FAQs

Why study abroad?

The benefits to study abroad are many.  Here are a few:

How do I choose a seminar?

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 (click on the link below) before you depart the U.S. for your Global Seminar.

What documents do I need to provide once I enroll in the seminar?

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 office, which also may 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 Vietnam need a visa

How do I obtain a travel visa for the Global Seminar in Vietnam?

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.

Where is the housing in Hanoi?

Seminar housing is at the Bao Khanh Hotel.  The hotel is located at the edge of the historic “Thirty-Six Streets,” the original center of Hanoi. Students will enjoy single air-conditioned rooms with full Internet access. Each room is equipped with a small refrigerator. A full breakfast is included in the daily price.

What happens when I arrive in Hanoi?

Students  are responsible for making their own way to the hotel in Hanoi. Full details will be provided by the seminar director. 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.

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?

The seminar includes a community service component. The seminar director will provide the full details.

Do I need health/travel insurance?

Yes. All participants MUST have proof of up to date health/travel insurance.
Is Vietnam safe for travelers?  
Hanoi is a very safe city. You can walk anywhere. There are infrequent reports of burglary of wealthy homes and occasional purse-snatching, but they are extremely rare. As 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 Vietnam?

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?

 
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.

How does money exchange work in Vietnam? How should I bring money?

Vietnam is still mainly a cash economy; however traveler's checks, ATM/debit cards, and credit cards are also accepted.  Major hotels and most fine restaurants and stores accept credit cards.  ATM cards are probably the most convenient option for accessing money while in Vietnam.

Let your ATM/debit/credit card bank know that you will be traveling to Vietnam 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?

Lightweight, wash-and-wear clothes are in order, as are modest clothes, as Hanoi is a conservative society. Shorts and t-shirts, but not mini-shorts for women, are common in Hanoi. Students should expect to participate in one more formal event.  Men, therefore, should bring long slacks, and women should bring a skirt or long trousers. A swim suit and sandals are essential. No need to bring an umbrella; they are plentiful and inexpensive to buy.

Where can I do my laundry?

The Bao Khanh Hotel has one-day laundry service for a small fee. If you chose to use this service, the fee will be charged to you directly and is not covered by the program. In 2009, students paid about ten dollars a week last summer for laundry.

What’s the weather like in Vietnam?

June is hot—95 ° F beforethe monsoon begins in July, when temperatures will be slightly lower. Heavy monsoon rains usually begin during July, but they are episodic, sometimes lasting five minutes followed by a return of sunshine.
How easy is it to find vegetarian food in Vietnam?
It is possible to find good vegetarian food in Vietnam; dishes of vegetables and bean curd (tofu) are some of the best in the world. You should be aware that vegetables may be prepared using the same utensils as those used for meat.

What voltage is used in Vietnam?

Vietnam uses 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 in India. Both may be available for purchase at the U-Store.

What is the best and least expensive way to stay connected while abroad?