FAQ’s

What dates do I need to keep in mind?

March 1………………………… Priority applications due
March 21………………………. Acceptance letters sent
April 6………………………….. Acceptance letters, housing forms, and deposits due
May 15…………………………. Tuition and housing fees due
May 27…………………………. Last day to withdraw for a full refund (less deposit)
May 28…………………………. Classes begin
May 31…………………………. Last day to withdraw for a partial refund
June 30-July 1……………….. Mid-summer break
July 4…………………………….No classes
August 3………………………. Summer program ends

Is there any down-time?

Classes run Monday through Friday. The ASI does not hold courses on the weekends; however, you should expect 8-10 hours of homework over the weekend.

July 4 is a day off for all students.

The summer is divided into two sessions, with a weekend break between sessions June 30-July 1. There will be no assigned homework during this break.

What about textbooks?

Each course requires a set of textbooks outlined in the course descriptions. If you already own the books in the correct edition, please bring them. If you have previously worked on the chapters you will be studying this summer, we encourage you to consider purchasing a new copy of the textbook(s) to start fresh. Please note that beginner level students must purchase the third edition of Alif Baa: An Introduction to Arabic Letters and Sounds. Please bring your books to class on the first class day. Textbooks can be purchased in advance or upon arrival in Austin.

Is there a language pledge?

We strive to create an Arabic-rich environment for ASI students, and this requires that all participants and faculty use Arabic as much as possible in ASI-related activities. Intermediate and Advanced students are expected to use Arabic while engaged in ASI activities. This means using Arabic with your professors, TAs, and fellow ASI students at all times while on campus, studying, or attending ASI events.

Beginning students are encouraged to use Arabic as much as possible during the first five weeks of the summer. Beginners will be expected to use Arabic in ASI activities in the second five weeks of the program. In discussions of grades, personal matters, etc, you are welcome to use English.

What will the first few days be like?

Non-UT students should plan to arrive by the evening of May 26. Orientation for non-UT students will be held May 27. Classes start Monday, May 28, beginning with an orientation session for all students, an introduction to classes, and testing.

Who are my classmates?

We are excited to have a diverse group of graduate and undergraduate students from across the country joining our program this summer, representing a variety of programs, majors, and academic and professional interests. Ahlan wa sahlan biikum—welcome!

Will I get credit for this?
Beginning students will receive 12 hours of credit, specifically ARA 601C and 611C.
Intermediate students will receive 12 hours of credit, specifically ARA 621K and 621L.
Advanced students will receive 10 hours of credit, specifically ARA 531K and 531L.
Transcripts will be issued by University Extension’s Division of Continuing Education.

What if I have other questions?

Housing, billing, and administrative matters, and general inquiries:
Kimberly Dahl, AFP Assistant Director
kimberly.dahl@austin.utexas.edu
512.471.2889

Curricular issues and course placement:
Laila Familiar, ASI Director
laila@austin.utexas.edu