International Students

Kia ora!

International Students are an important part of the UCSA. To help you along your journey at UC, we have a range of services to support you. Our UCSA International Representative is here to support you, talking with students to understand your needs, concerns, and feedback. There is also an Event Coordinator - International for social activities, and an International Student Support Advocate.

Get to know our services and feel free to reach out to us if you have any thoughts, questions, or concerns. The UCSA is also a member of the New Zealand International Students' Association, which is an umbrella body that brings together international student leaders nationwide

Above: Abishekh and Jessie from the UCSA.

International Events

UC is home to a vibrant international student community. To celebrate them and build connections, UCSA has a busy events calendar year-round.

We also have several international student clubs that run amazing things throughout the year.


Don’t miss:

  • Lunar New Year: We celebrate with a mix of cultural performances and great food. Sometimes, even a movie to top it off.
  • Arts Fest International Space: Our international student clubs come together to display their talents and run fun activities for everyone.
  • Cultural and religious events: Join us to mark occasions like Colour Fest, Diwali and more.
  • Global Fashion Show: UC Global Society and the UCSA bring a spectacular fashion experience to campus. They’ll be joined by the student community showcasing their cultural attire along with entertainment.
  • Food Festival: This is the big feed you shouldn’t miss. The event features a carnivalesque space with food from around the world, as well as activities and cultural performances. It’s proudly hosted by The Canterbury Malaysian Society and the UCSA.
  • International Ball: A formal dinner event aimed at introducing our domestic student community to our international students.
  • Quiz Nights: We love a quiz, and there will often be ones with international themes.

International Advisory Group (IAG)

The UCSA IAG is responsible for providing student feedback to the International Rep, the Executive Committee and the Chief Executive regarding international students’ needs and any related issues within the student population. The IAG’s aim is to ensure that the UCSA hears the international student voice and works to create a stronger sense of belonging for all international students on campus. 

The IAG will meet 1-2 times per term, with an expectation of a meeting duration of up to two hours. 

To get in touch with the International representative, email: international@ucsa.org.nz 

Read their charter.

Advocacy and Welfare

UCSA has qualified and experienced advocates who are here to offer you confidential advice and support regarding issues you face while being a student at UC. We also provide a range of support options. Our team includes a dedicated International Student Advisor, Jessie.

You can call (03) 369 0555, email help@ucsa.org.nz or

Find out more in the Support section.

Social media

If you’re on Facebook, the following groups are helpful.

  • UCSA Noticeboard (search ‘UCSANoticeboard’): A group where students can chat and share news and information about campus life. It’s also popular for buying and selling items near the University. Some students even use it to find research participants; although rules apply and they must cite their UC Human Ethics Committee approval in the post.
  • UC International Community: A group where you can connect with fellow international students and support.
  • UC Textbooks: Buy, Sell & Trade (“UCTextbooks”): A place to buy and sell textbooks. The group isn't run by UC.
"

International E-newsletter

The UCSA International Rep sends out a regular e-newsletter packed with info just for International students. Be sure to look out for this in your email inbox or you can also read the most recent updates on the News section of this website.

Suggestion Box

The Suggestion Box is an great way to let the UCSA know about any initiatives or changes you want to see us implement, whether it’s about UCSA policy, our services, or a wider UC issue you’re passionate about.

UCSA Executive