Costs & Financing
Transparent Pricing. Proven Value.
The Fribourg Institute is committed to transparency in costs and providing exceptional value. Our pricing reflects not only the academic rigor of earning 12 European Credit Transfer System (ECTS) credits from the University of Fribourg (~6 U.S. semester credits), but also the immersive experiences, extensive travel, and top-tier support that make this program unique. With clear breakdowns and planning tools, you’ll know exactly what’s included, what to budget for, and how to use financial aid to support your study abroad journey.
Program Cost
The cost of each Summer 2026 program is $7,950 USD. That fee covers the many elements that make the Fribourg Institute a truly distinctive program.
| What Our Program Fee Covers | What Our Students Cover |
|---|---|
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Budget Calculator
Every student’s journey looks a little different. Our interactive calculator allows you to enter your costs for airfare, meals, weekend travel, and personal expenses to build a realistic picture of your total investment. All values are in U.S. dollars.
Program fee | $7,950 |
|---|---|
Round-trip airfare | $1,500 |
Credit Transfer and Financial Aid
The Fribourg Institute is structured to make financial aid as accessible as possible. Each program is academically rigorous and designed as two 3-credit courses (6 credits total at most U.S. colleges and universities, earned as 12 ECTS through the University of Fribourg). This structure mirrors how U.S. universities award summer credit, maximizing the likelihood that institutional financial aid can be applied.
Consult with your study abroad office, registrar, and financial aid office to confirm policies at your home institution. In many cases, federal and institutional aid can be used to defray part or all of the program cost. To support these conversations, download our Student Support Packet which provides:
- Sample syllabi to review with faculty and advisors
- Information packet to share with your department
If you need further assistance, please reach out. Our staff are available to help you navigate this process and provide the documentation you need to secure financial support.
Ready to Shape Your Future?
A summer in Fribourg blends academic rigor, career preparation, and international travel into an experience that will stay with you long after the program ends. You’ll earn a University of Fribourg transcript, gain insider access to world-class institutions, and complete a capstone policy paper that demonstrates your ability to tackle real-world challenges—all while building friendships and networks that last a lifetime.
Frequently Asked Questions About Our Application Process
Can I use financial aid for this program?
Often, students can apply federal and institutional aid to the program cost. We provide documentation and support to help you navigate the process with your study abroad office and financial aid team.
What additional costs should I budget for?
Students should budget for airfare to Geneva or Zurich, ground travel to Fribourg, personal meals not included, discretionary spending, and independent travel during free weekends. A budget calculator is provided on this page to help you estimate your total cost. If you have questions about how much you should budget for various expenses, let us know. We’re here to help.
May I enroll in more than one program in the same summer?
Yes, students may apply to both the International Security Studies and Global Environmental Justice programs. However, please note that there are no cost savings for attending both programs, and each program requires full participation, including pre-travel coursework, in-country study, and the final capstone paper.
