FREQUENTLY ASKED QUESTIONS
General Information
The educational depth of each People to People program allows the Washington School of World Studies (WSWS), an accredited travel study school and an accredited Distance Learning School, to enroll students in grades 9-12 in tuition-paid, high school core and elective courses that complement those renowned and internationally respected travel study programs.
For more information on our travel study programs, please visit
www.peopletopeople.com. For more information on our online distance-learning courses, please visit the
Distance Learning portion of this website.
Students in grades 5-8 who complete online course requirements and/or travel study requirements will receive a Certificate of Completion. This may be presented to classroom teachers for possible extra credit or as documentation of work to meet state and local school district Certificate of Academic Achievement (CAA) requirements in reading, writing, social studies, or service learning. Schools will often place these certificates in a student’s work portfolio to demonstrate subject-specific work samples and experiences beyond the regular classroom requirements.
It is important to note that individual school districts set their own guidelines when accepting credit hours from other schools. We recommend that you meet with your academic advisor to discuss your desired course(s). The course description(s) should help address any questions.
General FAQ
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Online Distance Learning FAQ
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Travel Study Program FAQ
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General FAQ
Who is the Washington School of World Studies?
The Washington School of World Studies (WSWS) is fully accredited both as a travel study school and as a distance learning school, recognized by the Northwest Association of Accredited Schools (NAAS). NAAS is one of the six regional accrediting institutions.
The other recognized associations are: Middle States Association of Colleges and Schools, New England Association of Schools and Colleges, North Central Association of Colleges and Schools, Southern Association of Colleges and Schools, and Western Association of Schools and Colleges.
NAAS has a reciprocity agreement with these five institutions. If your local school district is also recognized by one of these accrediting institutions, acceptance of our credit should be assured as part of that reciprocity agreement.
View Our Distance Learning Accreditation Credential
View Our Travel Study Accreditation Credential
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What is accreditation?
Accreditation is a third party review process for a school’s programs and policies to see if they meet certain criteria, generally set by an outside agency. When a school is found to meet the minimum criteria, it is granted accreditation. This process is usually very comprehensive and includes validating the school’s claims, in-depth, for accuracy and to protect the consumer.
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Why is accreditation important?
Accreditation is meant to protect students, schools, and employers and ensure academic quality. It ensures that a school is teaching its students at a nationally acceptable level and provides programs that are found to have value and substance. Accreditation also guarantees the school employs certified instructors that are qualified to teach the appropriate subject matter.
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Who can grant accreditation?
Anyone can claim that they grant accreditation to schools and many do. However, not all accreditation is equal. Accreditation from the wrong source can be just as bad as no accreditation at all. In order to ensure that your online school’s credentials are coming from the right place, make sure that its accrediting agency is approved by a state Department of Education or by the U.S. Department of Education.
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What if my school isn’t accredited?
If you choose a school that isn’t accredited, you may find that many schools won’t accept your online high school credits. It may be difficult to convince your school to accept your transfer credits, particularly in nontraditional subject areas.
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Do People to People participants need to apply to earn high school credit?
No, delegates traveling on People to People programs do not need to apply. Students in grades 9-12 are automatically set up to earn credit from the Washington School of World Studies (WSWS) when they are successfully enrolled in a course or travel study program.
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In the past, students in grades 5-8 were eligible to earn high school credit. Why has this changed?
The Washington School of World Studies recently gained full accreditation through the Northwest Association of Accredited Schools (NAAS). The accreditation process through NAAS included an extensive review of all school policies and materials. Following the formal accreditation review process, it was a directive from NAAS that the WSWS only provide high school credit to high school students in grades 9-12.
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Where are transcripts sent?
Initial High school transcripts will be mailed to the student’s home address within eight weeks of their successful completion of their online course(s) or travel study program.
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What should a student do with the transcript?
Students should take their transcript to their academic advisor when they register for high school or during their school year. The student’s school counselor will assist the student in fitting the credit(s) into his or her overall graduation plan.
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Will other high schools accept the credit?
Individual school districts set their own guidelines when accepting credit hours from other schools. In our experience, the high school credit earned by Washington School of World Studies students is accepted as replacement credit for a required high school course, or as elective credit.
We recommend students meet with their academic advisors before enrolling in a distance-learning course, or shortly after enrolling in a travel study program, to discuss their school’s policies on acceptance of transfer credit from accredited online or travel study schools.
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If a school will not accept the credit, what should a student do?
A student should meet with their academic advisor to discuss their school’s policy for accepting transfer credits from another accredited institution. Most high schools in the United States are accredited through one of the six regional accrediting institutions.
Being accredited implies that the school subscribes to a process of voluntary self-regulation that is a constructive experience designed to improve the quality of the member school. These accrediting institutions ensure that the courses provided by the school adhere to high standards and are designed to ease the transfer of credits between accredited institutions.
NAAS (Northwest Association of Accredited Schools) employs a reciprocity agreement with the five other accrediting institutions across the nation which mandates that the credits be accepted. If the school the student attends is accredited, it should accept the credit(s). Top
Who do I contact for a replacement transcript?
Please download, complete, and return the
Request for Transcript form.
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What if I need an official transcript sent to my high school or college/university?
Please download, complete, and return the
Request for Transcript form.
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How much is a replacement transcript?
Replacement transcripts range from $5.99 to $20.99, depending on delivery method and how quickly you need your transcript. Please download, complete, and return the
Request for Transcript form.
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How much is an official transcript?
Replacement transcripts range from $5.99 to $20.99, depending on delivery method and how quickly you need your transcript. Please download, complete, and return the
Request for Transcript form.
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Is the Washington School of World Studies an Accredited Member of the Better Business Bureau (BBB)?
Ambassador Programs, Inc., Washington School of World Studies’ parent organization, has been an accredited member of the BBB since 1982.
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Online Distance Learning FAQ
Who can earn high school credit?
For students in grades 9-12, high school core and/or elective credits are awarded upon successful course completion. See the course listing on pages 13 and 14 of the Distance Learning Student Handbook for information on the number of credits each course is worth.
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What course work is required?
The coursework varies for each course offered. Typically, there will be assignments involving reading, interactive Flash modules, discussion board participation, papers, quizzes, assessments, etc. Each course includes a full syllabus of course requirements available to the student upon his or her first login to the course.
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How much time can I expect to spend on my online course?
On average, students should expect to spend approximately 45-60 minutes per day, 5 days per week to complete a 0.5 credit course within an 18-week schedule. But, due to the flexible nature of online learning, a student can finish a course in less time than it takes to take the same course at a high school campus. Or, if a student needs more time than is traditionally allowed for a course on campus, he or she has it (within reason, of course).
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How are students evaluated?
Students are evaluated on both the quality of their work and the accuracy of their responses on required coursework and assessments. Students with passing scores will receive a transcript from the Washington School of World Studies highlighting their educational accomplishments and course credits earned.
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What if a student’s course work is not satisfactory?
Students who do not receive a passing grade in their online coursework will not be allowed to improve their work and resubmit it. Because the courses are flexible and students are allowed as much time as necessary to complete the course content and master the course materials, coursework that is submitted for evaluation is considered final.
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How do I enroll in Washington School of World Studies online courses?
To enroll in an online course, download and fill out the
Online Course Registration form, or fill out the registration form located on pages 41-44 of the Distance Learning Student Handbook and fax in your completed registration form to 866.654.3749.
Once registered, you will receive access to online training to prepare you for your studies, as well as your course username and password. WSWS staff will also assist in communicating with your school, and provide a mentor to ensure your online learning is successful and fulfilling.
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Are Washington School of World Studies courses available to everyone?
As long at the student meets minimum admission requirements, is in grades 5-12, and has determined that he or she is a good candidate for online learning, we invite students from any location around the world to enroll in Washington School of World Studies courses. We have no geographical boundaries. In fact, we thrive on diversity and the well-rounded learning experiences derived from learning with students from around the nation and around the world.
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When can I start?
You can start anytime! With our flexible scheduling, students are welcome to begin courses at any date during the year.
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How do I know if online learning is right for me?
A successful online learner must be a motivated self-starter and be committed to the success of his or her own education. While the Washington School of World Studies offers world-class educational courses, it is ultimately up to the student to succeed. That success will require a lot of effort, and like anything else you do, the more you put into your online courses, the greater your education will benefit. Before you decide whether our courses are right for you, we invite you to take our quick assessment,
Is Online Learning Right for Me? (also available on pages 8-10 of the Student Handbook).
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How many courses may I take at once?
During any given enrollment period, a student may take a maximum of 3 credits of courses.
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How much do the courses cost?
Course Type
(0.5 Credit course = 1 semester)
|
Cost Per Student Per Course |
High School Courses
(1 Semester Courses) |
$399 |
High School Courses
(2 Semester Courses) |
$790 |
AP High School Courses
(1 Semester Courses) |
$429 |
AP High School Courses
(2 Semester Courses) |
$850 |
Middle School Courses
(1 Semester Courses) |
$399 |
Middle School Courses
(2 Semester Courses) |
$790 |
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Who teaches the online courses at the Washington School of World Studies?
All online courses are taught by highly qualified instructors who hold a bachelor’s, master’s, or doctoral degree and/or state teaching license relative to each instructor’s area of expertise. Quality educational experience is our priority.
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What if I have questions or problems while taking a course?
Each student is assigned an online instructor and a mentor for each course. Your instructor is available daily through your course via discussion boards and email or telephone. Your mentor is available during Washington School of World Studies office hours through email or phone.
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What is the difference between traditional ground classes taken at the typical American high school and those offered by the Washington School of World Studies?
The two biggest differences between WSWS courses and those offered at a typical American high school campus are the flexibility in scheduling offered the student and the level of independence required by the student in WSWS courses.
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Are the online courses at the Washington School of World Studies less challenging than those offered by traditional accredited American high schools?
Simply put, no. As an accredited institution, the Washington School of World Studies offers a flexible alternative for students. It is not an easier option. At WSWS, each student has a front-row seat. This means that all students have first-hand connection to the course content without the interruption of poorly behaved students or school-day interruptions such as announcements, assemblies, half-days, etc. And, all courses are written at or above grade level and require an average of one or two hours of focused and fairly rigorous study on a daily basis. Our courses engage students in real-life applications, critical thinking, and problem-solving, and offer opportunities to apply the knowledge and skills they acquire.
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As a parent, will I be kept informed of my students’ progress?
Absolutely! As a parent, you will have immediate online access to your student’s classroom and progress and will know exactly what your student is doing. Additionally, you may contact your child’s teacher and/or mentor anytime you have questions about your child’s progress. We strongly feel that a parent’s involvement in his/her child’s education is critical to overall success.
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Is there a face-to-face requirement?
There is no face-to-face requirement in the Washington School of World Studies courses. We are a fully private online school. Although there is not a traditional attendance requirement, students will only learn to their full potential if they actively participate in their online course on a regular basis. Students are expected to log in to the school for substantive participation at least five days per week.
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Travel Study Program FAQ
How much credit is available to People to People participants?
Students in grades 9-12 will be enrolled in a course that includes pre-travel, on-program, and post-travel components. The amount of the credit varies as follows:
- Student Ambassadors may earn 120 instructional hours, plus 10 service-learning hours.
- Sports Ambassadors may earn 60 instructional hours, and, on most itineraries, 10 service-learning hours.
- Leadership Programs provide 55-60 hours, depending on the itinerary, plus 10 service-learning hours.
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What type of credit is awarded?
Students in grades 9-12 who participate in People to People programs and meet all learning objectives are awarded one elective semester credit. Depending on the emphasis of your program, this credit may represent
55-120 hours of instruction and be applied to social studies or geography, physical education, leadership studies, or another course designated by your school district.
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What is the credit equivalency offered by the WSWS?
The determination of credit allotments are based upon the total number of instructional contact hours provided in the program. This formula includes the pre-travel, travel, and post-travel components. For example, the WSWS has determined that the Student Ambassador Program includes 120 hours of instruction. In most local school districts these 120 instruction contact hours are transferred into 1.0 unit. We recommend one semester elective credit (0.5 units) for ease of transfer and in case of unforeseen program adjustments.
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Why should my district accept these courses and service-learning credits?
We understand that school districts set their own guidelines when accepting credit hours from other schools. Many schools include instructional contact hours reflected on our transcripts as an additional elective credit on the student’s high school transcript. We recommend that students meet with their school’s academic advisor prior to the program, so they are assured that their school will be able to accept the WSWS credits.
Students are also able to provide a copy of the course description prior to their travel experience. It is very disappointing to students to have transfer of credit denied after program completion, so it is our recommendation that students and their families have this discussion prior to traveling on a program.
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What is a typical district policy on the acceptance of your academic credit?
Due to the reciprocity agreements with the regional accreditation organizations, we expect no challenges with the acceptance of our credit. If you have concerns, please contact our office or the Northwest Association of Accredited Schools (NAAS). Staff at NAAS is available to answer your questions regarding the agreements between the accrediting institutions.
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What is a typical district policy on transfer of credit?
A typical district policy looks very similar to this:
Schools will accept high school credit for courses that include no less than 120 hours of instruction, or its equivalent, per year. Students must have an official transcript of courses taken to receive credit. All high school courses taken must appear on an official transcript to be considered for credit.
The registrar must establish course content, the days per week the class met, and the number of minutes per day to convert a travel study school course to a school district credit. Guidance services will answer questions related to accepting credits. A school district may not take away any credit which has been given by an accredited institution.
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Who ensures students meet the course requirements?
State-certified teachers who travel with students as delegation leaders provide prescribed instruction. They also monitor the travel and post-travel components of the program. Students are required to complete program assessments and all required assignments. Delegation leaders ensure that students have met all requirements and assign a Pass (P) or No-Pass (NP) grade at the end of the program.
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Will participants receive an official transcript?
Following the travel portion of the program, delegation leaders submit student credit completion forms
for 9th through 12th graders to the program office. Transcripts are mailed to students from the Washington School of World Studies approximately eight weeks after those forms are received. Students must submit this transcript to their school’s office so it may be included in their school district transcript. Students may also provide a copy of their program itinerary to their school if that is needed to verify all educational components of the program.
We recommend that the transcript is held by the school district and the student for inclusion in their college application process. Travel study programs are highly regarded by colleges and universities and may make a positive difference in the student’s future applications.
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What travel study programs are available?
Please visit
Travel Study Programs to view all available travel study programs for the upcoming year.
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What do students in grade 5-8 earn when they travel?
Student Ambassadors in grades 5-8 who travel successfully and complete the course requirements will receive a
Certificate of Completion. This certificate may be presented to classroom teachers for possible “extra credit” or as documentation of work to meet state and local school district
Certificate of Academic Achievement (CAA) requirements in reading, writing, social studies, and/or service learning. Schools will often place these certificates in a student’s work portfolio as demonstration of subject specific work samples and experiences beyond the regular classroom requirements.
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Are students who have completed 8th grade and going into 9th grade eligible to earn credit?
Yes, students who have completed the 8th grade are eligible to earn credit. If they are traveling with a high school delegation, they are automatically enrolled for high school credit with the rest of the delegation.
Students who have completed 8th grade and are traveling with a junior high delegation are eligible to earn credit but are not automatically enrolled. They need to inform their leader that they wish to earn credit.
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Are the curriculum requirements for students in grades 5-8 still the same even though they are not earning credit?
Yes. People to People Ambassador Programs are all educationally driven programs. There is a continuous learning process for each delegate that begins during pre-travel exercises and continues during travel. All students are expected to participate fully in the educational aspect of the program. Students in grades 5-8 will still receive the certificate of completion verifying they have completed the program. This certificate may be used as a standalone piece to highlight their travel experience or to obtain additional extra credit from their school.
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What do students need to do to earn high school credit?
To successfully receive credit for their course, the student must exhibit a comprehensive range of social and academic skills. Examples of these skills include how to properly conduct oneself during a cross-cultural experience, understanding the special responsibilities of a People to People Ambassador, good time management and record keeping, and consideration for others. The course allows the participant to work closely with the delegation leaders to achieve academic excellence. All Washington School of World Studies courses provide a unique personal growth experience seldom available through a traditional educational setting.
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Can a student earn university-level credit?
Yes, students who are in grades 7-12 may earn university-level credit, through Eastern Washington University.
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What do students need to do to earn university-level credit?
Students should contact Eastern Washington University directly to enroll for university credit. They are not automatically enrolled in this, and there is an additional cost that should be paid directly to EWU.
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What course work is required?
Depending on the course and number of credits being earned, course requirements can include keeping a journal, writing a research paper(s), and/or completing a variety of projects before, during, and/or after completion of the program.
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For more information, families can contact EWU directly at:
Eisenhower Center
300 Senior Hall
Cheney, WA 99004-2442
Phone: 800.541.2125
Email: Eisenhower.Center@mail.ewu.edu
Website: www.ewu.edu/ec
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