auckland aerial skyline
Auckland, New Zealand

Summer in Auckland

New for Summer 2025!

Study Program

Tentative Dates

-

4 weeks

Costs

Credit

3 per session semester hours

4.5 per session quarter hours

Eligibility

Application Deadline

Apply Now

Request Information

Overview

Spend your summer in Auckland, New Zealand's largest city, where a vibrant and diverse environment seamlessly blends urban sophistication with natural beauty. While June through August are technically New Zealand’s winter months, Auckland’s climate (with average temperatures ranging from 46°F to 59°F) makes it an inviting year-round destination perfect for living and learning abroad.

When you participate in this summer program, you’ll enroll in one credit-bearing course per session, blending classroom instruction with enriching co-curricular excursions to Auckland's cultural sites and organizations. The city is home to world-class universities and educational institutions, providing a high-quality academic experience in various fields.

Outside the classroom, you’ll have every opportunity to immerse yourself in New Zealand's rich Māori culture, engage in exciting sports activities, and visit the region’s numerous parks, volcanic cones, and scenic beaches. Auckland's excellent public transportation system makes it easy to connect you to the city's many attractions. On foot, you can leisurely stroll through Auckland’s diverse neighborhoods and appreciate the city’s cosmopolitan vibe reflected in each area’s eclectic dining options and vibrant art scenes. Whether you're seeking adventure, academic excellence, or cultural immersion, CIEE Auckland promises an unforgettable study abroad experience! 

Unique Experiences

\

Join the electrifying Matariki Festival

in June and celebrate the Māori New Year with dazzling lights, traditional performances, and festive cheer.

Cheer on the legendary All Blacks rugby team

and dive into Auckland's passional sports culture in a thrilling, high-energy match

Experience the awe-inspiring wonders of whale watching

where majestic humpback whales grace the waters of the Hauraki Gulf, offering an unforgettable spectacle of nature's grandeur

50+

VOLCANOES IN ITS CITY LIMITS; AUCKLAND IS ONE OF THE WORLD'S MOST GEOGRAPHICALLY UNIQUE URBAN AREAS

12,316 FT

IS THE HEIGHT OF MT. COOK, THE TALLEST PEAK IN NEW ZEALAND

1,076 FT

THE HEIGHT OF SKY TOWER IN AUCKLAND, THE TALLEST FREESTANDING STRUCTURE IN THE SOUTHERN HEMISPHERE

Experience
  • auckland skyline viewed from hill at night
  • auckland sky tower view from city streets
  • auckland cape reniga lighthouse

Your Destination

Auckland is celebrated for its captivating fusion of metropolitan charm and stunning natural landscapes. This vibrant city is a true urban oasis, offering a variety of attractions that cater to diverse interests and tastes.

From the iconic Sky Tower and the picturesque Auckland Waterfront to the vibrant neighborhoods of Ponsonby and Parnell and the scenic views from Mount Eden, visitors and residents alike are constantly surrounded by nature's splendor.

Auckland's multicultural vibe is another of its defining features, contributing to the city's rich and diverse atmosphere. As a melting pot of cultures, Auckland is home to a vibrant community of people from all over the world. This diversity is reflected in the city's food, festivals, and cultural events, where residents and visitors can experience a wide array of traditions and cuisines. Integral to Auckland's identity is the strong influence of Māori culture. Visitors can experience traditional Māori performances, visit marae (meeting grounds), and learn about the rich heritage of the tangata whenua (people of the land). This multicultural environment fosters an inclusive and welcoming atmosphere, making Auckland a truly cosmopolitan city.

CIEE students will also find a vibrant academic culture in Auckland, making it a hub for education and innovation. College life is dynamic and enriching, with numerous opportunities for students to engage in both academic and extracurricular activities. The city offers a wealth of resources, including modern libraries, cutting-edge research centers, and cultural institutions that enhance the learning experience. Students benefit from a collaborative and inclusive atmosphere, where critical thinking and real-world applications are highly valued. Beyond the classroom, Auckland provides a lively student community with numerous clubs, sports teams, and events, ensuring a well-rounded and fulfilling college experience. 

The Culture

auckland hobbiton door

Excursions & Activities

Excursions and activities may include: 

  • Exploring Auckland's Viaduct Harbour, where you can find restaurants, cafés, shops, entertainment options, and the iconic Auckland Harbour Bridge  
  • Exploring Auckland's west coast by hiking the Waitakere Ranges, where scenic rainforests and picturesque waterfalls lead you to the rugged beauty and excellent surfing conditions of Piha Beach where you can enjoy black sand shores and panoramic coastal views  
  • Taking a ferry to Devonport, a charming seaside village with Victorian architecture, boutique shops, cafés, and galleries; see views of Auckland from the top of Mount Victoria  
  • Visiting Middle Earth, the Lord of the Ring’s Hobbiton, where fantasy became reality on screen  
  • Exploring the rich history and traditions of the indigenous Māori culture at the Auckland War Memorial Museum, where you can witness captivating cultural performances and traditional haka dances  
  • Strolling through the vibrant Otara Market, known for its Polynesian arts, crafts, and delectable street food, offering a taste of Auckland's diverse cultural tapestry 

Program Blogs

From CIEE

Australia vs. New Zealand Study Abroad: Which is Better for You?

By College Study Abroad at CIEE

You’ve decided to study abroad in the Oceania region. Congrats! You’ve taken the first big step in your study abroad journey. Next up? Choosing between Australia vs. New Zealand study... keep reading

From CIEE

Study Abroad New Zealand: The Ultimate Guide

By College Study Abroad at CIEE

Known for its rich Māori culture, majestic mountains, pristine beaches, and top-ranked universities, New Zealand study abroad is a life-changing, once-in-a-lifetime experience. From its unparalleled natural beauty to its reputation... keep reading

From CIEE

Why Study Abroad in Auckland: Top 5 Reasons

By College Study Abroad at CIEE

Are you ready for a study abroad adventure that will change your life? Picture yourself strolling along pristine beaches, hiking through lush rainforests, and immersing yourself in a vibrant cultural... keep reading

Housing
Academics

Academics

Students enroll in one 3-credit course per session. In-class work is augmented with co-curricular visits to sites around Auckland. Courses are taught by CIEE instructors who are familiar with the U.S. academic system and culture.

GPA

2.5 

Additional Requirements

Please refer to the detailed Program Essential Eligibility Criteria.   

Individual courses may have additional prerequisites; for CIEE courses, these are listed in the syllabi below. Students are responsible for having their own course approval conversations with their advisors. Your study abroad advisor and CIEE staff can help you understand your course options if you don't see a recommendation that fits your course needs.

Requirements

Students enroll in one 3-credit course per session.  

Program Credit

Total credit: 3 U.S. semester/4.5 quarter credits per session 

Course Credit

CIEE Courses: 3 U.S. semester/4.5 quarter credits; 45 contact hours

Individual courses may have additional prerequisites; for CIEE courses, these are listed in the syllabi below. Students are responsible for having their own course approval conversations with their advisors. Your study abroad advisor and CIEE staff can help you understand your course options if you don't see a recommendation that fits your course needs.

Academic Culture

CIEE courses are designed to follow U.S. academic culture and standards. The class environment typically features a combination of traditional lecture and discussion with co-curricular excursions and activities. Heavy emphasis is placed on student participation. Similar to classes at U.S. institutions, students should expect to spend an average of two hours of preparation and study for each hour in CIEE classes. To avoid falling behind, students should not plan personal travel out of Auckland when classes are in session.

Class Format

Courses taught at the CIEE Center are for CIEE students only. A typical class schedule will span from Monday to Friday. Classes meet 4-5 times per week, and each course is a full semester in content, so the pace is accelerated, and the workload is demanding. Attendance in CIEE classes is strictly enforced, both for classes and required co-curricular excursions. Instruction is supported and augmented online by CIEE’s learning management system, Canvas.

Grading

CIEE reports all final course grades to students’ home institutions using a U.S. letter grade equivalent scale of A-F. For CIEE-administered courses, students’ grades are based on participation, homework, project work, presentations, and midterm and final examinations. Learning outcomes assessment is continuous through personal reflections, evaluation feedback, self-assessment, and requirements as set out in course syllabi. 

Individual courses may have additional prerequisites; for CIEE courses, these are listed in the syllabi below. Students are responsible for having their own course approval conversations with their advisors. Your study abroad advisor and CIEE staff can help you understand your course options if you don't see a recommendation that fits your course needs.

Language of Instruction

English 

Individual courses may have additional prerequisites; for CIEE courses, these are listed in the syllabi below. Students are responsible for having their own course approval conversations with their advisors. Your study abroad advisor and CIEE staff can help you understand your course options if you don't see a recommendation that fits your course needs.

Courses

Course Information

Summer Session II 2025

Course
Language
Semester Credit

Note: This course listing is for informational purposes only and does not constitute a contract between CIEE and any applicant, student, institution, or other party. The courses, as described, may be subject to change as a result of ongoing curricular revisions, assignment of lecturers and teaching staff, and program development. Courses may be canceled due to insufficient enrollment.
"(GI)" denotes courses that originated at CIEE's Global Institutes and that are offered at multiple CIEE sites.

Scholarships

Scholarships & Grants

CIEE offers scholarships and grants annually to help students like you make your study abroad dream a reality.

Students who apply to this program are eligible for the following scholarships and grants:

  • Ping Scholarships for Academic Excellence
  • CIEE Gilman Go Global Grant
  • MSI Grant
  • CIEE STEM Scholarship
  • Trailblazer Grant

To be considered, submit the CIEE Scholarships & Grants application within your CIEE program application.

Learn more about scholarships

Dates & Fees

Dates & Fees

You get more for every dollar when you study abroad with CIEE, because our high-quality programs include everything from excursions to insurance. There are no hidden charges, and no disappointing surprises when you arrive.

Program

Application Due

Start Date

End Date

Fees & Housing

Program Summer Session II 2025 4 weeks Start Date * End Date * Fees & Housing $4,850

*Dates for this program are provided as tentative dates. Please consult with your study abroad advisor to confirm dates before purchasing your flights.

To help you budget, keep in mind that students are responsible for the cost of international airfare, local transportation, books and supplies, visas, and personal expenses. In addition, your college or university may charge additional fees for study abroad, or may require you to receive a transcript via CIEE's School of Record, which carries an additional fee of $500.

Program Fees

CIEE offers the most student support of any provider in its program fee, including an airport greeting, full-time leadership and support, orientation, cultural activities, local excursions, pre-departure advising, and CIEE iNext travel protection with benefits.

Participation Confirmation = $300

Educational Costs = $2,650*

Housing = $1,700**

Insurance = $200

Total Fees = $4,850

Estimated Costs

Students are responsible and manage costs related to travel, meals, books, and personal expenses. Below are estimates for consideration.

Meals not included in program fee = $91

International Airfare = $1,500

Local Transportation = $220

Books & Supplies = $10

Personal expenses = $146††

Total Costs = $1,967

Financial Aid

CIEE offers the most grants and scholarships of any study abroad organization, including $8 million/year in travel grants, merit-based scholarships, institutional and MSI grants, and Gilman Go Global Grants.

See Scholarships

*direct cost of education charged uniformly to all students

**Housing fees listed are for financial aid purposes only and should not be considered a basis for calculation of refunds.

For students in homestays, families provide 2 meals a day. For students in residence halls, you should budget approx. $375 per month for groceries if you plan on making your own meals, and more if you plan on eating out regularly.

††$100 emergency fund + cell phone expense + toiletries

What's Included

Tuition

Housing

Pre-departure Advising

Advising before you depart to set goals and answer questions

Optional on-site airport meet-and-greet

Orientation

Introduction to your program plus practical information about living in your host city

On-site Staff

Full-time program leadership and support in your city

Cultural and/or Co-curricular Activities

Excursions and/or Study Tours

Travel Protection

CIEE iNext travel protection

24/7 emergency on-site support

Staff

Our Staff

Thais Oso

Regional Director of Operations South Pacific Rim

Thais is currently serving as the Center Director in Sydney and the Interim Center Director of Auckland and Melbourne

Dr. Lesley Turnbull

Academic Director

Dr. Turnbull holds a Ph.D. in Anthropology from Cornell University and has overseen a diverse array of academic programs in CIEE’s Pacific Rim region.

Maria Paz Montes Monsalve

Program Coordinator

María Paz Montes-Monsalve is an experienced professional in the international education field, with a background on translation and research.

Get Started Steps

Get Started

Here’s what you need to do to take the next steps:

1

Start an Application

You're one step closer to an amazing study abroad experience!

2

Connect With Your Campus Study Abroad Office

Share your plans and confirm you're on track to meet all required steps to go abroad.

3

Contact Us

Send us an email if you still have questions or need information about applying to this program.

Request Info