Frequently Asked Questions

A selective, graduate-level program for ambitious university students — experience education at UCSD's School of Global Policy and Strategy (GPS) before committing to a degree program. Ideal for students considering long-term study abroad, American graduate school, or international careers.

Experience graduate-level study at UCSD's GPS — the same school that trains future diplomats and policy leaders. You'll participate in educational tours, seminars, and workshops while expanding your network in both Japan and America as a leader.

Unlike general enrollment programs, FGL operates through the School of Global Policy and Strategy (GPS), UCSD's graduate school. Our instructors are GPS faculty who teach PhD and Master's students. This is the only way for Japanese undergraduates to experience GPS without enrolling in a degree program.

UCSD ranks #7 among US public universities, with Nobel Prize laureates among its faculty. Located in La Jolla, San Diego, California. FGL operates through GPS (School of Global Policy and Strategy), UCSD's renowned graduate school for international affairs, which has produced leaders in government, business, and NGOs worldwide.

GPS faculty deliver graduate-level content. Participants take notes in English, write essays, and engage in policy discussions — the same experience as GPS Master's students, compressed into an intensive program. Past participants consistently report transformative learning experiences.

The minimum English level required is lower-intermediate. The goal isn't to understand everything the professors say, but to listen in English and try to understand the lectures as much as possible.

FGL lectures are graduate-level content taught by GPS faculty. Topics include international political economy, global business strategy, and leadership — the same subjects taught in GPS Master's programs. The curriculum is tailored for Japanese undergraduates but maintains graduate rigor.

Unlimited opportunities. Every day you'll interact with local students and others. There are many formal and informal networking opportunities.

Most of your time will be spent on and around the UCSD campus. The UCSD campus is very large (5 km²), so bicycles are the most effective and convenient mode of transport. Charter buses are used for tours.

All participants travel between the airport and campus on a specially chartered bus, accompanied by an FGL program concierge.

Free time is scheduled throughout the program. The schedule is packed with activities, but includes free time and optional activities.

Major tours to Disneyland and San Diego Zoo, as well as shorter recreational activities like surfing, shopping, and sports.

Almost everything is included: transportation, tour costs, workshops, tuition, and accommodation. Optional tours to the zoo and Disneyland are extra.

All participants are required to carry copies of their passport, credit/debit cards, and one passport photo. If lost, notify your concierge immediately.

Yes. There are about 15 ATMs on the UCSD campus, including Bank of America and other bank ATMs.

Jacob Searing, founder of FGL Japan and GPS alumnus (now called School of Global Policy and Strategy). Jacob is a native San Diegan, fluent in Japanese and English, with 20+ years in Japan. His GPS background means he understands exactly what the program offers.

Japanese citizens don't need a visa but must register with ESTA. Chinese nationals and other 'non-exempt' citizens must obtain a tourist visa (B1/B2).

Go to the application page and fill out the Google Form with the required information.

Cancellations 45+ days before the program start receive a full refund minus the 43,400 JPY application fee. Cancellations less than 45 days before are non-refundable.

Accommodation varies by program. Spring Program (Feb-Mar): Residence Inn by Marriott, off-campus with excellent access. Shared rooms (2-4 students). Daily breakfast provided; lunch and dinner on your own. Summer Program (Aug): UCSD on-campus dormitory. Shared rooms with fellow participants. Full meal plan (3 daily) in the housing fee.

We maintain confidentiality regarding financial operations. The program fee includes lectures, transportation, accommodation, materials, guides, and administration - everything for a comprehensive educational experience.