Engineering & Video Game Design
A Summer for Fun, Friends, and Your Future
Explore
Have fun discovering New Zealand's natural beauty and cutting-edge designs.
Network
Meet new friends and designers. Build your own community.
Get Inspired
Launch your future today! Master the basics of coding, use programming tools, and come home with a simple game you code and create yourself.
The Destination
Welcome to Auckland, where stunning landscapes and cutting-edge creativity collide.
Auckland has long been a launchpad for bold ideas in technology and design. From the visual effects masterminds at Wētā Workshop, the studio behind Lord of the Rings, to thriving engineering, robotics, and AI innovation labs, this is a city where creative energy meets technical skill. The city’s location between volcanic peaks and the sea has shaped everything from innovative architecture to world-famous marine engineering.
As you explore, fuel up on classic Kiwi fish and chips or the country’s famous hokey pokey ice cream (vanilla ice cream with crunchy honeycomb toffee pieces mixed in). Explore nearby black-sand beaches and take in views from the 50 ancient volcanic cones surrounding Auckland.
Whether it’s the fast pace of rugby, the thrill of racing on land or sea, or the magic of fantasy worlds, New Zealand offers inspiration for every type of game designer.
Cultural Awareness
CIEE wants all our students to feel welcomed, supported, and empowered to succeed while studying abroad. No matter where you choose to study abroad with CIEE, our staff will be on hand throughout your program to provide advice, resources, and support.
Sample Itinerary
Sample Activities
Just Imagine all the fun you'll have!
- Step inside a video game studio to see how indie gaming legends bring worlds to life.
- Visit Auckland Domain and Bastion Point to learn how Māori traditions can shape your own storytelling and design.
- Explore Mount Eden, one of Auckland's iconic volcanic cones.
- Stop by the iconic Auckland Harbour Bridge to admire its incredible engineering.
- Get inspired at the Auckland Art Gallery to check out the work of local artists!
Why Go Abroad in High School to Explore STEM Careers?
Here's something you might not know: STEM students are the least likely to get to study abroad during college. With tightly packed schedules and tons of required courses, STEM majors... keep reading
7 Things to Know About High School Summer Abroad Housing
High school summer abroad is not just about teens exploring a topic in an exciting location. It’s also about finding a temporary home away from home. Read the 7 things you should know about our housing options.
How to Apply for Your First Passport
Prepare early for your study abroad adventure and apply for your first passport. Here’s how!
Eligibility
- Participants must be 14 years old and above.
- Program open to all current high school students: Freshmen, Sophomores, Juniors, and Seniors.
- For scholarship eligibility requirements, please check our scholarship page.
For more information, refer to the detailed Program Essential Eligibility Criteria.
Dates & Fees
Application Fee
$25
Program scholarships and tuition include iNext Travel Insurance, but do not cover the cost of flights. Find additional details about what’s included with your tuition.
More questions? Find answers, get application support, sign up for virtual presentations, or contact us!
Program Fees
CIEE offers the most student support of any provider in its program fee, including an airport greeting, full-time leadership and support, orientation, cultural activities, local excursions, pre-departure advising, and CIEE iNext travel protection with benefits.
| Program Balance | $6,950 |
| Total Fees | $6,950 |
Financial Aid
CIEE offers the most grants and scholarships of any study abroad organization, including $8 million/year in travel grants, merit-based scholarships, institutional and MSI grants, and Gilman Go Global Grants.
Estimated Costs
Students are responsible and manage costs related to travel, meals, books, and personal expenses. Below are estimates for consideration.
Program Fees
CIEE offers the most student support of any provider in its program fee, including an airport greeting, full-time leadership and support, orientation, cultural activities, local excursions, pre-departure advising, and CIEE iNext travel protection with benefits.
| Program Balance | $6,950 |
| Total Fees | $6,950 |
Financial Aid
CIEE offers the most grants and scholarships of any study abroad organization, including $8 million/year in travel grants, merit-based scholarships, institutional and MSI grants, and Gilman Go Global Grants.
Estimated Costs
Students are responsible and manage costs related to travel, meals, books, and personal expenses. Below are estimates for consideration.
Ready to change your life?
What's Included
Interactive Classes
Housing
3 Meals/Day
(Dietary Needs Accommodated)
All Ground Transportation
(Once In-country)
Optional Flight Chaperone
(Flight Cost Not Included)
Pre-departure Advice and Orientation
Access to WIFI
(No international data plan or SIM card included)
All Cultural Activities and Excursions
Comprehensive Medical and Travel Protection
24/7 Emergency On-site Support
Our Staff
Brett Armstrong
Center Director
Brett’s passion for global education has been shaped by a lifelong connection to academia and travel. Raised in San Diego, California, by an academic family, his mother’s dedication as a...
Program Leaders guide and support our High School Summer Abroad participants through every step of their program.
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