How To Attend
Your Future Starts Here
Applying to the Arclight Institute is simple and straightforward. Whether you’re enrolled at a U.S. or non-U.S. institution, our process is designed to help you move from interest to enrollment with clarity and confidence. With only 25 places per program available each year, we encourage early applications to secure your spot. Once accepted, you’ll join a select group of students preparing to spend their summer learning, traveling, and building the foundation for an international career.
Eligibility
The Arclight Institute welcomes applications from motivated students who are ready to take their studies abroad. To apply, you must:
- Be currently enrolled in an accredited U.S. or international college or university
- Be in good academic standing with a 3.0 GPA or higher
- Complete at least one year of undergraduate study by the program start date
- Demonstrate a commitment to academic rigor and professional growth
No specific major or prerequisite courses are required. Students from political science, international studies, environmental studies, and related fields are encouraged to apply.
Step-by-Step Process
- 01
Check with Your Institution
Before applying, confirm your department accepts study-abroad transfer credits for your major. Your institution's study-abroad office or registrar can help.
- 02
Application Submission
Complete the online application form through the Arclight Institute application portal and pay your $500 non-refundable deposit. This deposit secures your place while your application is reviewed.
- 03
Program Acceptable
You’ll receive confirmation of acceptance by email. If programs reach capacity, updates will be posted on the website in real time, so you always know if spaces remain available before applying.
- 03
Pre-Travel Preparation
In the weeks before departure, you’ll complete assigned readings and short essays to build your academic foundation. You’ll also participate in online orientation sessions that prepare you for both the classroom and life abroad.
- 05
Education Abroad
Let's go abroad! You'll spend four weeks living and learning with like-minded students, spending time behind the scenes at some of the world's most important centers of governance and cooperation.
- 05
Capstone & Evaluation
After returning home, you’ll complete a capstone policy paper connecting theory to practice on a contemporary global issue. This assignment parallels government position papers and is designed to give you a showpiece for graduate school, internship, or job applications.
- 07
Credits & Transcript
Arclight Institute programs are accredited through the University of Connecticut. Successful participants receive a UConn transcript for two 3-credit courses upon completion.
Arclight Institute Student Portal
As you begin your application, you’ll create your account in the Student Portal, powered by HEI Apply. This secure portal will guide you through every step of the process—from completing application requirements to preparing for your time abroad.
Trusted by education abroad programs around the world, HEI Apply is designed to protect your personal, financial, and health information using industry-leading security practices and strong U.S. and European data protection standards.
Information Sessions
Want to learn more before you apply? The Fribourg Institute hosts regular online information sessions where faculty and staff answer questions, explain the application process, and share what makes our programs unique.
ATTEND AN INFORMATION SESSIONQuestions Along the Way?
Every student’s journey is different, and questions are a natural part of the process.
Whether you’re exploring programs, working through university approvals, or preparing for departure, we’re here to help. If you’re unsure about any step, simply reach out. We’ll help you determine what comes next.
Frequently Asked Questions About Our Application Process
Do I need to pay a deposit to apply?
Yes. A $500 non-refundable deposit is required at the time of application. This deposit is applied toward your program fee if you are accepted.
Why should I apply early?
Early applicants are given priority consideration for limited spaces and housing. Applying early also gives you more time to coordinate with your study abroad and financial aid offices, making the process smoother.
What are the chances of being accepted?
Most students who apply are accepted. The most common reasons for non-acceptance are incomplete applications and not meeting GPA requirements.
How do I know if space is available?
Our website is always up to date. If a program is full, we will announce it immediately, so students are not charged a deposit when no places remain.
Can students from outside the U.S. apply?
Yes. All programs are open to both U.S. and non-U.S. university students.
What language(s) do I need to know to participate?
All coursework and program instruction are conducted in English.
May I enroll in more than one program in the same summer?
No. Arclight summer programs run concurrently. However, students are more than welcome to attend in subsequent summers during their undergraduate and graduate study.
Ready to Begin?
You've explored the opportunities. You know what to expect, how the application process works, and where to find support throughout your journey.
When you're ready, take the next step.
