Are my credits transferrable to other institutions?
Yes. You will receive a U.S. transcript from Rochester Institute of Technology. This transcript can be forwarded to your university for processing of transfer credits.
Do I enroll in the courses on my own?
No, an RIT staff member will enroll you in your classes.
Will students in the Research for Science & Citizenship (RSC) program be in the same classes as other students?
Students in the RSC program will take the Scienctific Inquiries Environmental Science course and Research in a Cultural Context course only with other students in the program . For your elective course, you will be in a class with other students from RIT Croatia. There will be opportunities for you to participate in extracurricular activities within the RIT Croatia community. You will also be assigned Croatian student peer mentors who will show you around and help you get integrated.
Do I need to purchase textbooks for the courses?
The cost for textbooks and academic materials is included in your program fee. The program staff in Croatia will purchase the materials you will need.
Will I meet other students in the program before I depart?
Students will connect with others in the program via a video pre-departure meeting, as well as one or two virtual meetups prior to the start of the program.
Where will other students be from?
Students in the Research in Science & Citizenship Gap Semester program will likely be from the U.S., China and perhaps a few other countries worldwide.
Other students attending RIT Croatia are mainly from Croatia and surrounding countries such as Montenegro, and Bosnia and Herzegovina. There are also students from other EU countries, Australia, and the U.S.
What is the application deadline?
The application deadline for the 2022 program is April 1, 2021.
Where will I live?
You will live in a student dormitory in Dubrovnik. More information
Do I need to bring my own linens, towels, etc.?
Linens and towels are provided in the dorm rooms. A self-serve laundry is available in the dorm (small cost applies). You also have the option to use a laundry service to have your sheets and towels washed for you every two weeks (included in program fee).
Where will I eat?
The student dorm has an onsite restaurant, and the RSC program includes lunch and dinner daily in the restaurant. You can also purchase groceries to keep in your dorm mini-refrigerator and visit other local cafes and restaurants.
How do food allergies and dietary restrictions get managed?
Any specific food allergies or special dietary needs will be shared with the onsite dorm restaurant, and meals will be prepared considering your needs. When dining at other restaurants around Dubrovnik or Croatia, it is your responsibility to communicate any allergies/restrictions with the restaurant’s staff.
What is included in the program cost?
The Program Fee includes tuition, room and board, books/academic materials, international health insurance, and program excursions (travel and housing).
Are there any expenses not included in the program fee?
You will pay on your own for your airline ticket; any personal travel you wish to do while in Croatia; meals not included in the program fee (breakfast, eating out, groceries); monthly bus pass; and any personal spending money for things like clothing, personal items, entertainment, etc.
How much spending money will I need?
While this varies depending on your personal spending habits, it is recommended you budget approximately $1,500 USD for personal expenses.
Are payments only accepted in USD?
Yes, it is required to submit payment in U.S. dollars. Once you have confirmed your participation in the program, you will be enrolled at RIT as a non-matriculated student. You will be billed a deposit to your RIT student financial services account. Any charges related to the program will post on your RIT student account.
Will I have any free time on weekends?
Yes, there will be several weekends when no program activities are scheduled, so you will have an opportunity to sightsee or travel around Croatia. However, please do not make any personal reservations until you know the schedule for the required program excursions. Traveling outside of Croatia on weekends may not recommended due to possible re-entry and quarantine restrictions due to the COVID-19 pandemic.
What is the refund policy?
If RIT must cancel the program before you depart due to unforeseen circumstances (travel restrictions, COVID-19, etc.), you will receive a full refund of the program fee and deposit. However, RIT cannot refund out-of-pocket expenses, such as your airline ticket. Please don’t make out-of-pocket financial commitments (i.e. purchasing your airline ticket) until your RIT study abroad advisor instructs you to do so. We recommend that you purchase refundable tickets and/or travel insurance.
Do I book my own flight?
Yes, you will book your flight on your own. You will be required to arrive on a specific date. We will notify you of the confirmed arrival and departure dates after you are accepted. Do not book any flights until you are accepted to the program, and an RIT advisor lets you know it is time to book your flight.
What is the closest airport accessible to Dubrovnik?
From the U.S. American Airlines has direct flights from Philadelphia to Dubrovnik, and United Airlines has direct flights from Newark to Dubrovnik. Other U.S. carriers typically fly to Frankfurt, Munich, or Rome and then connect to Croatian Airlines to get to the Dubrovnik airport. United Airlines also has a direct flight from Newark Airport to Dubrovnik.
Air China and Lufthansa have direct flights from major cities in China (Beijing, Shanghai, Guangzhou, Qingdao, Shenyang) to most European cities, such as Frankfurt, Germany. From many European cities, you can find flights to Dubrovnik (DBV).
You should be aware of current COVID-19 measures for your airline carrier and any countries you are traveling through before arriving in Croatia.
Are there any excursions that are part of the program?
Yes, there are excursions to nearby cities/regions in Croatia included in the program.
What are the extracurricular activities at RIT Croatia?
RIT Croatia has many activities organized by the student government, including BBQs, a holiday auction, fundraising events, and a student sports day. Depending on availability each year, you can join clubs, such as the basketball club, soccer club, robotics club, investment club, business club, and handball club.
Outside of the activities on campus, you can explore the surrounding islands and towns nearby Dubrovnik.
Do I have to stay with my group in my free time, or can I explore on my own?
For general safety reasons, it is recommended that you are with at least one other person when exploring outside of Dubrovnik.
As a parent, may I come for a visit? If so, when?
You are welcome to visit your student at any time. There are some planned excursions outside of Dubrovnik in October and November that students must participate in, so be aware of the schedule and plan ahead to avoid those times.
You will have to book your own flights and individual accommodation. There many hotels and private rentals available in Dubrovnik. Please note that you will need to observe any mandatory quarantine restrictions in Croatia.
Are there any student policies that I should be aware of regarding my enrollment in the RSC program?
Students participating in the RSC program are required to follow the RIT student code of conduct. In addition, students studying at RIT Croatia are subject to the policies outlined in the RIT Croatia student handbook, including the academic honesty policy, use of computer equipment, and student conduct expectations. RIT Croatia has a strict zero-tolerance policy regarding the use of alcohol and drugs on the campus. Students will be required to sign a housing agreement that outlines standards of behavior in the dormitory housing. Failing to adhere to these policies could result in you being removed from the program at your own expense with no refund, and receiving W's (withdrawal) on your transcript for your academic coursework.
The faculty will communicate the class attendance policy and academic honesty policy in the course syllabus.
Students participating in the RSC program are required to have received a COVID-19 vaccine. Acceptable vaccines include those approved for use in the U.S., accepted by the US Food and Drug Administration, or on the World Health Organization Emergency Use List (EUL).
I am under 18. Are there any laws that apply to minors that I should be aware of?
Minors cannot drink alcohol in Croatia. All students must also follow the RIT student code of conduct and honor code, which promotes a safe learning environment.
Where is the RIT Croatia campus located?
RIT Croatia’s Dubrovnik campus is located by the main entrance to Dubrovnik Old Town and is easily accessible by car, public transportation, or on foot. Dubrovnik takes pride in being one of the safest cities in Croatia. It is a small community where crime is virtually nonexistent. In the summertime, when it becomes a popular tourist destination, petty crimes do happen but are usually tied to high-density tourism areas (petty thefts, pickpocketing). It is very normal for people to walk home at night, and you may often see small kids walking to school alone.
In November, students will spend a week at RIT Croatia’s campus in Zagreb, located in the vicinity of Bundek Lake. This area is part of a large living/business complex, is vibrant throughout the day, and crime is very uncommon. However, with Zagreb being a capital city with a population of around 1 million, some caution is advisable during the evening hours. Public transportation is safe and readily available.
What is it like to live in Croatia?
Although Croatia is a small country, you have countless things to see. It offers a unique combination of breathtaking natural beauty, gentle climate, outstanding architecture, impressive history, delicious cuisine, and most importantly, friendly people. Direct flights from various European cities and motorways connect Croatia with other parts of Europe and provide easy and fast travel to various destinations. Croatia is one of the safest countries in the world right now. In February 2020. The U.S. State Department ranked Croatia “Level One” – which is the category for the safest countries.
What is the culture like in Croatia?
Due to its geographical position, Croatia, has been influenced by its neighboring countries. Croatia’s culture is a blend of Mediterranean, Eastern European, Central European, and Balkan influences. This rich cultural combination is reflected in Croatia’s monuments, traditions, and food. Although Croatians show a strong sense of national pride, regional cultures are still upheld, characterized by differences in topography, economy, cuisine, folklore, and dialect.
How safe is Dubrovnik?
Dubrovnik has a very low crime rate. Visitors should take the usual precautions to be aware of their surroundings, avoid large crowds, and safeguard their belongings in public areas. According to Eurostat’s report, Croatia has the lowest rate of reported crime, violence, or vandalism among all EU countries.
RIT Croatia pays special attention to safety on our campuses. Its small size makes it easier for us to keep track of the student community and know our students on a first- name basis. We do not have security services on our campuses, but we maintain close relationships with local police officers who make regular patrols around campus. The campus is accessible during opening hours only and use an electronic security system during closed periods.
Can I drive in Croatia?
You will not be able to drive in Croatia. It is easy to get to class and other areas around Dubrovnik by walking or using public transportation. Cars are not allowed in Old Town, inside the city walls of Dubrovnik. Getting to other areas of Croatia is convenient and affordable by bus or train.
What is the primary language of Croatia?
The official language in Croatia is Croatian, but most of the population speaks at least one other language, primarily English, but also German or Italian. EF (Education First), an organization that ranks countries based on the English language proficiency of the general population, ranked Croatia among the countries in the “very high proficiency” category. Croatia ranked #13 out of 100 countries/regions in consideration. You can easily live in Croatia without knowing the local language, especially in urban areas such as Zagreb and Dubrovnik.
What is the government like in Croatia?
Croatia is a parliamentary democracy with a multi-party political party system. The government has three branches: legislative, executive, and judicial.
What is the availability of religious services on or near campus?
The Dubrovnik community is very inclusive and receptive towards various ethnicities and religions. The largest religion in Croatia is Catholic. There are more than 80 churches scattered around Dubrovnik, the majority of them being within the Old Town. Dubrovnik is also home to an Orthodox Church, synagogue, and Islamic Center.
Are there any access issues related to the internet, email, social networks, etc.?
There is no censorship and/or restriction on internet use in Croatia. RIT Croatia has high-speed internet access, and most businesses in Croatia (cafes, bars, restaurants, hotels, beaches) provide complimentary Wi-Fi access. City areas are covered by LTE mobile networks.
How is Croatia and RIT Croatia handling the ongoing COVID-19 pandemic and health and safety protocols?
In these uncertain times, no one can predict where and how the COVID-19 pandemic will develop. The Croatian government is tracking the outbreak and introducing various measures as the situation evolves. We recommend these resources to keep track of relevant COVID-19 advisories in Croatia:
- https://www.koronavirus.hr/en - the official COVID-19 site in Croatia. Includes daily outbreak figures and most relevant information.
- https://croatia.hr/en-GB - the official site of the Croatian Tourist Board. Provides updated travel information in English.
- https://www.total-croatia-news.com/ - Web portal with news in English. Although an unofficial source of information, it is one of the most-up-to-date news outlets in the region, providing COVID related travel information to foreign visitors in the past year. They also have a Twitter account.
RIT Croatia’s guiding principles for responding to the COVID-19 pandemic are rooted in concern for the health and safety of our students, faculty, staff, visitors, and other guests. We have developed a comprehensive safety plan that has been in effect since summer 2020. We pay special attention to cleaning and disinfection protocols on both of our campuses. Mask wearing is mandatory in all campus spaces. Our plans are aligned and consistent with applicable local and national guidelines. Students, faculty, staff, visitors, and other guests (the "RIT Croatia community”) are expected to fully comply with the provisions of this Safety Plan and other policies, procedures, and guidelines designed to protect the health and safety of all individuals on the RIT Croatia campuses. There was a very small number of cases reported at RIT Croatia in the last year.
RIT Croatia’s safety plan can be found at https://www.croatia.rit.edu/ritcroatia-ready and the COVID-19 dashboard is updated daily. Go to to https://www.croatia.rit.edu/ritcroatia-ready-dashboard to see the current COVID-19 situation at RIT Croatia’s campuses.
Will the RIT Croatia student body, faculty and staff be vaccinated for COVID-19?
COVID-19 vaccinations area underway in Croatia. The government has ordered sufficient amounts of vaccinations and will administer them based on priorities. Elderly and those with chronic diseases have been prioritized. People employed in education will also be prioritized before the general population. It is expected that by fall 2021, the majority of the adult population in Croatia will have received the vaccination, dependent on the number of doses available to each EU country.
Students participating in the RSC program are required to have received a COVID-19 vaccine. Acceptable vaccines include those approved for use in the U.S., accepted by the US Food and Drug Administration, or on the World Health Organization Emergency Use List (EUL).
How would COVID-19 impact my overall experience in Croatia?
Most countries in Europe have restricted travel and put additional safety measures in place, which could complicate your ability to travel outside of Croatia during the program. Locally, Croatia’s government may restrict working hours, capacity, or close specific services, such as restaurants, coffee bars, and gyms if necessary.
However, the lower numbers of tourists and visitors to Croatia due to COVID-19 means you will enjoy top local attractions without the usual crowds.
What should I do if I have COVID-19 symptoms or been exposed to someone with COVID-19?
You should immediately notify the RIT Croatia program coordinator. If you have symptoms, you should follow the RIT Croatia protocol regarding quarantine/isolation. COVID testing is available at testing centers run by the Croatian Institute of Public Health. For EU, EEA, UK, or Swiss nationals your country’s national health insurance provider would cover the cost. For citizens outside of the EU, EEA, UK, you will need to pay at the testing site (PCR testing is 700 Kuna; antibody testing costs 150 Kuna). The RIT Croatia program coordinator can provide additional information on the testing locations and hours of operations.
If my student needs to get home, can they and how?
RIT Croatia had students on study abroad when the initial COVID outbreak happened and the International Student Office at RIT Croatia assisted each student and arranged all details for them to return to their home country (from transportation, arranging details with authorities, liasing and coordinating information with their professors in Croatia and the RIT Global team at RIT's main campus in Rochester, New York.
Who can I contact with questions?
Please contact Maureen Shannon at Rochester Institute of Technology with any questions: Maureen.shannon@rit.edu,