Apply to Global Summer Studies

What is the deadline to apply?
Application opens between February 2 - March 15, 2026

Global Summer Studies have a limited capacity of 12 to 16 students per course. The application runs on a first-come-first-serve basis and closes once the maximum number of applications per course is received. The last day to apply to a course (that still has open seats) is March 15, 2026. Please keep in mind, your preferred course may fill up before this final application deadline.

The scholarship application for Global Summer Studies 2026 will open on December 19, 2026 at 9:00 AM and close on January 21, 2026 at 11:59 PM.

The Global Summer Studies 2026 course application will open on February 02, 2026 at 7:00 PM and close on March 15, 2026 at 11:59 PM.

Am I eligible?

If you are a RISD student in any year of study with a GPA of 2.5 and up, or you are a recent RISD graduate, you are eligible to participate. If you are a Brown University student or a college student currently enrolled at another art and design college/university around the world, you are eligible too!

• RISD Students: All Global Summer Studies students enrolled at RISD must remain in good standing, in terms of conduct and finances, up until and throughout your time on the course. Failure to remain in good academic standing can lead to removal from the course, either before or during the course. If you are a RISD student and your cumulative GPA is lower than 2.5 at the time of registration, you must contact the Registrar at registrar@risd.edu to seek an exception to this academic policy.
• Students Not Currently Enrolled at RISD: In order to register for RISD Global Summer Studies, you are expected to have a high level of English (speech, writing, and comprehension) as all coursework and critique is delivered in English. For your participation, we will require a recommendation/support form from your institution/workplace.

Attendance Policy

RISD Global Summer Studies comply with the RISD class attendance policy. In case of unexcused or multiple absences, you may be removed from the course, given a grade of “W" (withdrawal) or a grade of “F” (fail).

The application process will be completed using RISD's online application portal.

Step 1: Research

Prior to starting your application, read about each unique and Global Summer Studies course or join an info session hosted by RISD faculty and the RISD Global team. Stay updated on these events here!

Step 2: Reserve your seat with a deposit

Submit your online application and your $500 non-refundable deposit with your debit/credit card. The payment of the course balance will be due March 23, 2026.

Step 3: Apply for a scholarship (only if you are a RISD student)

If you’re a RISD or Brown | RISD Dual Degree student in high financial need, you are encouraged to apply for the available RISD Scholarship. Brown University students, as well as students enrolled at other colleges/universities around the world, are not eligible to apply for RISD Scholarships. Learn more – RISD Scholarship.

You may be eligible, too, for external, Non-RISD scholarships. Check the External Scholarships Opportunities page for some available resources.

Step 4: Pay the course balance

Once you have submitted the $500 deposit, you will receive, within a few days, an email confirmation from RISD Student Financial Services with a payment link. Upon receiving the payment link, your payment of the course balance will be due March 23, 2026.

Are there students I can talk with about their experiences?

Throughout the pages on this website, you’ll find quotes and testimonials from RISD students who have participated in our Global Summer Studies. If you still have questions, you can schedule a 1:1 advising appointment with our Global Learning Advisor.

How many students apply? How many students attend?

Global Summer Studies have a limited capacity of 12 to 16 students per course. Application is first-come-first-serve and closes once the maximum number of applications per course is received.

Will there be a waiting list?

Typically Global Summer Studies do not have a formal waitlist as the application is first-come-first-serve and closes once the course has reached capacity. The Registrar’s Office will manage a notification list, however, so please inform RISD Global if you are interested in a course that has been filled, to be notified if spaces become available.

Once I apply, can I defer or withdraw?

Deferral is not possible as Global Summer Studies are different every academic year. Learn more – Withdrawing from a RISD Off-Campus Global Learning Program

Don’t have a Passport?

US Citizens can visit travel.state.gov to apply. International Citizens, contact your local embassy or consulate to renew.

Passport expired or will expire shortly?

Begin the renewal process immediately! US Citizens can visit travel.state.gov to renew. International Citizens, contact your local embassy or consulate to renew.

You are responsible for maintaining your own legal status and applying for your visa (if applicable). Upon request, RISD Global will provide you with a registration letter in support of your visa application. Don’t delay the process of checking your travel documents for validity and applying for your visa. The visa application process can take in excess of 4-8 weeks following your acceptance and your failure to possess valid travel documents may jeopardize your ability to participate in Global Summer Studies.

You are responsible for checking the portal frequently and completing these tasks in a timely manner once accepted to your course.