Explore 2012 programs
See the main page menu to choose a program.
Policies and Frequently Asked Questions
See below for the frequently asked questions.
Study abroad program policies
Students must be in good academic standing at the end of their last semester of study prior to the program to participate.
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Arriving late or departing early is not permitted. Program directors work hard to create a program that immerses students in the local environment and meets Harvard’s curricular standards. It is important for students to be present for all aspects of the program.
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All students must participate in all aspects or courses of the program and live in the program-sponsored accommodations.
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All students must submit a signed Conditions of Participation and General Risk and Release Form, as well as a doctor-signed Health Clearance Form to participate. These forms will be distributed after acceptance into the program.
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All students must abide by the policies outlined in the Harvard Summer School Student Handbook.
- Students are not permitted to hold part-time or full-time work or participate in internships while participating in a Harvard Summer School study abroad program.
Travel warnings
Harvard Summer School is aware of the risks associated with international travel. Should the US Department of State issue a travel warning for any of the countries in which a study abroad program is planned, the program in that country may be canceled.
Program cancellations
Harvard Summer School reserves the right to cancel programs due to low enrollment or local adverse conditions.
Frequently asked questions
Is this Harvard?
Yes, these are Harvard courses, led by Harvard faculty, carrying Harvard credit. The credits will automatically roll onto your transcript if you are a Harvard College student. See Study Abroad Credit Information. If you are not a Harvard College student, Harvard Summer School courses and credits are accepted toward degrees at most colleges and universities, but you are advised to obtain transfer credit approval from your home institution beforehand.
Does the Summer School have financial aid for studying abroad?
The Summer School does not offer financial aid. Harvard College students have opportunities to apply for funding through centers on campus. See Funding and Payment for more details. Students at other Harvard or non-Harvard universities may be eligible for financial aid from their home institution’s financial aid office.
Are you able to waive the $50 application fee for students in need of financial aid?
Unfortunately, we cannot waive the application fee.
Can I apply to more than 1 program?
Yes, but before applying it is important to consider the structure of the program and the prerequisites and also to familiarize yourself with the country of interest. Program staff can answer any questions you may have. While second applications are permitted, we encourage students to make informed decisions about the program best suited to their interests. To apply for 2 programs online, select a secondary choice on the application menu. Please note there is a $50 application fee per program and you must submit a personal statement and request a transcript for each program you apply to.
Is there an age requirement?
Students must be at least 18 years old, have completed 1 year minimum of college or be a first-year student, and be in good academic standing to apply. Admission criteria are outlined in each program description.
Why do some programs have special application procedures?
Because our programs are offered in a wide range of disciplines, some programs may place different demands on students. In these cases, program directors may need additional materials to properly evaluate applicants. See individual program pages for details.
How will I know if I am accepted?
The program director will inform you of your status, generally within a few weeks of the application deadline. They can also answer any questions you may have about a program.
What if I am waitlisted?
The program director can give you a sense of the waitlist and will confirm with you whether you wish to remain on it. If you have applied to 2 programs and have been waitlisted in your first choice but accepted to your second, you will need to think carefully about your available options and make a reasonably quick decision so that you do not hold a spot that someone else might take.
Can my spouse or family member attend and live with me?
No. The programs, courses, activities, excursions, and accommodations are designed for registered students only.
Can I take a course pass/fail?
In most cases, Harvard College students may request to take a course pass/fail. Prior approval is required. Non-Harvard students do not have the pass/fail option.
How do I make a payment?
Harvard Summer School online services allows enrolled students to make deposits and full payments with a valid credit card. See Funding and Payment.
Do study abroad participants receive a transcript?
For Harvard College students, the course(s) will roll directly onto your college transcript. Non-Harvard college students may request a transcript from the summer school. Our credit are usually acceptable for transfer to most colleges and universities pending approval from your home institution.
What programs are running in 2013?
Most programs run every year. You can preview programs not running in 2012 but expected to run in 2013. See Future Programs for a look at these programs.
