DIS | Frequently Asked Questions

Why should I participate in a DIS?
Studies show that international education has a dramatic impact on your academic commitment, your worldview, your intercultural development and your career preparation.  Studying abroad can enhance your academic interest, influence future academic plans or reinforce your commitment to foreign language study.  It will help you better understand your own cultural values and influence interactions with people from other cultures.  The opportunity to live and learn in another country also will give you a greater sense of self-confidence.  Employers believe that study abroad experiences provide valuable interpersonal skills which are the most important ability in job candidates.

Participating in a DIS is an ideal introduction to studying abroad.  The semester-long pre-departure course will prepare you for your three-week program abroad.  The international component of the program takes place in January or May, so it is easy to fit into your academic schedule.  The seminars enable you to immerse yourself in a new environment and to develop and refine your skills in cultural awareness and intercultural adjustment, critical observation, and research – especially the ability to conduct research on-site.

Who is eligible to participate in a DIS?
While all students are eligible to participate in a DIS, first year and transfer students are given priority in the selection process. Upper-class students will be placed on a space available basis; those who have not already participated in a DIS are given priority.  You must be in good academic and disciplinary standing from the date of application through re-entry activities. If you are on any probation at the time of the selection process you may be put on a seminar’s wait list.  If you are removed from probation prior to the start of the pre-departure course and if space is available, you may be admitted at that time.  If you are going to be a senior, you are able to participate in January seminars only.

Are the seminar locations the same each year?
No. The topics and locations vary from year to year. The Drew International Seminars (DIS) encompass a variety of subjects and geographic regions to accommodate student interests and academic needs.

How many credits do I earn?
The DIS is an 8 credit program.  You earn 4 credits for the semester-long pre-departure course and 4 credits for the three week, on-site seminar and re-entry activities.  The pre-departure component must be successfully completed to participate in on-site activities. Two separate grades are received, one for each four credit component. The pre-departure or on-site courses cannot be taken pass/unsatisfactory.  Participation is required in all of the pre-departure and re-entry activities, which may be held outside of normal class time.

How much does it cost?
The program fee for the 2011-2012 academic year was $3,470. This fee covers tuition, round trip airfare from NY/Newark (depending on the DIS), in-country transportation, accommodations, meals and site visits.  Costs for which you are responsible include your passport, immunizations, country specific travel costs (i.e. visas or country entrance fees), personal items and in some cases, International Student ID cards. The cost of travel documents, insurance and vaccinations can range from $65 to $500.

Is there financial aid available?
Yes, limited financial assistance is available. Scholarships for the DIS are awarded based on financial need and are applied as a credit towards the cost of the program. You can indicate on your DIS application that you wish to be considered for a scholarship.  You will be notified of your award via e-mail in July.

When do I apply?
You apply in February of the academic year preceding the DIS.  This is the only time applications will be accepted, so it is important to plan early.  Prior to participating, think carefully about your academic plans and consult with your academic advisor.

How do I apply?
Visit www.drew.edu/depts/offcamp/myapplications to apply, or modify your application once submitted.  You may apply for up to three seminars and you may rank them in order of preference.

You will need to request one on-line faculty recommendation.  When you enter the name of the faculty member in your application, he/she will receive a system generated email requesting that an on-line recommendation form be completed.  As a courtesy, we encourage you to contact your faculty member ahead of time to inform him/her of your request.

What it the application deadline?
Completed application materials, including the faculty recommendation, must be received no later than 5 p.m. on the third Monday in February.  Late applications will not be accepted.

On what basis are applicants chosen to participate?
Seminar leaders will select participants based on important selection criteria including academic merit, maturity and flexibility, the relevance of the seminar to your academic goals and your interest in and commitment to the seminar as demonstrated by your essay and faculty recommendation. An interview may be part of the application review process. Students will be notified of their status via e-mail by late March.

What about passports, vaccinations and other requirements for traveling abroad?
All participants are required to possess a valid passport. Students with other than US citizenship should contact the appropriate embassy for any additional entry requirements. Vaccination and other health-related recommendations from the CDC will be distributed prior to your departure.  Students with serious health concerns or special dietary needs are strongly advised to consult with the faculty directors of the program before applying.

I still have some concerns about traveling abroad.  Is the DIS right for me?
While the off-campus component of the DIS will be an exciting experience, it may also be physically and emotionally demanding. Consider your decision regarding the ability to participate fully in the seminar. You should contact the faculty leader or the IOCP office well in advance of departure if a pre-existing medical or psychological condition affects your participation in the seminar. All participants will be required to submit a physician’s authorization.

Whom would I contact for more information?
For questions, please contact the International and Off-Campus Programs Office at ext. 3438 or visit us in Hall of Science Room S9.