ISEP processes applications for placements throughout the year, although priority deadlines for two main placement rounds do exist.  Please remember that ISEP only accepts applications for students nominated by their home institution, so submit all materials directly to your home Coordinator.  If interested in the path your application will take once submitted, please read about the Placement Process.

There is no priority deadline for ISEP-Direct semester or year-long programs. Check the sites available for application on our homepage for further details. Placements are made on a rolling admissions basis and students generally have a good chance of placement.

For ISEP-Exchanges, your institution will likely have an earlier deadline in order to review and mail applications to ISEP. Check with your ISEP Coordinator.

• What happens if I miss the priority deadline? Does this mean I won't be able to participate in an ISEP program?

  It really depends on the site to which you are applying. Certain sites can take late or last-minute applicants, while sites with limited space might fill up very quickly before you have a chance to submit your application. Sites listed with E* or I* will definitely be among the first to fill up.

  Whether you submit your application early or several weeks after placement season begins, it is always a good idea to list as many universities as possible on your Host Site Request List, as this improves your chances of placement. Listing several universities doesn't mean you will necessarily be disqualified from your top choice(s).  ISEP always attempts to place students in one of their top three choices.

  There must also be enough time remaining for your home Coordinator, ISEP, and the host institution to review your application in time for processing, and for you to get a visa and make travel arrangements.  Getting a visa can take weeks or even months for some countries.

  For students studying outside the USA, the Sites Open for Applications (US students | International students) will let you know which sites are still available after the priority deadline.

• Is it better to submit an incomplete application on time or a complete application a little bit later?

  Generally speaking, it is best to submit a complete application - even if it's late - rather than sending in part of your application on time. Priority is always given to complete applications, and a placement cannot be finalized until the entire application is received.

• If I submit my application before the priority deadline, will I get a faster response or have a better chance?

  No, not for ISEP-Exchanges.  ISEP does not begin reviewing Exchange applications until after the priority deadline in order to give all students an equal opportunity to apply since there are only a certain number of Exchange spaces available.  Note: Some sites do accept applications in the February placement round for SM2 placements.  Check with your Coordinator.
  
  Students applying for ISEP-Direct are reviewed as received on a rolling basis, and there is usually a good chance of placement at ISEP-Direct sites. Consult the sties available for application on our homepage for further details.

• Who do I contact if I have a question about the status of my application?

  The primary contact for any ISEP program is your local ISEP Coordinator. All information and status reports are sent electronically to the Coordinator.
  
  ISEP Central concentrates on processing applications and serves as a resource to the Coordinator; please do not contact the Central Office as this will only delay your application.

   

• How long until I know if I’m accepted?

  You should receive your placement packet within eight weeks from the day your application arrives at ISEP. Sometimes the process takes longer because of issues to be resolved or because the host institution needs additional time to review your application.  For details, read about the Placement Process.