Details

• New Zealand
• MAMark-21
• Graduate
• WS 2025
• Time spent at the partner university: 4 months

1. Preparation

- You get all the information and steps you need to do from the partner university via email - Apply for the Visa (approx. $800 NZD) - takes about 3 weeks - Also housing application is very easy (you are guaranteed spot in a student house) - don't panic, the information on housing is very late.

2. Accommodation

- You have a safe spot in a student house (called Uniflats). I asked them if I can live with the other WU students, however that was not possible. - Rent is about 500-600€ per month - The houses are all very close to campus or even on campus, so you don't need any public transport. - You share a house with a Kiwi Host and other internationals - The whole campus area is very safe! Even "Campus Watch" (the university's own police) is going around all the time - even at night during the weekend, to make sure you feel safe - especially as a woman.

3. Academic life at host university

- Campus infrastructure: I loved the campus! It was also super nice to live basically on campus and that your friends live 5 minutes away. Also a lot of cafes, a gym, a nice library - everything you need. - Academic Culture: Classes are very small and personal. The professors know your name and are such kind people. I didn't have any exams, but a lot of presentations, conducted a lot of interviews and wrote several essays though.

5. Every day life in the host country

- Public Transport: you can walk everywhere in Dunedin. There is a bus (you can get a Bee Card and then it is very cheap to use the bus - but only used it a couple of times). If you want to travel, it is very convenient to buy a car (with other internationals for example). - Safety: New Zealand is a very safe country. As a young woman, I never felt uncomfortable once. - Social/leisure activities: Dunedin is a big student city and has a big going-out culture (go to Octagon). I just went out a couple of times because I focused on traveling. Traveling is truly amazing in New Zealand. It is definitely one of the most beautiful countries you will see in your life. - Sports options: You have a free gym on campus which is very nice. If you like running, Dunedin is also a good running spot. Not to forget, there is a big hiking culture in New Zealand, so make sure to go on some hikes!

6. Testimonial

It was truly one of the most transformative experiences of my life. While it was summer back home in Europe, I experienced winter in the Southern Hemisphere – including skiing in July, a surreal but unforgettable experience that perfectly reflects how unique this semester was. What made this time truly special were the many opportunities to explore the beauty of this part of the world. I explored New Zealand’s stunning nature through unforgettable hikes and had the chance to visit Australia and Fiji Islands – experiences I had only dreamed of before. And of course, all the inspiring people you meet on the way who I can now call my friends.