IIIT Rising Scholars Program FAQs 

1. What does the certificate program consist of? 

The program consists of four courses and an essay project. 

2. How long are the courses? 

Each course is twelve contact hours long. One CEU (continuing education credit) is offered for the completion of each course.

3. How many times the class meets for each course?

For each course, the class meets six times. Each meeting is a two-hour session once every other week. However, this schedule may be modfied at the mutual convenience of IIIT Rising Scholars and the instructor.

4. How are courses scheduled?

One course each is scheduled in Fall, Winter, Spring, and Summer terms. Term dates are listed on the website home page.

5. When will the first course will begin, and on which days and at what time will classes be held? 

The first course is tentatively scheduled to begin on October 16. However, a firm schedule will be determined after a teleconference with selected Rising Scholar applicants on October 1 at 3:30 PM (subject to change). 

6. Do all class sessions require in-person attendance at the Institute? 

Generally, the first and the last sessions require in-person attendance. The remaining four sessions can be conducted on-line via IIIT Meeting Center but in real time.

7. Are there any assignments to turn-in for each class? 

Generally, there are no assignments to turn-in, other than being prepared for discussion in the class. There are optional assignments for those who may be interested in exploring a specific topic further. 

8. Do I have to register for each course separately? 

All Rising Scholars are automatically registered for the four courses. Separate registration is not necessary.

9. Can I skip a course if I am taking or have taken a similar course at my university? 

This is a cohesive certificate program offering a distinctive perspective on the subjects covered. All courses must be taken. 

10. Where are the on-site classes requiring in-person attendance held? 

These classes are held at The Fairfax Institute (TFI), 500 Grove Street, Herndon, VA 20170. 

11. What if I don’t have transportation?

You may be able to share rides with fellow Rising Scholar. Call us for suggestions.

12. What is the essay project? 

It is an original written work on a topic selected by the Rising Scholar in consultation with the advisor. The essay should be three to five thousand words in length, and of publishable standard. At the discretion of the advisor, limited use of academic work done for one’s university courses is permitted. 

13. When is the essay project due? 

The essay project can be submitted at any time, but no later than three months, after the completion of the fourth course.

14. How are scholarship payments disbursed?

A payment of $250 is disbursed at the beginning of each course. The balance of $1,000 is disbursed after the submission of an acceptable essay project. 

15. Is TFI accredited, and are CEUs offered by TFI accepted by universities? 

TFI is not accredited. Acceptance of a course for credit by a university depends on that university’s academic policies. 

16. What if I have more questions? 

Please call the TFI Director at 703-478-9222, or email, iunus@fairfaxi.net