General Questions
What is the OIP?
The Overseas Immersion Programme (OIP) is a program for all undergraduate students in the SIT-DigiPen (Singapore) joint degree and DigiPen (Singapore) degree programs. It allows students to take one trimester of their degree modules at either the Redmond campus in the U.S. or the Bilbao campus in Spain. This program is reflected in SIT students’ Record of Achievement (ROA).
Is participation in the OIP compulsory?
Yes, participation in the OIP is required for all undergraduate students in the SIT-DigiPen (Singapore) joint degree and DigiPen (Singapore) degree programs.
Which DigiPen campuses can I choose from?
Available degrees vary from campus to campus, and options for students in the OIP are based on degree program. Both the Redmond campus and the Bilbao campus are options for students in the following degree programs:
Students in the following degree programs are expected to complete the OIP at the Redmond campus:
How can I learn more about the Redmond campus or the Bilbao campus?
Visit the Redmond campus website, specifically the About the Campus page, to learn more about DigiPen’s campus based in the U.S.
See the Bilbao campus website to learn more about programs offered, student life, and the city of Bilbao.
Is Redmond a safe city?
Redmond is considered one of the safest cities in the Seattle metro area. According to resident feedback, most people feel very safe walking alone in their neighborhood during the day or at night. OIP students can read the Annual Security Report from the Redmond campus.
How safe is Bilbao overall?
Bilbao is considered a very safe city, especially compared to other major cities in Spain.
What is the language used for lectures and tutorials at the Bilbao campus?
English is the language used for lectures and tutorials at the Bilbao campus.
How did past OIP students find the program?
The DigiPen Student Management Committee (SMC) is a great resource for connecting with current and past students. You can reach them directly via email at digipen.smc@gmail.com. Depending on availability, they may be able to connect you with students who have participated in the OIP or share any existing resources they have about student experiences.
Preparation
Should I get my visa or secure my flight first?
We generally don’t encourage you to secure your flight before you receive your visa. Instead, here are some tips you can consider:
- Start by researching whether you need a visa for your exchange.
- Find out and start the visa application process for your host country as early as you can.
- Understand and factor in the expected timeline for getting a visa.
- Begin tracking flight prices once you decide on your campus.
- Consider purchasing refundable flight tickets in the event of any exigencies.
Should I carry cash while I am overseas?
In Redmond and Bilbao, digital payment is widespread and transactions can be done through digital platforms or apps, which can be linked to Singapore credit cards. Alternatively, you may use credit cards linked to multi-currency accounts.
Application Process
When can I apply for OIP?
The application window for the OIP is typically between October and November. There will be separate deadlines for Redmond and Bilbao applications.
How do I apply for the OIP?
The application process involves submitting an application form and required documents online. Specific links for each campus application will be provided during the information sessions.
When are the information sessions held?
There are typically two information sessions held annually. The first session takes place in late October to inform students about program details and application requirements. The second session, held in late February, provides updates and important deadlines specifically for each campus.
What can I expect to learn from the information sessions?
The information sessions will cover a variety of topics related to the OIP, including:
- An overview of the program at each campus
- Specific details about the application process and deadlines for each campus
- Financial aid options available for the OIP
- Important pre-departure information, such as visa application procedures and housing arrangements
- Move-in and move-out dates for each campus
- The program schedule and curriculum at each campus
How can I attend the information sessions?
Details on how to attend the information sessions will be communicated through your DigiPen email and Teams chats closer to the dates. The sessions are typically held online and recorded via Teams.
How do I request a visa letter for the Bilbao campus (if applicable)?
You can request a visa letter from the Bilbao campus in late February by contacting oipvisa.sg@digipen.edu.
Application Process for Redmond Campus
What are the deadlines for financial documents?
The Admissions team at the Redmond campus will remind you about preparing financial documents in early November. There will be a specific deadline for submitting these documents around early December.
When will I receive my I-20 form for the U.S. visa application?
The Admissions team at the Redmond campus typically sends out I-20 forms sometime between January and February.
What are the deadlines for housing the application?
The application for housing at the Redmond campus typically opens in late February with a deadline in early March. There will also be deadlines for submitting disability support applications and housing payments.
When will I be notified about my housing placement?
You will receive an email with your housing placement and information on your move-in date around mid-March.
When are the visa interview appointments?
Specific timeslots for U.S. visa interview appointments are typically allocated between the start and end of March.
Financial Matters
Are there any financial aid options available for the OIP?
Yes, you can apply for the Overseas Student Programme (OSP) loan directly through SIT’s IN4SIT portal. The application deadline will be announced during the information session. See SIT’s OSP overview page for additional details.
Accommodation
Am I required to live in campus-allocated housing during the OIP?
Yes, it is compulsory for all OIP students to stay in the campus-allocated accommodation for the duration of their program. This ensures a smooth integration into the campus community and facilitates participation in program activities.
Why are housing costs high in at the Redmond campus?
There is a high demand for housing due to the many tech companies located in the Redmond and greater Seattle area. Limited housing supply and apartment options near the Redmond campus are also factors. Additionally, the overall cost of living is high in the Seattle metropolitan region.
Why is living in campus-allocated housing compulsory?
Living in campus-allocated accommodation offers several benefits that contribute to a successful OIP experience:
Closer to Classes and Facilities: Campus-allocated housing puts you within walking distance of classrooms, labs, libraries, and other campus amenities. This saves you time and allows for more flexibility in your schedule.
Streamlined Application: The application process for campus-allocated housing is typically more straightforward compared to finding off-campus housing in a new country. This reduces stress and allows you to focus on other aspects of your OIP preparation.
Hassle-Free Logistics: Campus-allocated housing comes with a set move-in and move-out process, eliminating the need to find furniture, negotiate leases, or worry about utilities. This allows you to focus on settling in and adapting to your new environment.
Furnished Rooms: Campus-allocated housing typically comes fully furnished with basic necessities like beds, desks, chairs, and internet access. This eliminates the additional cost and hassle of acquiring furniture upon arrival.
Building a Community: Living on campus-allocated housing places you close to other OIP participants, creating opportunities to make friends, form study groups, and share experiences. This fosters a strong sense of community and support during your OIP.
Enhanced Safety and Security: Campus-allocated housing offers a secure environment with staff readily available to address any concerns. Additionally, DigiPen can easily locate students residing in campus-allocated housing in case of emergencies.
Ultimately, living on campus-allocated housing during the OIP is designed to optimize your experience and ensure a smooth transition into a new academic and cultural environment.
Post-Program
When is the deadline for the post-OIP feedback survey?
The post-OIP feedback survey is typically due around mid-July with a deadline in mid-August.
When can I expect my housing deposit refund?
Housing deposit refunds for both campuses are typically processed via GIRO between August and September.
What are some other things I should take note of upon return?
There are things to keep in mind once you near the end of your semester and once you return:
- Check any reports or documentation you need to submit for insurance claims upon return.
- Provide feedback using the SIT post-OIP feedback form.
- Be aware of potential jet lag and culture shock upon returning home.
- Allow yourself time to adjust back to your familiar environment.
- Maintain communication with any contacts you made during the OIP program like professors, mentors, and friends.
Who do I contact if I have additional questions?
Do not hesitate to contact Student Services at DigiPen (Singapore) at studentlife.sg@digipen.edu for any inquiries or concerns regarding OIP.