Summer Down Under Program

Program Snapshot

  • Duration: Sunday, 24 May – Saturday, 4 July 2026
  • Location: Newcastle, Australia
  • Season: Australian Winter – pack warm clothes!

Join a 6-week immersive study abroad program at the University of Newcastle, located on one of Australia’s most naturally stunning campuses.

Looking for a shorter experience?

Explore our 2-week Innovation program across Newcastle and Sydney in July 2026

Learn more

Students walking up a path with the beach in the background

What is the Summer Down Under Program? 

The Summer Down Under Program is a six-week study abroad experience hosted by the University of Newcastle, running from Sunday, 24 May to Saturday, 4 July 2026. Designed to give students a taste of international study, the program enhances academic journeys at a university ranked among the world’s top 1%. It takes place across two campuses: the Callaghan campus, set in 140 hectares of picturesque bushland with award-winning architecture, and the NUSpace campus, located in the heart of Newcastle’s CBD, overlooking the harbour and close to white sand beaches. Newcastle itself is celebrated for its vibrant culture, stunning coastline, affordability, and welcoming community. Throughout the program, students are embraced by university staff and locals, and can immerse themselves in Australian culture through a range of organised activities and excursions.

Note: as the program takes place during the mild Australian winter, participants are advised to bring warm clothing.

    Academic Offering

    • Choose 1 or 2 courses  from  30+ options
    • Each course = 10 units (≈ 3 US credits / 7.5 ECTS)
    • Includes field trip components
    • Download syllabi and confirm credit transfer with your home university

    Visit our full Midyear Session course list HERE.

    Further Information

    Campus Experience

    • Callaghan Campus:
      Set in 140 hectares of bushland with award-winning architecture, close to beaches and the city centre.
    • NUSpace City Campus:
      Located in the heart of Newcastle CBD, overlooking the harbour and near white sand beaches.
    • Student Life:
      Access to gym, library, cafes, shops, and vibrant campus events. 
      [Explore Uni Life]

    Accommodation & Services

    • Housing:
      Gold-accredited on-campus accommodation with 24/7 security and a supportive ResLife program
    • Internet:
      Free campus-wide Wi-Fi access with student login provided at orientation
    • Local Transport:
      There are a range of transport options to get to The University of Newcastle including free shuttle buses, regular train, and bus services.  
      Includes  AUD $20 Opal Card for public transport (top-ups not included)
    • Orientation & Welcome:
      The Orientation & Welcome session includes fun activities and local excursions, helping students settle in and explore Newcastle and its surroundings.
    A standard twin room on campus accommodation
    Queen twin room on campus accommodation

    Getting to Newcastle

    There are a range of transport options to get to The University of Newcastle including free shuttle buses, regular train, and bus services.

    This website will help you plan your journey from your accommodation to campus.

    The best way to get around with public transport in New South Wales is through an Opal Card. This will be ready upon arrival at your accommodation in Newcastle.

    What’s included

    ✔ On-Campus accommodation
    ✔ Orientation & Graduation Ceremony 
    ✔ Full access to campus facilities, including gym access 
    ✔ Excursions and cultural activities 
    ✔ Wi-Fi and Opal Card (AUD $20) 
    ✔ 1–2 academic courses with field trips
    ✔ Credit transfer eligibility 
    ✔ Certificate of completion

    What’s not included

    ✘ Flights 
    ✘ Travel insurance 
    ✘ Meals 
    ✘ Opal Card top-ups 
    ✘ Personal expenses

    Entry Requirement

    • Minimum GPA of 2.0/4.0 or equivalent
    • Proof of English proficiency required if English is not your first language
    • Prerequisites may apply for some courses

    Program Fees

    AU$6,999 (~US$4,600) - 10-Unit Program

    AU$8,999 (~US$5,900) - 20-Unit Program

      Express your interest now

      Further details on application, payment, and enrolment will be provided shortly

      Click here

        Contact us

        Contact person: Jonathan Hynes, Head of Study Abroad

        Email:  study-abroad@newcastle.edu.au