Who can attend as a participant?
Currently enrolled Ismaili first-year and second-year (sophomore) undergraduates in the United States. Eligibility is tied to your region and the site you'll attend. Students who have previously attended a College Retreat are not eligible for either Fall 2026 program — you may only attend once.
How is selection made?
Selection is applications-based, not first-come-first-served. We balance the cohort by school, city, and gender, and give preference to freshmen over sophomores.
Is there a program fee?
Yes — the program fee for Fall 2026 is $195 for participants and mentors. It covers your lodging, meals, programming, and ground transportation from designated cities to the site. Financial assistance is available for both the fee and travel via CJISP, the same process used for AKYSB summer camps.
How does transportation work?
For the Texas Retreat, buses run from Dallas, San Antonio, and Austin on Friday afternoon, with airport rides for participants flying into Houston (IAH) or Austin. For the Georgia Retreat, buses run from the Atlanta (ATL) airport and a Jamatkhana in metro Atlanta on Friday afternoon, with returns on Sunday afternoon.
What time does the Retreat start and end?
Plan to arrive on-site by Friday around 5 PM and depart Sunday afternoon after 2 PM. Exact check-in and checkout details will be included in your acceptance packet.
What should I pack?
See the full pack list on the 2026 Retreats page, which breaks down required items, optional items, and what to leave at home. Both sites are rustic and outdoors, so plan for the weather, dress in layers, and travel light. Bedding is provided at both sites; avoid bringing valuables — there are no locked storage facilities.
What's the Code of Conduct?
No drugs, alcohol, tobacco, or related paraphernalia on site or in transit. No bullying, harassment, or sexual misconduct. 1 AM back-to-cabins. You may not enter a cabin that is not your own. Phones and laptops are away during content sessions and town halls. See the full Code of Conduct page for details.
Will photos and video be taken?
Yes — Retreat captures photos and video for program documentation, marketing, and alumni materials. By participating, you consent to your likeness being used in these contexts. Let the Registration & Communications Manager know if you prefer not to appear.
What if there's bad weather?
Both sites have indoor backups for nearly every outdoor activity. In the rare case a session needs to move, mentors will brief you the morning of. Major weather disruptions are extremely uncommon at this time of year.