Frequently Asked Questions

Frequently Asked Questions

What are the dates of the Community of Scholars program?

The dates for this three-week hybrid program are July 8 to July 26, 2013. The online component is from July 8 to July 13, and the on-campus component begins on July 15.  Students residing on campus may arrive on July 14.  

How does one apply?
Applications will available on the Apply Now page of this website in late fall. Download the application and mail it along with your deposit to the address below. Your transcript and teacher/counselor recommendation form should also be sent to this address:

Community of Scholars
School of International Service
American University
4400 Massachusetts Avenue NW
Washington, DC 20016-8071

If you have any questions, please call us at 202-885-2442. You may also email us at communityofscholars@american.edu.

What is the cost of the program?

The tuition is $2,700 for the three-week program. This includes three credits of college tuition, lunch, Metro fare and other expenses related to off-site visits to government agencies and other sites, afternoon workshops, classroom materials, and access to AU’s facilities. The cost for housing and meals for the two-week segment is $1,275.

Is a deposit required?
Students must submit a nonrefundable $250 deposit to secure placement in the program. Checks should be made out to American University. If a student is not accepted into the program, the deposit will be refunded. Deposit checks should be mailed to the following address:

Community of Scholars
School of International Service
American University
4400 Massachusetts Avenue NW
Washington, DC 20016-8071

What is the cancellation policy?
Upon written notification of cancellation received by Community of Scholars at least 30 days prior to the start of the program, all funds, except the deposit, will be returned. If an application is rejected or space is not available, all payments will be refunded.

Are there any scholarships available for your program?
Financial aid is not available for this program, with the exception of possible limited scholarships to local Washington, D.C., students, subject to the availability of funds. Students are encouraged to seek out and apply independently for private scholarships that may be awarded by local organizations such as businesses, churches, and civic groups.

Are international students allowed to participate in the program?
We welcome international students who have demonstrated adequate English proficiency. Students must obtain a minimum score of at least 80 on the Internet-based Test of English as a Foreign Language (TOEFL-IBT).

How do I obtain a transcript after completing the program?
Once all work is completed and graded, students will be given an official transcript documenting their credits. To obtain additional transcripts, or to have transcripts sent to colleges or universities, students must fill out this transcript request form [PDF]. Completed forms should be faxed to the Office of the Registrar at 202-885-1016 or mailed to the following address:

Office of the Registrar
American University
201 Asbury
4400 Massachusetts Avenue NW
Washington, DC 20016-8064

Contact Us!

Telephone: 202-885-2442

Fax: 202-885-2494

E-mail: communityofscholars@american.edu

Check out our Facebook page here!

“This is an experience that will stay with me forever.”

- 2009 Community of Scholars Student

 

"The entire experience, from my professor's teaching to meeting fellow students, was great. The course broadened my appreciation for foreign policy and international relations."

-2012 Community of Scholars Student

 

"The professor and the entire experience were 'awesome.'"

- 2010 Community of Scholars Student