Click here for 2009/2010 DIS Program Descriptions
Drew International Seminars Application Information
Have you thought about what it would be like to study in another part of the world? Do you wish you could participate in study abroad but just can't fit it into your schedule? Not quite sure if a semester-long study abroad is right for you? Well, Drew has a program for you!
Drew International Seminars (DIS) are academically rigorous programs designed to provide for intensive, on-site study of another culture. The seminars combine coursework on campus with a month-long period of off-campus study. Designed with the first-year applicant in mind, they provide an excellent introduction to international education. The unique design also allows students who normally could not study abroad the opportunity to do so. They enable you to develop and refine your skills in cultural awareness, intercultural adjustment, critical observation and research. You are asked to develop and present a research project and keep a journal in which you record your cultural observations. You also receive some training in the language and customs of the culture you are visiting.
Program Calendar
Each seminar consists of a semester-long pre-departure course and related activities, a three to four week on-site seminar, followed by re-entry activities once you return to campus. The off-campus component is offered in January or during the summer months so as not to interfere with the curricular requirements of the normal academic year. The DIS program is a year-long commitment, but many agree, provides a lifetime of memories.
Eligibility
All first-year students are encouraged to apply to the DIS and are given priority in the selection process. Upperclass students may also apply; their placement depends on the availability of seminar openings.
To be eligible to participate, you must be in good academic standing and not on disciplinary probation. While the seminars are not meant to be major specific, they may require specific prerequisites. For example, language seminars typically require previous language study. Please consult the DIS Program Descriptions for individual seminar requirements.
Application Calendar and Process
Preference is given to first year applicants. Students will receive an announcement of the programs via email, along with an invitation to a DIS information meeting.
Students may apply for as many as three seminars. You must rank the seminars in order of your preference and may only be selected for one seminar.
Cost
One objective of this program is to encourage participation by keeping the cost of the off-campus component as affordable as possible. To achieve this objective, the University subsidizes a significant amount of the cost of travel, room and board. The 2009-2010 DIS fee will be $2,960.If you have already participated in a DIS, the University will not subsidize the cost of a second DIS. Those students who have already participated in a DIS will pay a fee of $4,555.
Other costs for which students are responsible include a passport, and in some cases, International Student ID cards, immunizations and country specific travel costs (such as visas or country entrance fees). The cost of travel documents, insurance and vaccinations will vary from seminar to seminar, from as little as $65 to as much as $500. There is also a $25 summer course fee for the May DIS programs. The amount of spending money necessary to pay for personal items (snacks, souvenirs, laundry, entertainment, etc) will vary from country to country. The seminar faculty with provide more detailed information about these expenses.
Scholarships
In an effort to further encourage international study, the Office of International and Off-Campus Programs offers scholarships of up to $1000 to offset the additional costs associated with off-campus study. Only first-time DIS participants are eligible to receive a scholarship which is based on financial need. Students who wish to apply for a scholarship to participate in the 2009-2010 DIS program may indicate this on their DIS application and must complete the FAFSA no later than April 1.
