Frequently Asked Questions
All the answers you'll need to know for the Fulbright Refinement Program
On what date should I arrive in Monterey?
Please schedule your flight to arrive on Friday, July 20th, 2012.
On what date can I depart from Monterey to go to my host institution?
You can depart from Monterey on Friday, August 17, 2012.
At which airport should I arrive?
All grantees should plan to fly into Monterey Peninsula Airport (airport code MRY). It is a short drive to Monterey, and enables you to be easily transported to your hotel.
How do I arrange transportation from the airport?
Inform the Fulbright Logistics Coordinator, Heather Kokesch, of your arrival date and time by emailing english@miis.edu. In your Terms of Appointment, it is indicated that you are required to inform the Coordinator of your flight plans, including departure date and time, arrival date and time, airline and flight number(s), at least 10 days prior to your arrival in the United States. We will arrange your transportation from the Monterey Peninsular Airport (MRY) to the hotel and give you more details about airport pickup closer to your arrival date.
Where will I live during my stay in Monterey?
You will stay in two-bedroom apartments in the city of Monterey. The apartments are approximately a ten-minute bus ride to the Monterey Institute campus. High-speed internet is available at the apartments. The apartments all include two bedrooms, a living room, dining room, kitchen, and bathroom. You have the option of cooking your meals inside your apartment or you can dine at any number of restaurants and cafes in downtown Monterey. During your stay you will share a two-bedroom apartment with three other Fulbright students - two students per bedroom.
What kind of city is Monterey?
Monterey is a small town on the Central Coast of California, about 120 miles (190 kms) south of San Francisco.
• There are about 75,000 people on the Monterey Peninsula.
• This area is famous for its beautiful scenery and rich history.
• For more information on Monterey, click on the binoculars icon on the main page
Do I have health insurance coverage while I'm in Monterey?
Yes, the health insurance coverage you receive from IIE applies to your stay in Monterey. When you arrive at your host institution, you will receive a copy of your health insurance policy. Please see page 14 of your Foreign Fellows Handbook for more information about accident and sickness benefits.
Do I need to apply for a social security number while I study in Monterey?
No, you do not need to apply for a social security number while you are in Monterey. On pages 27-28 of your Fulbright Foreign Fellows Handbook, detailed information is provided about when to apply for a social security number.
Do I need to set up a bank account during my stay in Monterey?
No, you do not need to set up a bank account during your stay in Monterey. You will only be in Monterey a short period of time, and banks are different all over the United States. It is best to wait until you arrive at your host institution to set up a bank account.
Do I need to get a cell phone during my stay in Monterey?
We do not recommend purchasing a cell phone during your stay in Monterey. Area codes and cell phone plans differ around the U.S. It is best to wait until you arrive at your host institution to set up a cell phone account. For more detailed information about the telephone system in the United States, please look at pages 61-63 of your Foreign Fellows Handbook.
How do I pay for food when I am in Monterey?
When you arrive at the Monterey Institute, you will receive a check that covers the cost of food and incidentals during your stay in Monterey. We will help you cash the check at a local bank.
Do I need to pay for books for my program?
No, you do not need to pay for books for the Fulbright Pre-academic Program. The cost of books is covered by IIE.
