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Overseas Student Exchange

Our Student Exchange programme gives you the chance to study overseas for 6-12 months at one of our global partner institutions, without delaying your studies at Ara.

Imagine spending your weekends exploring the Great Wall of China, climbing Tokyo Tower, cycling through the Netherlands, or kayaking in North Carolina - all while working towards your degree.

  • Experience a new culture and way of life 
  • Gain valuable life and career skills 
  • Broaden your global network 
  • Study overseas while working towards your degree at Ara 

To be eligible, you must: 

  • Be in the second year of your Ara degree* at the time of travel 
  • Be a New Zealand citizen or permanent resident 
  • Maintain a B average or higher 

*Please note, not all Ara degrees are eligible for Student Exchange. 

We have partner institutions around the world, offering a wide range of programmes, languages and accommodation options.  

  1. Browse our partner institutions (see map and list below) and decide which institutions and courses you’re interested in. 
  2. Meet with your Ara department manager to ensure your preferred course meets the requirements of your degree. If it does, ask your department manager for: 
    • Your academic transcript, showing you' are maintaining a B average or higher 
    • A signed letter saying they approve your application. Make sure the letter includes the name of the institution and course
  3. Email your application to Exchanges@Ara.ac.nz, and include: 
    • Your full name, Student ID, institution and course you’re interested in 
    • A letter explaining why you want to study overseas 
    • Your academic transcript 
    • The letter from your department manager 

If we accept your application, our Exchange Coordinator will support you with your enrolment at the overseas institution. 

When you go on an exchange, you remain enrolled as an Ara student and pay your normal fees to Ara. You don't have to pay extra to study your courses at the exchange university. 

You’ll live with a host family or in a hostel, apartments, or student accommodation. 

You'll need to pay for flights and have enough money saved to support yourself overseas.  

Financial support may be available through scholarships. 

Ara’s Student Exchange team will be at the Community Support Carnival – we’d love to see you there!  

  • Thursday, 7 August 2025 
  • 12pm – 1pm 
  • Student Lounge, C-Block, City campus 

 

*Please note not all overseas courses offered will be suitable to fill the requirements of your studies at Ara.

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