed feedback. We are always working to improve study abroad experience at the University of Auckland, so this information is very helpful.
We will review our email correspondence to see if there is any repetitive information and will also review our orientation session to improve the content and activity.
Regarding guaranteed accommodation, we will update our website with the disclaimer that a family room (which you needed) is excluded from guaranteed housing due to our capacity.
Thanks again and hope you are enjoying the semester.
Best wishes,
Sarah

By Amelia Hayter on September 11, 2017

The support you get from Auckland University is really good. I had no trouble with the application and everything went smoothly (on the administrative side). The university is very good located and everything is easily accessible, due to the fact that almost all the campuses are located at City. The residency were i'm staying is outstanding (Carlaw Park). It's the best investment if you look at price and quality.
Classes are really different from back home (Socrates style), but very interesting. As a person who doesnt speak English as motherlanguage, it can be hard though to follow the professors sometimes. Could be a workingpoint to make the professors more attentive to the fact there are some international students in the classroom.

I'm currently doing my exchange program at the University of Auckland and so far the experience has been amazing. I've met tons of new and exciting people and the city has its own charme. Kiwi's are very friendly and it has been good getting to know some of them.
I'm currently taking electives on my masters and some of the courses I'm taking have really inspired me to learn more. I was kind of tired of school when I came here, and I know it's a little cliche of me to say, but this trip has really renewed my energy for when I have to go home and write my thesis.
Auckland is a beautiful city with good food and there is tons of hikes and adventures to participate in. It's expensive to live in New Zealand, so be prepared for that. However, you can get some less expensive produce from the asian supermarket in the city. Trademe is a good place to find cheap, secondhand gear if you need it.
I'm still in the process of picking my favourite memory since I'm only halfway through my stay so I'll have to get back to you on that!

I had an amazing experience at this university! Not only was I able to learn new things but whenever there was something I didn't know, I was given sufficient support from the teachers.

It has also been a good chance for me to make new friends and new memories which I will treasure forever. Some of these memories include joining the SASS society where I was able to visit tourist sites in New Zealand such as Waiheke Island and Rangitoto.

Questions & Answers

Is there certificate that you can receive in cinematography for film?

The University offers Screen Production major under Bachelor of Arts.

By Sarah Sung on March 7, 2021

What is the weather like?

The weather can be hugely variable in one day. The summer months are hot and sunny, while in winter the temperature does drop quite a bit but it was never below 0 when I was there. My advice to you is always carry an umbrella just in case!

By Sally Hicks on September 27, 2018

Alumni Interviews

These are in-depth Q&A sessions with verified alumni.

Why did you choose this program?

I chose to study abroad largely because of the inherent differences between civil and common law jurisdictions. As we never learned about New Zealand's take on jurisprudence, it seemed like an interesting area to dive into. I chose to study abroad due to this, but also to discover more about the 'unknown' other end of the world and to just go experience something entirely away from home, family, and friends.

What did your program provider (or university) assist you with, and what did you have to organize on your own?

My home university set up a variety of events to talk to people from other universities and backgrounds. Going to these events only made me keener to go and experience another country and university.

They have also helped ensure that I met all the relevant deadlines on time and that I was given this opportunity to go abroad. Although they did an immense amount of administrative and supportive help, I still had to decide what I wanted to focus on and make sure I met all of my academic requirements.

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What is one piece of advice you'd give to someone going on your program?

My biggest piece of advice is to get in touch with another student from your university who already went on exchange to your new university. They have been in the same boat as you and most definitely have some great recommendations on what you need to do and where you need to go.

If your university provides experience reports, I really recommend reading them as it provides an ease of mind of what to expect when you get there and what to look forward to.

If you are going overseas, I would most definitely make sure that you are aware of the deadlines, especially housing ones. Often this is the trickiest step and sometimes accommodation is scarce, and you definitely do not want to arrive in a new country with nowhere to stay. Apart from that, make sure you dive in headfirst and join as much as you can to meet new people and places.

What does an average day/week look like as a participant of this program?

As I have to take 30ECTS/60 credits, I am taking four classes at the University of Auckland. I have Tuesdays and Thursdays off, so I am usually spending my days playing volleyball or going out to a new area to explore.

I have two classes on Mondays and Wednesdays, and they are differently structured than back home. Nonetheless, it is still exciting to go and learn more about areas that I am genuinely interested in.

The Study Abroad association at Auckland University also has a few events each week. Either to a place like Waiheke Island or Rangitoto. This is a great place to explore your surroundings and meet new people. I usually try to go on most trips- so far, they have been amazing.

Going into your experience abroad, what was your biggest fear, and how did you overcome it? How did your views on the issue change?

My biggest fear is actually so trivial because, at the end of the day, all of the exchange students are confronted with the same circumstances and all of us just want to make friends. I know that making friends is not that hard in a group of open-minded and welcoming students, but it always plays a role in your fear before you go on your trip abroad.

I think, when you start university anywhere, that is a thought that goes around in your head. As I said before, just be yourself, open and kind, and join clubs and societies to make sure you get the most out of your time abroad. Don't be afraid to try new things, oftentimes you'll enjoy yourself and you'll meet the greatest people while doing it.

What is something you expected from Auckland that is actually different?

Coming from Europe, I thought that New Zealand winters were similar to our autumns. Although it is not nearly as cold here during the winter as back home, it is still cold. If the wind comes from the South, it is freezing, and you can tell. The amount of times I almost got blown away is more than I'd like to admit. Nonetheless, there have not been days where I couldn't walk to class because it was "too cold". In fact, some people still wear shorts. I'd not like to follow suit, though!

The weather is very unpredictable. The weather app is almost always wrong! It'll say it's sunny, but it'll actually be raining like crazy. We hiked up Rangitoto in the rain and once we got to the top, it was so overcast we couldn't see an awful lot. When we were heading down, it was dry and blue skies! My biggest tip is to be patient and take your time. The weather changes quickly and sometimes waiting a minute will make the world of a difference. That being said, be prepared to buy a few umbrellas during your stay here! ;)

Auckland is relaxed and vibrant and everyone is really friendly and willing to help. I can't wait to see what else New Zealand has to offer! If you have the chance, I would recommend going on exchange and exploring the stunning scenery in New Zealand!

Chloe Ashworth

2018 Alum

Alison Schroeder

2018 Alum

Monica Prario

2017 Alum

Andrea Nailoi Gabriel

2017 Alum

Jessica Johnson

2016 Alum

Kaitlyn Dowding

2015 Alum

Staff Interviews

These are in-depth Q&A sessions with program leaders.

Sarah Sung

Program

Study Abroad at the University of Auckland, NZ

Job Title

Study Abroad and Exchange Officer

Sarah was born in Korea and moved to New Zealand in 2002. She graduated with a BA in Linguistics and English Literature from Kyungpook National University, Korea. Sarah was an English language teacher in Korea, but moved into the international education field when she immigrated to New Zealand. She now looks after international students coming to the University of Auckland on Study Abroad and Exchange programmes.

Did you study abroad?

Sarah: I completed my first degree in Korea which is a very different type of learning experience from here in New Zealand. At that time I did not have the opportunity to study abroad which I regret.

Luckily I have recently been able to start postgraduate studies in education, here at the University of Auckland.

I’m enjoying the interactions with my professors and classmates from all round the world. Auckland is very multicultural and this is reflected in my program, where I’m able to get a global perspective on education policy. This study will help me take my career to the next level – I am interested in policy in the international education sector.

What was your favorite traveling experience?

Sarah: My favorite traveling experience was my first trip to Europe in 2013. I had always dreamed about traveling there and it totally lived up to expectations – I loved it. I visited seven countries from the UK down to Italy. I was fascinated by the rich histories of each country and the magnificent architecture and art.

My favorite place was the Piazza San Marco in Venice – I was completely overwhelmed by the grandeur when I first entered the square. I’m returning to Venice for my Christmas holidays this year, I can’t wait! Another favorite memory from this trip was spending time in the mountains in Switzerland and exploring the farmers markets there.

Any exciting new programs at the University of Auckland

Sarah: The University of Auckland is always developing new programs, especially at postgraduate level and often in response to global issues. For example our new multidisciplinary Master of Disaster Management is very popular with students from around the world. On the Study Abroad front, in addition to our typical semester abroad program, we are developing short-term programmes as we recognise some students prefer a study abroad experience over their summer break.

The first one is scheduled for June/July 2016 and is an exciting screen-production program from our Film, TV and Media Studies department. In the last two decades New Zealand has played an impressive role in the film industry, with projects like the Lord of the Rings, the Hobbit, and Avatar based here.

Alongside these big-budget films, New Zealand has a strong indie film industry so I think this will be a very interesting program to join. Plus, it’s going to be taught by a Hobbit cast member!

Why is language learning and cultural immersion important to you?

Sarah: Well, I used to be an English language teacher, so obviously I think language learning is very important. Learning another language helps break down barriers between cultures and increase understanding. It gives more opportunity to interact with other cultures and broadens your perspective.

I always say “if you know another language, you know another world”.

I would encourage students to study abroad in a country with a different language or customs. Even here in New Zealand we offer study abroad students the opportunity to learn Te Reo Māori, the language of New Zealand’s indigenous people, and engage with Māori customs and culture. The University of Auckland has a strong Māori Studies program.

What is the best story you’ve heard from a return student?

Sarah: One Medical and Health Sciences student from Brazil came to the University of Auckland for two Study Abroad semesters. He was a top student in Brazil and wanted to achieve highly in his courses here as well. Naturally, this caused him a bit of stress as coming to a new country and studying in a different language is a big challenge.

The first semester he worked really, really hard and achieved the top grades possible, but it took a toll on his health and he reached a point where he decided he could not continue to a second semester. However he reached out to our international student support team for help. The University health services helped him put strategies in place for dealing with stress and after his summer break he was able to continue. This second semester led to him being accepted for an internship at Auckland City Hospital, a very rare occurrence.

He described it to me as the best thing that had happened to him in his life. He felt “honored to be able to be part of such an amazing medical team” and he wants to return to Auckland to work with them again in the future. Whenever I think of his story I smile -- it’s things like this that make my job very rewarding.

Location

Location:

Auckland

Currency:

New Zealand Dollar

Weather:

Jan-Mar

75 F / 46 F

Apr-Jun

68 F / 30 F

Jul-Sep

61 F / 28 F

Oct-Dec

72 F / 41 F

Airports:

Auckland International

( AKL )

Christchurch International

( CHC )

Wellington International

( WLG )

Auckland, the City of Sails, has it all — from oceans to volcanoes to city life. Though Auckland is New Zealand’s largest city, the city center packs a lot into a small space. Whether you crave outdoor adventures or want to go for some fantastic food and shopping downtown, Auckland is both urban and packed with nature.

Featuring influences of the native Maori culture, Auckland is also the most multicultural city in the country, offering a variety of traditions and cuisine. With three national universities located in the city — University of Auckland, Massey University, and AUT University — Auckland is also a student-friendly city and a popular study abroad destination.

About The University of Auckland

The University of Auckland is located in the heart of New Zealand's largest and most cosmopolitan city. Ranked in the world's top 100* universities, the University of Auckland has a strong research focus where students have the opportunity to learn from academics who are at the top of their field, nationally and internationally. The University's 42...