1. When does the Summer 2021 program take place?
The 2021 ASPO begins July 9, 2021 and ends August 11, 2021. International student
orientation occurs during the 3rd week of August 2021. Fall classes begin August
24, 2021.
The program will include classes Monday through Friday starting in the late afternoon
in GMT+8 and going through late evening, with social events taking place some weekday
mornings and on Saturdays.
For example, an 03:00 Wednesday class in the USA would be a 15:00 Wednesday class
for student in China.
Every effort will be made to consider the time differences that exist.
2. Who may join this program?
Students who join this program will automatically become matriculated students in
Summer Session III at Binghamton University. ASPO students will take their required
language assessment during the program, and will be able to register for Fall courses
when registration opens for incoming students.
This means that the ASPO classes count towards your GPA. You must make sure to follow
the rules and regulations for both Binghamton University and the ASPO to be in good
standing.
Required:
- Pathway admitted, in-coming international Binghamton University first year students
for Fall 2021 as stated in your acceptance letter.
Not required but optional:
- Newly admitted, in-coming international Binghamton University first year students
for Fall 2021 who would like to opt into the program if seats are available. Please
contact asuccess@binghamton.edu.
3. How much does the program cost?
The cost for tuition for 6 credits during Summer 2021 is $ 6,168 USD. Approximately
$500 in University fees will also be charged during the summer session. For an explanation
of fees, click here.
After paying the Binghamton University deposit, ASPO will register you for Summer
III session classes. Once registered for ASPO classes, students will receive a bill
through student accounts. You will not pay the English Language Institute directly.
All ASPO participants will be awarded a $1,500 scholarship toward Fall 2021 tuition
after successful completion of the program.
4. What does "Successful Completion" for the scholarship mean?
- Demonstrating a professional and scholarly attitude in class and out of class.
- Attending all experiential learning events.
- Obeying all university and ASPO rules.
- Passing ELI 142 and ELI 110 with a grade of C or better (Your grades for ASPO count
toward your GPA at Binghamton University).
5. Exactly which courses will I be taking?
ELI 110 (4 college credits): This course provides instruction and practice in all four language
skills: speaking, listening, reading, writing as well as English study skills and
grammar. You will receive instruction and guided practice in all of these areas with
an emphasis on writing. The course includes some experiential learning activities
outside of the classroom. The goal is to help you work to the best of your abilities
in an English-speaking classroom environment.
ELI 142 (2 college credits): This course provides integrated instruction in study skills,
cross-cultural issues and leadership skills. The course includes some experiential
learning activities outside of the classroom. The goal is to enable first year students
to become full participants in an academic learning community.
6. What technology tools will I need?
- You will need a good working computer, web camera, and microphone. Your professor
and classmates will need to be able to see you and hear you during class, and you
will need to type papers and homework assignments in document files that can be uploaded.
- You will need to be able to access Zoom.
- You will need to access your Binghamton University Bmail and the Learning Management
System being used at that time.
7. What are my visa requirements?
There are two scenarios that could affect your F-1 visa standing:
- If you are currently in the USA:
- You will not be affected. Whichever visa you hold should stay in effect until the
beginning of the issuance of the F-1 from Binghamton University. If you are unsure,
contact isss@binghamton.edu.
- If you are NOT in the USA:
- You must remain outside of the USA for the entire ASPO.
- If you are attending courses in person in the Fall on an F-1, you will need to travel
after completing the ASPO in mid-August.
If you are unable or unwilling to travel to the USA in Fall 2021 for classes, you
will be able to enroll as an online student.