ACADEMICS AND ASSESSMENT Most short courses are offered for academic credit with a transcript issued from the overseas university. Others are not credit-bearing and instead come with a certificate of completion. Check the individual program listings for which of these is issued for your program of interest. ADD-ON PROGRAMS Several of AustraLearn’s short courses, can be added on to a semester abroad experience. If you are thinking about a semester or year abroad at a university in Australia or New Zealand, be sure to check on start and end dates of both programs to make sure they do not overlap. You are responsible for costs of all programs you enroll for, however, this option can eliminate choosing between two programs you really want to do. SUPPORT ABROAD Located in Queensland, Australia, and Wellington, New Zealand, AustraLearn’s South Pacific Educational Support Centre (SPES) is the hub of operations for AustraLearn overseas. Our on-site Resident Directors are available 24 hours a day in case of emergencies or other situations while you are abroad.  HOUSING All short courses include housing (accommodation) in the fees. Housing varies widely from program to program, but typically would be in either on-campus university dormitories or flats (apartments), motels/hotels, hostels, or some combination of each. You can feel certain that AustraLearn has ensured that your housing is safe, secure, and clean, and that you will be satisfied with your program choice. MEALS Provision of meals varies by the program you choose. Some programs include all or most meals; for others, only some are included, and you will be responsible for eating on your own or with the group. Australian and New Zealand cuisine can be both similar to American cuisine and at the same time very different with varying regional options. Ethnic cuisine of all description is widely available, as well as vegetarian options. Restaurants, supermarkets, cafes, and takeaway outlets are numerous throughout the country. VISAS AND PASSPORTS A valid passport is required for study in Australia or New Zealand, and a valid immigration visa must be issued prior to your departure. If you don’t have a passport, apply for one as soon as possible through your local post office. AustraLearn will assist you with your visa during the application and enrollment process. TRAVEL You will have ample opportunity to see a specific part of Australia or New Zealand on our short courses. All in-country travel and transfers are usually included in the course price (international airfare is not), and AustraLearn will help you with travel arrangements for your entire journey. If you wish to stay in the country after your program is finished, or visit other South Pacific locations within Australia, New Zealand, or even travel to Fiji or Hawaii, AustraLearn can help you arrange low-cost stopovers to these destinations and can provide referrals to reputable tour companies in each country.  PROGRAM FEES Program fees are provided on each program profile. Fees typically include housing, most meals, domestic transportation, and student insurance. Each program is different, so be sure to read the details on the fees section of the program profiles provided. FINANCIAL AID You may be able to use your current financial aid or scholarships you receive at your home university—be sure to check with your university’s financial aid and study abroad offices for their policies. SCHOLARSHIPS Murdoch University offers scholarships for the Wanju Boodjah and Coral Bay courses. You can also apply for scholarships from other sources like the Foundation for Asia-Pacific Education. HEALTH INSURANCE Health insurance and an International Student Identity Card (ISIC) are mandatory for all AustraLearn short-term programs. The ISIC fee is included in the AustraLearn short-term program fees. Additional overseas health insurance may be included in the fees as well, or proof of one’s own insurance might be required. In addition to these insurance policies, you may want to consider taking out additional supplemental travel insurance, including extended medical, lost baggage and trip cancellation. We can make suggestions for companies who offer this type of insurance. |