Application Process
Your Future in Fribourg Starts Here.
Applying to the Fribourg Institute is simple and straightforward. Whether you’re enrolled at a U.S. or non-U.S. institution, our process is designed to help you move from interest to enrollment with clarity and confidence. With only 25 places per program available each year, we encourage early applications to secure your spot. Once accepted, you’ll join a select group of students preparing to spend their summer learning, traveling, and building the foundation for an international career.
Eligibility
The Fribourg Institute welcomes applications from motivated students who are ready to take their studies abroad. To apply, you must:
- Be currently enrolled in an accredited U.S. or international college or university
- Be in good academic standing with a 3.0 GPA or higher
- Complete at least one year of undergraduate study by the program start date
- Demonstrate a commitment to academic rigor and professional growth
No specific major or prerequisite courses are required. Students from political science, international studies, environmental studies, and related fields are encouraged to apply.
Step-by-Step Process
- 01
Submit Your Application
Complete the online application form through the Fribourg Institute application portal and pay your $500 non-refundable deposit. This deposit secures your place while your application is reviewed.
- 02
Confirmation
You’ll receive confirmation of acceptance by email. If programs reach capacity, updates will be posted on the website in real time, so you always know if spaces remain available before applying.
- 03
Pre-Travel Orientation & Study
In the weeks before departure, you’ll complete assigned readings and short essays to build your academic foundation. You’ll also participate in online orientation sessions that prepare you for both the classroom and life abroad.
- 04
Study Abroad
Travel to Switzerland and join your cohort for a summer of immersive study. Coursework combines classroom learning with exclusive access to global institutions, cultural excursions, and structured group activities.
- 05
Independent Exploration
During free weekends and evenings, you’ll have the opportunity to explore Switzerland and neighboring countries independently or with peers.
- 06
Capstone & Final Evaluation
After returning home, you’ll complete a capstone policy paper connecting theory to practice on a contemporary global issue. This paper, along with other assignments, will be graded by Fribourg Institute faculty.
- 07
Credits & Transcript
Your University of Fribourg transcript will be issued after final grading, ready to be submitted for transfer to your home institution.
Transparency and Updates
We are committed to keeping this page up to date. If a program fills before the deadline, it will be clearly announced here so no student submits a deposit without space being available.
Resources
We are committed to keeping this page up to date. If a program fills before the deadline, it will be clearly announced here so no student submits a deposit without space being available.
Apply NowInformation Sessions
Want to learn more before you apply? The Fribourg Institute hosts regular online information sessions where faculty and staff answer questions, explain the application process, and share what makes our programs unique.
Info session sign up formFrequently Asked Questions About Our Application Process
Do I need to pay a deposit to apply?
Yes. A $500 non-refundable deposit is required at the time of application. This deposit is applied toward your program fee if you are accepted.
Why should I apply early?
Early applicants are given priority consideration for limited spaces and housing. Applying early also gives you more time to coordinate with your study abroad and financial aid offices, making the process smoother.
What are the chances of being accepted?
Most students who apply are accepted. The most common reasons for non-acceptance are incomplete applications and not meeting GPA requirements.
How do I know if space is available?
Our website is always up to date. If a program is full, we will announce it immediately, so students are not charged a deposit when no places remain.
Can students from outside the U.S. apply?
Yes. Both programs are open to both U.S. and non-U.S. university students.
Do I need to know a foreign language to participate?
No. All coursework and program instruction are conducted in English.
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. Please note 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.
Ready to Apply?
Don’t wait—spaces are limited. Begin your application today and take the first step toward a summer that will shape your future and change the world.
