Summer FAQ

Summer Policies: Typically, we do not fill our summer program. However, should we near our capacity, you may be added to a waitlist. In this case, preference will be given to students that have secured an internship. You must complete each step before you are able to proceed. Not completing a step by the designated deadline may result in your spot being offered to another student.

Individual Majors & Programs: Verify with your academic advisor or department that you are eligible to participate in CIW and if/how our courses will count towards your major.

Eligibility

Cornell in Washington summer term is open to Cornell students that have completed their freshman year.
Before applying to CIW, verify with your academic advisor or department that you are able to participate and how courses will apply to your major.
You must be in good academic standing and have the demonstrated intellectual interest and personal maturity to participate in the program.
An internship is highly recommend, though not required.
Enrollment in a Cornell course is required to live in the CIW building.
Acceptance is on a space-available, first-come, first-served basis.
ILR students: ILR students may participate in Cornell in Washington. ILR students may participate in off-campus programs beginning their junior year. Inform Brigid Beachler of your plan to join CIW (607.255.2266, bk30@cornell.edu).
International Students: International students who are in paid positions should apply for CPT work authorization. While a student is enrolled, an international student’s internship cannot be more than 20 hours per week.

Application Steps

Register

8/1/24 – 3/31/25 via Experience.Cornell
After the deadline, contact cwash@cornell.edu

Approval

CIW reviews your registration
Decision sent via email within 2 weeks of registration
Approval is the first step to ensure a spot in Summer CIW

Internship Search

Your search can start before or after you register for CIW
While not a placement program, CIW offers internship resources, advising and connections
Start early and apply often
Internships are secured based on employer criteria & timelines

Housing Form

Early February via Experience.Cornell
Indicate your living preferences

Summer Prep Meeting

Late March in-person
Meet fellow CIW participants and learn about life at the Wolpe Center

Course Enrollment

Early April via Student Center (first come, first served)
Commit to Summer CIW using course enrollment code
Tuition, housing and program fees posted to Bursar
Withdraw by 5/12/25 w/o forfeiting $192 program fee

Internship Search Assistance

Internship resources, events. search guide, database and more!

Summer Internship Drop-Ins

Mondays, 12-pm, outside Brooks Student Services (MVR 2201)
Wednesday, 10-11am, outside Brooks Student Services (MVR 2201)

Withdraw Process & Refunds

To withdraw from the CIW Summer program you must notify the CIW office via email. If you withdraw after May 12^th but before the program start date, you will receive a full refund minus the $192 program fee.
Once you arrive in DC the refund amount will be determined by the number of days from the start of the program that you withdraw. See schedule below.Further, if you withdraw without officially notifying the CIW office via email, you will not receive a refund. No refund will be given to any student dismissed from a program.
Tuition & Housing Refund schedule
- Days 1–3: Withdrawal period with a 100 percent tuition & housing refund
- Days 4–5: Withdrawal period with a 50 percent tuition & housing refund
- Day 6: Withdrawal period with no refund
To appeal the refund schedule based on documented extenuating circumstances, notify the CIW office via email. Approval is not guaranteed.

Schedule of Charges

Tuition, housing and program fees charged to Bursar once student enrolls in their chosen CIW summer course/s.

Cornell in Washington