Frequently Asked Questions

1. What are the main benefits for CGE's study abroad programs

 Easy credit transcription, safe locations, and integrating career and life skills

CGE benefits students by focusing on partner universities and key educational groups worldwide to structure strategic study abroad programs for students to gain academic value, cultural understanding, and service or internship opportunities.

•     Earn credit in courses suited to your study needs.
•     Embrace a new culture in strategic locations all over the world.
•     Build life-long friendships.
•     Add to your portfolio with community service opportunities.
•     Gain professional experience in participating study abroad locations.
•     Study in a safe environment.

 1.  Are there any Arabic phrases I need to know before I arrive?

For purposes of transit and arrival, it is not necessary for you to know any Arabic beforehand.

 
2.  Can I obtain any scholarships to help pay for the study abroad experience?

Yes, there are a number of avenues through which you can find scholarships!

A) Price reduction for CGE Member University students.
    Participants from CGE Member Universities who take part in the Summer or Spring/Fall Arabic Study Abroad Program through CGE automatically receive a $1000 reduction to the cost of the program.
B) Your university's financial aid or study abroad office.
    Most universities have scholarships available only to their students.
C) Gilman Scholarship Program

•     Open to students who are already receiving federal Pell grants
•     2300 scholarships given out each year (average scholarship amount: $4000)
•     Recipients planning to study Arabic are automatically considered for an additional $8000 scholarship
•     Recipients must agree to a service requirement to promote study abroad at their home university
•     Applications for Summer study are due during the first week of March of the same yea
  
• D) Boren Scholarships

•     Priority given to critical languages like Arabic
•     Maximum scholarship for a summer term: $8000
•     Maximum scholarship for a semester term: $10000
•     There is a NSEP Service Requirement
•     Application deadline for study during the 2016-2017 academic year is February 9, 2016
  

E) FEA Scholarships

•     Scholarship awards up to $10,000
•     Up to 15 scholarships awarded each year

3.  Can I obtain credit for my home university through the CGE Jordan Study Abroad Program

Yes, for Summer Study Abroad and for the Arabic Language Portion of the Spring/Fall Semesters, you must complete a non-degree seeking form from Union University. The Cultural (non-Arabic courses) Portion of the Spring/Fall Semester is transcripted through the University of Jordan. (click on the question to read more)

If you want credit from Union University and a transcript that you can use at your home university, you MUST enroll for the Summer Program at Union University and then send in a Transcript Application to Union University. Click here for the Enrollment Form and the Transcript Application.
 

4.  Is there a recommendation for how much luggage I should bring?

This is entirely up to you. Most airlines allow for one free checked bag from the U.S. to Jordan. The exception is Royal Jordanian Airlines, which allows for two free checked bags. (click on the question to read more)

You have the option to pay for additional luggage should you choose to do so. Many students choose to take one full-size suitcase and an empty carry-on so that they can fill this with items purchased while in Jordan. Please check with your airline to confirm baggage allowances, as they could be subject to change.
 

5.  What can you tell me about obtaining a visa in Jordan?

The visa can be obtained upon entry into Jordan and should cost around 40 JD ($56.50 USD). (click on the question to read more)

It is important to first note that a valid passport and visa are required for entry into the county. The visa currently costs 40 JD ($56.50 USD) for a single entry, and is typically issued for a max of 30 days in country. Since both the CGE summer and semester programs will exceed this time limit, you will be required to register at a Jordanian police station before expiration of the time allotted. Failure to do so will result in a fine of 1.5 JD (approximately $2.10 USD) per day of overstay, that you will be expected to pay upon departure. So it is very important to complete this next step as soon as you can after arrival.
 

6.  What should I do about a phone while in Jordan?

One mobile phone is provided for each apartment. (click on the question to read more)

You can purchase a phone for about $25. If you already have a phone and it is unlocked AND has a slot for a SIM card, you should be able to buy a SIM card in Jordan that will work with your phone (approx. $10).
 

7.  What should I do for money while in Jordan?

There are a couple different options. One recommendation is to bring as much cash as you are comfortable bringing. Another option is to use a debit card/ATM, yet there are several things you will want to consider in determining if this is a good option. (click on the question to read more)

There are a couple different options. One recommendation is to bring as much cash as you are comfortable bringing. Another option is to use a debit card/ATM, yet there are several things you will want to consider in determining if this is a good option. It is recommended that you check with your bank to find out what fees they charge for international use. You will also want to find out what the international withdrawal limit is, and if necessary, discuss having this amount increased for your time in Jordan.
 

8.  Where is the CGE Amman center in the city?

The CGE Amman center is located next to the North Gate of the University of Jordan in the Jubayha district. (click on the question to read more)

The CGE Amman institute is a short taxi ride from many of the main attractions in West Amman and about 20 minutes from downtown Amman and the Jabal Amman Area. Taxi fares usually cost about 1.50-3 JD (Jordanian Dollars) to locations in West Amman and about 2.5-4 JD to the downtown or 1st Circle areas.
 

9.  Where will I live while studying in Amman?

CGE Jordan provides approved apartment housing, but other options are available. (click on the question to read more)

- If you want to take advantage of CGE Jordan's free housing services, you will be roomed in an approved apartment building or hostel within walking distance of CGE's Amman center.

- If you want to select your own housing, there are a number of good options within a short taxi ride or within walking distance of the CGE Amman center. CGE advises that students do not commit to a housing option until they arrive in country so that they may see and approve the arrangement before signing any sort of contract.

- Students may also elect to request a home stay option (renting a room with a Jordanian family). Home stays are subject to availability and, in some instances, short-notice changes. Students wishing to do a home stay should notify CGE Jordan at least 2-3 months in advance.

- While these latter options provide the student some ability to choose where in the city they will live, many students have found it more convenient to find housing within walking distance of the CGE center.
 

10.  Will someone be there to meet me at the airport or am I responsible to arrange transportation after arrival?

Someone from the CGE Jordan center will have your arrival information and will be waiting for you at the airport. They will then take you to the CGE Jordan center.