FREQUENTLY ASKED QUESTIONS

How can I register for the program?
Please refer to the registration page of the center for Buddhist studies website for detailed information and online registration.


I am not sure if I will be able to attend the program, but want to. Should I register now? What if I have to cancel? Will I get my deposit/payment back?
If you register and later wish to cancel your registration, notification must be made by e-mail to shedra@mail.com.np. Such notification must be received one month before the start of classes in order to receive a refund of the original amount submitted less a US$ 75 processing fee.


What if I start the program and decide to withdraw? Will I get a refund?
Students may withdraw from the program within the first two weeks of classes and still receive a refund of tuition paid less US$75.


I have already studied Buddhist philosophy/ Tibetan language. How do I apply for advanced placement?
To determine your eligibility for advanced placement, please contact the Institute by email at shedra@mail.com.np at least two months in advance before the start of classes. Remember to state how the Institute can contact you in response to your request for advanced placement.


Do I need to know some Tibetan before joining the program?
No, it is not necessary to know Tibetan before joining the program. Learning the Tibetan alphabet would be helpful.


Can I attend the program for just part of the term? What part? What are the tuition and fees for this?
Students may join the program at any time for a minimum of one month. The tuition per month varies depending on the class. Please contact the Institute for further details The tuition is US$ 200 per month.


Can I attend just some of the classes, i.e. just a language class? What are the tuition and fees for this?
Students may enroll part-time, for one class of their choice. The tuition is per class per semester. Please contact the Institute for part-time fees.


I cannot attend class full-time. Can I attend class irregularly, whenever possible? What are the tuition and fees for this?
Full-time and part-time students who attend classes irregularly are considered auditors. The tuition is the same as for students who attend regularly: full-time (US$ 1050 per semester) or part-time (please contact administrator).


I cannot attend the fall semester. Can I start in the winter semester?
Yes, if you can demonstrate that you are familiar with the subject matter covered during the fall semester and are able to pass a comprehensive entry exam.


What books do I need? Are they available? What do they cost? Where can I get them? Do I need to bring them with me?
The Tibetan texts, English translations and books for the supportive classes are available in the Institute office. It is anticipated the cost of the texts and books will be approximately US$ 50-60 depending on the year of study. For further information regarding texts and books please contact us by email at shedra@mail.com.np.


When and where is the Rangjung Yeshe Institute Annual Seminar? How much does it cost? When and where do I register?
The Seminar usually takes place in mid-November for two weeks. The Seminar is held at Ka-Nying Shedrub Ling Monastery, Boudhanath, Nepal. The cost of the Seminar is about US$ 100. However, the Seminar fee for registered students will be about US$ 65. Seminar registration will take place at the monastery a few days before the seminar starts. Further information will be available at the Institute office.


What kind of visa do I need? Will student visas be available?
Please refer to the visa page of the practical info section of our website, for a detailed explanation of tourist and student visa eligibility.Please contact us at shedra@mail.com.np if you need additional information regarding visa regulations.


I do not know how to get to Boudhanath from the airport, can someone meet me?
We can arrange for someone to meet you at the airport if you make arrangements with the administration. Please send an e-mail to shedra@mail.com.np If you wish to take a taxi please refer to the environment page of the practical info section of our website for advice regarding taxi transport from the airport to Boudhanath.


Will there be an orientation for students?
An orientation for students is held at the monastery for the two weeks immediately before the start of the fall semester. All students are asked to attend the Orientation.


Where should I stay? Please make a reservation for me.
Please refer to the accommodations page of our website for a listing of guesthouses and hotels near the monastery in Boudhanath. Students are advised to contact these hotels and guesthouses directly if they wish to make a reservation.


What do I need to bring with me?
Please refer to the environment and shopping pages of the practical info section of our website.


How can my family/friends contact me after I arrive in Boudhanath? How will I be able to contact them? Is the mail reliable? Are there internet services available? Can I use the Institute's P.O. box for personal mail?
Please refer to the communication page of the practical info section of our website. The communications centers listed on this page offer postal services. Individuals can have mail sent to the P.O. Box listed on the contact page. However the mail service in Nepal is very unreliable and the institute is not liable for any lost items.


What shots/vaccinations do I need?
Please refer to the health page of the practical info section of our website.


I am taking prescription medicines. Will I be able to get them in Nepal?
Please refer to the health page of the practical info section of our website.


I have a chronic illness, what medical care is available in Kathmandu? Can I get laboratory studies done to monitor my condition?
Please refer to the health page of the practical info section of our website. If you need detailed information regarding your medical status and needs, please write to us at shedra@mail.com.np and we will provide you with contact information for local medical facilities.