SUMMER EXPERIENTIAL LEARNING 2027
NISA’s 10-week summer program combines an internship or independent project in Nepal with seminars, cultural immersion, and structured reflection. Inspired by the liberal arts model, the program allows students to pursue their academic and professional interests while developing a deeper understanding of Nepal.
We believe there is no substitute for hands-on, real-world experience. Through our network of organizations and experts across Nepal, students are matched with placements based on their interests and goals. Alongside their placements, seminars, and other activities provide context and space to reflect on what they are learning and experiencing.
Launched in 2024, NISA has hosted students from Swarthmore College, Haverford College, and the University of Michigan, working across fields including technology, engineering, public policy, energy, education, conservation, human rights, and social innovation.
WHO IS THIS PROGRAM FOR?
NISA is open to undergraduate and graduate students from a wide range of academic backgrounds. More important than a particular major or your level of education is curiosity, independence, and a willingness to engage seriously with a different social and cultural context.
Living and working in a new environment will inevitably involve some uncertainty and discomfort. We believe learning to navigate these moments is an important part of studying abroad.
We do not expect students to arrive in Nepal already knowing how to navigate every situation they encounter. But we do expect them to approach unfamiliarity with curiosity, humility, and a willingness to reflect and learn.
HOW THE PROGRAM WORKS
The program has two interconnected components:
Internship or Independent Project (approx. 70%)
Students spend most of the ten weeks working with a Nepal-based organization or pursuing a pre-approved independent project. Rather than offering a fixed set of internships, NISA works with each student to understand their interests and identify an appropriate placement within our network. Placements are confirmed before arrival.
Past students have worked on economic modelling in Nepal's electricity sector, assistive technology development, transitional justice and human rights, and public-policy research.
See below for our selected list of partners and student placement from previous years.
Introduction to Nepal (approx. 30%)
Alongside placements, students participate in our Introduction to Nepal series, designed to provide context for their experiences in the country.
The program begins with an orientation retreat focused on community-building, expectations, assumptions, and positionality. Over the following weeks, seminars, guest conversations, field visits, and cultural exploration introduce students to Nepal's history, society, economy, politics, cultural heritage, and contemporary challenges.
These sessions are led by Nepali scholars and practitioners and connect these broader themes with what students are encountering in their placements and everyday lives. Reflection is built throughout the program, culminating in a final synthesis of the summer experience. A detailed weekly schedule and learning outcomes are available upon request.
HOUSING AND STUDENT SUPPORT
NISA arranges housing in Kathmandu for the full ten weeks. Students have private bedrooms with shared living and kitchen facilities. Housing is comfortable and safe. Importantly, students should expect differences from what they may be accustomed to at home. Housekeeping and one weekday meal are included.
Students are expected to navigate day-to-day life in Kathmandu with a reasonable degree of independence. NISA provides orientation, regular check-ins, and emergency support, and can assist with additional logistical needs when necessary.
COST AND APPLICATION LINK
The program cost for 10 weeks is $3,750. This covers:
Internship placement with a local organization,
Lodging for 10 weeks, including housekeeping, one meal per day, and cleaning services,
Weekly Series, Introduction to Nepal,
A guided tour of Kathmandu, and
A local trip within Nepal.
Please note: Airfare to and from Nepal, local transportation, visa fees, and other associated costs are not included.
FREQUENTLY ASKED QUESTIONS
Click here to access the FAQ document, which provides additional clarification on some of the most commonly asked questions.
Apply via the Summer Application page here.
***
OUR PARTNERS
-
![]()
NIC - Nepal
-
![]()
IIDS Nepal
-
![]()
PEI Nepal
-
![]()
Sattya
-
![]()
Teach for Nepal
-
![]()
Advocacy Forum Nepal
