What do you mean by the Conference’s “theme”?

Though themes vary annually ISC’s mission, “Promoting Peace by Furthering Mutual Understanding, Friendship and Trust Through International Student Interchange,” remains central to every Conference. ISC recognizes the strong partnership forged through political, cultural, and economic understanding.

For example, The 62nd Japan-America Student Conference proceeded under the theme “To Understand, To Unite, To Act: Continuous Evolution Through Integrated Perspectives.” The Conference focused on discussions of Japan and the United States as two major economies and democracies that are capable of combating issues in our world today. Delegates debated how they must work, where they must act, and what they must do. The unique position students stand in and their responsibility to participate in contemporary politics and diplomacy was the topic of roundtable discussions.

What goes on at the Conference?

During the Conference, delegates will travel to several sites for academic roundtable discussions, cultural and social events, lectures and panel presentations. These experiences will provide a foundation for mutual understanding, social awareness, cultural sensitivity, and exchange of ideas. More importantly, the bonds that will form as a result of the students living and working together will offer the basis for life-long friendships that will further strengthen the ties between the countries. The two countries alternate hosting the Conference each year.

Who are the delegates, and how are they are selected?

American delegates will be selected from all fields of study and will range from 1st year college students to Ph.D. candidates. Delegates need not be Asian studies majors or studying the Japanese or Korean language because English is the primary language of the Conference. While U.S. citizenship or permanent resident status is preferred, the only eligibility requirement is full-time student standing. Each applicant will be asked to submit short answer essays, an autobiographical essay, a writing sample, a current transcript and letters of recommendation. Upon selection, delegates will prepare a roundtable-related paper prior to the Conference.

Can anyone apply to be a delegate?

Yes! Students from all disciplines, from first-year college students to Ph.D. candidates, are encouraged to apply. Full-time student standing is the only eligibility requirement. U.S. citizenship or permanent resident status is preferred. American delegates will be selected from all fields of study and will range from 1st year college students to Ph.D. candidates.

If you are a Japanese citizen in Japan, please contact our counterpart office in Tokyo:

Japanese Executive Committee
c/o International Education Center
21 Yotsuya 1-chome
Tokyo, 160-0004 Japan
Phone/Fax: 81-3-3359-0563
http://www.jasc-japan.com

I am graduating, am I still eligible to apply?

Full-time student status at the time of application is preferred.

What is the Participation Fee?

The participation fee for 2010 is $2,800, which covers food, lodging and group travel for the duration of the Conference. Travel between each Conference location is included in this fee. Round-trip domestic transportation to and from the American Orientation site is the responsibility of the individual delegate.

What is the Application Fee?

There is a non-refundable $20 Application Fee.

Are Scholarships or Financial Aid available?

Yes, both are available. In fact, each year a considerable number of American delegates receive full or partial financial support from their universities or other organizations. Upon selection, ISC and the American Executive Committee can provide advice for locating and obtaining scholarships and financial aid.

May I send letters of reference directly from my professors?

Yes, letters may be mailed or faxed to ISC, Inc. separately from other application materials.

Do you still have a question?

If you have a question that was not addressed in this FAQ, please send an e-mail to This e-mail address is being protected from spam bots, you need JavaScript enabled to view it

We will send you an answer as soon as possible and update the FAQ accordingly.