STUDIES PROGRAM IN NICARAGUA (SPIN)
Program Information
2013 Program Dates: August 28 to December 13, 2013
Eligibility
- Minimum of sophomore status
- Cumulative GPA of 2.5 or higher
- In good standing academically and behaviorally
Application/Acceptance Dates
Application deadline: April 1, 2013
Acceptance notification: April 5, 2013
Travel Arrangements
You must book and cover payment for your own airfare. After you are accepted, you will receive advice about required arrival flights and times at Managua’s international airport on Wednesday, Aug. 28, 2013. Alicia, the SPIN student life coordinator, will meet you at the airport and accompany you to the Nehemiah Center for orientation.
Cost
The 2012 cost was approximately $13,390 (U.S.), and the updated 2013 cost will be given when available. The cost of SPIN is subject to change based on the USD/Cordoba exchange rate.
The program fee includes:
- Tuition and fees
- Room and board
- International Student Identity Card (ISIC)
- Program-related excursions
- Transportation from/to the Managua international airport
Not included:
- Airfare to/from Managua, Nicaragua
- Books and supplies (approximately $150)
- Personal expenses
- Independent travel: the biggest factor in calculating additional expenses
Housing
You'll live in Nicaraguan homes throughout the program. The family provides most of your meals. If possible, we will send your host family's name and address/email in early August.
Housing will not be available before Aug. 28, 2013, or after Dec. 13, 2013.
Deposits
After acceptance, a $350 (US) non-refundable deposit received by April 15, 2013, secures your place in the program. This deposit will be credited toward the cost of the program.
If you are from a cooperating college, you pay the deposit directly to Dordt College and the balance due for the program through your home school.
Financial Aid
Dordt students are eligible for additional cross-cultural program scholarships and should contact Joanna Van Velzen in the financial aid office for details.
If you come from another institution, contact your financial aid officer for available funding.
Travel Opportunities
- Course-related excursions (included in fees)
- Trips to Santa Maria and El Ojoche, Nicaragua, and to Costa Rica (included in fees)
- Other opportunities to travel at your own expense for one week during mid-semester break
SPIN Handbook
After you are accepted, you will receive the SPIN Handbook, which includes travel tips, program policies, and a tentative semester schedule (with scheduled breaks).
