What does the application include? Click to download an Application Checklist, or start an application by selecting the program of your choice and clicking on "Apply Now" in the upper right portion of the page.
Are CET's deadlines "received by" or "postmarked?" Any deadline to which CET refers is the deadline for items to be received, not postmarked.
When is the application deadline for CET's programs? CET accepts students on a rolling basis, so it is recommended that students apply early before program spaces are filled. Rolling admissions periods end as follows:
Spring Term
Summer Term
Fall Term
Europe Programs
October 15*
March 1
May 1
Asia Programs
November 1
March 1
May 1
Middle East Programs
November 1
April 1
May 1
*Applications for Prague programs are due by October 1 to allowing sufficient visa processing time.
Hard copy applications must be received, and not post-marked, by the
final deadline in each rolling period. Applicants are
encouraged to apply online using CET's online application system. To apply online, select the program you are interested in, and click the "Apply Now" button. Note
that CET also advises applicants to check with their school's study
abroad office about possible internal application deadlines and requirements to which
they should adhere.
Is there a language prerequisite to CET's programs? In China: The Harbin Program and Middlebury Schools in China require four semesters of college level Chinese. The Beijing Janterm and Hangzhou Immersion require is three semesters of college level Chinese.
In Spain: The Crossroads of Islam, Judaism and Christianity in Spain requires two semesters of college level Spanish.
In Italy: The Catania, Sicily program requires two semesters of college level Italian.
In Syria, the Aleppo program has a prerequisite of four semesters of college level Arabic.
Do I need a language reference if I've never taken courses in the target language? No. But students who are applying to CET's Asia programs will still be required to submit three general references. Students who have not taken courses in the target language and are applying to CET's Europe programs are encouraged but not required to submit a third general reference.
I am no longer in school, can I submit professional references? Yes. However, CET would still like one of your general references to be an academic reference. CET applicants who are students should submit academic references for their required references; professional references are welcome as supplementary material.
Does CET provide scholarships? Every year, CET awards over $50,000 in scholarships. CET scholarships are available only to students that have been accepted to CET programs. Award amounts vary by term and program. For more information, see the Study Abroad Funding page.
When will I be notified of my admissions status? If all application materials are received on time, students will be notified within two weeks of receipt of the completed application.
I am married, can CET accommodate my family on the program? Unfortunately, we cannot make accommodations for students on our China programs. Married students applying to other programs should contact CET for more information. In some cases, it may be possible to accommodate spouses and/or family members for an extra fee. Students in this situation should expect to make most of their own arrangements with guidance from CET.
I have a low GPA, can I still apply? CET encourages all students to apply regardless of their GPA. CET will evaluate the student based on their entire application and not exclusively on their transcript(s). Nonetheless, applicants should be advised that CET has a minimum GPA requirement of 3.0. Students are welcome to comment on their GPA in their application.
What does CET look for in applicants and how can I improve my chances of being accepted? CET looks for students with passionate motivation, sincere intention and a solid academic foundation. In addition, strong references and well-developed essays will give applicants a good chance of being accepted.
Do I need prior language experience to go on CET's programs in Prague? No previous language experience is required. Beginning through advanced language levels are offered. If you have previous Czech language experience, you will be asked to take a placement test upon arrival in Prague so that our overseas staff can determine which course level to register you for.
Do I need a visa? Spring and fall semester students do need a visa, but summer students do not. The visa application is due with the program application. Unfortunately, there is no way to rush a student visa to the Czech Republic, and the processing requires quite a bit of time.
I'm on the photography track. What equipment should I bring? Students on the photography track will need to bring a camera that meets the following requirements: - 35mm with manually adjustable controls for shutter speed and aperture (F/stop) - Normal lens (ca 50mm) - Light meter (TTL -- built-in or hand held)
Should I bring my laptop? Alumni of the program have said that it can be useful to have a laptop on which to complete assignments and WIFI hotspots are increasing in popularity in Prague. The CET Center is now outfitted for wireless Internet. Bringing a laptop is not necessary, however, as computers are available for student use at the CET Center and Charles University.
Is there an Internet connection in my apartment? There is a wireless Internet connection in your apartment. The Internet speed is meant for academic use and may be slower than what you are used to. The CET Center also has free wireless Internet access. Prague also has many Internet cafés that charge a small usage fee.
Do I need a cell phone while in Prague? Most students have found it more convenient, and even cheaper, to use a Czech cell phone rather than switching their US phone for international use. During your orientation in Prague, your Resident Director will give you a cell phone to use for the duration of the program. A refundable deposit is required.
Do I need to pack towels and linens to bring to Prague? Linens will be provided. Towels will not. We recommend that if you are running short on space you buy the towels when you arrive in Prague rather than take up necessary space in your luggage. However, if you prefer a certain type or brand of linen or towel, please bring them with you.
What is my schedule of classes? You will receive your class schedule during orientation.
If my parents want to come to visit me in Prague, when is the best time? Parents should not come to visit you during the study trips, since during that time you will be traveling with your Resident Director and classmates. A good time to visit is over any other weekend or as soon as the program ends.
Is the Jewish Studies program only for Jewish students? This program is designed with a wide range of students in mind, from deeply committed Jews, seeking an intimate yet academic means to trace their heritage, to Jewish Studies novices, both Jewish and non-Jewish. We offer a unique opportunity for Religious Studies students attending universities with few or no Jewish Studies courses to immerse themselves in the field for a semester or year at a time. While the program's focus is on Jewish Studies, the multi-disciplinary curriculum offers a context for exploring the general society of the region.
Can I keep Kosher while in Prague? There are three kosher restaurants in Prague, all conveniently located in the Jewish Quarter. In addition, all students will be provided with a list of kosher foods that can be found in local supermarkets. For more information, please see our Keeping Kosher page.
Can I arrive early or stay past the program end date? Students are welcome to stay in Prague beyond the program dates; however, they are responsible for their own housing. Occasionally, for a small fee, students may stay in their apartments for several days after the program has ended. Early check-in to the apartments is not possible.
Do I need prior language experience to participate on a CET Italy program? Two semesters of Italian are required for the Catania, Sicily program. No
previous language experience is required for the other programs.
How do I get a visa? A detailed visa instruction manual will be posted for you with the confirmation of your acceptance.
Should I bring my laptop? If you have a laptop, you may find it helpful for
writing and researching papers, as well as storing digital photos.
Nevertheless, it is not required and papers may be completed on the CET Center computers or at an internet cafe.
Is there Internet connection in my room? Siena - You will most likely not have internet access in your room or apartment. Wireless service will be available in the CET offices during business hours. Internet cafes are very prevalent and students can often receive discounts.
Sicily - Every
dorm room is equipped with DSL internet service.
Ethernet cords will be provided by the landlord. However, internet
service will not be provided in apartments or homestays. Wireless
service will
also be available in the CET offices during business hours.
Florence - Every apartment is equipped with DSL internet service. However, internet service will not be provided in homestays. Wireless service will
also be available in the CET offices during business hours.
Do I need to pack linens and towels for the Siena program? Linens
will be provided but towels will not be provided. However, if you
prefer a certain type or brand of linen, please bring them with you.
How do I get a cell phone? The Resident Director will provide you with the chance to purchase or rent cell phones during orientation.
What is my schedule of classes? You will receive your class schedule during orientation. Generally, classes are held Monday through Thursday or Friday.
What are my vacation breaks? You will find out the dates of your breaks and traveling seminars in your pre-departure information.
If my parents want to visit me in Italy, when is the best time? Parents
should not come to visit you during the traveling seminars, since
during that time you will be traveling with your professor for class. A
good time to visit is over any other weekend or as soon as the program
ends.
Do I need prior language experience for the Crossroads of Islam, Judaism and Christianity program? Yes. Students should have at least two semesters of college-level Spanish (or the equivalent) before starting the program. We selected Avila as a location because it is removed from other foreigners. You can expect to immerse yourself in the Spanish language while you are on the program. Students with advanced proficiency will be allowed to directly enroll in courses at the University of Salamanca's Avila campus.
If I am at an intermediate level of Spanish, can I take the direct enroll option?
Ultimately, this is a decision that you must make, although CET recommends not considering the direct enroll option unless you have taken at least four semesters (preferably more) of college-level Spanish. Keep in mind that direct enroll courses are regular university courses designed for native Spanish speakers. You will be expected to follow along with lectures, do a significant amount of reading in Spanish, and write essays or give presentations in Spanish. These courses will be quite challenging! Because of the challenges involved, direct enroll courses can help you grow in terms of not only Spanish language ability, but also by revealing a different academic culture and putting you in a situation where you must push your limits. You are the best judge of whether you are prepared for this option. You may also wish to consult with a Spanish professor at your home institution for his/her advice.
Where can I find the most updated class schedule or list of
course offerings from the University of Salamanca at
Avila? Unfortunately, the University of Salamanca tends to update the
academic handbook (with the full listing of all courses) during the summer right
before the start of the school year. Thus, students applying for fall courses
should use the previous year's academic catalog as a guide (see the Course Selection section for a link to the most recent academic catalog available). If you have found
a specific course offered the previous fall in which you would like to enroll, contact the CET office; we can enquire at the University of Salamanca as to whether or not this course
is likely to be offered again.
If I take a direct enroll class,
when will my exams be held? Spanish university classes are
generally divided into two groups: full year courses and one-semester courses.
CET students may be able to take full year courses even if studying just for one
semester, but this will require special permission as well as an agreement with
the professor regarding scheduling exams; these courses are much easier to
arrange in the fall. One-semester courses in the fall will have exams during
the CET semester. One-semester courses in the spring may have exams after the
CET semester ends, but the University of Salamanca at Avila has agreed that CET
students may take their exams early.
Do I need a visa? Spring and fall semester students do need a visa, but summer students do not. You will receive detailed instructions on obtaining a visa when you have been accepted into the program.
Should I bring my laptop? A laptop may be helpful for completing assignments. Bringing a laptop is not necessary, however, as computers are available for student use on campus.
Is there an Internet connection in my room? Yes, dorm rooms are outfitted for wireless Internet.
How can I buy a cell phone while in Avila? Your Resident Director will assist you in purchasing a cell phone after your arrival.
Do I need to pack towels and linens to bring to Avila? Linens will be provided. Towels will not. We recommend that if you are running short on space you buy the towels when you arrive in Avila rather than take up necessary space in your luggage. However, if you prefer a certain type or brand of linen or towel, please bring them with you.
What is my schedule of classes? You will receive your class schedule during orientation.
If my parents want to come to visit me in Avila, when is the best time? Parents should not come to visit you during the study trips, since during that time you will be traveling with your Resident Director and classmates. A good time to visit is over any other weekend or as soon as the program ends.
Can I arrive early or stay past the program end date? Students are welcome to stay in Avila beyond the program dates; however, they are responsible for their own housing. Early check-in to the dorms is not possible.
You have so many programs in China. How do I choose the one that is right for me? Try to narrow down what you want to get out of your time in China. Do you want to focus on learning Chinese? Do you need to take area studies courses? Do you need to kickstart your intermediate level language skills? Each of CET's China programs targets specific student needs.
Then, visit our China pages. Look at program specifics like prerequisites, program focus and curriculum.
Or contact the CET office to speak with an Asia team staff member! All of us have either served as CET China Resident Directors and/or have extensive experience studying and working in China. We can help you find the program that is right for you.
I am a beginning Chinese language student and I'm interested in
studying at your Beijing Chinese Language program. However, I'm really
worried about the full-time language pledge! Is it realistic to expect
me to speak Chinese all the time? We understand your
concerns. We feel that dedicated, hard-working beginners are not only
capable of upholding the pledge, they are also most benefited by it.
CET has had beginners enroll in its Beijing Chinese Language program in
the past, and while the pledge proved very challenging to them at
first, the students made quick progress in Chinese and grew to embrace
the pledge as an essential component of language learning. For one former student's thoughts on the challenge of the language pledge, click here.
Does CET help me get a visa to China Yes! Applying for a Chinese student visa can be an intimidating process. Whether you apply for the visa through CET or apply on your own we provide detailed instructions on the visa application process after acceptance. Visas typically allow for multiple-entries and will cover at least the duration of one CET program. Materials will be provided in students' online accounts.
What kinds of Chinese
characters are taught at your programs--traditional or simplified? Each of our programs teaches simplified characters. Students
with backgrounds in traditional characters may be provided additional
tutorials in the beginning of the term in order to help them adjust to
the simplified system.
Is there an Internet connection in my dorm? Yes, internet connection is available in the dorm rooms. Depending on the program location, you may have broadband or wireless internet.
Should I bring my laptop? If you have a laptop, you may find it helpful for writing and researching papers, as well as storing digital photos. Nevertheless, it is not required, but strongly recommended.
Do I need a cell phone while in China? Most students have found it more convenient, and even cheaper, to use a Chinese cell phone rather than switching their US phone for international use. During your orientation in China, your Resident Director will give you information on how to purchase and use a cell phone in China.
Do I need to pack towels and linens to bring to China? Linens will be provided. Towels will not. We recommend that if you are running short on space you buy the towels when you arrive in China.
What is my schedule of classes? You will receive your class schedule during orientation.
If my parents want to come to visit me in China, when is the best time? A good time for parents to visit is over the fall/spring semester break or as soon as the program ends.
Can I arrive early or stay past the program end date? Students are welcome to stay in their host city beyond the program dates; however, they are responsible for their own housing. Early check-in to the dorms is not possible.
Does CET provide medical health insurance for students? All students in China are covered with travel health insurance through our international health carrier, CISI, for the duration of the program.
How does CET let me know what I should bring and what I should expect in China? CET provides detailed information about your program, including information on academics, housing and specifics about daily life in your host city after you are accepted to a program. In addition, CET staff will conduct separate pre-departure and arrival orientations so you are prepared for your semester in China.
I grew up speaking Vietnamese at home. Do you have language classes that can accommodate higher level students? Yes. Every term CET accepts students into its programs who have gained Vietnamese language skills from their home environment. These students - many of whom have advanced oral skills but beginning writing skills - have special needs in the classroom. CET successfully tailors classes to meet these students' needs. Those with questions about getting the appropriate language instruction are encouraged to call CET.
I have family in Ho Chi Minh City. Can I live with them and still attend the program? No. All students are required to live in the CET guesthouse while attending the program. Living with a Vietnamese roommate is one of the key aspects of the program, and this would not be possible for students who did not live in the guesthouse. For those with family in the area, there is time built into the program for you to spend time with your family members.
Do I need a visa? Yes. All students participating in the spring, summer and fall terms do need a visa. The visa fee is included in the program costs, and CET will procure a visa on your behalf. You will receive detailed instructions on how to fill out the visa application and what to send to CET when you
have been accepted into the program. More information about visas for Vietnam can also be found here.
Should I bring my laptop? Alumni of the program have said that it can be useful to have a laptop on which to complete assignments and stay connected to home. Bringing a laptop is not necessary, however, as computers are available for student use at the language school where you will study Vietnamese and at local internet cafes around Ho Chi Minh City. The CET guesthouse and office is outfitted for internet
Is there an Internet connection in my room? Yes, internet is available in the guesthouse.
Do I need a cell phone while in Vietnam? Most students have found it more convenient, and even cheaper, to use a Vietnamese cell phone rather than switching their US phone for international use. During your orientation in Vietnam, your Resident Director will give you information on how to purchase and use a cell phone in Vietnam.
Do I need to pack towels and linens to bring to Vietnam? Linens and towels will be provided, so do not bring them unless you have allergic reactions to certain fibers.
Can I arrive early or stay past the program end date? Students are welcome to stay in Vietnam beyond the program dates; however, they are responsible for their own housing. Occasionally, students may stay at the guesthouse in Ho Chi Minh City for several days after the program has ended at their own expense. Early check-in to the guesthouse is not possible.
What is my schedule of classes? You will receive your class schedule during orientation.
Does CET provide medical health insurance for students? All students in Vietnam are covered with travel health insurance through our international health carrier, CISI, for the duration of the program.
How does CET let me know what I should bring and what I should expect in Vietnam? CET provides detailed information about your program, including information on academics, housing and specifics about daily life in your host city after you are accepted to a program. In addition, CET staff will conduct separate pre-departure and arrival orientations so you are prepared for your semester in Vietnam.
Do I need a visa? All students participating in the spring and fall terms need a visa. If you are attending a fall or spring program, visa materials are required by the admissions deadline. CET will assist in procuring a visa after you are accepted to the program. Visas take several months to procure and cannot be rushed. For the summer program, citizens of many countries can have visas waived for a stay of 90 days or less. You will receive detailed instructions on the procedure in the program application process.
Should I bring my laptop? Bringing a laptop is not necessary, but highly recommend. Computers are available for student use at OGU.
Is there an Internet connection in my room? Yes, internet is available in the apartments. There is also wireless internet connection in the J-Chat lounge on campus. Other computer labs also have a wired connection. There is no wireless in the classrooms.
Do I need a cell phone while in Japan? If you're attending a summer program, you can easily reserve a cell phone for short-term use online. CET will provide you information on how to do so after acceptance. If you're attending a fall or spring program, we recommend that you buy a Japanese cell phone once you arrive. Most students have found it more convenient, and even cheaper, to use a Japanese cell phone rather than switching their US phone for international use. During your orientation in Japan, your Resident Director will give you information on how to purchase and use a cell phone in Japan.
Do I need to pack towels and linens to bring to Japan? Linens and towels will be provided, so do not bring them unless you have allergic reactions to certain fibers.
Can I arrive early or stay past the program end date? Students are welcome to stay in Japan beyond the program dates; however, they are responsible for their own housing. Early check-in to the apartments is not possible. Fall and spring students will not be able to arrive early as the Japanese government only distributes visas several days before the program start date.
What is my schedule of classes? You will receive your class schedule during orientation.
Does CET provide medical health insurance for students? All students in Japan are covered with travel health insurance through our international health carrier, CISI, for the duration of the program.
How does CET let me know what I should bring and what I should expect in Japan? CET provides detailed information about your program, including information on academics, housing and specifics about daily life in your host city after you are accepted to a program. In addition, CET staff will conduct separate pre-departure and arrival orientations so you are prepared for your semester in Japan.
Can I use my passport to enter Syria or apply for a visa if it has Israeli entry/exit stamps?
No, you will not be granted a Syrian visa or be allowed to enter Syria if your passport has Israeli entry/exit stamps. Contact CET for details on how to obtain a second passport.
Do I need a visa?
Yes, all students must obtain a tourist visa. CET will assist in procuring a visa after you are accepted to the program. Detailed instructions on the visa application procedure will be provided in the program application process.
Should I bring my laptop?
Bringing a laptop is not necessary, but highly recommended. Many homework assignments will require listening to or watching recorded programs. Bringing a USB Flash drive to obtain these assignments is also highly recommended. Computers are available for student use at the Higher Institute of Languages (HIL).
Is there an Internet connection in my room?
No, internet is not available in the Hospitality House. There is a computer lab with Internet access available to students at HIL. There are also numerous internet cafes on campus and in the surrounding neighborhood with computers and wifi access.
Do I need a cell phone while in Syria?
CET strongly recommends all students purchase a cell phone upon arrival in Syria. Purchasing the actual phone line (SIM card) is quite inexpensive. If you already have a phone that will accept a SIM card you should bring it with you. You can also purchase the actual phones in Syria upon arrival. Students have found it more convenient, and much cheaper, to use a Syrian cell phone rather than switching their US phone for international use. During your orientation in Syria, your Resident Director will give you information on how to purchase and use a cell phone in Syria.
Do I need to pack towels and linens to bring to Syria? Linens and towels will be provided in the Hospitality House, so do not bring them unless you have allergic reactions to certain fibers.
Can I arrive early or stay past the program end date?
Students are welcome to stay in Syria beyond the program dates; however, they are responsible for their own housing. Early check-in to the Hospitality House is not possible.
What is my schedule of classes?
You will receive your class schedule during orientation.
Does CET provide medical health insurance for students?
All students in Syria are covered with travel health insurance through our international health carrier, CISI, for the duration of the program.
How does CET let me know what I should bring and what I should expect in Syria?
CET provides detailed information about your program, including information on academics, housing and specifics about daily life in your host city after you are accepted to a program. In addition, CET staff will conduct separate pre-departure and arrival orientations so you are prepared for your semester in Syria.
