Pre-departure checklist

Once you have received a letter/offer of acceptance from your host university, you need to complete the following steps.

Victoria University of Wellington

  • Obtain course pre-approval from your faculty (the Exchange Course Approval form can be downloaded here).
  • Enrol into your exchange code (this can be done after obtaining course approval from your faculty).
  • If you are going on exchange in Trimester 1, enrol in Trimester 2 courses to secure your spot for when you return.
  • Pay your Victoria University of Wellington tuition fees.

StudyLink and funding

  • Submit your Overseas Study Application Form to StudyLink and confirm that the dates on your form match the dates of your exchange.
  • Submit a letter (provided by the Wellington Global Exchange team) to IRD to excuse you from paying interest on your student loan.
  • Follow payment instructions from the Scholarships Office upon host acceptance for your $1,000 Wellington Global Exchange Grant.
  • Apply via CareerHub in order to receive the $1,000 Wellington International Leadership Grant.
  • Apply for any other scholarships or grants you may be eligible to receive.
  • Apply for your student visa in your host country (if applicable).

Travel and accommodation

The Wellington Global Exchange office can't provide immigration or visa advice. If you have questions, get in touch with the relevant embassy or consulate.

  • Ensure your passport and visa (if applicable) will remain valid for the duration of your time outside of New Zealand.
  • Check if your host university requires you to arrive by a certain date—most universities will run a compulsory orientation for all international students.
  • If you are currently in New Zealand on a student visa, consider the implications an exchange might have on your New Zealand visa status.
  • Book your flights. Do not book any non-refundable flights until you have received acceptance from your host university.
  • Book and re-confirm your exchange accommodation (if possible). Obtain the required travel and medical insurance for your exchange. Register on the SafeTravel website.
  • Store emergency contact numbers for your host university, embassy or consulate, bank, doctor, family, and friends.