1. Can I receive academic credit for this course of study?

The University of Oxford does not award academic credit. Students study a given subject (e.g. English, Mathematics, Politics) for 3-4 years and, if successful in their “final examinations," are awarded a degree. Students participating in the St Hugh’s College Summer School who are invited to pursue academic credit will, upon the recommendation of the Director of the Summer School and with the approval of St Hugh’s College, receive a Certificate of Completion and official transcript. Successful students must demonstrate superior academic performance in both written and oral work.

Two important principles regarding academic credit should be kept in mind. First, academic credit is not automatic and never guaranteed. Second, what is called “transfer credit” is in fact a recommendation by one academic institution to another academic institution that academic credit be awarded at the second institution for work done at the first institution.

2. Do I have to pursue academic credit?

No. All students are expected to do academic work, but they are not required to demonstrate the superior academic performance required to receive a Certificate of Completion. They do the required reading, attend lectures and tutorials, record reflections in the Programme Notebook, sit weekly examinations and participate in group excursions and enrichment activities. Students who successfully complete the foregoing academic requirement as judged by the student's tutor and the Director of the Summer School receive a Certificate of Participation from St Hugh's College.

3. Who will teach me?

Academic instruction, including formal lectures and tutorials, is (with one or two exceptions) by members of St Hugh’s College and other members of the University of Oxford.

4. What is an Oxford tutorial?

Students prepare a weekly essay on a topic agreed upon with their tutor which is then discussed in the tutorial. The aim of the tutorial is to help the student develop the ability to think critically for him/herself. Students normally receive three weekly tutorials in the specific academic discipline they have been approved to study from members of the University of Oxford, sometimes in pairs but generally one-on-one.

6. What kind of supervision is there?

The College wants students to have a safe, enjoyable and profitable educational experience. There will be both male and female supervisors chosen by the Director of the Summer School who will be responsible for pastoral care and the day-to-day discipline of all participants.

7. What are the rules and regulations governing my participation?

Students are expected to conduct themselves at all times in such a manner as to represent their home country and to facilitate the success of the Summer School. Rules include but are not limited to the following. Unless otherwise approved by the Director of the Summer School or his designee, students must be in College by 10:00 p.m. The possession or use of alcohol and other drugs is strictly forbidden and will result in immediate dismissal from the Summer School. Smoking and dipping are forbidden in College. Students must dress appropriately for classes and excursions. Independent travel outside of Oxford must be approved by the Director of the Summer School or designee in advance and in writing.

8. What extra expenses will I have?

Additional costs include but are not limited to: passport pictures and fees, health insurance, transportation to and from St Hugh's College, personal expenses such as laundry and any other expenses not specifically mentioned in the “Terms and Conditions” as included.

9. How can I handle money?

The best way to handle money is to take both a credit card and a bank debit card with ATM capabilities. There are numerous ATM machines in Oxford from which you can withdraw cash. All cards should be checked before leaving home. Students should not bring cash or American Express Travelers Cheques. There is no longer an American Express Office in Oxford.

10. What if I become ill or have an accident?

There are excellent medical facilities, including an out-patient clinic and an internationally recognized hospital, situated very near to the College. All medical costs must be paid for at the time of service. Insurance claims must be filed by the patient with the health insurer in their home country.

11. How can I communicate with family and friends?

All students have a telephone in their room. It is recommended that parents or guardians arrange for one of the calling plans offered by long-distance carriers in their home country, as it is generally cheaper to telephone Great Britain from abroad than it is to telephone home from Great Britain. Participants in the Summer School will be given contact names and telephone numbers at St Hugh’s College which should be used in case of an emergency. The Porter’s Lodge at St Hugh’s College is manned 24 hours a day, 7 days a week. Students will also have access to email.

12. How do I arrange my travel to and from St Hugh's College?

Point-to-point transportation is available from select US gateways. Transfers between London airports and St Hugh's College can be arranged through St Hugh's College. All participants are expected to arrive in College by 12:00 noon on Saturday 28 June for Session I and on Saturday 26 July for Session II. The College cannot undertake to provide accommodation before these dates.