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Overview of Study Abroad Programs in the Cook Islands

Studying in this self-governing country, made up of fifteen islands in the South Pacific ocean north-east of New Zealand, will undoubtedly broaden your perspective as a global citizen. Your experiential learning begins the moment you land at the international airport of Rarotonga and will mark the start of a once-in-a-lifetime experience.

The powdery white beaches and azure seas of these islands are the quintessential image of the South Pacific and form an idyllic backdrop for personal growth and academic learning. Experience the hospitality and warm welcome of the Cook Islanders while you find your feet and create daily routines to support your academic growth.

Soak up the cosmopolitan blend of ancient Polynesian heritage and western influence, while immersing yourself in learning about the traditional customs and broadening your cultural intelligence quotient. Studying abroad in the Cook Islands will strengthen your skill set and your self-confidence.

WHY STUDY IN THE COOK ISLANDS

With only around fifteen thousand tourists visiting this unique location a year, your study abroad experience here will immerse you in a way of life that is still coherent and authentic to the islands. Experience the warmth and easy hospitality of the local Cook Islanders in an idyllic location while learning from local experts. Embark on an experiential journey of personal development in this remote and beautiful area while developing your skills and enhancing your resume.

The fusion of age-old Polynesian customs with a strong Western influence creates a rich foundation for learning and exploration. Cook Islanders are known for their friendliness and warmth, giving you an ideal setting for learning interpersonal skills and expanding your cultural intelligence.

HIGHLIGHTS OF STUDYING IN THE COOK ISLANDS

Here are just a few of the best things about studying in the Cook Islands:

  • Enjoy complete immersion in Cook Island and Maori culture
  • Get easy access to all the attractions and sights that each of these fifteen islands offers
  • Build a strong global network with fellow international students and let the richness of these connections grow you as a person
  • Experience aspects of island life through your studies that tourists will never see

Our Study Abroad Programs

Browse all of our opportunities to study in Cook Islands below. If you can’t find a suitable program, check out our main program finder to continue your study abroad search beyond Cook Islands.

Study Abroad beach in the Cook islands
Cook Islands

Study in Cook Islands (University of the South Pacific)

Learn from a pool of global experts at this premier institution of higher learning in the South Pacific region and gain unique insight into the diversity of Pacific island cultures, environments and economies.

Study in Cook Islands (University of the South Pacific)

Your experiential learning begins the moment you land at the international airport of Rarotonga and will mark the start of a once-in-a-lifetime experience.

The powdery white beaches and azure seas of these islands are the quintessential image of the South Pacific and form an idyllic backdrop for personal growth and academic learning. Experience the hospitality and warm welcome of the Cook Islanders while you find your feet and create daily routines to support your academic growth.

Location

About Suva

It doesn’t get much more remote or more beautiful than the Cook Islands. With its perfect beaches, deep jungles and coral lagoons, you could call this place home as you study at the premier University of the South Pacific. 

The capital city, Suva, will enchant you with its broad avenues, lush parks and grand historical buildings, like the Suva City Library. Shop for fresh fruit, vegetables and fish at the colorful Municipal Market then cool off in Suva’s rainforest backyard, the Colo-i-Suva Forest Park, an oasis filled with pools, streams and walking trails. Savor the Indo-Fijian flavors and sample the many delicious curries on offer.

Dates & costs

Our study abroad programs dates vary based on the particular university you’ll be placed in and the costs vary based on how long you intend to study as well as what your course load will be.

To learn more about the costs and dates available, please select an individual study abroad program from the list above, or Request a Call and one of our team members will get in contact with you.

Eligibility

  • World Endeavors study abroad participants should be 18 years or older (in most cases).
  • Have a passport valid for at least 6 months from the start of their program.
  • Keep in mind that all countries have different visa restrictions for varying types of passports.
  • Must have completed high school (or equivalent)
  • While some programs have minimum GPA requirements and require that applicants be currently enrolled in a college or university, others are open to all participants regardless of age or student status.

See individual study abroad program pages for more details, or contact a World Endeavors advisor.

Housing

University of the South Pacific offers on-campus halls of residence, newly built and with a kitchen on each floor. There are also flats available on campus, offering single beds with shared facilities, air conditioning and security. Or you can opt to share in the day-to-day life of a host family with a nearby homestay option.

Semester Study in the Cook Islands (University of the South Pacific) | $12,545

Every World Endeavors Study Abroad Program Includes

Our study abroad programs are as unique as our destinations, but there are program features that unify all of our study experiences.

YOUR STUDY ABROAD PROGRAM

  • Top accredited universities
  • Flexible durations – 2 to 4 weeks to a full academic year
  • Expansive destination options
  • English instruction offered in all locations

ACCOMMODATION

  • Vetted campus accommodations selected with quality and safety in mind
  • Friendly community of peers from local host country and around the world

TEAM OF EXPERTS

  • Dedicated one-on-one advisor
  • Local on-site coordinator

PREPARATION AND SUPPORT

  • Airport pickup
  • Pre-arrival and on-site orientation
  • 24/7 local support
  • Activities and cultural engagement
  • On-campus social events, clubs and sports

ACADEMIC CREDIT

  • Professional assistance and collaboration with home institution on course approvals and credit transfers
  • Transcript received directly from university abroad

PEACE OF MIND

  • Comprehensive travel medical insurance
  • Mental Health First Aid-certified staff
  • 24/7 emergency travel assistance

HEALTH & SAFETY

When you feel safe and respected abroad, you will flourish. World Endeavors participants are transformed through enriching, rewarding and safe experiences around the world. We meticulously monitor travel recommendations and will only facilitate programs where we can ensure our participants’ safety. 

We take key steps to ensure our participants’ well-being, including providing a pre-trip success guide, 24/7 local support, in-country trained staff, pre and post-arrival orientation, comprehensive travel medical insurance, and Mental Health First Aid-certified staff. Please contact us if you have any specific questions or concerns.

WHAT TO DO IN YOUR SPARE TIME IN THE COOK ISLANDS

Here are the best things to do in your spare time while in the Cook Islands:

  • Explore Aitutaki Lagoon: Touted as one of the most beautiful lagoons in the world, you can take a lagoon cruise or catamaran tour, which often includes stops at smaller uninhabited islands (motus), snorkeling in crystal clear waters, and enjoying a traditional Cook Islands feast on a secluded beach.
  • Take a Cross-Island Trek: For those who love hiking, this trek will take you through the lush heart of Rarotonga, passing the iconic Needle rock formation and leading you to stunning viewpoints.
  • Engage in Water Activities: You can snorkel or dive in the vibrant coral reefs that are home to a myriad of marine life, or try kayaking, fishing, and even whale watching.

How to choose the best Study Abroad program

Selecting the perfect study abroad program can be easy! Follow these steps to find the program that will help you achieve your goals.

Earn Credit Toward Your Degree

Studying abroad offers a great opportunity to explore your academic interests in an international context! Use our Program Finder tool to search by field of study and take classes toward your major.

Choose Your Dream Destination 

Combine education and exploration of your dream destination! Evaluate which program countries align with your interests and academic objectives.

Improve your Language Skills

Immersing yourself in a language-rich environment is the ultimate method for developing fluency. If language-learning is your goal, favor destinations that use your language of choice.

Fit Your Budget

Explore scholarships and financial aid to determine if these may impact your destination options. Consider the overall cost of the program and cost of living in-country to identify the optimal match.

The Time is Right

Explore programs offered in just the right window of opportunity. We offer semesters in the fall or spring, full academic year programs, or shorter summer study programs.

Try our program finder to filter based on your choices.

SEARCH

Academic Credit

World Endeavors study abroad programs take place at top accredited universities and schools around the world. World Endeavors program advisors assist students with the process of credit approvals, transcripts, and credit transfers. We work with students’ academic advisors and universities to ensure that the process goes smoothly, allowing students to focus on the cultural and academic experience of studying abroad.

Have a specific course or requirement to fill? Contact a World Endeavors advisor to see what programs will be the best fit.

ACADEMIC CREDIT INFORMATION

Recent Testimonials

JillianStudy in France

I realized once I got back that I learned more than I thought I did—not that I didn’t think I learned a lot, already. Three of my goals were to make more international friends (check), amp up my French comprehension (check), and expand my worldview (check).

EdenStudy in Spain

Honestly it was the best semester I’ve ever had. I met so many people and learned so many things. I found a new love for a different country. I would definitely recommend World Endeavors to anyone who wants a life-changing experience!

JenniferStudy in Spain

My advisor at World Endeavors was absolutely excellent! Her expertise and delightful people skills were exactly what sealed the deal, making World Endeavors my final decision for study abroad.”

AliciaStudy in Thailand

I have to say that what I remember, as much as the delicious colors and flavors of Thailand, are the people I crossed paths with – the other students who became such good friends, and the local Thais who showed me such kindness. And of course the food. I still dream of the food.”

HeatherStudy in England

It was amazing to be able to say I traveled to six countries in one semester.

KristenIntern in Morocco

It was amazing! Don’t be afraid to step outside of your comfort zone - the spontaneous adventures are gold!

Cook Islands FAQs

Where are the Cook Islands located?

The Cook Islands is located in the South Pacific Ocean, northeast of New Zealand and southwest of French Polynesia. Comprising 15 islands spread over a vast expanse of ocean, it is grouped into two main clusters: the Northern Group, which consists mainly of atolls, and the Southern Group, which includes larger, volcanic islands.

Is Cook Islands safe?

The Cook Islands are a safe destination with a relaxed vibe and minimal crime. Yet, tourists should guard their belongings, be aware of cyclones from November to April, practice water safety, and follow local customs, including modest attire off the beach, for a harmonious stay.

When is the best time to go to the Cook Islands?

The Cook Islands is located in the South Pacific Ocean, northeast of New Zealand and southwest of French Polynesia. Comprising 15 islands spread over a vast expanse of ocean, it is grouped into two main clusters: the Northern Group, which consists mainly of atolls, and the Southern Group, which includes larger, volcanic islands.

Do I need a visa for travel to the Cook Islands?

Tourists staying in the Cook Islands for 31 days or less typically don’t need a visa. You’ll be issued a visitor’s permit upon arrival if you have a valid passport (expiring at least six months after departure), a return/onward ticket, and sufficient funds. However, always verify the latest regulations with the Cook Islands’ embassy before your trip. If you go abroad with World Endeavors, our advisors will be there to answer any questions you have.

How big are the Cook Islands?

The Cook Islands is a nation of 15 islands spread over a vast area in the South Pacific Ocean. In terms of land area, the Cook Islands cover approximately 240 square kilometers (about 93 square miles).

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Our Top Study Abroad Destinations

World Endeavors offers study abroad programs in several destinations in the Americas, Asia, Europe, and Oceania. Our programs are located in a variety of sites, including urban and rural, English-speaking and non-English speaking. Semester, year-long, and summer programs are all available. Our wide range of options means you can find the program which is just right for you.

How to apply for a Study Abroad Program

You’ve decided to study abroad – congratulations! Applying for your World Endeavors program is easy and stress-free. Get ready to CHANGE YOUR WORLD!

STEP 1
EXPLORE & ASK

Research and compare. If you can’t decide on a program, we can guide you toward the best fit.

STEP 2
SUBMIT YOUR APPLICATION

Fill out our online application form to share all your relevant details with our team.

STEP 3
ENROLL & PREPARE

Receive your official acceptance and enroll. We’ll give you all the info you need to get ready!

STEP 4
START YOUR ADVENTURE!

You’ve researched, planned and saved. Now you’re ready to study and explore like never before!