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2020 MSHSE Details

As a result of the COVID-19 pandemic and in alignment with recommendations by Michigan State University, the administrative agent of JCMU, all ongoing and upcoming JCMU study abroad programs in Japan will be suspended through the end of summer 2021 including the Michigan-Shiga High School Program.

We hope to resume the program as normal in 2022. For reference purposes, the 2020 program details are included below.

Program costs

Billable costs

Total billable costs: approximately $2,420 (will vary depending on final airfare taxes and surcharges)

  • Program fee: $400 (Due May 5, 2020)
    • Includes housing, most meals, ground transportation in Japan, orientation, and international health insurance.
    • Paid to Michigan State University by cash, check, or money order. If you need to request adjustments to the payment schedule, please contact us.
  • Roundtrip airfare: $2,020 (estimated; taxes and fuel surcharges can increase up until tickets are paid in full). Paid to the travel agency (credit cards accepted):
    • Deposit: $150 (Due May 5, 2020)
    • Remaining Balance (Due May 13, 2020)

Failure to pay the billable costs in full (or make alternate arrangements) by the due dates listed above may lead to withdrawal from the program. All payments are non-refundable once they have been submitted. In the case of airfare payments, a refund may be possible (less the cost of a ticket change fee) if an alternate student is available to participate.

Non-billable costs

Total estimated non-billable costs for Japan travel: approximately* $535

  • Spending money (estimated): $400
  • Passport (estimated): $135

*These costs will vary depending on personal spending habits and whether or not you already have a passport.

Program Schedule

Part 1 - Shiga portion

June 24, 2020 (Wed): Depart from Michigan

June 25, 2020 (Thu): Arrive in Shiga

June 26, 2020 (Fri): Sightseeing, beginning of homestay

June 27 (Sat) - July 10, 2020 (Fri): Homestay, attending Shiga high school

July 10, 2020 (Fri): Farewell party

July 11, 2020 (Sat): Depart from Japan, arrive in Michigan

Part 2 - Michigan portion

September 2, 2020 (Wed): Shiga students depart from Japan, arrive in Michigan

September 3, 2020 (Thu): Welcome activities and Shiga student pick-up in Lansing, beginning of homestay

September 4 (Fri) - September 18 (Fri): Homestay, attending high school with Shiga students

September 19, 2020 (Sat): Farewell party and Shiga student drop-off in Lansing

September 20, 2020 (Sun): Shiga students depart from Michigan

September 21, 2020 (Mon): Shiga students arrive in Japan