Frequently Asked Questions:

Is there a limit to the number of courses I can take?

Participants can attend a maximum of one morning course, one afternoon course, plus the free mathematics course (scheduled 08.15-09.45) per session. Note, however, that courses tend to be intense so that the total workload will be very high.

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When do I need to pay my tuition and accommodation fees?

On receipt of the application, the Summer School office will send applicants an invoice for the amount due. Full payment must be made by 1 June 2013. Places on courses cannot be guaranteed if payment has not been received by this date.

Please note our cancellation policy is as follows;

  • Cancellations made prior to 1st June 2013: full refund less an administrative charge of £50.00.
  • Cancellations made between 1st June and 1st July 2013: refund of fifty percent.
  • Cancellations made after 1st July 2013: no refund to be made.
  • Registered participants on courses cancelled by the Summer School organizers will be entitled to claim a full refund.

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When is the deadline for applications?

Completed application forms must reach the Summer School office by 30 April, 2013. The availability of places on all courses or accommodation cannot be guaranteed after this date. Applications received after this date will incur a £30.00 handling surcharge. On receipt of the form applicants will be sent confirmation of their course(s) and accommodation booking together with an invoice.

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Will I be able to check my e-mail while I’m attending the Summer School?

On arrival each participant will be given their own University of Essex computer account (login and password) which is activated for the duration of their registered date of arrival till departure. Using this account, participants will be able to browse the internet and they will also have their own "@essex.ac.uk" e-mail throughout their stay.

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What is the weather like in Essex during the summer?

Very changeable.

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If a course is fully booked can I be placed on a waiting list?

Courses operate with space limits. Registration for a particular course is on a first come/first serve basis. Registrants beyond the maximal number of participants will be put on a waiting list, and will be informed as soon as a place becomes available. If the waiting list grows too long, registration for that workshop will be closed.

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I have already registered for the summer school but I would like to change my course selection, what should I do?

Changing courses is possible until the second day the course takes actually place. However, changing courses is possible only if space permits. Note that in 2011 roughly 2/3rd of all courses were fully booked. This limits our ability to accommodate late wishes to change courses.

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Do you only offer courses in the summer?

The Essex Summer School is — indeed — a Summer School. Please contact the directors if you want the Summer school to organise full courses for your institution.

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What happens if I'm late checking in, and what time do I need to check out?

During the summer our Conference Reception is open 8am to 8pm, 7 days a week. Participants arriving after 8pm will be directed to the 24–hour Information Centre to collect accommodation keys. Check out is by 9.30 am on the day of departure.

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Is there anywhere I can leave my luggage before I check in /after I have checked out?

A luggage storage facility is available free of charge at Conference Reception both on arrival and prior to departure.

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Is car parking free of charge or do I have to pay for it?

All participants are entitled to free parking for the duration of their stay and will be supplied with a parking permit on request from the Conference Reception. A permit is not required for evenings and weekends.

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Will I automatically receive a certificate of attendance?

All participants will be supplied with a certificate of attendance before their departure.

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