Eligibility and Requirements

The Semester in L.A. (SiLA) program is an exciting opportunity for all Columbia College Chicago Students, and we want to help you understand the application process! While it is competitive and merit-based, there are enough seats available for all applicants, so we encourage you to apply.

Application Requirements

To be eligible for SiLA, please ensure you meet the following requirements:

• Full-Time Status: You must be a full-time student in good academic and judicial standing.
• GPA: Maintain a minimum cumulative GPA of 3.0.
• Credit Hours: Complete at least 75 credit hours before your arrival at SiLA.
• Core Curriculum: Make significant progress in finishing all core curriculum requirements in your major or program.
• Disciplinary Record: You should have no academic or disciplinary violations.
• Application Components:
  • Complete the application and short essays.
  • Ask one Columbia faculty member to recommend you.
  • Ask an employer, volunteer supervisor, or former teacher for a recommendation.
  • *The people who will provide a recommendation for you will be emailed an online form that they
  • will fill out, which should be more convenient than a formal letter of recommendation.
  • Submit a 1-page resume.
  • Create and submit a 60-second video introducing yourself and your strengths
• Application Limit: You may apply for only one term at a time.
• Interview: Finalists will be invited for a ten-minute interview.

After Acceptance

• New Requirement! You must enroll in and pass Pre-Departure Course (MEDI-334) prior to your arrival in Los Angeles. It is a 1-credit, asynchronous online course.
• Health Insurance: Provide proof of health insurance.
• Self-Audit: Complete an academic self-audit with the College Advising Center
  • BFA students should consult with Academic Advising to schedule the LA experience around their thesis requirements.
  • To make an appointment with your Academic Adviser, here's a link
• Register with the colleges employment database (Handshake)
• Internship Info Session: Once you've been accepted into SiLA, you must attend a virtual internship presentation that will provide guidance on MEDI-334 and preparing for your internship search
• Orientation: You must attend an in-person mandatory SiLA Orientation Session, which will take place in Chicago each semester.
• Registration Holds: Clear all restrictions to registration, including financial holds.
• Graduation Application: If you plan to graduate from the program, you must apply for graduation before enrolling, here.
  • Check out this “Graduation Checklist”

We're Here to Help!

If you have any questions about the application process or need assistance, please reach out. We’re excited to see your application and support you on your journey to L.A.!

semesterinla@colum.edu
323-860-5460

Apply Now