I applied to, but was not admitted. Can I apply again?
Of course! We encourage you to reapply, especially if you originally applied for the fall quarter of your junior year.
Do I need to be an Earth Systems, Human Biology or Art History major to apply for the Winter Quarter?
No, absolutely not. We’ve had archeology, engineering, anthropology, STS, economics, and even American studies students attend the BSIW Program in the winter. Your eligibility for winter attendance depends on a combination of your interests and coursework. For example: if you’re majoring in engineering and focusing on clean energy technology, then you are a good match for the winter quarter.
Can I apply for the spring quarter of my senior year?
No. We do not accept students during the spring quarter of their senior year or their last quarter at Stanford.
Can SIW accommodate varsity athletes?
Of course! Many varsity athletes have attended the BSIW Program over the years. Your coach may be able to help you plan a workout schedule, which takes into account your work schedule here in Washington and the availability of exercise facilities. There is a small gym in the SIW building and we also have a relationship with the Marriott Wardman Park Fitness Center, which has a much larger gym across the street. There are also many great places to run in the area.
Do I need to major in the social sciences to attend the BSIW Program?
No. All majors are welcome. If you have a demonstrated interest and background in health, the environment and /or the arts, we strongly encourage you to attend the BSIW Program during the winter quarter. Majors in the Humanities, Sciences, Engineering, and Computer Science have participated in all three quarters of the BSIW Program.
Can I attend an overseas program?
Yes, of course you attend and an overseas program. However, be sure to carefully calculate your units and develop a prudent study plan for your remaining time at Stanford. Do not count on classes to be offered every quarter or on obtaining credit in your major for all of your classes taken at SIW or BOSP. However, if you plan carefully, you may very well be able to participate in the BSIW Program and go abroad as well. Many SIW students have done both.
Is there a minimum GPA for admission?
There is no definitive GPA requirement. We take into account your major and coursework in evaluating your transcript. Please be aware that many agencies and organizations routinely request transcripts when considering applicants for internships. Your essays and letters of recommendation are also very important as we take everything including your personal statement and your letters of recommendation, as well as your transcript, into account when considering your application.
Is there any required coursework for attending the BSIW Program?
There is no specific required coursework to attend the BSIW Program. However, we encourage you to take at least one American politics or policy-relevant course before attending SIW.
Can I do the BSIW Program and another abroad program as well?
Yes. The only catch is that students must be on-campus the quarter of their application. Thus, if students plan on being overseas two quarters before they wish to attend the program (the normal application period), they must file an early application three quarters in advance.
Will the BSIW Program cost more than a quarter on campus?
Like the Bing Overseas Studies Programs, the Bing Stanford in Washington Program is not designed to be any more expensive than living on campus. However, the quarter you spend in Washington may be slightly longer than on campus and thus, SIW’s cost will be slightly higher. Your financial aid package will be adjusted to take into account any difference in the cost of room and board and in the expenses associated with the distance traveled to arrive at SIW from your home.
Washington is a city, with many opportunities, some of which cost money. Although there are many free museums and cultural activities to explore, you may spend more of your funds eating out, going to movies, etc… than you would while living on campus. Lastly, you may need to invest in business attire if you do not already own work-appropriate clothing.
