FAQs
Why study abroad?
The benefits to study abroad are many. Here are a few:
- Special academic opportunities
- Foreign language competency
- Preparation for careers with an international dimension
- Cross-cultural competence and understanding
How do I choose a seminar?
- PIIRS sponsors Global Seminar information sessions in the fall and early spring each academic year and in conjunction with the annual study abroad fair in the fall.
- PIIRS maintains information regarding Global Seminars, including evaluations by former participants, to assist you in selecting the program best suited to your needs and interests.
- PIIRS’ seminar administrators are a resource for students interested in the Global Seminars. You are encouraged to explore your options and discuss your plans with the administrators as well as the seminar directors.
How long is a Global Seminar?
The Global Seminars are six weeks long.
How many students attend the seminar?
Each Global Seminar has a maximum of fifteen students and a minimum of twelve. Three to five students from the host institution may also enroll in the seminar.
Where can I find the application forms?
Application forms can be found on the PIIRS website at: http://www.princeton.edu/~piirs/curriculum/index.html. Click on your seminar of choice and then on “Application Information.”
What happens once my application is submitted?
Applicant interviews for the 2010 Global Seminars will be held during the week of February 22, 2010. Acceptance emails will be sent out Thursday–Friday, March 1–2, 2010. The deadline to reserve a place in the seminar is Monday, March 22, 2010. A nonrefundable deposit of $500 will be charged to each seminar student’s account by April 1.
Should I make my own travel arrangements?
Students are required to make their own flight arrangements to and from the seminar. Transfer information will be available before you depart: transportation from the airport to the university or hotel will be arranged for you, or specific information on taxis or other public transportation to your accommodation will be provided. You will need to complete the travel database before you depart the U.S. for your Global Seminar.
What documents do I need to provide once I enroll in the seminar?
- Passport
- Completed visa application form and supporting documents if required (PIIRS will help obtain the travel visa, see below)
- Passport photos (2)
- Flight itinerary
- Completed profile on University Travel Database
- Two copies of Self Disclosure health form in envelopes marked “confidential”
- Emergency contact information
My passport expires a month after the seminar concludes. Is that okay?
No. For U.S. passport holders, most countries require that the passport be valid for at least six months beyond the departure date and have at least two blank pages for the visa.
Students holding non-U.S. passports should check with their government’s embassy for specific requirements.
How do I get a passport?
Please refer to the U.S. State Department website for passport information and an application. Forms are available online or at the post offices where some offices also offer application processing by appointment. Non-U.S. citizens should contact their government's embassy regarding plans for foreign travel.
Do I need a Visa?
Yes. Almost all foreign travelers to Ghana need a visa.
How do I obtain a travel visa for the Global Seminar in Ghana-England?
The seminar administrator will assist students in determining the required visa documentation based on their citizenship. The seminar administrator will coordinate submission of visa applications with Travisa, a visa expediting service.
What happens when I arrive in Accra?
Students are responsible for making their own way to accommodations in Accra. However, it may be possible for group transportation to be arranged for students arriving on the same flight; contact the seminar administrator for details. Check-in date will be confirmed by the seminar director. After check-in, an orientation session/dinner will be held to introduce students to the host institution and city. The seminar director will provide full details.
Where is the housing in Accra and London?
Housing and some meals will be provided by New York University in Ghana Academic Center, in either Church Crescent or Solomon’s Lodge, and by Queen Mary, University of London, in the Westfield Student Village, situated in the north-east corner of the Mile End Campus (ensuite rooms with shared kitchen facilities). Check with the seminar administrator for details.
Can I arrive at the seminar early or leave later and stay at the seminar hotel or host university dormitory for the additional days?
The seminar housing fee collected by PIIRS covers accommodations for only the advertised dates of the seminar. At a seminar hotel, extra nights can be arranged and paid for by the seminar students. Dormitories at host universities generally do not accommodate students for additional nights; students will have to make their own arrangements, if needed, at a local hotel and cover all expenses. Your seminar administrator may be able to recommend a reasonably priced hotel in the host city.
What type of community service is planned?
In Ghana, students will volunteer in schools and community health centers in the greater Accra area. The seminar director will have the full details.
Do I need health/travel insurance?
Yes. All participants MUST have proof of up-to-date health/travel insurance.
Is Ghana safe for travelers? Is England?
Ghana is relatively safe for travelers. Pick pocketing, purse snatching, and various types of scams are the most common forms of crime confronting visitors to Ghana. Take precautions such as traveling in groups and avoiding travel at night in communal taxis.
London is also safe, as long you take typical precautions. For example, when going on an excursion, plan your route before you leave. It is recommended that travelers use only black cabs or registered mini-cabs. Avoid walking alone at night and be aware of what’s going on around you. Make sure you keep your property out of sight.
In any city, normal precautions are in order. Do not wear exposed, expensive jewelry; do not carry large amounts of cash—handle your cash discreetly; be aware of your surroundings; and don’t befriend strangers.
Read the following carefully: http://travel.state.gov/travel/tips/safety/safety_1747.html
Are there any health concerns in either country?
The University’s McCosh Health Center will provide information on required immunizations and other health precautions (e.g., regarding water and food).
What if I have a medical emergency abroad?
- Students are covered by the International SOS program through Princeton University and will be given an ID card prior to travel. International SOS customer service will assist with locating medical assistance as well as provide recommendations for dealing with other emergency situations. Students and parents should familiarize themselves with the International SOS program by visiting its website. (PU ID 11BSGC000022 Scholastic Comprehensive Membership).
- All emergencies should be reported to the seminar director who may consult with on-site staff to determine the best way of handling the situation.
- U.S. embassies abroad can direct U.S. citizens to medical care in a foreign country. U.S. embassies may also provide additional assistance in cases of severe emergencies. ‘
Will I be able to purchase my preferred brand of over-the-counter medicines?
You should bring any preferred brands of over-the-counter medications such as cold and flu tablets or antidiarrheal, etc. If you are taking any prescription medications, we advise you bring slightly more than you’ll need for the duration of your stay.
What student policies apply to the Global Seminars?
Princeton University regulations on conduct, health, safety and academic integrity apply to all Global Seminars. Additionally, students are subject to the regulations of the host institutions. Please consult the university’s Rights, Rules, and Responsibilities publication for more information.
How much spending money shall I bring?
This depends on the individual and is really a personal decision. You’ll need enough to cover entertainment, transportation, and meals during your free time, as well as any shopping you make want to do. An overview of expenses in Ghana includes:
- Transportation: Taxi prices are negotiable and can be bartered. Settle on a fare before getting in. A taxi for a very short route should be no more than GH₵1.00. Longer routes range from GH₵2.50-5.00. GH₵7.00 should be enough to take you anywhere in the city. Fares fluctuate with fuel prices on the international market. About one in every ten taxi drivers will probably try to cheat you for a higher price.
Another form of transportation available is a “Tro-tro,” typically old, twelve-passenger VW vans that have been adapted to fit as many people and possessions as possible. Tro-tros are an excellent way to meet Ghanaians, and are always great for a cultural adventure. Sometimes Tro-tro drivers will make you pay extra for luggage, and occasionally they will try to overcharge, so try bargaining for this fee. Tro-tros run along fixed routes, have fixed fares, and will rarely run with less than capacity—so be prepared to wait. They are inexpensive (cheaper than shared taxis) and fares should reflect distance traveled. Trips within the city generally cost GH₵.20. - Food: Food is extremely cheap in Ghana. A great African meal in a restaurant can cost as little as GH₵3.00 to GH₵7.00. Fruit juices run GH₵1.50 and water GH₵1.00 to GH₵1.50. A soft drink such as Coke, Fanta, 7UP (called "minerals" by locals) are widely available for GH₵0.50.
How does money exchange work in Ghana? How should I bring money?
The Ghanaian monetary unit is the cedis (GH¢); 1 US Dollar = 0.6957. Older U.S. dollar bills are generally rejected. Please ensure that the bills you take are all from the 2007 series or above Ghanaian currency must either be spent or exchanged before departure, or it will be confiscated.
- Cash: Foreign currency can be exchanged at foreign exchange bureaus and commercial banks at the airport and in all major cities and towns. Traveler’s checks are accepted at banks and foreign exchange bureaus, but the exchange rate may be lower than for cash transactions.
- Credit Cards: Use of credit cards in Ghana should be avoided if possible, as a growing number of travelers have been victims of credit card fraud.
Let your ATM/debit/credit card bank know that you will be traveling to Ghana and England and the dates of your visit. If you use your card without letting them know first, there is a good chance that they will block all payments.
What clothing should I bring?
Please refer to the Study Abroad Handbook for packing suggestions.
Where can I do my laundry?
The accommodations in both locations have laundry facilities.
What is the weather like in Ghana? In England?
In Ghana, maximum temperatures are around 86F, dropping three or four degrees during the brief respite between rainy seasons. The humidity is constantly high, at about 80 percent. In England, summer weather in London is pleasant with temperatures averaging about 64F.
How easy is it to find vegetarian food in Ghana? In England?
In Ghana, most restaurants have vegetarian options. It is very easy to find vegetarian food in England, especially in London; there are many vegan and vegetarian restaurants and health-food shops.
What voltage is used in Ghana? In England?
Ghana and England both use 220 volts (the U.S. uses 110 volts) and European-style wall sockets. You will likely need a voltage converter and plug adaptor to use your appliances. Both may be available for purchase at the U-Store.
What is the best and least expensive way to stay connected while abroad?
- Cell phones: Check with your carrier to make sure that your cell phone will work abroad before you leave the U.S. This is an expensive way to keep in touch, but important in case of emergencies. You may also purchase a disposable phone in country.
- Internet: This is probably the least expensive way to stay in touch with your family and friends. All rooms will have internet access.
