Frequently Asked Questions

Applications

Q: I've graduated from my undergraduate institution, but I'm not enrolled in graduate school. Which program should I apply to?
A: You can apply for either of the sessions. The main differences between the two courses are the level of teaching and length of the papers due at the end of the program. Graduate-level papers are 20-25 pages, while the undergraduate page requirement is 15-18. Keep in mind that if you plan to pursue a graduate degree at the Elliott School or any other graduate school, only graduate-level course credits may be accepted toward a graduate degree.

Q: I am no longer a student, but rather a professional interested in the USFPSP. Can I still apply?
A: YES! In fact, we encourage you to do so. Our graduate course is for both graduate students and working professionals.

Eligibility

Q: I already attend GW's Elliott School. Can I still attend the Institute?
A: Yes. The credits will appear on your GW transcript. If you've already graduated from GW, you may attend the graduate program and the credits may transfer to other schools. Please contact usfpsp@gwu.edu for more information.

Q: I will be a freshman in the fall. Can I still attend the Institute?
A: We would advise you to wait for a year and apply after you complete your first year of college.

Q: I am a non- native English speaker and am interested in applying, but I do not have a TOEFL score, and a test is available to me before the application deadline. Can I still apply?
A: Yes, you can apply, but we do need to see a TOEFL score before you can be fully admitted. We can grant offers conditional upon a suitable score, but this must be received before the institute commences.

Costs

Q: Am I required to live on campus? If I choose not to, what will the cost of the program be?
A: No, you are not required to live on campus. Please see costs for our appropriate cost breakdown.

Q: What are the costs for auditing the course?
A: The costs remain the same whether you are taking the course for credit or auditing.

Q: Will the tuition I pay at my home university cover USFPSP's program fees?
A: No. You will pay normal tuition fees at the Elliott School, as well as USFPI administrative fees, housing costs (if applicable), and other miscellaneous fees for the use of GW's facilities.

Q: Are meals included in the program costs?
A: No, you are responsible for all personal costs, which includes food, transportation, supplies, etc.

Q: If I attend one of the Washington Area Consortium Schools (WASC), will my tuition fees at my home university cover the tuition costs?
A: No. If you attend a WASC school, you must still fill out an application to attend the summer program. Unfortunately, because it is a special summer course, you will need to pay GW tuition fees.

Q: I am an international student and would prefer to pay for the deposit/course via wire transfer. How do I do that?
A: Please refer to GW's cashier's office for the relevant bank transfer form. Take the completed form to your bank and they should be able to complete the transfer.

Aid and Scholarships

Q: Does the institute offer any scholarships?
A: Unfortunately, the Institute is not able to offer any scholarships this year. However, there are plenty of scholarship opportunites you can apply for through various schools and programs. Start the scholarship hunt early if finances are of concern.

Q: Are there any financial aid opportunities available for summer course?
A: Graduate students are able to use their financial aid for the course. Unfortunately, financial aid is not generally available for undergraduates to use on summer courses.

Course Material

Q: Suppose I am accepted to the program — when will I be informed, and when can I expect a course syllabus?
A: You will be informed of your acceptance by May 15. Those accepted will get a list of key readings about a month before the start of the program. You will get access to Blackboard, an online teaching tool that allows us to send you the readings and any other pertinent information.

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