RESOURCES
2024
Marks the GSU's 25th anniversary of International Education Week!
Faculty Resources
- Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)
- CETLOE- Center for Excellence in Teaching, Learning & Online Education
- CIRCLE- Center for International Resources & Collaborative Language Engagement
- EXLAB- Experience. Experiment. Explore.
- Intensive English Program Tutoring
- Library
- LinkedIn Learning
- MANGO
- Recreation Center
- Rialto Center for the Arts
- Technology Services
- Writing Center
How do I apply?
Please submit the following to [email protected]
- Resume
- Letter of interest
- Expected program dates
To apply for Faculty Mentoring Flex, Lab, or Faculty Pedagogical Summer:
Please submit your intent to apply form at https://international.gsu.edu/faculty-programs-application/
What does the program fee include?
- Coordination of admission and DS-2019 application (English language proficiency interviews, International Student and Scholar Services (ISSS) application and fees, and invitation letters)
- Georgia State University Faculty Mentor pairing and training fee
- Program coordination fee
- Logistical support for airport transportation
- Orientation, campus tour, and farewell events
- Mentor-Mentee agreement to outline and track goals, roles, and responsibilities
- Mid-program evaluations and final program report to sponsoring institution
- Access to university resources and services including PantherCard, Recreation Center, Library, CIRCLE, and CETLOE
- Intensive English Program course(s) and weekly individual/group tutoring sessions
- CityPASS to explore Atlanta’s attractions including the Coca-Cola Museum and the Georgia Aquarium
Airfare, visa fees, and mandatory medical insurance are not included.
Faculty Mentoring Summer & Pedagogical Programs :
- Coordination of admission and DS-2019 application (English language proficiency interviews, International Student and Scholar Services (ISSS) application and fees, and invitation letters)
- Georgia State University training fee
- Program coordination fee
- On-campus housing
- Flexible meal plan
- Logistical support for airport transportation
- Orientation, campus tour, and farewell events
- Mid-program evaluations and final program report to sponsoring institution
- Access to university resources and services including PantherCard, Recreation Center, Library, CIRCLE, and CETLOE
- Intensive English Program course and weekly individual/group tutoring sessions for the mentoring program participants
- CityPASS to explore Atlanta’s attractions including the Coca-Cola Museum and the Georgia Aquarium
Airfare, visa fees, and mandatory medical insurance are not included.
Which program is right for me?
Month-long to Year-Round Faculty Programs
Faculty Mentoring Flex and Faculty Mentoring Lab are programs where scholars collaborate with a mentor. Scholars can attend from one to 24. Academic mentoring include: research, teaching in an U.S. classroom, class observations, syllabi development, enhancement course evaluation, and language training. If you are specifically interested in working in a lab with a mentor, then Faculty Mentoring Lab is the perfect program for you! With this program, participants enhance their knowledge in the sciences and research techniques.
Summer Faculty Programs
Summer Faculty Mentoring and Faculty Pedagogical Summer are two summer programs where scholars enhance their skills for one or two months. Scholars may attend between the month of June or May through July. Housing is included for both summer programs! If you are specifically interested in enhancing your pedagogical skills without a mentor then the Faculty Pedagogical Summer is the best program for you. Center for Excellence in Teaching, Learning & Online Education (CETLOE) is a resource that is included with the Faculty Pedagogical Summer .
What financial documentation will I need?
Please note: the personal bank statements must be no more than 3 months from the day the DS-2019 is issued (NOT program start date).
Will Georgia State University provide health insurance?
How much does the health insurance cost?
You can get an estimate on https://www.pghstudent.com/. Select Georgia State University and J-1 visiting Faculty/Scholar.
How do I register and pay for my insurance?
If you have not yet purchased insurance, you will be required to purchase insurance for the duration of your stay through PGH Global -- this information will be provided during your International Student and Scholar Services orientation.
Can I bring along my dependents?
Please note: Program fees do not cover airfare, airport transportation for dependents, visa fees, housing, or mandatory medical insurance.
What are the important dates/deadlines?
Scholars may arrive 30 days prior to their program start date or leave 30 days after their program end date on the DS-2019.
Can I change my date on the DS-2019?
Yes, you may. It has to be done prior to your arrival. The new date cannot be more than two weeks after the original arrival date. If it is going to be more than two weeks, you should wait for the updated DS2019 to arrive in the mail and then schedule a visa interview. If you have already received your Visa then you can pick up the updated DS-2019 on arrival.
What are the next steps after receiving my DS-2019?
Schedule an interview to get your J-1 visiting faculty/scholar visa. Learn more.
Can I extend my stay?
Yes. Your extension will not carry you beyond five years in the United States as a J-1 Visiting Professor or Research Scholar or beyond six months in the United States as a J-1 Short-Term Scholar.
The Center for Excellence in Teaching, Learning & Online Education (CETLOE) has many workshops open to all faculty and staff, including international scholars visiting Georgia State. They also have a sample Pedagogy resources for Teaching Support under the “Resources” tab.
Location: Library South, 103 Decatur St SE, Atlanta, GA 30303
Website: https://cetl.gsu.edu/
Center for International Resources & Collaborative Language Engagement
CIRCLE provides language learning support through computer programs, movies, and books.
The EXLAB makerspace is a collaborative environment centered around experiential learning, creativity, and innovation. They welcome makers of all skill levels to come to learn something new and share their own stories of making.
The Intensive English Program offers 30-minute language tutoring sessions that are available by appointment Monday-Friday. You can schedule two sessions per week. Sessions can be scheduled back-to-back.
Location: The 2nd floor of Library North in the Learning Commons. All tutoring is in rooms N264 and N265 on the second floor. If you enter the library via the Classroom South entrance, the tutoring space is on your left-hand side, past the check-out desk, but before the elevators. If you enter the library from the north side please go up to the second floor.
The library offers a variety of resources for research and teaching. Find a library refresher here or schedule additional meetings with a subject librarian.
LinkedIn Learning offers an online library of business, software, technology and creative skills training.
Mango is an online tool for practicing language – they even have specific courses for “English for Chinese Speakers”.
The recreation center offers fitness equipment, pools, courts for exercise, and many free fitness classes.
Location:101 Piedmont Ave SE, Atlanta, GA 30303
Each year, the Rialto Center presents the Rialto Series, a unique subscription series featuring world-class artists, presenting an eclectic mix of world music, jazz, contemporary dance and international programs, as well as media arts.
Plan to meet your friends downtown for Feed Your Senses, the Rialto’s free monthly lunch-and-learn performing arts series every third Wednesday at noon in the lobby at the Rialto Center for the Arts.
Location: 80 Forsyth St NW, Atlanta, GA 30303
Technology Services offers support on all GSU devices. They also offer training for commonly used software and can download software to devices.
Location: 101 Piedmont Ave SE, Atlanta, GA 30303
The Writing Center is available for all GSU faculty, staff and students for writing creation and editing. No matter where you are in the processes a trained member of the Writing Center is there to assist.
Location: 25 Park Place, Ste. 2420 Atlanta, Georgia 30303
Summer Institute Resources & Payment Links
Learn more about the Summer Institute by downloading the following resources:
2024 Summer Institute Calendar
2024 Insurance Enrollment Instructions
Refundable housing fee payment (If the student’s room is kept clean, then the $100 will be refunded after departure.)
Housing extra night payment
Florida trip payment
Insurance payment
Frequently Asked Questions
How do I apply?
- Student information and course selection
- Board of Regents questionnaire
- Intent to Register form
Click here for step by step application instructions.
What does the program fee include?
- In-state tuition & fees for 6 credits
- On-campus Housing (31 nights) – You may purchase additional nights for early arrivals up to 3-4 days.
- Flexible meal plan
- Program fee
- Medical Insurance
- Transportation and excursions
- “Breeze Card” for local transportation
- Transportation to/from the airport (For cohorts only)
- Admission to Atlanta attractions, which may include:
- World of Coca-Cola
- Georgia Aquarium
- High Museum of Art
- Zoo Atlanta
Please Note:
• Medical insurance: Students must register and pay for medical insurance on their own. Information on how to register for insurance will be sent to accepted students.
• $100 refundable housing security deposit is in addition to the program fee.
• Airfare and visa fees are not included.
Do I need TOEFL or IELTS scores to apply?
To demonstrate English proficiency, student can do one of the following:
- Submit evidence of successful completion of a recent year of English preparatory studies.
- Request an oral interview with the Office of International Initiatives.
- Submit evidence of a country specific test score to [email protected] for approval.
- Submit TOEFL or IELTS scores. Scores must be no more than two years old at the time of application. See the information below for requirements and course eligibility.
|
TOEFL iBT |
IELTS |
Course Eligibility |
| above 69 | 6.5 or above | One field-specific course and one English course |
| 60 - 69 | 6.0 | Two English courses |
| below 60 | below 6.0 | Referral to the Intensive English Program |
Will I be accepted to the Summer Institute?
While we don't guarantee acceptance to the Summer Institute, if you meet the English proficiency requirement and all of your documents are processed and accepted by Georgia State University, then we would be happy to welcome you to the Summer Institute.
How do I pay my deposit online?
- Log into your Georgia State University PAWS account (upon your first visit to that page, you will need to click "Activate Your CampusID" and follow the instructions) and select the “International Wire Payment” button in the “My Bill” section. You will be directed to the "Flywire by PeerTransfer" page.
- Follow the instructions by filling out the “Payment” section all the way down to “Create a new account” section (Here you will create your new account by entering the requested information).
- Click "Continue with Payment".
Note: in order to pay your deposit online, you need your Georgia State student ID number. You will receive this after your application has been processed by our Admissions team. If you are experiencing any difficulties, please contact the Office of International Initiatives at [email protected].
What are important deadlines?
- March 15: final deadline to apply for the Summer Institute.
- May 15:
- final deadline to pay all Summer Institute fees online through your student account.
- final deadline to pay the refundable housing deposit through MarketPlace
- final deadline to submit the Certificate of Immunization Form to the Student Health Clinic using the Patient Portal.
- June 15: final deadline to register and pay for PGH Global Health Insurance.
Please contact the Office of International Initiatives at [email protected] if you have any questions.
What is the cancellation policy?
- Before May 15: Full refund of any money you have paid (MINUS the $450 deposit).
- May 15 - 31: the Maximum possible refund is $2,385.18 which is the full amount paid of $5,300 minus deposit and tuition & fees.
- No refunds will be issued after June 1.
Please contact the Office of International Initiatives at [email protected] if you have any questions.
How do I get to the university housing?
Does the program fee cover insurance?
Yes, the program fee covers the insurance. You must enroll in PGH Global Health Insurance. The $100.16 insurance fee is part of the total program fee, but students will pay $100.16 directly to the insurance company and the remaining balance to Georgia State University.
How do I register and pay for my insurance?
All participants must be enrolled in PGH Global health insurance. The total cost is $100.16 for coverage between July 1 - August 1, 2024. Students must register and pay for PGH Global health insurance on their own. Your Georgia State student account will be reduced by $100.16 to reflect this change.
Please read the step-by-step instructions on how to register and pay for insurance. You must register for insurance by June 15; your coverage will automatically begin on July 1.
What should I do if I'm having trouble registering for PGH Global insurance?
We have attached a manual on how to apply for PGH Global insurance, here.
Visit www.intlinsure.com/georgiacare and select Georgia State University - Summer Institute from the drop-down box.
If you have any more issues please contact PGH Global directly. Just proceed to their website and all the contact information will be there - https://www.pghstudent.com/page/customer-service
Can I enroll in my own insurance?
Which immunizations do I need?
Georgia State University intends to provide a safe and healthy environment for all students. That is why, in compliance with the State Board of Regents immunization requirements, all students must show proof of being immunized.Click here for the immunization form.
Do I really need all the vaccines on the list?
Yes, most of the vaccines are required. The Hepatitis B vaccine is required if you are 18 years old or younger. You need a Tdap booster, if your Tdap vaccine is over 10 years old. Click here for exemptions.
How do I submit my immunization records?
The immunization form should be submitted to the Student Health Clinic through the online Patient Portal. Instructions are available here.
Visit the Health Clinic's website for more information.
What if I can’t get all my vaccines before my arrival?
The Georgia State Student Health Clinic provides them for free or for a low fee. For more information click here.
Why do I need to add 141 Piedmont Ave, Atlanta, GA 30303 as my mailing address?
This is the address at the Commons, the place where you will be living during your stay at Georgia State University. The university staff needs a local address where you can be contacted.
Why do I see a screen asking me to upload documents after I submitted my application?
This is a generic screen uploaded by our University system. You DO NOT need to upload any documents.
The Summer Institute does not require participants to submit an academic transcript or TOEFL scores, but we encourage all applicants to submit at least their TOEFL or IELTS scores, if they have it, on their online application to help with your course placement. Failure to submit TOEFL scores or transcript will NOT affect your admission into the 2024 Summer Institute.
Do I need a TOEFL or IELTS score to apply?
TOEFL or IELTS scores are not required for application or admission to the Summer Institute. However, students must demonstrate a certain level of English proficiency.
To demonstrate English proficiency, student can do one of the following:
- Submit evidence of successful completion of a recent year of English preparatory studies.
- Request an oral interview with the Office of International Initiatives.
- Submit TOEFL or IELTS scores. Scores must be no more than two years old at the time of application. See the information below for requirements and course eligibility.
- Submit Duolingo score. Scores must be 95 and above and no more than two years old at the time of application.
| TOEFL iBT | IELTS | Course Eligibility |
| above 70 | 6.5 or above | One field-specific course and one English course |
| 60 - 70 | 6.0 | Two English courses |
| below 60 | below 6.0 | Intensive English Program |
Do I need to submit any additional documents?
Is the Summer Institute right for me?
Yes, absolutely! The Summer Institute is designed for international students to experience life at an American campus. Not only will you earn six hours of academic credit in a university nationally ranked #2 for best undergrad programs and innovation, but you will live on-campus and participate in fun and interesting excursions to explore our beautiful city and the surrounding areas. You will find that, compared to other summer programs, Georgia State offers unsurpassed quality and personalized attention at an affordable program fee.
Will I have time to explore, travel, or shop on my own?
Of course! We know that your visit to Atlanta is a special time for you to experience U.S. culture, and we encourage you to explore. While we will arrange for group outings to attractions in and around Atlanta, you will have most evenings and some weekends free to shop, visit tourist attractions, or participate in other activities like the Touch the Earth program through the Student Recreation Center. There are numerous malls in and around Atlanta, so you will have plenty of places to shop on your own, too!
Can I travel before or after the program?
Before or after the program dates (July 1 - August 1), you are welcome to travel on your own. Atlanta's airport is a Delta hub, with flights to major cities like Miami, New York City, Washington, D.C., Chicago, and Los Angeles. Please know that if you choose to stay in Atlanta before the program begins or after the program ends, you will have to find your own accommodation, as on-campus housing will not be available after August 1. Should you need assistance with booking airline or bus tickets to other cities, or help with purchasing tickets to other attractions, please let us know. We're happy to help you!
Please be mindful of arrival regulations and departure grace periods.
I'd like to talk to a previous Summer Institute student about their experience. Is this possible?
Sure! Please contact the Office of International Initiatives at [email protected] to inquire about contacting previous students.
Does the Summer Institute have social media pages?
Please find us at:
Twitter: www.twitter.com/GSUOII
Facebook: www.facebook.com/GSUInternational
Instagram: instagram.com/gsuinternational
Will my English skills be good enough to keep up in class?
A lot of our previous students have had the same concern as you. Our experienced professors are conscious of the language levels in their classrooms and they are happy to adjust the class pace to help you maximize your learning. We assess our students' language proficiency levels and help them register for the courses that are appropriate for their language level.
Will I attend class every day?
The Summer Institute classes meet Monday through Friday. Each class is 2 hours and 20 minutes. There are two blocks of classes: morning classes and afternoon classes. Attendance at all classes is required.
Will I be in classes with Georgia State students?
Given the duration of the Summer Institute, we cannot guarantee that Georgia State students will be in your classes. However, we partner Summer Institute students with Global Ambassadors, who are Georgia State students who will practice English and explore Atlanta with you.
How do I transfer my credits?
Please follow these instructions if you still have access to your student ID:
- Visit Georgia State’s Panther Access to Web Services portal at paws.gsu.edu
- Sign in with your Georgia State account username and password.
- Once you have signed in, go to Enrollment tab which is the second tab on the top menu.
- Once you open the Enrollment tab, look for Updates/Requests Student Records and click on Transcript Ordering Site.
- You will be redirected to a GoSolar website. Click on Access the Transcript Ordering Site.
- Once again you will be redirected to another site. Click under the search bar on Send to Yourself, Another Individual, or Third Party.
- Select the option that is more suitable to your needs eTranscript or Paper Transcript. Be aware that Paper Transcript takes 5-12 business days to arrive to the final destination.
- Fill out the forms and submit your payment. After processing your payment, you should receive an email with confirming your order and giving you instruction on how to download the document or when will be the estimated delivery.
Please follow the instructions for former students transcripts if you are a former student
- Visit Georgia State’s Panther Access to Web Services portal at gsu.edu
- Click on Former Student Transcripts, located at the bottom of the page.
- You will be redirected to a new page
Step 1: Enter the required personal information, then click the Continue button.
Step 2: You will be directed to the Transcript Ordering Form.
- Once again you will be redirected to another site. Click under the search bar on Send to Yourself, Another Individual, or Third Party.
- Select the option that is more suitable to your needs eTranscript or Paper Transcript. Be aware that Paper Transcript takes 5-12 business days to arrive to the final destination.
- Fill out the forms and submit your payment. After processing your payment, you should receive an email with confirming your order and giving you instruction on how to download the document or when will be the estimated delivery.
Should you encounter any problem, please reach out to the Office of Academic Records at [email protected] or 404-413-2248.
How do I convert to ECTS credits ?
The only way to officially convert credit hours to ECTS credits is for the student's home university to contact Georgia State’s Office of the Registrar by going to https://registrar.gsu.edu/contact/, and having them handle the process.
Can I have information on graduate programs at Georgia State University?
Georgia State University has many opportunities for students to obtain their graduate degree. During the Summer Institute, a graduate information session is held. If you are interested in learning more about Georgia State’s graduate programs, please contact us for more information or click here for the university’s graduate information page.
What do I need to bring?
- Your passport, I-20, Certificate of Immunization, all the
certificates you got after taking vaccine shots - Copy of your PGH Global health insurance card and
coverage plan - Credit cards that you plan to use while in the U.S.
- Small gifts or tokens of appreciation for your new Georgia State friends
- An extra suitcase, in case you want to shop a lot. But please take a
look into the luggage policy of your airline. You can also buy one
here from the outlet mall. - Lightweight shirts, pants, dress or shorts (the weather is hot and
humid.) - Lightweight jacket (it could be cold indoors.)
- Swimsuit
- Sunscreen
- Towel and washcloth
- Umbrella
- Camera and memory card
- Chargers for your electronics (phone,laptop)
- Adaptor (the USA uses 110 volts)
- Toiletries (small size, it is very convenient to buy them here)
- Laptop, iPad
- 1 or 2 notebooks, 1 or 2 folders
- Pencils, pens, highlighters
- Comfortable walking shoes
- Medicine or prescriptions that you normally take
- Additional medicine you prefer in case of headache, diarrhea,
cramps, etc… - Local snacks or treats from home that might taste good when
you’re feeling homesick (still, you need to double-check your
luggage policy since some food may not be allowed.)
Click here to print this packing list.
Summer Sessions Resources & Payment Links
Learn more about the Summer Sessions by downloading the following resources:
2024 Summer Sessions Biology Calendar
2024 Summer Sessions Chemistry Calendar
Summer Sessions deposit payment
Summer Sessions program payment
Refundable housing fee payment (If the student’s room is kept clean, then the $100 will be refunded after departure.)
Housing extra night payment
Florida trip single room payment
How do I apply?
- Complete the online application for your chosen track.
- Pay the non-refundable $100 deposit within 15 days of being accepted.
- Pay the program fee.
What does the program fee include?
- Seminars
- On-campus Housing (14 nights) – You may purchase additional nights for early arrivals up to 3-4 days.
- Flexible meal plan
- Transportation and excursions:
- “Breeze Card” for local transportation
- Transportation to/from the airport (for cohorts only)
- Admission to Atlanta attractions, which may include:
- World of Coca-Cola
- Georgia Aquarium
- High Museum of Art
- Zoo Atlanta
- Florida trip
Please Note:
- $100 refundable housing security deposit is in addition to the program fee.
- Airfare and visa fees are not included.
What are the important deadlines?
- April 15, 2023: Application Deadline
- May 15, 2023: Full Payment Deadline
- 7 days after being accepted to Summer Sessions, all participants must pay a non-refundable $100 deposit, which will be applied to the total cost of the program. The deposit is refundable only if participants secure a visa appointment in a timely manner but cannot obtain a visa or if the program is canceled.
What is the cancellation policy?
- Before June 1st: Full refund of any money you have paid (MINUS a $100 nonrefundable fee).
- No refunds will be issued after June 1st.
- If the program is canceled or a participant secures a visa appointment in a timely manner but cannot obtain a visa, then a full refund will be issued.
Do I need to get a health insurance?
Health insurance is not required for B visas; however, insurance or at least travel medical insurance, is highly recommended since a medical situation can occur at any time.
How do I get to the university housing?
Arrangements will be made to pick up and drop off students arriving in cohorts. Individuals can take Uber, Lyft and use MARTA (local transportation to get to housing). More information will be provided closer to your arrival.
Can I travel before or after the program?
Before or after the program dates (July 18 - August 1), you are welcome to travel on your own. Atlanta's airport is a Delta hub, with flights to major cities like Miami, New York City, Washington, D.C., Chicago, and Los Angeles. Please know that if you choose to stay in Atlanta before the program begins or after the program ends, you will have to find your own accommodation, as on-campus housing will not be available after August 1. Should you need assistance with booking airline or bus tickets to other cities, or help with purchasing tickets to other attractions, please let us know. We're happy to help you!
I'd like to talk to a previous Summer Sessions student about their experience. Is this possible?
Sure! Please contact the Office of International Initiatives at [email protected] to inquire about contacting previous students.
Does the Summer Sessions program have social media pages?
Please find us at:
Twitter: http://www.twitter.com/GSUOII
Facebook: http://www.facebook.com/GSUInternational
Instagram: http://instagram.com/gsuinternational
Snapchat: GSUOII
What should I pack?
- Your passport
- Copy of your health insurance card and
coverage plan - Credit cards that you plan to use while in the U.S.
- Small gifts or tokens of appreciation for your new Georgia State friends
- An extra suitcase, in case you want to shop a lot. But please take a
look into the luggage policy of your airline. You can also buy one
here from the outlet mall. - Lightweight shirts, pants, dress or shorts (the weather is hot and
humid.) - Lightweight jacket (it could be cold indoors.)
- Swimsuit
- Sunscreen
- Towel and washcloth
- Umbrella
- Camera and memory card
- Chargers for your electronics (phone,laptop)
- Adaptor (the USA uses 110 volts)
- Toiletries (small size, it is very convenient to buy them here)
- Laptop, iPad
- 1 or 2 notebooks, 1 or 2 folders
- Pencils, pens, highlighters
- Comfortable walking shoes
- Medicine or prescriptions that you normally take
- Additional medicine you prefer in case of headache, diarrhea,
cramps, etc… - Local snacks or treats from home that might taste good when
you’re feeling homesick (still, you need to double-check your
luggage policy since some food may not be allowed.)
Click here to print this packing list.