Eligibility & Cost

Eligibility

• The Washington Program is open primarily to junior and senior students in an accredited collegiate institution.
• Applicants 2.5 GPA is required.
• Only 18-20 students are selected for the program each year.
• Selection will be based on academic record, maturity of purpose, and promise of success.
• Participants register for the program during their regular registration times.

Journalism students may perform media work for their internship requirement with permission from the director of the School of Journalism and Mass Communication.

Cost

Fees payable to the University before departure include Kent State University tuition and lodging. 

• Housing fee provides fully furnished apartments – including housewares (pots, pans, coffee maker, eating utensils, plates, drinking glasses, etc.) – a washer/dryer in each unit, iron and ironing board and other amenities such as a fitness center, computer lab and 24/7 concierge service. All utilities are covered including internet. Also, parking is covered in the housing cost.

• Living on a budget in Washington, D.C. is not impossible. Spending can vary widely, depending on what (and how much) a student chooses to get out and do while here.  They should prepare a budget for the following expenses:

  • Transportation
  • Groceries
  • Entertainment (movies, concerts, etc.)
  • Dining out
  • Incidentals

  Overall, we recommend a student budget between $100 and $150 per week for general expenses in D.C. No two people will spend money the same way. Everyone has different habits, means and priorities. It is important for students to be flexible about their spending over the first few weeks while getting their bearings. Smart budgeting for grocery shopping, dining out, transportation and entertainment will help students enjoy their time in D.C. to the fullest.                        

As a regular off-campus program of the university, WPNI expenses may be met by virtually any form of scholarship, grant or loan as regular on campus expenses would be. Check with the office of Student Financial Aid for advice.                                                                                                                                               

Scholarships

Currently WPNI offers significant scholarships funding to offset housing and tuition costs.  2023 WPNI Scholars received on average $1500 in scholarship assistance, reducing the cost of housing in DC.   Contact the WPNI Director for further information about these scholarships.

Stipends

In addition to scholarships, some internships in Washington DC pay monthly or hourly stipend.  The stipend varies depending on the organization.