Christchurch, New Zealand

Direct Enrollment - University Of Canterbury

Study Abroad
Program Options:
Direct Enrollment, Experiential Learning, Part-Time Internship
Length:
Fall, Spring, Academic Year
a student poses for a panoramic photo at Roy's Peak in New Zealand's South Island
a student standing near a waterfall
students on a boat in Milford Sound holding a New Zealand flag
students backpacking among the mountaintops in New Zealand

At a Glance

Program Dates:

  • Academic Year 2024: July 04 - June 22
  • Spring 2025: February 06 - June 22
  • Fall 2025: July 03 - November 09
  • Academic Year 2025: July 03 - Late June

Credits:

16 per Semester

Estimated Cost:

$21,415

Visa Required:

Yes

Housing:

Apartment

Language of Instruction:

English

Language Prerequisites:

None

Part-Time Internship (Optional):

Included in Program Fee

About the Program

During your time in Ōtautahi Christchurch, you directly enroll in the University of Canterbury Te Whare Wānanga o Waitaha (UC), one of the top three universities in Aotearoa 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.

Fall 2025

Program Dates:

July 03 - November 09

Application Deadline:

Estimated Cost:

$
21,415

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 Ōtautahi Christchurch?

When you look outside your window in Ōtautahi 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 Ōtautahi has to offer. Ski slopes, mountains, native bush, rivers, lakes, hot springs, and beaches are all within 1.5 hours of Ōtautahi, making this an ideal place to study and experience Aotearoa New Zealand’s outdoor lifestyle. We want you to feel at home in Ōtautahi, 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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Explore by Bike

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 Ōtautahi Christchurch and Lyttelton Harbour.

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Sample Some Local Flavors

Visit a farmers' market or the Lyttelton Market on Saturday.

The Student Experience

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Program Dates

Spring 2025

Program Dates:

February 06 - June 22

Application Deadline:

Fall 2025

Program Dates:

July 03 - November 09

Application Deadline:

Academic Year 2025

Program Dates:

July 03

Application Deadline:

Academics

open book on desk next to two sets of stacked books

IES Abroad’s mission is simple: to provide you with the best study abroad program possible—which includes the highest quality academic and cultural experiences. That is why we partnered with the University of Canterbury Te Whare Wānanga o Waitaha.

Partner Institution

Dark gray, classic European style buildings sit on the University of Canterbury's Campus.
  • University of Canterbury

University of Canterbury

Established in 1873, the University of Canterbury Te Whare Wānanga o Waitaha is one of the top three universities in Aotearoa New Zealand. The University has a population of about 12,000 students and more than 500 academic staff members. The university excels at teaching with its smaller, more personalized approach, but also is large enough to offer a broad and diverse curriculum. 

The University of Canterbury is located on a beautiful, park-like campus in the heart of Ōtautahi Christchurch. The University is a 15-minute bus ride from downtown Christchurch. Students will likely have a five to 10-minute commute to the campus by foot from the Ilam Apartments. 

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Courses

The University of Canterbury assigns a point value to each course. IES Abroad divides the number of points by four in order to determine the number of IES Abroad credits. The normal semester load is  60 University of Canterbury course points, or 15-16 IES Abroad credits (typically four courses). 

The University of Canterbury has hundreds of course offerings. The course disciplines listed are available to IES Abroad students. In addition to course offerings across the disciplines, the University offers you unique opportunities for course-related trips through its four research stations. Courses in the School of Business & Economics are AACSB-, AMBS-, and EQUIS-accredited.  

Further information about course content and availability is provided on the University’s Courses, Subjects and Qualifications site.  

Please note that not all subjects are offered every semester or every year. Certain disciplines have enrollment caps and others require prerequisites. Single-semester students cannot enroll in full-year courses. Please also note that study abroad students are not eligible to take Fine Arts courses, and some courses, such as Music Performance and Creative Writing, have limited entry or may require additional application materials such as a portfolio. If you have specific questions regarding courses, please contact your IES Abroad Representative. 

Helpful Links

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Transcripts, Credit Transfer & Accreditation
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Refund Policy
See All Student Policies

Requirements

  • Eligibility Requirements
  • Application Requirements
  • Passport & Visa Requirements

Eligibility Requirements

  • 18 years of age 
  • Sophomore, Junior, or first-semester Senior standing when program begins.
  • In good standing at your home school 
  • 3.0 GPA or better on a 4.0 scale
  • Final admission decision rests with the University of Canterbury 

About the IES Abroad Center

Students at the point of Roy's Peak in Christrhuch.
IES Abroad Christchurch

The Center staff are highly trained local professionals providing on-the-ground support throughout your time abroad.   

Nearby the University of Canterbury Te Whare Wānanga o Waitaha, we have on-the-ground staff dedicated to supporting you during your time abroad. Get comfortable commuting to university, and finding your study abroad hub; all the while, our staff is just a phone call away. 

 

IES Abroad Ōtautahi Christchurch Staff

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Kate Smart

IES Abroad Auckland, Christchurch & Sydney Center Director

Read Full Bio
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Leona Harris

IES Abroad Ōtautahi Christchurch Program Manager

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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.

Field Trips

Even though your adventure starts in Ōtautahi Christchurch, our field trips take you beyond the city to discover the culture and traditions of your host country. All trips are included in the program fee unless otherwise noted with ($).

NOTE: IES Abroad field trip destinations, activities, and lengths of stay may vary according to term and availability. 

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Rarotonga, Cook Islands

5 Days ($) Fall & Spring

Explore the mountainous island and white sand beaches, visit local institutions such as a primary school or an animal shelter, learn outrigger canoe paddling, and more! 

a stream running into the ocean between two hills in Akaroa, Aotearoa New Zealand

Ōnuku Marae: Orientation

2 Days Fall & Spring

During orientation, we'll journey to Akaroa Harbour for Noho Marae—an overnight stay at the historically significant Ōnuku Marae. You’ll explore Akaroa Harbour's volcanic landscape on a nature cruise, spotting dolphins, penguins, and seals. Experience the...

a mountain range in Hanmer Springs, New Zealand

Hanmer Springs

1 Day Fall & Spring

You'll visit the alpine thermal village of Hanmer Springs, nestled in a picturesque valley surrounded by forest-clad hills. Enjoy the relaxation in the hot thermal pools and the excitement of waterslides. You’ll also sample some fine New Zealand wine at a...

Part-Time Internships

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Interning while you study in Ōtautahi Christchurch gives you a rewarding job experience with a wealth of long-lasting career benefits. You will: 

  • Take an important step in your career development by navigating the professional world with our support. 
  • Learn more about yourself both personally and professionally and build confidence in the process. 
  • Experience what working Christchurch is really like and gain an authentic understanding of the workplace culture while developing real, applicable job skills that will bolster your career readiness. 
  • Begin building an international network by making connections with coworkers and peers. 

Internship placements are part of two possible internship classes at the University of Canterbury. You can take one worth 15 points (4 IES Abroad credits), or one worth 30 points (7.5 IES Abroad credits). You spend up to 75 hours (150 hours for the longer course) over the semester at your internship placement—a local business or community organization—in addition to the academic component of the course.  

Placement Examples

students checking their phone in front of the European Council

Public Policy

Raise awareness of policies in local elections.

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Arts & Culture

Support arts engagement for underserved communities.

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Charities & Nonprofits

Analyze course effectiveness for a local NGO.

Experiential Learning

a mural of a kiwi bird in Christchurch
Anna Marie R. • Gustavus Adolphus College

Community-Based Learning

Participating in a community-based learning experience in Ōtautahi Christchurch is one of the best ways to gain a deeper understanding of the city’s culture and society. Working alongside local people toward a common goal, you experience firsthand some of the social issues that affect Christchurch, while contributing your skills toward a community-driven solution. 

If you are interested in community-based learning, you can enroll in the 4-credit course, where you will work for up to 20 hours in community engagement projects in Ōtautahi Christchurch alongside class time that allows for reflection and provides context about Christchurch post-earthquake, social innovation, and more. You will experience first-hand how individuals and organizations work to strengthen local communities. 

Past community-based projects have included: 

  • Community gardening 
  • Conducting surveys of underrepresented residents for City Council 
  • Painting public murals 
  • Planning and launching a book exchange 

a group of students working on a project in nature
Caroline S. • Texas Christian University

Additional Experiential Learning Opportunities at the Centre for Entrepreneurship

With a combination of research, teaching, and community engagement, the Centre for Entrepreneurship facilitates the development of entrepreneurs, opening minds to a world of new ideas and possibilities. 

  • If you are looking for a more sustained experience during your study abroad, you may enroll in a 4-credit course and be placed in an internship-like experience with a start-up. In your placement, you will complete a 105-hour project. Weekly lectures and tutorials via UCE augment your project work. 
  • If you are interested in a shorter experience, you may apply to take part in one of the UCE’s sponsored Student Challenges. If accepted, you will become a part of a small team that works on a project intensively for a few days. This may be part of a competition, with other student teams working on the same project. 

a University of Canterbury student holding a native bird
Kelsey R. • Marist College

About the UC Centre for Entrepreneurship

The UC Centre for Entrepreneurship (UCE) has innovation at its core. UCE aims to stimulate the development of entrepreneurs through a combination of research, teaching and community engagement. 
 
UCE offers world-class facilities, academic courses and extra-curricular initiatives that focus on the business of entrepreneurship.  With its world-class learning environment, strong business connections and commitment to developing resilient and talented entrepreneurs, UCE aims to: 

  • Become a student-focused centre of excellence for innovation and entrepreneurial research. 
  • Nurture the development of more employable UC graduates with exceptional entrepreneurial capability. 
  • Become a driving force in the entrepreneurial ecosystem regionally and nationally. 
  • Expand UC’s national and international entrepreneurial networks. 

Program Cost

Consider these prices as a starting point. We encourage you to contact your current college or university to determine the actual cost to you when factoring in financial aid, scholarships, your school's policies, and other factors.

Spring 2025

Tuition
$
16,000
Housing
$
4,505
Insurance
$
490
Total
$
20,995
View All Fees

Fall 2025

Tuition
$
16,330
Housing
$
4,595
Insurance
$
490
Total
$
21,415
View All Fees

Academic Year 2025

Tuition
$
32,660
Housing
$
9,190
Insurance
$
980
Total
$
42,830
View All Fees

Spring 2026

Tuition
-
Housing
-
Insurance
-
Total
Pending
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Use Our Budget Worksheet to Calculate Your Costs

See the Worksheet
APPLY FOR SCHOLARSHIPS

$7 Million in Scholarships & Aid

We firmly believe that financial limitations should not prevent a qualified student from studying abroad. This is why we commit millions of dollars to our study abroad scholarships and aid.

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Orientation

Start at Home
Our experienced, trained, and dedicated local staff are on-site throughout your entire program to ensure you have the support you need during your abroad adventure.
Arrive in Ōtautahi
Arrive onsite, meet your classmates, and partake in activities focusing on adjusting to the city. Detailed information about other important topics is also covered.
Get to Know the University
The international student welcome provides insights into Aotearoa student culture and helps with the integration process as you navigate your abroad adventure.
Get to Know the City
Beyond orientation sessions, you will have opportunities to get to know the city prior to classes starting, which will help you to feel at home while in Aotearoa.
Settle In
Orientation continues throughout the semester with field trips allowing you to both further sample elements of Kiwi culture and get to know the other students.

Health & Safety

With 70 years of experience, we are proud to set the standard for health and safety in study abroad. Our Chicago-based and on-site staff are all highly trained and experienced in the matters of health, safety, and crisis management. We are here for you from predeparture to your return, and are ready to support you—no matter which time zone you’re in. We plan for "what ifs" so that you don’t have to. From international health insurance included in the cost of your program to highly-trained local staff who can connect you to English-speaking healthcare providers, we are working around the clock to ensure your health and safety while abroad.

Support You Can Expect to Receive on Our Programs

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CISI International Health Insurance

In the case you need to see a doctor or mental health professional.

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24/7 Emergency Support

Whether you encounter an issue while traveling or in your host city.

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Mandatory Cell Phone Policy

Receive any emergency updates from IES Abroad staff via call or text.

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Location-Specific Information

Health and safety information presented at orientation by on-site staff.

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TripTracker System

Allowing you to share independent travel plans.

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Crisis Drills

So that you feel prepared to respond to an emergency should one arise.

Helpful Links

Blogs on Mental Health
Study Abroad Safety Tips for Traveling
Blogs on Safety
Learn More About Health & Safety
PRO-TIP

Apply for your passport today!

Getting your passport is a crucial step for studying abroad. With processing times taking longer than usual, consider this a gentle reminder to not procrastinate on getting or renewing your passport.

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Frequently Asked Questions

Identity Resources

Learn More About Identity & Access
Country-Specific
Social Identity
IDEA Bloggers
IES Abroad Diversity Statement
Intercultural Competency Media List
Navigating Identity & Diversity Abroad
Learn More About Identity & Access
Contact a Previous Student

Student Ambassadors

No one knows the IES Abroad experience better than a student who has lived it! From budget tips to housing experiences, our volunteer Ambassadors are here to share it all.

Contact an Ambassador
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Related Programs

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How will study abroad redefine your world? We can’t wait to find out.

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