Applications and Admissions
* How do I apply?
* Is there an application fee?
* What are the admissions requirements?
* If I am sponsored by my company/organization, what is required?
* How long does it take to process my application? How do I check the status of my application? How will I be notified?
* If I am not accepted for this year’s program, may I apply for a future session?
* If I do not live in the U.S., will I need a visa to attend the program?
Payments/Cancellations
* What is included in the program fee?
* When is payment due?
* What types of payment are accepted?
* What is the cancellation policy?
* Is financial aid available?
Accommodations/Meals
* Are participants required to stay in the program-designated hotel?
* What are the living accommodations?
* What are the times for check-in and check-out from the hotel?
* Can I have Internet access in the hotel?
* Are meals provided?
* Are meals for special diets available?
Accessibility
* What services are available for participants with disabilities?
Attire
* What is the typical attire for participants in the program?
*What clothing is appropriate for activities out of the classroom, such as weekend excursions?
Transportation
* What transportation is included in the program fees?
* Where are the nearest international airports?
* What options are available for local transportation between the airport and the hotel?
* Will I need a car?
*How will I travel between the hotel and Stanford campus for classes?
Policies
* Non-Discrimination
* Drugs and Alcohol
* Health Insurance
* Pets
* Security
* Smoking
Program & Classes
* What can I expect on the first day? last day?
* What is the schedule of a typical day?
* When will I receive the detailed program schedule?
* How are the courses taught?
* Where do program classes take place?
* What company and organization site visits will be included?
* Should I bring my laptop?
* How much time can I expect to spend in individual or group study each day?
* What enrichment activities will the program include during the weekend?
* Will I earn university credit for attending this program?
Applications and Admissions
How do I apply?
Download the IEF application from the website
1) Open the application in Adobe Acrobat Reader, fill it out and submit electronically (you may email to sprie-stanford@stanford.edu)
or
2) Print out the application and fill out by hand, then fax or mail to SPRIE as indicated on the form
For additional questions, please feel free to contact the SPRIE Program coordinator at +1.650.725.1885 or via email at sprie-stanford@stanford.edu
Is there an application fee?
No, there is no fee for applying to a SPRIE program.
What are the admissions requirements?
The SPRIE IEF program at Stanford University is designed for an elite group of leaders who play leadership roles within their region as well as for their region internationally. To add to the rich learning experience for participants, admission is selective and based on professional experience, range of responsibility, and ability.
Fellows must be proficient in written and spoken English, in order to apprehend the course materials and to take an active part in the learning environment. You must also have the academic and practice credentials necessary to benefit fully from the program and contribute to the discussions.
In addition, if the program fee is paid by a company/organization, the program requires participants to have full company sponsorship, including a signed Sponsors Statement.
If I am sponsored by my company/organization, what is required?
If the program fee is paid by a company/organization, participants must be sponsored by your current employer. Sponsoring companies agree to relieve participants of work responsibilities during the program.
You should identify a senior executive/leader within your company/organization to serve as your sponsor. In addition, as sponsor, they are involved in your professional development, and will ensure that you will be free from your regular job duties during the program. The Sponsor Statement is part of the application process. This statement provides the Admissions Committee with a better understanding of your background, roles, and potential as a leader. The Sponsor Statement must be submitted before the committee will review your application. You can find the Sponsor Statement on the last page of the admissions application. It should be filled out by your sponsor and faxed to SPRIE at +1-650-723-6530.
How long does it take to process my application? How do I check the status of my application? How will I be notified?
The admissions committee reviews applications on a rolling basis, beginning 4 months prior to the program start date. Applicants will be notified via email regarding admissions committee decisions within 3-4 weeks of receipt of application.
To check the status of a current application, please contact us by email.
If I am not accepted for this year’s program, may I apply for a future session?
Yes, you may reapply if you are not accepted. Admission is competitive, since class size is limited. In addition, we work to build a diverse group of participants from many regions and backgrounds. For these reasons, we encourage you to re-apply in the future.
If I do not live in the U.S., will I need a visa to attend the program?
Citizens from the 35 Visa Waiver Program countries must apply for an authorization to travel to the United States using the Electronic System for Travel Authorization (ESTA). Other foreign citizens will need a nonimmigrant visa. For more information about visa and passport requirements, visit the U.S. Department of State
Payments/Cancellations
What is included in the program fee?
The program fee includes tuition; private accommodations at a 5-star local hotel; daily meals (except one dinner during weekend activities); all transportation for program-scheduled site visits and activities; and all program materials. Incidentals, such as laundry/dry cleaning, entertainment, phone bills, etc. are not included in the program fee.
When is payment due?
Upon admission, participants will receive an invoice. To confirm a place in the program, payment of fees is due within 30 days of the invoice date or upon receipt of the invoice if admission is within 30 days prior to the start of the Program.
What types of payment are accepted?
Payment can be made by company/organization check (not personal check) or electronic bank wire transfer. For payments by company/organization check, please make payable to "Stanford University" and mail check with copy of invoice to:
Stanford Program on Regions of Innovation and Entrepreneurship (SPRIE)
Encina Hall - East 301
Stanford University
Stanford, CA 94305-6055
USA
What is the cancellation policy?
Cancellation by Program Participant:
• Upon cancellation at any time, a fee of $500 USD will be assessed and deducted from any previously paid fees.
• Cancellations must be submitted in writing more than 30 days before the program start date to receive a full refund, minus the $500 cancellation fee.
• Due to program demand and the extent of pre-program preparations, cancellations or deferrals received 14 to 30 days before the program start date are subject to a fee of 50% of the program fee, including the $500 cancellation fee.
• Requests received within 14 days of the program start date are subject to full payment of the program fee.
Cancellation by SPRIE: Program dates, fees, faculty, and activities are subject to change. If a program is cancelled, Stanford will refund the program tuition in full but is not responsible for travel, accommodations or other expenses incurred by the participant.
Is financial aid available?
No, financial assistance is not available for our programs.
Accommodations/Meals
Are participants required to stay in the program-designed hotel?
Yes, the SPRIE Innovation and Entrepreneurship Fellows program is residential, so participants are expected to live in the program-designated hotel. Residing in the same hotel will enable informal networking, out-of-class discussions, common transportation and meals, as well as and shared learning during study group sessions each evening in the hotel.
What are the living accommodations?
Program participants will stay in private rooms at the 5-star Four Seasons Hotel Silicon Valley in East Palo Alto, renown for its service and amenities. Each room is spacious and light, with a large window, marble bathroom, flat-screen television, and wired or wireless Internet access. Ten minutes from Stanford, the hotel has a fitness center, rooftop pool, spa, restaurant, and 24-hour business center. (Fees may apply.) A complimentary private shuttle is provided for IEF program participants to Stanford each morning and back to the hotel in the evening.
Four Seasons Hotel Silicon Valley
2050 University Avenue
East Palo Alto, California 94303
U.S.A.
Tel. 1 (650) 566-1200
Fax.1 (650) 566-1221
What are the times for check-in and check-out from the hotel?
Check-in time: 2:00 pm, September 13, 2009
Check-out time: 12:00 pm September 25, 2009
Early arrivals and late departures
If your arrival is early in the day and you prefer immediate access to your room, Four Seasons recommends reserving for the prior night to guarantee immediate access. Similarly, for late departures, reserving an additional night will guarantee access until you leave the hotel. If you choose not to reserve, Four Seasons will be glad to store your bags and make the fitness facilities available for you to freshen up.
Can I have Internet access in the hotel?
Yes, at the Four Seasons Hotel Silicon Valley, each room has wired or wireless Internet access. In addition, the 24-hour business center offers services such as airline reservation, audiovisual equipment, computers, laptops, webcast capabilities, and worldwide courier service. (Fees may apply.) Contact the hotel directly for more information.
Are meals provided?
Yes, all meals are included during the duration of the program. On weekdays, breakfast and lunch will be offered in Encina Hall next to the classroom facilities. Dinners will be held at locations linked to afternoon company site visits the on Stanford campus and around Silicon Valley. On the weekend, when sightseeing for program Fellows is offered, meals are included during the excursions. During the Saturday evening in San Francisco participants are responsible for selecting their own restaurant and paying for one dinner. Meals outside of program-sponsored activities are the responsibility of the participant.
Are meals for special diets available?
Participants with special dietary requirements are asked to contact us prior to their arrival.
Accessibility
What services are available for participants with disabilities?
Assistance is available for participants with disabilities, which may include mobility, vision, hearing, and other physical impairments or health conditions. Accommodations also can be made for short-term disabilities related to medical conditions and treatments. Please indicate special needs on the application form. After admission, we will contact you for further information, prior to your arrival.
Attire
What is the typical attire for participants in the program?
Business casual attire is requested for classes, company site visits, and meals during your program. Since dress codes and terminology vary widely across companies and countries, here are a few examples of what is considered business casual attire:
• Open-necked, collared shirts or blouses and sweaters
• Khakis or other pressed pants
• Leather or casual walking shoes
For the final day's forum, certificate ceremony and dinner event, business dress (such as a business suit) is requested.
Average September temperatures in Palo Alto:
Average high : 78° F (26° C)
Average low: 55° F (13° C)
Average rain fall: very low
Note: September sometimes can be a hot month, with highs in the upper 80° range (28° to 32° C).
What clothing is appropriate for activities out of the classroom, such as weekend excursions?
Comfortable, casual clothing is recommended for after dinner study sessions and the weekends. Sightseeing destinations, including San Francisco and the Pacific coast, can be more windy with much cooler temperatures than Palo Alto. Bring a sweater and lightweight jacket.
Transportation
What transportation is included in the program fees?
All transportation for program-sponsored activities is provided. This include a private daily shuttle between the hotel and Stanford campus, transport to company site visits, and excursions for dinner and sightseeing activities.
Where are the nearest international airports?
Three major airports service the Stanford/Palo Alto area:
• San Francisco International Airport (SFO): 19 miles (30 km) north from Palo Alto
• Mineta San José International Airport (SJC): 15 miles (24 km) south of Palo Alto
• Oakland International Airport (OAK): 28 miles (45 km) northeast of Palo Alto
Transportation arrangements and costs to the San Francisco Bay Area as well as between the airport and hotel are the responsibility of each participant.
What options are available for local transportation between the airport and the hotel?
Consult the Four Seasons in Silicon Valley website for directions and map to the hotel. You may contact the hotel's concierge for details and for transportation arrangements to the area's airports.
Will I need a car?
No, transportation is provided for all program activities and the intensive program schedule generally allows for little free time. The hotel concierge can assist with arranging taxi service. However, if you do bring a car, parking is available at the hotel and on Stanford campus for additional fees.
How will I travel between the hotel and Stanford campus for classes?
A private shuttle is provided for program participants from the hotel to Stanford University each morning and back to the hotel each evening following program dinner and events.
Policies
Non-Discrimination
Consistent with its obligations under the law, Stanford University prohibits discrimination, including harassment, against students or staff on the basis of sex, race, age, color, disability, religion, sexual orientation, gender identity, national and ethnic origin, and any other characteristic protected by applicable law in the administration of its educational policies, admissions policies, and University programs.
Drugs and Alcohol
It is the policy of Stanford University to maintain a drug-free workplace and campus. The unlawful manufacture, distribution, dispensation, possession, and/or use of controlled substances is prohibited on the Stanford campus, in the workplace, or as part of any of the University's activities. The workplace and campus are presumed to include all Stanford premises where the activities of the University are conducted. Violation of this policy may result in disciplinary sanctions up to and including termination of employment or expulsion of students. Violations may also be referred to the appropriate authorities for prosecution.
Health Insurance
Participants must be covered individually with comprehensive health insurance for major medical emergencies and/or hospitalization. Please check with your organization's health insurance carrier prior to your arrival to ensure that you have adequate coverage in the United States. SPRIE and Stanford University are not responsible for any medical fees incurred during a participant's stay.
Pets
Stanford University and the hotel do not allow for animals or pets, with the exception of service animals.
Security
Each program participant is urged to take proper precautions to protect your valuables. Do not leave valuables in the classroom or discussion group areas. SPRIE and Stanford University are not responsible for any loss of personal property.
Smoking
Smoking is not permitted anywhere inside any Stanford University building at any time.
Program & Classes
What can I expect on the first day? last day?
First day: On Sunday, September 12, program registration takes place after check-in at the hotel. That evening at the hotel, the program will also have an opening session, welcome dinner, as well as the first study group session. These activities lay important groundwork for the program, so please plan to arrive at the hotel no later than 4:00 pm on the first day, September 12.
Last day: On Thursday, September 24, the program will feature a forum by Silicon Valley thought leaders, a closing class session, a certificate ceremony, and farewell dinner on Stanford campus. Following the dinner, the program is completed; transportation will be provided back to the hotel, with check-out the following morning.
What is the schedule of a typical day?
Each class day is dedicated to three kinds of activities: faculty-led sessions in the classroom at Stanford, on-site visits with executive briefings at Silicon Valley companies and organizations, and individual/group study. Typically, the morning feature 3 class sessions at Stanford, followed by lunch. In the afternoon, company site visits/briefings are paired with individual study. The evening includes dinner at local restaurants and a study group session, plus time for additional individual study or relaxation.
How are the courses taught?
Program faculty include professors and senior researchers from across Stanford University campus, including the Freeman Spogli Institute for International Studies, Graduate School of Business and Engineering School, as well as prominent Silicon Valley business and political leaders. Drawing on the strengths of the multi-disciplinary background of faculty members, classes will include lectures, case study method, a hands-on workshop, discussions, and team presentations.
Where do program classes take place?
Classes will be held in the Bechtel Conference Center in Encina Hall on the beautiful campus of Stanford University. Only steps from Hoover Tower and the Main Quad, the Bechtel Conference Center is centrally located in historic Encina Hall, which has been painstakingly restored to its original 1891 grandeur. Arched windows and a large skylight provide natural light. State of the art technologies facilitate learning.
The Stanford campus is world renowned for its natural beauty, Spanish mission-style architecture, and temperate climate. With more than 8,180 acres (3,310 hectares), Stanford's campus ranks as one of the largest in the United States.
What company and organization site visits will be included?
On-site visits to leading Silicon Valley companies and organizations will allow IE Fellows to see firsthand renowned firms and organizations and to be briefed by executives and leaders. Companies and organizations may include: Google, Cisco, research labs at Stanford University, City of San Jose, Joint Venture Silicon Valley Network, venture capital firms, and local start-ups.
Should I bring my laptop?
Though not required, participants may find access to their own laptops advantageous, both in the classroom and for personal study. Participants will have wireless Internet access on the Stanford campus. In the hotel, each room also has both wired and wireless Internet. Please remember to bring a voltage adapter to be compatible with US electrical outlets.
How much time can I expect to spend in individual or group study each day?
The program is designed for participants to integrate rigorous work in the classroom with field visits to Silicon Valley icon companies and organizations, small group discussions and a team presentation. On average, each day includes 3 class sessions at Stanford. Typically each class requires 1-2 hours advance preparation time, including 1-hour study group discussions scheduled with program peers each evening.
What enrichment activities will the program include during the weekend?
During the weekend, the program will provide activities to explore the natural beauty and cultural attractions in the Bay Area through private tours for the IE Fellows. On Saturday, participants will experience San Francisco, from the scenic Golden Gate Bridge to Fisherman's Wharf, and the downtown Civic Center. On Sunday, Fellows will travel to a charming town and coastal beaches on the spectacular Pacific Ocean. In addition, Fellows may use free time on the weekend to relax, network, or further explore Stanford and Silicon Valley.
Stanford University visitor information
San Francisco Bay Area visitor information
Will I earn university credit for attending the program?
No, you cannot earn credit for this program. SPRIE offers only non-degree, non-credit programs. Certificates are awarded to participants upon completion of the program.
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