International Study Center

Terms and Conditions

COVID-19 TERMS AND CONDITIONS

During the current COVID pandemic, certain terms and conditions are superseded by updates that can be found here.

GENERAL

1.Terms & Conditions

These are the Terms and Conditions of the agreement between Study Group USA Higher Education LLC, dba International Study Center (‘Study Group’), as a representative of James Madison University(‘University’), and the Student (‘Student’). If the Student is under the age of 18, the term ‘Student’ includes the responsible party (i.e. sponsor, parent, legal guardian or representative) advocating on behalf of the Student.

1a. The Terms and Conditions outlined in this document are effective upon completion of the confirmation process, as detailed in Section 4 below. These Terms and Conditions supersede any promises, representations and warranties, whether written or oral, made by or on behalf of the Student, the University, or Study Group.

1b. The Student should read these Terms and Conditions carefully before signing his/her application for admission. If necessary, the Student should obtain translating assistance to fully comprehend these Terms and Conditions prior to signing the Acceptance of Offer Form .

2. Definitions

2a. “Program” refers to individual courses of study. Programs offered by Study Group through the International Study Center (ISC) at James Madison University include but may not be limited to: International Year 1, 2, 3, or 4 Semester Programs. A comprehensive list of available programs is available on the ISC Programs page.

2b. “Study Plan” refers to the length of study, including all Study Group programs to which a student is admitted. The I-20 issued to the Student will reflect the entire duration of time needed to complete all programs that comprise the Student’s study plan.

3. Changes to Terms & Conditions

Study Group reserves the right to amend the Terms and Conditions as needed. The Student agrees to comply with the most current version of the Terms and Conditions, which can be found on the ISC website.

3a. All students are bound by the regulations, policies and procedures of the University as amended from time to time. The most current version is outlined in the University’s Student Handbook.

OFFER, CONFIRMATION & DEPOSIT

4. Confirmation of Offer

Upon admission to the University, the University issues a written offer. In order to accept the offer, the Student must sign the Acceptance of Offer Form and remit a $3,000 deposit payment to Study Group. This denotes completion of the confirmation process and acceptance of these Terms and Conditions.

5. Deposit

The Student is required to pay a $3,000 deposit directly to Study Group before they receive an I-20 form from the University. Students accepted by the University after the billing due date are required to pay the balance of tuition and fees for their first term immediately upon receipt of the student visa.

6. Deposit Refund Policy

The $3,000 deposit is refundable only if a student has been denied a visa (subject to submission of an official denial-of-visa letter) or if a student has a documented extreme circumstance that has been vetted and approved by Study Group. See Section 11 for relevant cancellation details for students who have met visa entry requirements.

FINANCIAL RESPONSIBILITY AND POLICIES

7. Participant Responsibility

The price for the Study Group program does not include the following expenses:

  1. Personal spending money.
  2. Insurance for pre-existing medical conditions, i.e., ailments which exist prior to arrival in the U.S.
  3. Meal and housing costs during the few times the University is officially closed – usually limited to the Thanksgiving holiday in late November, the Christmas holiday (which normally lasts about four weeks) and Spring vacation (approximately 10 days).
  4. University textbooks and other necessary school supplies.
  5. Air fare to and from U.S. domestic airport closest to the University campus in the U.S. (a round trip ticket is required).
  6. Extra costs for ESL which may be required by a student whose English language proficiency is inadequate.

8. Full Payment

The balance of the fees for the first term must be paid one month before the published program start date. All fees for second or subsequent study terms must be paid two months prior to the term start date. Pricing is subject to change. See Section 27for price amendment details.

8a. Any variation to standard payment terms must be made in advance and agreed to in writing. The Student will not be permitted to register for his/her program and courses until full payment has been made.

9. Overdue Payment

Students with outstanding balances will be placed on hold by the University, and will be barred from attending classes, or moving into accommodations, until payment is made in full. Failure to make payment in full by the payment deadline may lead to penalties and may result in a revocation of the I-20, which will impact the ability of the Student to remain in the U.S.

10. Payment Process

Payment can be made to Study Group using a number of payment options via the payment platform.

10a . Certain payment options will carry a processing fee of 2.5%. We reserve the right to alter this charge from time to time. If you choose to pay in your local currency, a foreign exchange rate will apply. The applicable exchange rate can be viewed online at the time and date of the payment. Bank charges and commission for both the sending and receiving banks will be paid by the sender of funds, or they will be applied to the student’s account.

11. Cancellation

11a. Pre-Arrival Cancellation

If a confirmed student cancels prior to the published start of scheduled classes, Study Group will refund all monies paid, less any housing costs incurred by Study Group and the $3,000 tuition fee deposit.

To cancel your place before commencement of your program or withdraw from your studies during the Trial Period, please use the following link: https://www.studygroup.com/request-withdrawal-NA

11a1 . Cancellation Due to Exceptional Circumstances

If a confirmed student cancels prior to the published arrival date due to a documented, exceptional circumstance (e.g. bereavement, illness, etc.), a refund of the tuition fee deposit may be awarded at the discretion of Study Group on a case by case basis. Supporting documentation must be provided by the Student to Study Group by the first day of classes to be eligible for a refund.

11b. Cancellation Due to Visa Denial

If a confirmed student’s visa has been rejected and there is documented evidence that the denial was not a result of fraud or student error, the $3,000 deposit will be fully refunded. Written notification and documentation of an official denial-of-visa letter must be submitted no later than four weeks after the first day of classes to be eligible for a refund.

11b1. In the event that a visa denial occurs as a result of an error made by Study Group, a full refund of all monies paid by the Student will be issued.

11c. Program Cancellation

If Study Group or the University cancels a program prior to the Student’s start date, Study Group, will refund all monies paid by the Student.

11d. Cancellation Notification. Cancellation may occur when the Student provides a written notice of cancellation by email to Study Group. Email cancellation notifications should be submitted to jmuiscadmissions@studygroup.com. The written notice of cancellation is effective on the date the email is received by Study Group.

12. Study Plan Change

Upon arrival, the Student will be given a placement examination to assess their English language level. The University may also require an assessment in mathematics. The results of the assessment tests are used to place the Student into the program and courses that are appropriate for his/her skill level, which may differ from what was indicated on the offer letter. As a result, the length of study may be longer than originally anticipated and may require incurring extra costs for which the Student will be responsible.

12a. The Student is required to complete his/her study plan by remaining on campus for consecutive Fall, Spring and Summer semesters.

13. Withdrawal

Once classes begin, the Student is subject to University Withdrawal Policies as outlined. The Student shall be deemed to have withdrawn from the program when any of the following occurs:

  • The Student notifies Study Group of his/her withdrawal by providing written intent to withdraw to the Study Group Center Director.
  • Study Group terminates the Student’s enrollment for failure to maintain satisfactory progress; failure to abide by the rules and regulations; incur absences in excess of maximum set forth; and/or failure to meet financial obligations.
  • Failure to return from a leave of absence.

13a. If the above criteria are met prior to the census date, the amount retained by Study Group is the $3,000 tuition fee deposit applied to the Student’s first term.

13b. Charges Other Than Tuition: All additional, required costs, such as University fees, laboratory fees, rentals and any similar charges are not included in the tuition price and may be non-refundable. These fees and their relevant charges are itemized on student invoices and statements. The Student is bound by the terms as defined in any University housing agreements.

13c. Withdrawal Due to Suspension or Dismissal

Students who are suspended or dismissed from any Study Group program will not receive a refund for money paid for tuition or other University charges.

13d. Withdrawal Due to Mental Health, Medical, or Extenuating Circumstances

Students who withdraw as a result of a mental or medical health condition or due to other extenuating circumstances, may be refunded the tuition fee deposit at the discretion of Study Group on a case by case basis. Supporting documentation must be provided by the Student to Study Group to be eligible for a refund.

14. Transfer

Students seeking transfer to a different institution between the date of initial arrival in the U.S, and the first day of classes will forfeit all monies paid, including tuition, fees, room, board, and non-refundable charges. Admission is subject to eligibility and availability.

14a. Students seeking transfer to a different institution after the initial term, prior to the first day of classes of the next term, will receive a full tuition refund of any monies paid for future terms, less any University fees (e.g. housing, meals, transit, health insurance, etc.) for the upcoming term. If the Student is seeking transfer after the beginning of classes in subsequent terms, the withdrawal policy outlined in Section 13 applies.

15. General Refund Policy

All refunds will be sent to the account of the individual from whom Study Group has received the original direct payment. Refunds will be paid in the form of payment originally received if possible.

15a. If funds cannot be returned to the original account (e.g. account closed), Study Group may, at its discretion, make a refund to an alternate account so long as the alternate account complies with the Currency and Foreign Transactions Reporting Act and its implementing regulations at the time of the refund. In the event no compliant alternate account is available for the payment of the refund within six months of the original request, all monies are forfeited.

16. Deferrals

If an applicant accepted by Study Group defers to the next intake, all funds received will be applied to the next intake and will not be refunded. Applicants can defer for up to one academic year without penalty. Applicants who request subsequent deferrals will be required to reapply.

16a. All requests to defer a program must be received in writing by Study Group no later than four weeks after the first day of classes.

16b. Students with a medical necessity must provide notification and written documentation to Study Group prior to published program start date. Deferrals in this situation will be granted at the discretion of Study Group and/or the University on a case by case basis.

16c. If an applicant is accepted and has paid their deposit but receives a visa too late to begin classes on time, the applicant may defer to the next intake, if the exact same program is offered. If the same program is unavailable within six months of the deferral, the applicant will receive a full refund. All funds received will be applied to the next intake and will not be refunded. If the exact program is available within six months’ time and the applicant chooses not to defer, the applicant will forfeit the $3,000 deposit.

POLICIES, PROCEDURES AND REQUIREMENTS

17. Student Conduct & Rules

All Students are subject to the rules of the University in which they are enrolled. The Student must assume full responsibility for compliance. Student Standards of Conduct for the University are available on the OSARP Standards & Policy page.

17a. By signing the Acceptance of Offer Form the Student is acknowledging they agree to adhere to University policies, including, but not limited to all housing, and rules including payment, withdrawal, and cancellation regulations at the University. Rules governing alcohol, tobacco, controlled drugs, and other serious offenses will be strictly enforced. International students in the U.S. must comply with both the letter and the spirit of the law in order to retain valid student visas. Violations of such laws/policies will render the Student liable for immediate dismissal from the program and repatriation to the home country, and possible legal prosecution for violation of the laws of the state or federal jurisdictions involved. No refund will be given in cases of suspension, expulsion or administrative separation.

18. Appeals

The Student may challenge decisions through established procedures for appeals. Information regarding the University’s appeals procedures is available on the OSARP website. Information pertaining to the Study Group appeals process can be found in the Study Group Student Handbook.

19. Late Arrivals

All students are expected to arrive and start their program on the published arrival date for their program. All late arrivals must be approved in advance and will be considered on a case by case basis. Deposits, tuition, accommodation costs, or other fees will not be prorated for late arrivals. An unapproved late arrival may result in the Student being unable to attend classes for the semester and/or enter the U.S. and may also require that the Student return to his/her home country until the next available term.

ACCOMMODATIONS & SERVICES

20. Accommodations

All first-year students who enter in the fall semester are required to live on campus. Therefore, all ISC students must live on campus when space is available. The Student is required to live in University-approved housing unless a waiver is given by Study Group. Details relating to University housing are found on the Office of Residence Life page.

21. University Housing Policy

Students living in University accommodations are required to abide by the Residence Hall Policies as outlined by the University.

21a. Housing Payment

Payment for housing is due in full at the time tuition payment is required. Late housing payments or failure to pay housing costs will result in a hold placed on the Student’s account, which restricts the Student’s ability to register for classes, receive transcripts, and receive transfer paperwork.

21b. Cancellations

Cancelling the Student’s housing contract may result in forfeiture of the entire housing payment. Refer to the University Housing Cancellation Policy for details.

22. Meal Plan

All students living in University housing are required to purchase a meal plan, which is included in the ISC room and board fee. Students are able to change their meal plans, but any cost difference will be their responsibility. Specific information regarding available meal plans can be found on the Meal Plan Prices page.

23. Health Insurance

U.S. based health insurance is mandatory for all students. An approved insurance plan will be automatically added to the Student’s invoice or directly invoiced by the University. Not all services are covered by the insurance provided, and the Student is responsible for any outstanding balances for non-covered services. Insurance policies based in countries outside of the U.S. will not be accepted as reasonable substitutes, except for pre-approved governmental-sponsored programs.

24. Airport Transfers

Requests for airport transfer services are available can be made as outlined in pre-arrival communication. If the Student has elected to utilize airport transfers as offered, available airport transfer fees are non-refundable.

25. Academic Scholarships

  1. Study Group offers scholarships to recognize strong academic achievement.
  2. Scholarships are offered during specified dates, and the Student will be notified when applications are available to apply.
  3. Scholarships are available for undergraduate applicants that meet specified academic entry criteria as determined by Study Group.
  4. Scholarships will be applied in equal amounts across all semesters of the International Year program.
    1. If the Student is awarded a scholarship, s/he will be notified in writing within 30 days.
    2. If the Student is awarded a scholarship and subsequently cancels or defers her/his program, the scholarship is forfeited. Any remaining funds for the scholarship are also cancelled.
    3. Government sponsored students are not eligible for scholarships.

26. Pricing

Prices for programs, fees, and insurance are subject to change without notice. Current pricing can be found on the ISC Fees page. Published prices are relevant only for the year specified. Prices are adjusted at a minimum annually to reflect amendments made by the University and Study Group to their tuition and fees.

STUDENT EXPERIENCE

27. Academic Criteria

International Year students are accepted into their study plan with the strict understanding that adherence to the academic standards and program requirements, found in the Study Group Student Handbook, is required. The Student will not successfully complete the program and may not be allowed to proceed into subsequent terms if s/he does not meet the minimum standards.

27a. Maintaining Good Standing

The Student must meet attendance and GPA requirements as specified in the Study Group Student Handbook, in order to maintain the status of academic good standing.

27b. Progression

Progression to the next term is dependent on successfully passing all courses in that semester and meeting necessary progression requirements as specified in the Study Group Student Handbook. The University may have additional requirements for progression. These additional requirements (if any) will be reviewed during orientation.

27c. Matriculation

Matriculation at the end of the program is dependent on successfully meeting all attendance and GPA requirements as specified in the Study Group Student Handbook. Students who meet all matriculation requirements will be permitted to matriculate, continuing their studies in the appropriate University degree program.

28. Attendance Criteria

Students are expected to attend classes at least 80%of the time in order to meet attendance requirements for the program, as outlined in the Study Group Student Handbook. Students who fail to meet attendance requirements and policies may be subject to penalties and/or discipline, including loss of immigration status. Students whose grades do not meet minimum program standards on their transcript may be required to repeat coursework, be dismissed or administratively separated from the program. The Student will not receive a refund if they lose immigration status due to class absences.

29. Duration of Pathway Programs

The duration of programs outlined in the Study Plan are designed based upon application materials and qualifications provided by the Student. Initial programs can be extended by one term as outlined in the Study Group Student Handbook. At the discretion of Study Group and the University, the Student may be made an offer to extend for academic reasons. Students who extend their courses may, in some cases, be allowed to take additional content courses in order to maintain full-time immigration status, subject to Study Group and University advisement.

30. Vacation, Holidays, and Closures

The Student should familiarize themselves with the University’s calendar for holidays and vacations. Classes will not be held on designated school vacations and may be cancelled on public holidays. Study Group does not make reimbursements for classes not offered due to planned or unplanned school closures.

31. Vacation Terms

Enrolled students must complete their study plan in consecutive terms, including summers, unless a medical leave of absence is granted by the University. Consecutive terms enable enrolled students holding an F-1 visa to maintain their full-time study requirement.

31a . As a result, the Student is not eligible for a vacation term until the completion of his/her program. In the event of an extreme circumstance (e.g. medical emergency, etc.), Study Group and/or the University will review applications for vacation terms on a case by case basis and will make a decision at their discretion.

LEGAL

32. Student Information & Communication

The Student must supply Study Group with personal email addresses and mobile/cell numbers prior to arrival, in order that communication, to include transmission of student reports, may be maintained at all times. Contact information must be up to date and operational. Any changes must be reported to Study Group by the Student within 24 hours of the change occurring.

32a. Students are requested to sign a FERPA waiver authorizing Study Group to share information about the Student with designated officials of the University, parents and representatives. It is part of the unique nature of the Study Group program that our center staff provides constant feedback about academic performance and financial issues to individuals involved in the Student’s success.

32b. At the time of registration, the Student may agree in writing that their records, testimonials, achievements, photos, and videos taken during ISC activities may be used by Study Group for promotional purposes without notification and such consent will remain in effect until formally withdrawn in writing. This includes permission to pass them on to third parties (agents, publications, etc.) at the discretion of Study Group as long as the images are used to publicize Study Group programs.

32c. Study Group respects your privacy and is committed to protecting your personal information. Further information on how we look after your personal information can be found in our Privacy Notice.

33.Data Protection

Any information provided to Study Group may be held on computer and shall be used in accordance with U.S. law, including FERPA, HIPAA, and ADA. Information provided to Study Group is held and processed for the purpose of administering the Student’s application, and may be carried forward to the Student’s official student record, which holds data in electronic and paper form on personal details, academic and administrative history, and on relevant financial transactions. Upon completion of the Student’s program, the parts of his/her student record which the University needs to retain will be archived. Some information will also be processed for the purpose of managing the relationship with the Student as an alumnus. Other information will be destroyed. Throughout, the Student’s personal data will be held in accordance with current U.S. data protection law.

34. Damage and Liability

Neither Study Group, the University, nor their staff or representatives, will be liable for any loss, damage, or injury to persons or property, except where the liability is specified by applicable law. Neither Study Group, the University, nor their staff or representatives will be liable in the event that, for any reason--including low enrollment, they are not able to supply a service due to circumstances beyond their control.

34a . Any reference in these terms to liability of students shall be deemed to imply liability on the parent or financial sponsor, and such liability is joint and several. Students are responsible for payment for any damage caused by them to Study Group property, including fixtures and fittings in University-approved accommodation. Occupants of shared accommodation are jointly and severally liable for the proper care of rooms, fixtures and fittings and the University reserves the right to recover costs for damage or exceptional cleaning.

34b. The Student agrees to indemnify Study Group and its agents with regard to any financial obligations or liabilities that the Student may personally incur or any damage or injury to the person or property of others that the Student may cause while participating in this program. The program begins with the Student’s outbound flight to the U.S. and terminates when the return flight lands. The Student realizes that any airline’s liability for loss or damage to baggage or property, or for death or injury, is limited by the terms outlined by the airlines. We also understand that it is the Student’s responsibility to obtain a passport and any required visa.

34c. Study Group is not responsible for any loss or injury suffered by the applicant at any time while participating in the program, including but not limited to losses or injury suffered during periods of independent travel or absence from the program. The Student releases Study Group from all liability related to such actions.

35. Medical Consent

If the Student becomes physically or mentally ill or incapacitated, Study Group may take such action as it considers necessary, including securing medical treatment and/or transportation at the Student’s own expense. The Student gives permission for the administration of first aid and gives permission to Study Group and designated representatives to seek medical, dental, or optical treatment when required. As the parent or legal guardian named, we do hereby authorize Study Group and its assigned agents, and any designated program representative, as agents of the undersigned parents, to consent to any x-ray examinations, anaesthetic, medical or surgical diagnosis or treatment, or hospital care which is deemed advisable by, and is rendered under, the general supervision of any licensed physician or surgeon, whether such treatment or diagnosis is rendered at the office of said physician or surgeon or at a hospital. It is understood that this authorization is not given in advance of any specific diagnosis, treatment or hospital care being required, but is given to provide authority and power on the part of aforesaid agents to give specific consent to any and all such diagnoses, treatments, or hospital care which the aforementioned physician or surgeon, in the exercise of her/his best judgment, may deem advisable.

36. Disclaimer

Study Group takes great care in compiling and providing programs, facilities, and other arrangements in official online and print formats, and we believe all materials and services available to be accurate at the time of delivery. Study Group regularly reviews our materials and programs, which may be subject to change without notice.

37. Equal Opportunity and Diversity

Study Group is an Equal Opportunity provider. Study Group and the University are committed to the elimination of discrimination and the provision of equal opportunity in education and employment. In compliance with state and federal laws and regulations, Study Group and its partners do not discriminate in any of policies, procedures, or practices. on the basis of race, age, creed, color, religion, national origin or ancestry, sex, gender, disability, veteran status, genetic information, sexual orientation, gender identity or expression, or pregnancy. This non-discrimination policy covers admission into and access to and employment in all programs and activities, including, but not limited to, academic admissions, financial aid, educational services, and employment.

38. Severability

If any provision of these Terms and Conditions is held to be invalid, illegal, void, or unenforceable, then such provision shall be modified by the proper court or other authority to the extent necessary and possible to make such provision enforceable, and such modified provision and all other provisions of these Terms and Conditions shall be given effect separately from the provision or portion thereof determined to be invalid, illegal, void or unenforceable and shall not be affected thereby.

39. Governing Law and Jurisdiction

These Terms and Conditions shall be governed by and construed in accordance with the domestic laws of Harrisonburg, VA without giving effect to any choice or conflict of law provision or rule that would cause the application of the laws of any other jurisdiction. Each of the parties submits to the jurisdiction of any state court sitting in Harrisonburg, VA in any action or proceeding arising out of or relating to these terms and conditions and agrees that all claims in respect of the action or proceeding may be heard and determined in any such court. Each party also agrees not to bring any action or proceeding arising out of or relating to these Terms and Conditions in any other court. Each of the parties waives any defense of inconvenient forum to the maintenance of any action or proceeding so brought and waives any bond, surety, or other security that might be required of any other party with respect thereto.

40. Applying for a Visa

Once the Student has been accepted, s/he will be provided with an I-20 from the United States Department of Homeland Security, issued by the University. This form will be generated upon receipt of deposit. An I-20 is required to start the process of obtaining a student visa to enter the United States. The Student will also be required to present financial documentation to the US consular office in the Student’s home country. It is recommended that all students apply for their visa as early as possible. The Student must notify Study Group directly once his/her visa status is known. The Student is required to notify their academic enrollment advisor when they have made an appointment and notify their counsellor with the outcome of that appointment.

Study Group USA Higher Education LLC, dba International Study Center

332 South Michigan Avenue

9th Floor