What is the Sikh Institute in Sikh Studies and what should I expect?
The Summer Institute in Sikh Studies is a program designed to extend access to Sikh Studies over the summer period, particularly to non-U-M students. Starting in 2025, the Summer Institute will offer accredited online courses in Sikh studies with transferrable credit. The purpose of the Summer Institute in Sikh Studies is to connect student communities across Michigan and beyond, through a shared experience of cultural education in aspects of Sikh and Punjabi heritage traditions. The course offered during the Summer 2025 semester is Sikh Philosophy: Its Literature, Concepts and Applications, which is being offered at the undergraduate and graduate levels. The online component of this course is followed by a 1-week intensive in-person seminar on the U-M central campus, attendance for which is mandatory for graduate students but entirely optional for undergraduates.
Can I sign up for the course without any knowledge of the topic?
Absolutely! The course starts with a brief overview of Sikh history and literature that helps students explore the key concepts of Sikh philosophy and spirituality and investigate their relevance to our contemporary world. It’s a great opportunity for anyone to learn more about this vibrant tradition.
Help! I’m a non-U-M student but want to sign up for credit for the course. What steps do I take?
Students who wish to take courses at U-M during the spring and summer terms, must complete a Guest Application before enrolling in a course Guest applications must be submitted to the Office of Undergraduate Admissions at least two weeks prior to the start of the term (Summer 2025 - June 26, 2025). A guest student is responsible for paying tuition and can find current tuition and fees by visiting ro.umich.edu/tuition-residency/tuition-fees. You are responsible for determining that your home institution will accept credit earned as a guest student and arrange for a transcript of any credit earned to be sent from U-M to your home institution.
You can learn more about U-M’s guest application process here.
I’m a high school student. Can I enroll in the course for credit?
Yes, high school students are eligible to enroll in the course if:
- You are NOT a graduating senior that has been admitted to the University of Michigan for the Fall 2025 term. Please note that graduating high school seniors must provide a final, official transcript with graduation date and senior grades.
Students must complete a Spring/Summer 2025 Guest (non-degree) application to the university to the Office of Undergraduate Admissions at least two weeks prior to the start of the term (Summer 2025 - June 26, 2025). After your application has been approved, you will be eligible to enroll.
A guest student is responsible for paying tuition and can find current tuition and fees by visiting ro.umich.edu/tuition-residency/tuition-fees. You are responsible for determining that your home institution will accept credit earned as a guest student and arrange for a transcript of any credit earned to be sent from U-M to your home institution.
Are there any financial aid opportunities for non-traditional guest students?
Students taking courses that are not part of a degree program are considered non-candidate-for-degree students. There are federal financial aid options if you are enrolling:
- In a required prerequisite(s) course for admission to a degree/professional program, or
- In an approved teacher certification program
There are maximum time periods and dollar limits for which students will be considered for federal loans under these circumstances. It is best to speak to a financial aid counselor for more information. You can learn more about the process or how to reach out to a financial aid counselor here.
Those that are not eligible for federal financial aid, may be able to borrow through private loan sources. You can reach out to the Office of Financial Aid to discuss your options.
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