International Summer Advertising Academy | Frequently Asked Questions
Are there scholarships? Unfortunately, at this time, we do not have any scholarships to offer to ISAA. There may be scholarships offered by outside organizations for study abroad or international experiences, and we encourage you to apply for those funds.
How can I attend ISAA? Students will apply for the program via an online application form, available beginning in January 2013. Applications are due by March 31, 2013. Students must pay their program and tuition fees before arrival on campus, by May 1, 2013. A maximum of 50 participants has been set for the first year of the program.
What is included in the tuition and fee? The program fee includes tuition, classroom space, training materials (but not textbooks), cultural and industry immersion activities, use of University of Illinois facilities (University Library, computer lab facilities, Campus Recreation facilities), access to the local Champaign-Urbana Mass Transit District (bus transportation), and transportation to and from program activities. Housing fees are based on two people per room at the University’s Illinois Street Residence Hall (or equivalent residence hall), subject to availability. The meal fee includes breakfast and dinner at Illinois Street Residence Hall or equivalent residence hall cafeteria. Any additional meals are at the participants’ expense.
How many courses will I take? Each student will choose two courses from the list of courses offered. No courses will meet on Fridays as Fridays will be reserved for cultural and industry immersion trips and activities.
Are there requirements for the courses? The courses are offered in English. While there is no TOEFL or IELTS score requirement per se, students should be able to participate effectively in English-language courses, and will be required to complete assignments in English. We recommend the equivalent of a TOEFL level of 100 or an IELTS score of 6.
What is included in the optional sightseeing trip at the end of the program? The optional week-long trip at the end of the program is to be determined, but could include New York, California, or other popular destinations. The purpose of the trip is a blend of industry immersion and sightseeing. It is optional, double-occupancy, and would incur an additional fee of approximately $960 per person exclusive of airfare, meals, or any other miscellaneous expenses (hotel tips, bus driver tips, souvenirs, etc.). Students that wish to book single occupancy would be charged an additional fee. Students who choose the optional trip will depart for home from that location. They are responsible for this travel; it is not included with the program or optional trip fee.
Do I need to book the optional trip in advance? Yes, this will need to be confirmed at the time of your program registration, and is prepaid, due at the time of registration.
Insurance and Visas
Do I need insurance? Yes, you will need proof of medical insurance, and we recommend that you purchase it in your home country.
Will I need a Visa? It depends on what country you will be coming from. Some countries offer visa waivers for short stays, and you could benefit from this.
If you do need a visa, the University will provide you with a letter of acceptance to the program to submit with your visa request. This letter will not be provided until payment has been received, for your program tuition and fees.
Can I cancel my participation in the program? Yes, you may cancel, but you may be charged for any of the fees that have been allocated on your behalf. Partial refunds will be issued accordingly until May 1, 2013. There will be no refunds after that time.
Who can I contact if I have questions? You can contact Rhiannon Clifton, Program Director, at rclifton@illinois.edu.