International Applicants

The YIVO-Bard Summer Program is proud to welcome students from all over the globe. In 2018, students came to study Yiddish from Australia, Brazil, Canada, England, Germany, Iraq, Israel, Kazakhstan, Lithuania, Poland, South Africa, Switzerland, and Russia.

For International Students – Frequently Asked Questions

When does the program take place?

The 2019 Summer Program runs June 24-August 2.

Do I need a visa to attend YIVO’s program?

If you are an international student not currently enrolled at an American institution of higher learning and are accepted to the YIVO-Bard Summer Program, YIVO will help you apply for a J-1 visa to attend the program. Learn more about the J-1 here.

If you are currently enrolled at an American institution of higher learning and are in the U.S. on an F-1 visa that extends through summer 2018, you should apply by the international deadline but will not need to apply for an additional student visa.

Can I attend the program on a B visa?

No. Only F-1 and J-1 visas are acceptable for temporary study in the United States.

I am Canadian. Do I need a visa to attend the program?

If you are Canadian, you do not need a visa, but you still must complete visa paperwork in order to generate a DS-2019, the certificate of eligibility for exchange visitor status. You will present this document when you cross the border.

What do I need to complete my application?

You’ll need an official university transcript and one (1) letter of recommendation from a teacher, graduate advisor, or other mentor. The most helpful letters are generally from people who have experience with you as a student of language or of the humanities.

Do I need a writing sample?

If you’ve taken any level of Yiddish before, you can submit a Yiddish writing sample (typed in a Yiddish program or handwritten and attached as a .pdf) to the “documents” section of the Slideroom application. This will help the application review committee assess at what language level you would best learn in our program.

Do you offer scholarships to international students?

Yes! We offer two full scholarships to students from regions where Yiddish was historically spoken, such as Central and Eastern Europe. These scholarships cover tuition, airfare, housing, and a small living stipend during the program. While these two scholarships are extremely competitive, we also offer partial or full tuition waivers. Learn more about financial aid availability.

Do I need health insurance?

Yes. All international students must purchase health insurance for the duration of the program. A list of Bard College-approved insurance providers can be found.