Partner Universities - USA
University of North Carolina at Wilmington
Subject Areas:
Accountancy, Anthropology, Arts, Business Management, Chemistry, Communication Studies, Computer Science, Criminal Justice, Education, Environmental Studies, Geology, Medical Technology, Marine Biology, Music, Nursing, Parks and Recreation Management, Physical Education, Physics, Political Science, Psychology, Social Work, Spanish, Special Education, Theatre.
Session Dates
- Semester 1 (fall) late August to late December
- Semester 2 (spring) mid January to late November
- Summer Session two six week terms in sequence
It is recommended that students plan to begin their studies in the fall semester.
Accommodation:
the university recommends all international students live in The International House. It houses 100 students – 50 internationals and 50 Americans. All residences are air-conditioned and are furnished with a bed and mattress, desk, chair, dresser, wardrobes, telephone facilities, cable TV hook-up and access to campus data network. Common areas for students are study rooms, computer labs, television lounges, laundry facilities and bathrooms. Students are required to purchase a meal plan and must provide their own linen.
Off campus housing is available but students are responsible for finding their own accommodation. The International Office does not provide assistance in this matter.
Approximate expenses for one academic semester:
- Room and board US$3500 double room
- Personal expenses US$2000
- Books and supplies US$450
- Health insurance US$225
- Round trip airfare
- Passport and visa fees
Exchange student support services:
Students may request to be met at Wilmington International Airport. A volunteer from the International Friendship program or an International Programs staff member will transfer students from the airport to the UNCW campus. Requests for this service should be directed to the Office of International Programs. The International Friendship program also lends support to International students, familiarising them with American culture and university life.
Visa:
Exchange Visitor J-1
Students who enter the United States using a DS-2019 form enter in J-1 status. In order to avoid legal difficulties it is essential that students follow all regulations regarding their visa. It is the student’s responsibility to maintain their own status by understanding and complying with all these regulations. If you have any questions, please consult with your International Student adviser or US embassy in your home state.
By not following all J-1 regulations, students will be considered "out of status", meaning in violation of their immigration. There are serious penalties for those found to be in violation of their visa which may affect an exchange visitor's privilege to stay in the U.S. All International students will need to make an appointment with the nearest US Consular Office to have an interview with a Consular Officer before a visa will be issued.
Health Insurance:
All international students are required to have adequate health insurance. UNCW has available a health cover plan that students can purchase for approximately US$225 per semester. Students who obtain their own health care cover (that is J-1 visa compliant) may opt out of the plan by providing a copy of their insurance.
- The minimum requirement for coverage is at least US$50,000 per accident or illness.
- Insurance must include coverage for medical evacuation with a US$10,000 minimum. This is used in the unlikely event that there is a need to return you to your home country for medical treatment.
- Insurance coverage for repatriation of remains is required with a US$7,500 minimum. This is used in the event that you should die in the United States and your remains returned to your home country.
- The maximum amount deductible on the health insurance cannot exceed US$500 per accident or illness
Immunisation requirements:
Students must provide evidence of their immunisations status by presenting their immunisation record and completing UNCW’s Health and Immunisation Form. If this form is not submitted or requirements not met before the semester begins, students may not be able to register for classes. International students must obtain their immunisation record and have their G.P complete the Immunisation Form and send it immediately to the university.
Facts in brief
About the University of North Carolina at Wilmington:
The university’s history goes back as far as 1947 when Wilmington College was established. The college underwent many structural changes over the years until on July 1, 1969, by an act of the General Assembly of North Carolina, Wilmington College became the sixth campus of the University of North Carolina.
The campus is situated near the historic district of Wilmington, in the south-eastern region of North Carolina. It is no more than four miles from the Cape Fear River and five miles west of Wrightsville Beach and the Atlantic Ocean. It is a picturesque campus of soaring moss-laden trees and grand brick buildings within easy reach of regional attractions.
Location:
Wilmington, North Carolina was initially situated on the east side of the Cape Fear River about twenty-eight nautical miles from the Atlantic Ocean. The town was originally founded by the English and subsequently settled by New Englanders, Virginians, South Carolinians, the Welsh and the Scotts. Wilmington’s official status changed from town to city in 1866, businesses continued to grow throughout the rest of the nineteenth century and the city prospered. A strong preservation movement began in the 1970s and set about restoring the old town back to its former elegance and beauty, encouraging tourism and even more business. Its population has now grown to 118000 with people coming to Wilmington from all over the United States to enjoy the warm weather, the nearby beaches and southern living.
Climate:
Wilmington has a very agreeable climate. Summer temperatures average 30° C and winter temperatures average around 10°C. Average low and high temperature ranges (in degree Celsius):
- January 2 - 13
- April 11 - 23
- July 22 - 32
- October 12 - 24
Activities:
Culture;
Wilmington’s main tourist attraction may be the Battleship North Carolina but the city is also home to many fine buildings, museums, art galleries, historical sites, and theatres. Festivals such as the N.C. Azalea Festival and River Fest, celebrate the area’s arts and culture.
The university embraces and fosters student involvement in the arts and cultures. A number of student bodies have been created to nurture creativity and diversity, from ethnic, religious and political groups to performing and visual art organisations.
Sport;
Wilmington and the nearby coastal towns are ideal locations for outdoor enthusiasts. Water skiing, parasailing, surfing, swimming, windsurfing, scuba diving, bicycling and snorkelling are just some of the recreational activities available.
All students at UNCW will find a sporting activity suited to them through the Department of Campus Recreation. They provide activities that enhance the physical wellbeing of students in a fun, social environment. Structured and self directed activities include fitness programs, intramural activities, sporting clubs, outdoor recreation programs as well as special events.