Q: What level of proficiency will I achieve after one summer session?
A: The Summer Intensive Language Program (SILP) covers up to one semester worth of work (180 hours). Actual intensity of the program may vary depending on program participants.
Q: How do I know what level I am?
A: Online diagnostic tests are available under the specific languages described in the SILP program under the Diagnostic Text box. You will be able to download the tests with an answer key to determine your score. These tests have been designed to give you, the participant, a preliminary idea of your language level. However, these tests do not replace the Placement Exams you will be required to take on the first day of the program during orientation. Language coordinators will place you into the appropriate level according to your Placement Exam results.
Q: Do I receive credit for participating in the program? Can I attend SILP for only a portion of the program?
A: Participants who complete the program receive 12 units of undergraduate credit. The 8 week course is divided into 3 four unit sections. You may sign up for the first section, or the first and second section, but you can only enter in the first section. You may not enter sections 2 or 3 without having completed section one. Incomplete status my be granted in lieu of a grade. However, if you are registered in the program and do not attend or do not complete the program, it will result in failure of the course and a grade of F.
Q: What is the application deadline?
A: The application deadline for the summer program is May 15, 2008.
Q: What application materials do I have to submit?
A: No materials other than the application and attached background information sheet are required to apply to the winter intensive language program.
Q: When and how do I find out if I have been admitted into the program?
A: Selection criteria for admission into the Winter Intensive Language Program at the Monterey Institute for International Studies (MIIS) is based on a sincere interest in and motivation for language study. Our goal is to make language and culture study accessible to everyone who is truly interested in it and we assume applying to the program as a sign thereof. Thus, all applicants are accepted into the program. The only reason that may keep an applicant from being admitted into the program is submission of application materials after the deadline for a program that has been closed.
Q: When do I have classes?
A: Classes are scheduled Monday - Friday for 5 hours mornings 9:00AM to 12:00PM and 1:00PM to 3:00PM with an hour lunch break between 12:00PM and 1:00PM.
Q: Do I have to live in Monterey? Do I have to stay in Monterey over the weekends?
A: Since the program takes place at the Monterey Institute, we do recommend that you reside in Monterey or in the surrounding area during your participation in the program. It is not necessary to stay in Monterey over the weekends unless there is an excursion or activity that has planned with the class that you would like to attend.
Q: Can I work or take other classes while I am in the program?
A: Since the program is "truly" intensive we discourage students from signing up for other classes or working while taking part in the program. Most students find that they need afternoons in order to complete assignments and review for classes the following day.
Q: Is financial aid available?
A: Many of the program participants apply for alternative education loans through our Office of Student Financial Planning in order to cover program cost and other expenses. Further information is available by contacting the Financial Aid Office directly at financialaid@miis.edu or by phone at 831-647-4119.
Q: Is housing (room & board) available?
A: Housing is not available at the Monterey Institute. However, as of March 1, 2008, if you are registered in SILP, you may contact our Student Affairs Office and receive information on the available housing in the area. You may contact Student Affairs at studentaffairs@miis.edu or 831-647-4128.
Q: Who are the participants in the program?
A: Participants are from many different backgrounds. Many are undergraduate or graduate students at universities around the US while others are teachers, business professionals, travelers, and other language enthusiasts.
Q: Who are the instructors in the program?
A: All instructors are native or near-native speakers of the language and are highly experienced language instructors.
Q: Can my child/teenager participate in the program? What are the age requirements?
A: Participants in the Winter Intensive Language program have to be at least 16 years of age by the start of the summer program. Participants under the age of 18 must provide proof that they are in custody of a legal guardian living in the the local area. Under-age participants are also required to submit two letters of recommendation from 1 language teacher and one advisor or counselor attesting to their fitness for intensive language study.
Q: In addition to class instruction, what opportunities for language practice are available to me?
A: Cultural activities will be arranged on the weekends providing students the opportunity to speak with native speakers of the target language of their course.
Q: How many students can I expect to have in my class?
A: Average class size is anywhere between 6 to 13 students.
Q: Are tutors available to help with homework and assignments outside of class?
A: Instructors will have 5 office hours per week and will be available to answer student's questions. Each class will have a teaching assistant who will also be available for help outside of class.
Q: Are text books included in the SILP fees, and which textbook do I order if my diagnostic scores place me between levels?
A: No. Textbooks are not included in basic SILP fees. If your score on the diagnostic test is between levels, it is best to order both texts and return the one you do not use after the program has started. MIIS does not have a bookstore. All texts must be ordered online. It is imperative to come to SILP with your textbooks on the first day of the program.
