We accept applications from rising juniors and seniors in high school who are in good academic standing and have no academic or disciplinary suspensions on their records. High school seniors who will graduate in the spring of 2012 are also welcome. A few programs may consider rising high school sophomores provided they are sufficiently mature to benefit from a University environment. please check the course descriptions carefully for eligibility requirements.

When is the application deadline?

Admissions are made on a rolling basis, but it is best to apply early since programs fill up quickly.

Does a student need to complete two applications if he or she is applying to more than one program?

No. The student should simply indicate on the online application form the programs to which he or she is applying. Please note that students should only apply to programs they plan to attend.

Do students need to submit all their application components at once?

A student must submit his or her application form, essay, and fee at one time through the online application system, but the recommendation will be submitted online separately. Copies of transcripts (PDFs or Word Documents) can be uploaded in the web application. Please remember that your application will not be reviewed until it is complete. Students should be sure to contact their recommenders to make sure they have the correct email address for their recommender since the applicant must provide this address to UMass Amherst. Applicants should encourage their recommenders to respond promptly when contacted by UMass.

How many letters of recommendation does a student need?

Only one recommendation is necessary. Please be sure the recommendation comes from a teacher, or guidance counselor or another individual who has worked with the student in an academic environment.

What if a student has not yet taken the PSAT, SAT, or ACT?

Standardized test scores are not required for students applying to Summer College.

Are scholarship opportunities available?

Very limited scholarships may be available for specific Intensive programs. Please check the program descriptions carefully and follow the directions.

Can international students apply to summer programs?

Yes, international students are encouraged to apply. Please check with the International Programs Office for visa information.

Do students who took the program last year need to reapply?

Yes, both new and returning students must complete a full summer 2012 application packet with updated materials.

Which programs offer college credits?

Summer College Intensives may have a one or two credit option. Please check the course description carefully to determine if the credit option is available.

When will students hear from Summer College about their application status?

Acceptances are made on a rolling basis. A student will receive an acceptance or denial e-mail two weeks after his or her application file is completed, unless otherwise specified in the course description (so please be sure to list a frequently used e-mail address on the application form). After the student has been accepted they should electronically download all the necessary forms in order to register for his or her program. These documents include a Medical Permission Form, an Immunization Form, a campus map, an Occupancy Agreement, a Campus Regulations Form, and a Liability Waiver. These forms must be printed, completed and returned to the UMass Amherst Summer College as quickly as possible. Students who have not completed and returned their forms with payment will not be permitted to enter or stay in UMass Amherst housing or attend any aspect of the program.

What are the registration packet documents and why are they important?

The registration material is available on the Summer College website as a PDF and is available for downloading. The packet contains all the forms that students and parents must read and sign.

Once a student is accepted, is he/she required to attend?

We assume that all students will attend the program(s) into which they are admitted. A student who decides not to attend should send an e-mail immediately to summercollege@provost.umass.edu.

PREPARING FOR UMASS AMHERST

Does the university provide transportation to campus?

UMass Amherst can provide bus transportation for students arriving by air at Bradley International Airport.

Dates, location and times of pick up will be posted on the Summer College website.

Can students bring a car to campus?

No, students in the Summer College programs are not permitted to bring a car to campus.

Are students permitted to commute to campus?

No, students participating in Summer College must live on campus.

How do Summer College students sign up for on-campus housing?

On campus housing is required for all students participating in UMass Amherst Summer College. Students must fill out and sign the housing agreement form.

Can a student request a specific roommate?

UMass Amherst Summer College does not accommodate roommate requests in order to support a true college living and learning experience. Students will meet their roommates on arrival day.

How do students pay for their housing and fees?

Please see the how to apply and register page.

Can students arrive to campus a day early or stay a day late?

Due to housing space and supervision, students must adhere to the program check-in and check-out times.

When will students know their residence hall assignments?

A student learns the residence hall in which he or she will be staying two to three weeks prior to the start of his or her program. All Summer College students will be in the same residence hall and will receive their room assignment at check-in.

Can a student arrive late to the summer program?

Students admitted to Summer College, may not miss any class meetings.

Where can students find information about refund policies?

The UMass Amherst Summer College refund policy is as follows.

If UMass Amherst Summer College cancels a course for any reason students receive a full refund of program fees less the $35 dollar application fee.

If a student withdraws from the program refunds are provided according to the schedule below.

Summer College Refund Schedule 2012

Session 1, June 24-July 7

Before May 4: 100%

After May 4 but before May 18: 75%

After May 18 but before June 1: 50%

After June 1: No refund.

Session 2, July 8 –July 21

Before May 18: 100%

After May 18 but before June 1: 75%

After June 1 but before June 15: 50%

After June 15: No refund.

Session 3, July 22 – August 4

Before June 1: 100%

After June 1 but before June 15: 75%

After June 15 but before June 29: 50%

After June 29: No refund

Withdrawals must be submitted in writing to:

Summer College Refunds

In Care of

CPE Registration Office

100 Venture Way

Hadley, MA 01035

You may also fax a copy of your withdrawal letter to 413-545-0513 by same date as post-mark date.

Please note: Students may change from credit to audit status by the 2nd day of class (i.e. June 24 for session 1, July 8 for session 2, July 22 for session 3) by sending an email to summercollege@provost.umass.edu. And notifying their instructor. There are no refunds for changing from credit to audit status.

Students who are dismissed from any Summer College program for any reason do not receive a refund.

Are residence halls air-conditioned?

No, residence halls are not air-conditioned; however, students may bring fans if they wish. Every room is furnished with a bed, a desk, and a chair for each resident. Bookshelves, drawers, and closets are built into the rooms. Residence halls have laundry facilities available to students. Males and females are separated, usually by floor. To read more about student housing, please visit the UMass Amherst Residential Life website.

Where can I send my Summer College packages and letters?

There will not be regular US Mail delivery to Knowlton Hall for students participating in the summer program. However, in cases of emergency, items can be mailed using either UPS overnight or USPS priority mail WITHOUT a required signature to:

Summer 2012 Program
Your Students Name
235 Whitmore Admin Building
181 President's Drive
Amherst, MA 01003

When a phone number is required, the number is: 413.545.2100

What kinds of social events and activities are available?

Students are permitted to engage in the rich and varied cultural life of the university during the summer. For Summer College students in particular, supervision and direction are provided by the Program Assistants and Resident Advisors. Students are encouraged to participate in organized ice cream socials, dances, movie nights, and other activities.

What is the extent of supervision students receive?

UMass Amherst Summer College programs are academic programs for mature, self-motivated high-school rising sophmores, juniors and seniors. It is not a summer camp and does not provide round-the-clock supervision. Supervision is provided during the following scheduled activities: classes, workshops, craft sessions, Q&A’s, studio courses, field trips. All students are supervised by their assigned Program Assistants and Resident Advisors who live in the residence halls with students and receive extensive training. Background checks are required of those serving as RA or PA.

During meals, free time, and the evening activities in the residential halls, participants may choose whether to engage with the group or spend their time independently. At all times, participants will have access to a program staff member as needed. The ability of participants to follow program, university, state and federal laws, and to act independently in a supportive college setting is required.

Do students need to bring their own bedding?

Linen service is provided for Summer College students.

Is there a dress code?

Generally, dress is informal. Please be aware that summer in New England is very changeable. It can be very hot and humid one moment and cool and rainy the next. Be sure to bring cool, comfortable clothing and an umbrella or rain gear. A good pair of walking shoes is highly recommended, especially for off-site visits. Laundry facilities are available in residence halls. For programs that have off-site visits, more formal dress is required for both men and women.

What school supplies should students bring?

Students should plan on bringing a notebook or binder, pens, and pencils. Additionally, students should check the course descriptions for any special books or materials individual instructors may require.

What time is check-in/checkout?

Summer College students may check into residence halls between 3pm-7pm on the Sunday they arrive at on campus. On the afternoon of check-in, students can get their UCards, explore campus, and have dinner. Students will then meet at their residence hall at 7pm for a campus tour and program introductions. Checkout time is 9am-12pm on the Saturday that the student's program ends.

Where can parents park on arrival day?

Parents can park next to the residence hall for student drop off and pick up.

Please refer to the campus map.

WHILE ON CAMPUS

Is a laptop computer required?

A laptop computer is not required, and all Summer College students have library access. However, all students are allowed to bring their own computers to campus. All rooms have access to the internet using an ethernet or wireless connection. Please note: Students are responsible for securing their own personal computers and should take all necessary steps to guard against loss.

Are Summer College students allowed to stay overnight off-campus with family or friends?

Students are not allowed to leave campus overnight except in special circumstances approved in advance by the Office of Residence Life.

Do all Summer College students need to purchase a meal plan?

Meals plans are required and included in the program fees for Summer College. Meal plans are for three meals a day for the duration of the program.

Can the dining hall accommodate students with specific dietary needs?

Yes! Our dining hall menus feature kosher or vegetarian items and our full-time Registered and Licensed Dietitian, Dianne Z. Sutherland, can provide counseling, regarding nutrition and individual dietary needs, such as lactose intolerances and food allergies, to students on the meal plan, free of charge. You may make an appointment or ask questions via e-mail.

Do students have access to a fitness facility on campus?

Yes, students have access to the university Recreation Center.

Is there an ATM available to students on campus?

There are many Bank of America ATM locations around campus including the Campus Center and adjacent to the Isenberg School of Management.

What if a student has an allergy or needs to take a certain medication?

It is the participant’s responsibility to secure and self-administer any necessary medications. Furthermore by signing the consent to treat minor form (if applicable), you may authorize University Health Services to provide medical and/or mental health care including but not limited to, diagnostic examinations, medical treatment and mental health counseling.

Will students need to purchase books?

In most cases students will not need to purchase books. Some programs may require texts which can be purchased on-line, please check course descriptions carefully for more information. Art or studio based courses may require supply kits which are preassembled. Please check the program description and pay along with program fees.

How do students find out where their classes meet?

Summer College program locations will be noted in packets students will receive during check in and will be posted online on the Summer College website.

Do students receive any form of identification?

All Summer College students will receive UCards, which function as student ID and access cards. Students should get their UCards on the day they arrive and carry the cards with them at all times. Please be aware that the UCard Office charges $25 to replace lost cards. Students will also have a digital photo taken at check in.

What happens if a student loses his or her UCard?

There is a $25 dollar UCard replacement fee and the student will need to go to the UCard Office to obtain a replacement card.

For more information call 413-577-2112

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