CUAbroad

University of Notre Dame Australia
Fremantle, Australia

Dates: Spring Semester: February 14 to June 20, 2009. View the UNDA Spring 2009 Calendar

Description: Founded in 1990, The University of Notre Dame is the only private Catholic University in Australia, and now is home to 6,000 students. Fremantle is a historic vibrant port, where the Swan River empties into the Indian Ocean, and is located about 20 minutes south of Perth, capital of Western Australia, also known as "the real Australia." Fremantle is known for its diverse array of cuisine, fishing, and beautiful beaches. Make note that, though you are arriving in February, it will be in the middle of Australia's summer.

The core curriculum is similar to that of CUA, and students have an entire course selection at their disposal, and this includes a course in Australian history and Society. Students have the opportunity to stay in the student resident halls, with each residence having its own computer laboratory with 24 hour internet access. Shared Bathroom and kitchen facilities are provided. Students also have the option of home stays with local families to assist in integration into Australian culture.

Accommodation: Students have the opportunity to stay in the student resident halls, with each residence having its own computer laboratory with 24 hour internet access. Shared Bathroom and kitchen facilities are provided. Students also have the option of home stays with local families to assist in integration into Australia culture.

Credits: As classes tend to be more difficult than a standard undergraduate course in the States, students are recommended to take four classes (12 credits) for resident credit, though those who are up for the challenge make take five (15 credits). All study abroad students have the opportunity to study units that have a strong Australian focus with field trips attached. You may find a course listing on the UNDA Fremantle unit website.

Students are strongly encouraged to enroll in AL375 Australian History and Society. Not only will this course allow you to meet other students who have come to study in Fremantle, but it also includes a field trip to Kimberley, Western Australia at not extra cost!

Cost: CUA tuition plus a $5,000 program fee, which includes accommodation (some meals if student lives in home stay), field trip to Broome as a part of AL375, OSHC health insurance, ISIC card, On-Call International emergency evacuation insurance, pre-departure and on-site orientation. Airfare, visa, and personal expenses are not included. Please contact CUAbroad for the complete cost breakdown of the program.

Eligibility: Applicants must be a full time CUA student, and have a minimum 2.8 cumulative GPA at the time of application. You also must be at least second-semester sophomore at the time of departure (have completed 45 credit hours). A disciplinary check will also be done with CUA Residence life. Students should not study abroad the last semester of their senior year if they are concerned about graduating on time.

How to Apply:

1. Consult with the CUAbroad Global Program Manager to determine the application procedures for your specific semester/year program.
   
2. Consult with your academic advisor. Make sure that the credits offered for the program will fit into your academic program.
   

3. If receiving financial aid, coordinate with CUA's Office of Financial Aid to determine your available aid for education abroad.
   

4. If you live on campus, notify CUA Housing of your education abroad plans.

Submit your application materials by the deadline for your specific program to CUAbroad. Your application package must include:

• Completed CUAbroad application form
  

• $100 non-refundable application fee
  

• An offical academic transcript
  

• CUAbroad Credit Approval Form and CUAbroad Credit Approval Guidelines , accompanied by the course descriptions or syllabi- This form documents your initial chosen courses for your semester abroad. While changes can be made, this is extremely important, as it pertains to course equivalencies and where they will go on your tracking sheet.

• One photocopy of the photo page of your passport (black and white copies are acceptable). If you do not currently have a passport your application will still be considered. Please apply for a passport immediately and inform the CUAbroad Global Program Manager. Each student is responsible for obtaining his/her passport. If you do not get a passport before the departure of the program, you risk not being able to participate on the program.
  

• Four passport-size photographs
  

• One-page typed biographical essay and statement of academic objectives while abroad at UNDA
  

• Any additional material required by host university overseas:a separate UNDA application, which includes 2 recommendation forms, and course selection form

UPON ACCEPTANCE
1. Submit a non-refundable $500 deposit to the CUAbroad (see instructions in your acceptance packet). Stay informed with payment deadlines and pre-departure orientation.

2. Meet with the office of Financial Aid to determine the necessary steps in assuring your aid will cover your tuition and program fee, and submit the CUAbroad Financial Responsibility Form.

3. A copy of a letter from your health insurance company, on letterhead, stating that you will be covered during your time abroad.

4. Affidavit of family support during your stay to be used for student visa.

All materials should be submitted at the same time in an envelope, marked with the student's name and ID, to:

Madison Bolls, Global Program Manager
CUAbroad/Center for Global Education

McMahon Hall 111
The Catholic University of America
Washington, DC 20064

Deadline: October 1, 2009

Questions? Contact Madison Bolls, CUAbroad Program Manager