Frequently asked questions

FAQ

About the School

What is Vogue Summer School?

Vogue Summer School NYC invites high school students to immerse themselves in one of the most important fashion capitals in the world: New York City. Opening the doors to a unique world of excellence and creativity, students will explore a wealth of topics shaping fashion today and in the future through the expert eye of the world’s most famous and influential fashion brand. The program is developed and operated by Condé Nast College and provides a world-class fashion education along with unrivalled access to the best and brightest minds in the industry. Our instructors are award-winning Vogue and Condé Nast journalists and other industry experts in the business and strategic sides of the fashion, media and lifestyle industries.

What type of program is Vogue Summer School NYC?

Vogue Summer School NYC is a pre-college program that is academically rigorous and designed for high school students (rising 10th – 12th graders and graduating seniors) who are intellectually curious and passionate about fashion. Each dynamic and immersive two-week course is taught by fashion industry experts and takes students behind the scenes of flagship stores, fashion brand headquarters, galleries, designer studios, ateliers, and more.

What is Vogue Summer School's Statement on DEI?

Vogue Summer School NYC is committed to fostering a culture that embraces the values of diversity, equity, and inclusiveness. We believe that diversity — in all its forms — is a driver for new ideas, creativity, and academic excellence. Moreover, we are dedicated to creating a climate of dignity and respect as well as recruiting and retaining a diverse group of leaders, administrators, faculty, staff, and students. Promoting a nurturing, inclusive environment means actively opposing intolerance, bigotry, bias, and discrimination. The policies and educational objectives of Vogue Summer School NYC further inclusivity and cultural effectiveness. These values are recognized, supported, and embraced fully by Vogue Summer School’s leadership. Additionally, we recognize that the responsibility for maintaining a culture of diversity and inclusion lies with all of us.

Admissions Process

How do I apply for Vogue Summer School NYC?

All prospective students must complete an application through our online submission system. The application requirements include making a class selection, answering a few short questions, submission of current grade transcripts and school report, and the contact information for one academic reference. Students may also submit writing samples and portfolios (if applicable) for review by the admissions committee. We ask that the prospective student themselves complete the online application and not their parents, counselors, or agents. 

How are applications evaluated?

Admission to Vogue Summer School is competitive. All applications are carefully reviewed by our admissions committee. Admissions officers seek talented student leaders with diverse interests and ambitions. The committee strives to select critical thinkers who will contribute to a well-rounded, and academically engaging community of students. Each application is reviewed holistically and qualified students who have demonstrated a genuine interest in Vogue Summer School as well as a strong academic background will be considered for admission to the program. Our goal is to accept as many qualified students as possible and to ensure we are accepting the right students into the right program for them while space remains.

Who is eligible to apply for Vogue Summer School NYC?

Rising 10th through 12th grade high school students as well as graduating seniors are eligible to apply. Students must be 15 years old by the first day of the program. Students who have graduated from high school who are 18 years of age may still apply for courses. 

How will I be notified of an Admissions decision?

All applicants will be notified via email. Our admissions review process typically takes 1-2 weeks and we are often able to release a decision sooner.

Are there any differences between admissions deadlines?

Yes. We have limited capacity in our tracks and always recommend that students apply at the earliest deadline to have a better opportunity of being accepted into their first-choice preference. Please note that more students can be declined or waitlisted at later rounds because of lack of space. Prospective students applying under our Early Decision will have first consideration in course placement based on their preferences. Prospective students applying for Regular Decision will be considered for course placement based on their preferences. Courses may be filled after Regular Decision. 

I've been accepted, how do I enroll?

All admitted students must complete an Enrollment Form and submit a nonrefundable deposit to guarantee their space inVogue Summer School.  Students and parents will be sent an acceptance email which will contain a link to complete the form. At the end of the form, the system will prompt you to submit the deposit via credit card or bank payment. 

Are applications reviewed on a rolling basis?

We only review applications after the application deadline. However, we recommend that students start the application process and submit their application before the deadline to guarantee their application is submitted promptly. Please note that all supplemental documents must also be submitted by the deadline for your application to be considered.

Who should I list as my reference?

We accept references from teachers, guidance counselors, coaches, or school officials. 

Am I responsible for obtaining a letter of recommendation?

No. Students are only responsible for including the name of their reference in their application. Admissions Counselors will contact the listed reference directly to complete an online form.  All students must provide the most up-to-date contact information for their recommender(s). This includes an email address that he/she/they will check frequently.  We encourage all students to notify their recommender(s) to expect an email from Vogue Summer School requesting a recommendation letter on their behalf. 

If I applied as a residential student, can I change my status if accepted or vice versa?

Students who have already applied and wish to make changes to their application must contact admissions office at precollege@voguesummerschool.com who will provide further assistance.

After my application is submitted, can I change it?

No, once an application has been submitted, you are not allowed to change it. Please contact the admissions office at precollege@voguesummerschool.com  if you have any questions. 

Do transcripts have to be official?

Transcripts do not have to be official. Unofficial copies are acceptable. 

What is a school report?

A secondary school report has information about the school, its curriculum, and its grading system. Your school office or guidance counselor should be able to provide this information. 

Do you require test scores?

No, we do not request nor require test scores when considering admission to Vogue Summer School.

How do I log back into my application?

Visit: https://account.voguesummerschool.com/s/login/

International Applicants

Do you provide student visas for international students?

Unfortunately, we do not provide student visas nor do we provide information on how to obtain visas for travel to the United States. We encourage international students to contact their country of origin’s embassy/government office for that information. Letters of verification can be provided upon request. 

Do you require a TOEFL score?

While we do not require test scores, all international applicants should have an adequate understanding of verbal and written English language. A minimum TOEFL score of 95 is recommended. 

I have an international bank account, can I pay the tuition via automatic bank payment?

Currently, we are unable to accept international bank payments. International participants can submit a payment via credit card or ACH wire transfer. Please note that all international payments incur an additional processing fee. To submit a payment via ACH wire transfer, please reach out directly to the Admissions Office and the necessary bank details can be provided upon request.

Tuition, Scholarship, and Financial Aid

Is financial aid available?

Financial aid is available to all students and the applications are evaluated at the Priority Decision deadline. To be considered for financial aid, students must submit a completed program application and financial aid application by March 11, 2024. The Priority Decision deadline is the last opportunity to be considered for financial aid. Financial aid has no bearing on the admissions review process and awards are released at the same time as an admissions decision. We strongly recommend that students apply at the earliest possible deadline.

Who is eligible to apply for financial aid and scholarships?

Our mission is to provide affordable educational opportunities to as many qualified applicants as possible. If the tuition cost is a barrier to your attendance in any way, we encourage you to apply. Partial financial assistance or full scholarships are awarded based on need, as well as other determining factors. Please note that a student’s need for financial assistance has no bearing on admission to the program. Financial Aid and scholarships can be awarded to both domestic and international participants. Members of historically underrepresented groups are encouraged to apply. 

How are financial aid applications evaluated?

The Admissions Committee reviews all complete applications holistically. Aid is granted based on need, as well as other factors which may include merit. Students who wish to be considered for both partial and full scholarships must submit a complete online financial aid application and all required income documentation. 

If I am not awarded financial aid or a scholarship, can I still attend?

A student’s need for financial aid has no bearing on admission to the program. Students accepted to the program, but not offered financial aid, may still enroll. 

What payment plans are available?

In order to enroll and reserve your spot in the program, admitted students will be required to pay a $1500 deposit by credit card. Tuition may also be paid in full at this point. 

For those preferring to pay in installments, an invoice for the remaining balance of the tuition will be sent within two weeks of the deposit submission. Tuition may be paid via credit card or ACH payment by the invoice due date. Families may access their accounts and submit as many payments as necessary until the invoice is paid in full. All payments must be received by the due date indicated on the invoice, typically 30 days before the start of term. 

If the deposit is not received by the designated date on your acceptance letter, the offer of admission may be revoked, or your application may move to the waitlist. If space becomes available in the next review, another offer may be extended. 

What payment methods do you accept?

Accepted payment methods include:• Credit Cards & Debit Cards
• Mailed Payments: Check, Money Order, Cash
• Bank Payment: Checking Account or Saving Account
• Domestic and International Bank Transfers

When will full tuition be due?

Full tuition will be due in early to mid-May depending on the date of enrollment and the term in which the student is enrolled. After the student is enrolled, in a few weeks, the family will receive an invoice for the remaining balance of the tuition if tuition was not initially paid in full at enrollment. Invoices will outline the payment due date, which is typically 30 days before the start of a term and will provide instructions for submitting partial or full payment up until the due date indicated. Late payments will incur a $35 late payment fee. 

What is the refund Policy?  

Deposits for Vogue Summer School are non-refundable. To withdraw from the program for any reason before the start of the term, the student must notify Vogue Summer School in writing via email, and depending on the date of withdrawal, a portion of the tuition and fees previously paid may be refunded. No refunds will be given for early departures from a program, once it is underway, whether voluntary or otherwise.

Date of receipt of written cancellation notification. Amount of tuition, materials, and health fees refunded* 

Before March 15         100% 
March 16 – April 15 60% 
April 16 – May 15 30% 
After May 15   0%

*Deposit and processing fee not eligible for refund.    

Exceptions may be made for students who must withdraw from the program before their planned arrival on campus because they test positive for COVID-19. Under these circumstances, you may request a deferral to a later term or apply for a full refund. To process a refund request, The School may request proof of a positive COVID-19 PCR test result from a doctor, pharmacy, health center, or other testing site.

Can I use my 529 funds to pay for this program?

The Summer School does not award college credit for its precollege program. Therefore, 529 funds cannot be used. 

Travel & Safety

Is New York City safe?

New York City is one of the safest big cities in the United States. While the residence hall and academic buildings are secure spaces, students should note that our campus is not separated from the city. As always, students should stay alert and travel with caution when leaving campus and understand that their distance from campus limits the ability of our student life staff to provide support. We encourage students and parents/guardians to discuss safety and guidelines before they arrive at Vogue Summer School. Parents should feel comfortable allowing their students to move unsupervised throughout New York City during their off time. 

Is there a number I can call in case of an emergency?

Urgent Matters Help Line for Parents and Guardians: A dedicated phone line is available for parents and families with urgent matters. This line goes to the team on campus. To ensure issues are attended to promptly, this number should only be used for urgent matters. Please consider the seriousness of your enquiry before using this number. Non-urgent queries submitted to this Help Line will be redirected to our team via email for appropriate follow-up during regular business hours. You may contact us at studentlife@voguesummerschool.comat any time 

Emergency Number for Students: All students will be given the Emergency Phone Number on the day of their arrival. While they will have access to our team at any time, this number allows students to reach us in case of emergencies.   

Welcome Desk:
studentlife@voguesummerschool.com
The Welcome Desk attends to student and parent/guardian queries. The Summer School will primarily communicate with parents through email.  

Who is supervising the students?

All classes and official program activities are chaperoned by our instructors and program staff. Security as well as student life staff are present in the residential hall 24/7 for the duration of the program. 

Are program staff required to have background checks?

All staff who have regular interaction with students will have comprehensive background checks completed before they are allowed to begin working in the program. This includes instructional staff, residential staff, and any other staff who will have more than incidental interaction with students. 

Is health insurance required?

Yes. All students are required to have valid health insurance coverage for the duration of the program. In the past, international students have purchased travel insurance that covers medical emergencies during their stay in the United States. 

How will students travel around New York City?

Students will be accompanied by instructors and/or program staff during class site visits and official program activities. 

During free time, students can travel around New York City with other students by using our checkout system. Students must complete a regular leave request through Orah indicating their destination, the name of their “buddy” and their expected return time. Students then proceed to the Welcome Desk to have their request approved and officially checked out. Students who would like to leave campus independently (without another student) or for longer than four hours must complete a special leave request through Orah and receive parent/guardian approval. 

We recommend that students and parents/guardians discuss safety and guidelines before they arrive at Vogue Summer School. Parents should feel comfortable allowing their students to move unsupervised throughout New York City during their off time. 

Do students need to purchase a MetroCard for public transit?

Students are responsible for their own travel expenses during the program. New York City MetroCards will be officially phased out and replaced by OMNY, a "tap to pay" system for riders. Students will have to ensure that their OMNY mobile app is downloaded and ready for use before their first day of class.  See here for the app link to get started. Students should budget approximately $6 per round trip with for the entirety of the two-week term. Additional costs need to be accounted for should they wish to attend additional optional activities that require travel outside of the campus boundary. 

When do students need to arrive?

Check-in day is on Sunday, the day before the first day of class, and is mandatory for both residential and day students. Please plan for arrivals accordingly. All students will participate in the required student orientation after they have checked in and should plan for an evening of activities with the residence life staff. Details on move-in and orientation programming will be provided prior to the start of the program.

Can I arrive early / leave late from the program? 

No. Move-In/Out days and times are the start and end of the program term. We will not have housing or staff available outside of the specified term dates and times. 

Can I stay in the residential housing facility if I am enrolled in the program for consecutive terms? 

No, unfortunately, housing is not available to students in between terms. Please seek alternative housing plans if you are a consecutive term participant.

I have family/friends in the New York Metropolitan area. Can they make arrangements to take my child out for a meal during the program?

Yes. Students may complete a Special Leave Request to checkout from campus alone to meet with family and friends. Students must be back on campus by curfew and should only submit requests for designated free time. 

Will items left behind in dorm rooms during the day be safe and secure?

We recommend that students keep their rooms locked when unattended, and that students not bring any valuables. Vogue Summer School takes no responsibility for lost or stolen items. 

Program Events & Student Life

What are some examples of evening/weekend activities and events?

Vogue Summer School offers a variety of carefully curated co-curricular activities for students on weeknights as well as weekends, for both residential and day students throughout their term. Some activities include the IG Photo Challenge event, Industry Speaker Series, New York City neighborhoods tours, Young Professionals and College Night, as well as other events. There is an expectation that students may have homework after class. In the evenings, students will also have access to residence hall study spaces that facilitate individual and group work. 

Are any college visits part of the curriculum?

Official college visits are not included in the academic program. Unofficial college visits may be available as special excursions based on student interest. 

Will you be doing anything special for Juneteenth?

The campus will remain open on Wednesday, June 19, 2024, and optional residential programming will occur in the evening for celebration. 

Are program staff required to have background checks?

All staff who have regular interaction with students will have comprehensive background checks completed before they can begin working in the program. This includes instructional staff, residential staff and any other staff who will have more than incidental interaction with students. All staff receive Protection of Minors training and clear policies are outlined and enforced to ensure that student safety is prioritized.

Where do students reside during Vogue Summer School?

Students stay in a student-accommodation housing campus located in the center of New York City and reside in shared dormitories with laundry facilities, lounges, study spaces and cafeteria.  

How are room assignments made?

Students are typically roomed according to their age and self-identified gender listed in the enrollment form.Vogue Summer School may consult with students on an individual basis as needed to find appropriate accommodation. Students will learn their room assignment upon arrival to the program. 

What about food? What if my child has special dietary needs or preferences?

Meals are provided and include vegetarian and vegan options. Students and families must indicate any other necessary dietary accommodations prior to arrival in their program form.  Families with specific dietary concerns are encouraged to contact the program office at studentlife@voguesummerschool.com as early as possible to speak with us directly about accommodations options.

Can parents visit students? 

Students are free to visit with their parents and other family members off campus during their free time. Parents are not permitted into the residence hall after initial move-in. 

Day Students

My child is a day student, do I need to drop them off and pick them up each day?

Transportation for day students to and from the program are decided by the student and their families. Day students are required however, to check themselves in each morning at the Welcome Desk on campus and out at the end of the day. 

When can day students check in on weekdays?

Day students should arrive on class days at least 15 minutes prior to their class start time to check in with program staff at the Welcome Desk. Day students can check out any time after afternoon class sessions conclude. 

Can day students remain on campus after class sessions conclude?

Yes. Day students are encouraged to remain on campus and attend evening and weekend activities, with access to all the same spaces and programming as residential students. The day and residential programs only differ regarding room and board. We do ask that all day students depart from the residence hall by curfew. 

My child is a day student, are the weekend events and activities required?

The purpose of the co-curricular activities is to provide a unique and holistic New York City experience to complement the academic rigor of the classroom. Co-curricular activities and events also offer the opportunity for students to bond outside of the classroom. While we encourage all day students to partake in all events, we understand that some of the evening events might pose a transportation and or time concern for some, therefore the co-curriculars, while strongly encouraged, will be optional for day students. Some signature events however, such as the Photo Challenge and Industry Speaker Series will be required. 

Packing List & Dress Code

What should I bring to Vogue Summer School? 

Clothing: light and cool casual summer clothing, jacket or sweatshirt, raincoat, swimsuit, sandals, comfortable walking shoes, a set of nicer clothes (for more formal events) 

Weather gear: sunscreen, sunglasses, umbrella, reusable water bottle 

Academic supplies: laptop, notebook, pen 

Camera and/or journal/diary 

Personal electronics: U.S compatible cell phone and plan, alarm clock, hair dryer, headphones, chargers and laptop adapters (if international) 

Fitted Twin XL-sized sheets, blanket, towel, pillow etc.  

Photo ID (e.g. government issued ID, official school ID, or copy of passport) 

Copy of health insurance card (front and back)   

Spending money (for travel, souvenirs, and incidentals) 

Should students bring a tablet, laptop or other classroom material?

Students will be doing a good deal of writing and keyboards are essential, hence the recommendation that they bring laptops. Tablets with an attached keyboard are also acceptable. Students who do not have a laptop may be able to borrow one at the start of the program, however availability is on a first come first served basis.

What shouldn’t I bring to Vogue Summer School?

Students may not bring flammable materials, including but not limited to candles, incense, matches, lighters, electronic cigarette/JUUL products, explosive devices or fireworks. Students who violate this policy will be subject to immediate dismissal. 

Students are not allowed to bring weapons of any kind, including but not limited to knives, pepper spray, firearms, paintball guns, laser pointers or other dangerous items. Students who violate this policy will be subject to immediate dismissal. 

Students are not allowed to use or possess tobacco products, alcoholic beverages or unauthorized drugs or medication. Students who violate this policy will be subject to immediate dismissal. 

Students may not bring USB drives on campus. 

Students are not allowed to have a car, skateboard, skates, or a bicycle on campus. 

Students may not bring pets of any kind. 

Students may not bring cooking or kitchen appliances, such as refrigerators.  

We recommend that students not bring any valuables; The Summer School does not bear any responsibility for lost or stolen items. 

Is there a particular dress code?

Vogue Summer School expects all students to represent themselves and the Institute in a way that is appropriate for an academic and professional environment. Students will frequently interact with industry professionals and scholars, affording them exclusive networking opportunities. As such, we require that certain body parts (genitals, buttocks, breasts, nipples, and bellybuttons) must be covered by opaque clothing at all times. That said, we support positive, creative forms of self-expression and encourage students to be who they are.  Students must wear: 

Tops that are full-length in coverage (no crop tops)   
Bottoms consist of pants/jeans or the equivalent (skirt, sweatpants, leggings, a dress or shorts) and do not expose any of the aforementioned body parts 
Shoes/sandals/flip flops 

Vogue Summer School will not accept: 
Clothing or accessories with violent language or imagery 
Clothing or accessories with language depicting drugs or alcohol or any illegal activity 
Clothing or accessories with images or language that creates a hostile or intimidating environment 
Swimsuits 
Accessories that could be dangerous or used as a weapon 

Are there laundry facilities on campus?

Yes, there are laundry facilities within the residence halls for a fee. Students will need to download the service app on their phones to select washers, dryers and pay per use. Students must provide their own detergent. Please note, students are responsible for washing their own bedding and towels. 

Can I send my child a package or mail?

Yes, students may receive packages and mail to their temporary residences. However, we caution students and families to consider the limited timeframe of stay as packages and mail are not guaranteed to arrive on time. The Summer School is not responsible for late mail or packages while students live on site nor after their departure. 

Should I give my student an extra daily allowance?

Most program-related expenses are included in the program tuition or supplemental fees. However, New York City provides many opportunities for shopping and students have typically wanted to acquire souvenirs of their stay. Travel expenses and any additional meals or activities students wish to take part in will require additional expenditure.  We recommend that students and parents exercise prudence and that students not carry around large amounts of currency. 

Student Evaluations

Will students receive certificates for the program?

Yes. All students that successfully complete the term in good standing will receive a digital certificate from Vogue Summer School. 

Will instructors provide feedback to students?

Yes. Each student who completes the course and is in good standing will receive a narrative evaluation from their instructor via their Canvas account. 

How does Vogue Summer School benefit my college application?

As a pre-college program, Vogue Summer School gives students the opportunity to get a glimpse of the college experience while also exploring possible fashion world topics of study with the premier leader in fashion world education. Typically, college admissions officers look favorably on students who continue to enhance their academic portfolio during the summer months. Students will also benefit from receiving a narrative evaluation from their instructor which can be included as part of their college applications. 

Health & Wellness

How is The Summer School handling COVID-19?

All students, faculty and staff are expected to follow all campus and Vogue Summer School’s safety policies and procedures. Failure to comply will result in being restricted from campus. These policies and procedures are subject to change and may be updated from time to time in accordance with the evolving nature of the COVID-19 pandemic and any changes in laws, regulations, and public health guidance issued by the CDC, New York State, or New York City. Do not hesitate to reach out to studentlife@voguesummerschool.com with questions about the campus as it applies to your health and safety.

Are there required vaccinations for the program?

Yes. Students must provide health information including proof of immunization for Measles, Mumps, Rubella (MMR), Meningitis and COVID-19 in the Program Form. Note that COVID-19 vaccination means a full primary series of an FDA-approved or WHO-approved vaccination. Booster shots are recommended. The Institute will not issue a refund to students who withdraw enrollment due to lack of immunization.    

FDA and WHO-Approved COVID-19 Vaccines:   
The Pfizer/BioNTech Comirnaty vaccine  
The SII/COVISHIELD and AstraZeneca/AZD1222 vaccines  
The Janssen/Ad26.COV 2.S vaccine developed by Johnson & Johnson  
The Moderna COVID-19 vaccine (mRNA 1273)  
The Sinopharm COVID-19 vaccine 
The Sinovac-CoronaVac vaccine  
The Bharat Biotech BBV152 COVAXIN vaccine  
The Covovax (NVX-CoV2373) vaccine  
The Nuvaxovid (NVX-CoV2373) vaccine 

Are there any medical exemptions that The Summer School will consider for the Covid-19 Vaccination?

Exemptions to certain requirements for medical reasons may be granted in limited circumstances and will be evaluated on a case-by-case basis. Exemptions might be requested for a medical condition that contraindicates a student from: 
• receiving any of the available FDA- or WHO-authorized COVID-19 vaccinations 
• receiving other vaccinations 
• being able to share a room with other students (requiring a solo room if space permits) 
• other relevant conditions 

Exemption requests must be received at least 2 weeks prior to the start of term. The Summer School will notify students by email if the exemption request has been accepted or rejected. In the case of an accepted medical exemption request, the student must follow all current Institute guidelines contained within this policy. To request a medical exemption, the student must submit a letter signed by a certified/licensed medical provider describing the student’s medical condition. The letter must certify to the following: 

• The student is the patient of the medical provider; 
• The medical provider has reviewed the student’s medical history; 
• The student has a medical condition that contraindicates a student from one or more of the above listed circumstances 

The letter must also provide contact information for the medical provider (name, address, telephone and email). The letter must be sent by email to  exemptions@voguesummerschool.com

Does The school provide mental health counselors during the program?

Vogue Summer School does not provide ongoing mental health counselors for students, but it is prepared to handle emergencies according to The Summer School’s mental health safety plans. Students and their families are encouraged to discuss and prepare for the potential challenges of attending a rigorous academic program that may be in an unfamiliar environment far from home. This preparation should include arranging for any necessary mental health support before the start of the program and indicating any ongoing care in the student health forms.