Middlebury School in the Middle East: Jordan
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School in IndiaC.V.
2016-2017 Cover
Starr - Middlebury School in India
http://www.middlebury.edu/study-abroad/india
Director: Vinita Khatri Tripathi – vtripathi@middlebury.edu
Middlebury School in India
American Institute for Indian Studies
22, Sector-32, Institutional Area
Gurgaon-122 001 Haryana, India
Phone: +91 9810599394
International Programs and Off-Campus Study
Sunderland Language Center
Middlebury College
Middlebury, VT 05753
tel. 802-443-5745
fax. 802-443-3157
schoolsabroad@middlebury.edu
Please note that information in this handbook is subject to change.
Copyright 2010 by Middlebury College. All rights reserved. No part of this publication may be reproduced, stored in a retrieval system or
transmitted, in any form or by any means, electronic, mechanical, photographic or otherwise, without the prior written permission of
Middlebury College.
Middlebury School in India
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Dear Students,
Congratulations on your decision to study at the Middlebury School in India. You are ready to
embark on a most personally enriching and academically rewarding experience. You should try to
make the most of this opportunity and enjoy the culture of India. Use this opportunity for maximum
cultural immersion.
India is the world’s largest democracy and a land of social, cultural and economic diversity. From the
Bazaars of Shahjahanabad (Old Delhi) to the modern shopping malls of New Delhi, the city of Delhi
exemplifies this diversity. The ancient and the modern both coexist very naturally in this city. New
Delhi as a city offers a rich cultural experience. Museums, theaters, music and art festivals, all offer
opportunities for you to learn more about the country, its history and culture.
Your classes will be located in one of two institutions at the Delhi University. St. Stephens College
(Co-educational) and Lady Shri Ram College for Women are among the best known institutions in
India and take pride in having an impressive faculty and facilities on campus. Your Hindi classes will
be conducted by Zabaan, a private language school, at St. Stephen’s and the Zabaan Center which is
very close to Lady Shri Ram College
At both college campuses, you will get an opportunity to be a part of many recreational clubs and
societies as well as take up volunteer work. Although the School in India does not have a language
pledge as is the norm at other Middlebury Schools Abroad, you should use every opportunity to
practice the language with your college friends and locals.
There may be some concern about safety of girls in Delhi. The city in general is safe and friendly.
However, both girls and boys are advised to be cautious and alert. Always travel in groups, and do
not stay out late at night. When in the city, your conduct should not be outside of the norms of the
local cultural context.
Accept invitations, go out and meet people, and form friendships that will last you a lifetime.
Get involved in community service, travel around the country. There is so much to do and see. There
will be an initial adjustment period as you get used to your new surroundings. Count on my support
to help you through this adjustment and any other requirement while you are here in India. Please do
not hesitate to contact me if you have any queries. I shall be happy to answer your questions.
I look forward to welcoming you to Delhi.
Sincerely,
Vinita K. TripathiDirector
C.V Starr-Middlebury School in India
Middlebury School in India
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Table of Contents
Pre-departure Information _________________________________________________ 5
About India __________________________________________________________ 5
Suggested Reading List __________________________________________________ 6
Approximate Program Costs _____________________________________________ 7
Expenses ____________________________________________________________ 7
Student Visas _________________________________________________________ 7
Excursions ___________________________________________________________ 7
Indian Consulates in the U.S. _____________________________________________ 8
Customs ___________________________________________________________ 9
Registering with the U.S. Dept. of State _____________________________________ 9
International Students __________________________________________________ 9
Registering with Foreigner Regional Registration Office, India (FRRO) _____________ 9
Travel to India ________________________________________________________10
Flying to India ______________________________________________________10
Departures from India ________________________________________________10
TSA Regulations ____________________________________________________10
Airline Luggage Regulations ____________________________________________10
Immunizations ______________________________________________________10
Checklist of things to pack _____________________________________________11
General Packing Suggestions ___________________________________________11
Other Items You May Find Useful: ______________________________________12
Climate and Clothing _________________________________________________12
Bed and Bath Linens _________________________________________________13
Toiletries __________________________________________________________13
Prescriptions _______________________________________________________13
Electrical Appliances _________________________________________________13
Computers _________________________________________________________13
Gifts______________________________________________________________14
Arrival in India __________________________________________________________14
Immigration __________________________________________________________14
How to Get to India ___________________________________________________15
Orientation __________________________________________________________15
Academic and Administrative Matters ________________________________________15
Host University _______________________________________________________15
Credit _______________________________________________________________16
All Undergraduates __________________________________________________16
Middlebury Undergraduates ____________________________________________16
Students from other Colleges & Universities _______________________________16
Registration __________________________________________________________16
Typical Academic Schedule ______________________________________________16
Student-Teacher Relationship_____________________________________________17
Classroom Etiquette ____________________________________________________17
Learning Outside the Classroom __________________________________________17
Volunteer Work _____________________________________________________18
Cultural Activities ____________________________________________________18
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Living in India __________________________________________________________18
Housing _____________________________________________________________18
Meeting Indians _______________________________________________________18
Heritage Learners ______________________________________________________19
Harassment __________________________________________________________19
Travel within India _____________________________________________________20
Delhi _____________________________________________________________20
Travel outside the Host Country ________________________________________21
Health and Safety ________________________________________________________21
Sexual Assault and Harassment ___________________________________________22
Drugs _______________________________________________________________22
Water _______________________________________________________________22
Tips for Safety in India __________________________________________________22
Medical Care _________________________________________________________23
Hospitals ____________________________________________________________23
Psychological Health & Counseling ________________________________________25
On-Site Money Matters ___________________________________________________25
Currency Exchange ____________________________________________________25
Money and Banking ____________________________________________________25
Accessing Money ____________________________________________________25
Bank Cards_________________________________________________________25
Credit Cards ________________________________________________________26
Emergency Cash ____________________________________________________26
Communication with Home and Friends ______________________________________26
Communication and Immersion ___________________________________________26
Mail ______________________________________________________________26
E-Mail ____________________________________________________________27
VOIP – Voice Over Internet Protocol ____________________________________27
Phones ____________________________________________________________27
Fax/Xerox _________________________________________________________27
Local Resources _________________________________________________________27
Emergency Numbers ___________________________________________________27
Important Telephone Numbers _________________________________________28
U.S. Embassy in India __________________________________________________29
Drug Stores __________________________________________________________29
Taxi Service __________________________________________________________29
Bookstores _________________________________________________________29
Places to visit in Delhi: __________________________________________________29
Shopping ____________________________________________________________30
Calendar 2014-2015** ____________________________________________________31
Middlebury School in India
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Pre-departure Information
About India
India is the seventh largest country in the world and the second most populated country in the world.
India is called by different names, including Bharat and Hindustan. It is a peninsula, surrounded by
the Bay of Bengal in the east, the Arabian Sea in the west and the Indian Ocean in the south.
The tiger is the national animal of India and the peacock its national bird. The lotus in all its
uniqueness is India’s national flower. The mango is the national fruit, which is cultivated from time
immemorial. The tricolor saffron (courage), white (peace), and green (fertility), with the Ashok
Chakra in middle, is the revered flag of India. ‘Jana Gana Mana’ is the national anthem sung with
pride. Hockey is considered the National Sport although people are drawn more to cricket.
India is a country with many languages, castes, religions, cultures and local histories but it is rich in
unity in diversity, which makes it a single democratic nation.
India is known as a land of spirituality and philosophy. Ancient religions like Hinduism, Jainism and
Buddhism have shaped the country. There are other very prominent religions in India like Sikhism,
Islam, Christianity, and Judaism that emerged later. In ancient India, society was divided on the basis
of caste system, which still persists in many parts of India.
In different parts of India, different languages are spoken. Most of the languages of India belong to
two families, Aryan and Dravidian. After Independence the central government decided to keep
Hindi as the official language. The different states of India have different official languages, some of
them not recognized by the central government. Some states have more than one official language.
India is a land of agriculture, and the farming tradition continues today. Villages and agriculture form
the backbone of the country. India produces its own food grains and fruits. It has a rich source of
minerals also. Today India has developed in many different fields, and made a great strides in the
areas of science and technology.
As a tourist’s paradise, India attracts people from all over the world. Rich in monuments, historic
buildings, tombs, churches, temples, museums, architectural wonders, scenic beauty, and wild life
sanctuaries.
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Suggested Reading List
Travelogues:
Dalrymple, William: City of Djinns: A Year in Delhi; 1993, Penguin
Mishra, Pankaj: Butter Chicken in Ludhiana; 1995, Penguin
Fiction
Adiga, Aravind: White Tiger; 2008, Harper Collins (India)
Bajwa, Rupa: The Sari Shop; 2004, W.W. Norton & Co.
Mistry, Rohinton: A Fine Balance; 2001, Vintage International
Roy, Arundhati: The God of Small Things; 1997, India Ink
Rushdie, Salman: Midnight’s Children; 1981, Jonathan Cape
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Seth, Vikram: A Suitable Boy; 1993, Harper Collins
Non Fiction
Naipaul, V. S.: India: A Million Mutinies Now; 1990, Heinemann (UK)
Das, Gurcharan: India Unbound; 2000, Penguin
Approximate Program Costs
The following website provides an estimate of program costs for full and half-year students as of
February 2016. Middlebury College will bill you for the program fee and housing (as well as the
$1,500 per semester study abroad fee for Middlebury students); the remaining expenses will be outof-pocket. Figures may vary depending on individual lifestyles and situations. Please note that the
“personal” figure covers only some basic necessities and does not, and is not intended to, include
students’ discretionary spending (e.g. entertainment and travel).
http://www.middlebury.edu/study-abroad/india/fees
Expenses
In general, you should plan to spend as
much in a given month in India as you
would at home; though if you are
accustomed to living on a residential
campus with a meal plan, you might at first,
be surprised by how quickly meals, the
metro, and taxis can add up. Taxis can be
expensive, but are often worth the safety
and convenience they offer, especially if
you are travelling alone or in groups in the nights. Keep in mind that the amount of money you
spend ultimately depends on the lifestyle you choose (and on exchange rates that can vary from
month to month). Cafes and restaurants in Delhi can be as expensive as in the U.S. One School
Abroad staff member noted, “I would even make a direct relationship here: the less money you
spend, the better the experience. Think of yourselves as travelers rather than tourists. Oftentimes,
the in-country facilities used by foreign tourists are not those used by the locals…”
Student Visas
For US and EU students, the process of obtaining an Indian visa is fairly straightforward, if timeconsuming. Middlebury, with the help of the American Institute of Indian Studies (AIIS) will assist
you in obtaining the necessary documents for obtaining your student visa. The Study Abroad
Advisor for the School in India will communicate with students about this soon after acceptance.
Students should count on the visa application process taking as long as six weeks, though it may take
less. (This, however, is not something that Middlebury can control.)
Citizens of other countries should ask the Indian Embassy in the U.S. or their home country for help
in determining their requirements. Citizens of Afghanistan, Iraq, Pakistan, and Sri Lanka should be
aware that your visa and residency processes may take several months. For more information about
visas for India, feel free to check out the following link:
http://www.in.ckgs.us/visa/type-of-visa/student-visa.shtml
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Excursions are planned each semester to culturally significant locations in India.
These
excursions are partially subsidized by the program, and sometimes include subsidies for Indian
students to be able to travel with School in India participants. Students’ out-of-pocket costs for
these excursions typically run between $100 and $200 per semester.
Remember to budget extra if you are planning to travel before or after your program. If you are a big
spender in the U.S., budgeting more money would be a good idea.
Indian Consulates in the U.S.
Atlanta, GA
Alabama, Florida, Georgia, Mississippi, Puerto Rico, South Carolina, Tennessee, Virgin Islands
Consulate General of India - Atlanta Homepage
5549 Glenridge Drive NE,
Atlanta, GA 30342
Tel : (404) 963 5902
Fax : (678) 949 9657
Email : contact@indianconsulateatlanta.org
Chicago, IL
Illinois, Indiana, Iowa, Michigan, Minnesota, Missouri, North Dakota, South Dakota, Wisconsin
Consulate General of India - Chicago Homepage
455 North City Front Plaza Drive, NBC Tower Building, Suite No. 850,
Chicago, IL 60611
Tel : (312)-595-0405
Fax : (312)-595-0417/18
Email : congendia@aol.com
Houston, TX
Arkansas, Colorado, Kansas, Louisiana, Nebraska, New Mexico, Oklahoma, Texas
Consulate General of India - Houston Homepage
4300 Scotland Street
Houston, TX 77007
Tel : (713)-626-2148/49
Fax : (713)-626-2450
Email : cgi-hou@swbell.net
New York, NY
Connecticut, Maine, Vermont, Massachusetts, New Hampshire, New Jersey, New York, Ohio, Pennsylvania, Puerto Rico,
Rhode Island, and Virgin Islands
Consulate General of India - New York Homepage
3 East 64th Street (Between 5th and Madison Avenues)
New York, NY 10065
Tel : (212) 774 0600
Fax : (212) 861 3788
Email : indhoccgny@aol.com
San Francisco, CA
Arizona, California, Nevada, Montana, Idaho, Oregon, Utah, Washington, Wyoming
Consulate General of India - San Francisco Homepage
540 Arguello Boulevard,
San Francisco, CA 94118
Tel: 415-668-0662 or 668-0683 Ext. 200
Washington, DC
Bermuda, Delaware, Washington D.C., Kentucky, Maryland, North Carolina, Virginia, West Virginia
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Embassy of India – Washington, DC
2107, Massachusetts Ave.
Washington, D.C. 20008
Tel : (202) 939 7000
Fax : (202) 265 4351
Email : indembwash@indiagov.org
Customs
If you plan to bring any new, non-U.S.-made articles of value, such as cameras, MP3 players,
computers, bicycles, or jewelry that are LESS THAN 6 MONTHS OLD, you should register them
with U.S. Customs and Border Protection before departure (CBP Form 4457). Alternately, you can
carry your original sales receipts to prove that you purchased them in the U.S. This avoids your
having to pay a duty upon your return. Customs regulations vary from country to country; there are
usually limitations on liquor, cigarettes, and other goods.
Registering with the U.S. Dept. of State
All U.S. citizens are required to register themselves with the U.S. Embassy in India before departure
from the U.S. In the event of international, political, or family emergencies, or in the event that a
passport is lost or stolen, the U.S. Embassy will be much better able to assist registered citizens.
Please visit the Department of State’s website and follow the links to register:
https://step.state.gov/step/.
Please print the confirmation page after you have registered; leave one copy at home and take a copy
with you.
Students of other nationalities should check to see if it is possible to register with your own embassy
in India.
International Students
If you are an international student, you should meet with the international student advising staff at
your home institution as early as possible to discuss how study abroad may affect your international
student status in the United States and the ways it may impact your future plans.
The U.S. Citizenship and Immigration Services (USCIS) requires re-entry documents for some
foreign nationals. If you are living in the U.S. but are a citizen of another country, check with the
USCIS to determine the regulations that apply to you and be sure to obtain all necessary re-entry
documents before you leave the United States.
Registering with Foreigner Regional Registration Office,
India (FRRO)
All foreigners including international students who have a visa valid for more than six months or a
special registration endorsement need to register themselves with the FRRO office, New Delhi
within 14 days of arrival. This is a mandatory requirement by the government of India. Upon arrival
AIIS will provide necessary documentation for registration with the FRRO office. For more
information please log on to: http://indianfrro.gov.in/frro/ . In many instances, students studying
in India for a semester or more will need to extend their registration with the FRRO. The Director
of the program will advise you in this instance, but it is important that you follow her instructions
closely and promptly.
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Travel to India
Flying to India
Students are responsible for making your own flight arrangements to the orientation in Delhi. We
recommend using a student travel agency for flexibility and the best rates:
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www.studentuniverse.com
www.statravel.com
www.travelcuts.com
The Resident Director will email all of the incoming students to share their arrival information about
a week before the program begins so that you know if anyone else is arriving on the same flight.
Departures from India
Return tickets should be booked according to the calendar on the School in India website. No
departures will be allowed earlier than the dates noted, except in the case of medical emergency. You
may wish to leave yourself some time for further travel in India or the region at the end of the
program.
TSA Regulations
The Transportation Security Administration regulates what items may be carried aboard the aircraft
and, as these regulations are subject to change frequently, you should consult their website close to
your date of departure.
Possessing certain items while going through security may result in fines of $250 - $1,500 or,
in the case of firearms, may be considered a criminal offense.
Airline Luggage Regulations
You should contact your airline to confirm exact luggage allowances. We strongly suggest you stick
to these guidelines, or be prepared to pay excess baggage fees, which can be quite expensive. Those
students continuing on a domestic flight within your country of destination should be aware that
domestic flights usually have more strict baggage requirements than international flights and you
should check to see if excess charges will apply in country.
Some travel insurance is included under the HTH Worldwide policy. Furthermore, it is possible that
you are covered under a policy held by your parents, so investigate this prior to departure.
Immunizations
Although no agency requires proof of any immunizations for travel to India, experts strongly
recommend that travelers consider taking some precautions. The Center for Disease Control
recommends the following vaccines:
 Hepatitis A, and Hepatitis B
 Rabies
 Typhoid
 Booster doses for tetanus-diphtheria, measles, and polio as needed
The CDC does recommend that travelers to Delhi speak with their physicians about taking antimalarial medications, and Middlebury strongly recommends this as well.
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You should consult with your own health care provider to determine which immunizations you
should obtain. Some immunizations can take at least 4-6 weeks to take effect, so please see your
physician in ample time. If you plan to travel to other countries in South Asia be sure to check the
CDC website to find out if they require immunizations for any of the areas to which you plan to
travel. If you think you may be traveling to a country that requires proof of inoculations for entry,
you should obtain an International Certificate of Vaccination through the World Health
Organization: (202) 861-3200.
Checklist of things to pack
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Schools Abroad General Handbook
This Handbook
Passport (and photocopy)
Airline Ticket/Itinerary (and photocopy)
International Student Identity Card (optional)
Insurance Card
Insurance Claim Forms
Debit and Credit Cards (and photocopy of front and back so you can have the information
on hand should you need it).
Cash worth 300 USD (you can change into Indian currency at the Thomas Cook counter at
the airport)
Certified copy of original birth certificate (in case your passport is lost or stolen)
Any prescriptions for medications
Medications in original containers
General Packing Suggestions
Plan your packing carefully, keeping in mind that you will have to carry all of your own luggage while
traveling. This means TRAVEL LIGHTLY. We cannot emphasize this strongly enough.
Consider what you will use for luggage. Durable backpacks are lightweight and easy to carry. As you
pack for the flight over, also keep in mind that you will be carrying this same luggage by yourself,
sometimes over great distances or in crowded places. Take things that are easy to manage and avoid
over-packing. One rule of thumb is to walk around the block with your bags, then re-pack. It is also
prudent to bring at least one bag or container that can be securely locked for storage of money or
valuables, and a smaller bag that can be used for weekend trips out of town. It is also possible to buy
cheap clothes and shoes in flea markets in Delhi.
You should be prepared for warm weather, though at the beginning of the fall semester, it is likely to
be quite wet as well. Following are average low/high temperatures, and rainfall statistics for India:
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Bring clothing that is comfortable, durable, culturally appropriate, and suited for the climate. It is a
good idea to bring clothes that can be easily layered during the winter months because of the
fluctuations in daily temperatures, and because most flats and public buildings do not have
central heat. Most students will wear clothes longer between washings than you do in the U.S. and
wash clothes by hand. Choose hand-washable, permanent press, and drip-dry materials; durable
fabrics are preferable. Bring a few items for different occasions: sports, classes, and dress occasions.
You will be walking, waiting for, and standing on public transportation a great deal. Flip-flops are a
good idea for showers, but are not a good idea for walking around the city, as they provide minimal
traction and no support for your feet. (The streets and sidewalks of Delhi are dirtier than you are
used to.) Comfortable walking shoes are essential.
We recommend that you do not bring expensive jewelry.
Other Items You May Find Useful:
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Overnight bag for short trips out of town
Shoulder bag or knapsack for daily use
Swiss army knife (in checked bag)
Small first aid kit
Zip lock bags to use for wet clothes and other small items
Plastic containers for medicines, cosmetics, etc.
Travel-sized sewing kit (in checked bag)
Camera, memory cards, batteries, chargers
2-3 pairs of jeans , they will work the best in winter months/1-2 trousers, 2 sweatshirt, a few
shirts / blouses, a warm jacket. You can buy the rest in Delhi, if needed.
Basic first-aid kit with topical antibiotic cream, gauze, tape, aspirin etc.
About 8 passport photos (you'll need them for IDs, Foreigners Residents Registration
Office) 1pair of sturdy sneakers. You will need them for trekking and walking
Multi-vitamins
Flash light
Portable alarm clock
MP3 player/recorder
Money belt
Tour guide of the region (Lonely Planet, Rough Guide, or other)
Plug adaptors – India predominantly uses a type D grounded plug or type C two-prong plug.
Climate and Clothing
Shorts are not socially acceptable when walking around the city (and less so in rural areas). and shirts
(for both sexes) should cover your shoulders. Many religious sites do not allow shorts or sleeveless
shirts. For women, loose, opaque clothes that cover all “immodest” areas (thighs, upper arms, chest)
and hide your contours will draw less attention to yourself, and are essential if you are traveling alone
or in rural or working-class areas.
For more advice on clothing etiquette, read “Five Tips on What to Wear in India,” by Beth Whitman
in Wanderlust and Lipstick.
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Bed and Bath Linens
We do not recommend that you bring sheets, blankets, or pillows with you. They are too heavy and
take up too much space in your luggage. These items can be easily purchased once you arrive in
India, during the orientation week.
Toiletries
Toiletries are readily available throughout most of India. If you are particular about brands, you may
want to pack an appropriate supply of the articles you regularly use. Many American brands can be
bought in India although local brands are less expensive. If you wear contact lenses, Renu (contact
lense solution) is easily available in Delhi at a cost of approximately 5$ for a 300 ml bottle. Contact
lenses of all kinds (Baucsh and Lomb, Johnson and Johnson, Silklens etc) are easily available at very
reasonable price. . Sunscreens are widely available in India though a tad more expensive, Many
American brands like Neutrogena are easily available at stores. (Though “toiletries” are available in
India, in general, don’t expect to find toilet paper in most public bathrooms. It’s always a good idea
to always keep some small tissue packets with you.) For women who use tampons, its recommended
that you carry a good supply with you as they are less commonly used in India, though sanitary
napkins of many brands are easily available at reasonable prices. Shower gels, shampoos, hand-wash,
sanitizers, etc are very easily available. Indian stores have good cosmetics available as well. For men
you can find good men’s hygiene products from nearby stores easily, Gillette is widely sold and
available in India.
Prescriptions
If you are taking any medication that is not available in India, you should bring a full supply of what
you will need with you. Mailing medicines across international borders is extremely complex and
often impossible. Prescription medicines should be left in the original containers. It is also suggested
that you carry the original prescription or a note from your doctor to avoid questioning. Please also
note that in the event that a prescription must be replaced in India, you should have the generic
name of your medication on the prescription, in addition to the U.S. brand name. Antibiotics in
India are available over the counter in all pharmacies. Other generic medicines for pain, cold, and
fever are also available at reasonable cost. Some of the brand names for medicines are – Crocin (for
fever and pain), Brufen (pain reliever), Augmentin (broad spectrum antibiotic). The area of your
apartment and college where you’ll study will have good pharmacies close by.
If you are under a doctor’s care for a specific condition, you may want to bring a copy of your
medical history with you or sign a release form with your doctor in case your medical history needs
to be sent to a doctor in India.
Electrical Appliances
Electrical current in India is 220 volts/50 cycles, rather than the 110 volts/60 cycles found in the
United States. For small appliances (e.g.: hair dryer, hair straightener, electric razor, etc.) you will need
to bring an electrical converter, or plan to buy a new appliance when you arrive. (These items will
overheat and burn out immediately). Most laptops, etc., can run on either current, though you check
your own to be sure. For these items, you can simply use a plug adapter without a converter. India
uses a type D grounded plug or type C two-prong plug.
Computers
It is highly recommended that you bring your laptop with you to India. Consult your dealer to
determine whether it has dual voltage (110/220 with an internal transformer). If not, you will need an
electrical transformer to bring down the voltage from 220 to what the computer normally uses.
Most, if not all, new models are equipped with self-setting transformers; printers may or may not be.
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Be sure to have back-ups for any hard or portable drives that you take abroad, though there is very
little risk to disks, hard or flash, from the X-ray devices used in airports.
Please be aware that while many people in the cities carry their laptops around with them, you should
be very careful as thieves target laptops. You can carry your laptop in a bag pack to keep it safe. If
you do not bring your laptop, you will need to go to “cyber-cafés” (desktop computers and wireless).
Since the internet service throughout India is less reliable than that in the US, you should bring a
USB flash-drive with you to print homework assignments, pre-write email messages to home, etc. It
is also a good idea to back up important files, whether on an external hard drive, a flash drive, or
online.
Phones
You might have to buy a new phone if you do not have an unlocked phone, or don’t want to bring
an expensive, smartphone with you from the U.S. A smartphone in India will cost you around $100
USD. (You will need a smartphone in order to receive communications from your class
representative at your college – about room changes for your classes, etc)
Gifts
If you are planning to live with a local resident (Indian or otherwise), you may wish to present him or
her with a token gift. You may also wish to have a couple small gifts with you in case you are invited
to a professor’s or classmate's house. It is probably best to select something that has significance to
you and is packable and light. Consider the following items:
• Books--with lots of photos.
• CDs of current American music and your favorite artists.
• Small souvenirs of the U.S.: postcards, buttons, stickers, U.S. stamps, small handicrafts.
• Items representative of where you are from (i.e. Vermont maple candy).
DON’T FORGET PHOTOS! Your local friends will be interested in where you come from: your
family, town, friends, and school. Take pictures that help explain parts of your life in the U.S.
Arrival in India
Immigration
Make sure that your passport is
stamped by the immigration official when
you arrive in India, whether you arrive
directly or via another country in the
region.
All students on the program will travel on
a student visa that we will help you obtain,
prior to your departure.
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How to Get to India
Delhi is serviced by Indira Gandhi International Airport (DEL), just 9 miles southwest of New
Delhi.
There are taxis from the airport to New Delhi that cost about 700rupees. There are Meru taxis or
other pre-paid services available, which is easy and reliable. Middlebury can arrange for a pick up for
you to drop you to the guesthouse on the cost basis, Students can request for the service. Before
your arrival, the on-site staff will provide you with specific directions to the guesthouse or your
home-stay family, and will be available by phone or in person to help you find it. Students living in
homestays will have the contact information for their host family as well.
Orientation
On-site orientation sessions will be held for all students during the week prior to the beginning of
classes. Orientation is conducted in a relaxed informal atmosphere in which you will get the chance
to meet the director, AIIS staff and other students in the program, explore the universities and the
city of Delhi. Please consult the School’s calendar for dates:
ORIENTATION SESSIONS ARE MANDATORY FOR ALL STUDENTS.
Please plan to arrive in Delhi at least one day before orientation is scheduled to begin. (In
most cases it will be fine if you would like to arrive a few days before the beginning of orientation.
In this case, please contact the staff in Delhi to confirm this.)
Academic and Administrative Matters
Host University
The School in India is located in Delhi and based
at St. Stephen’s College and Lady Shri Ram College
for Women (LSR), both of which are part of the
larger University of Delhi. (Female students may
pursue classes at either of the two colleges, while
men will study at St. Stephen's.)
Lady Shri Ram College for Women (LSR) is located
in New Delhi, in the southern part of the city, and
close to the Zabaan Language Center, where
students will have Hindi classes. Accommodation
for students enrolled at LSR will be arranged close
to the college. It is easy to take an auto or tuk tuk
to the college as well, it will take about10-15 mins
and approximately Rs. 60 ($1) each way.
St. Stephen’s College (SSC) is comparatively further
away in the city, located in the northern part of the
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city along with several other colleges of the University of Delhi. It is part of a really nice North
Campus area which comprises of many colleges and the area is buzzing with student activities.
Students attending SSC will have accommodation arranged close to their college and will also attend
special Hindi classes arranged for them at the college. This will save substantial commute time.
All students can use the Metro or take an auto to college. Usually the apartments are located at a
distance of 15-20 minutes travel time. The metro ride can be very crowded during the peak office
hours, something which you would have never imagined. The Director will walk you through the
route during orientation. She will also help you get the metro passes which will make it easier to
commute. Metro trains have ladies compartments which, though crowded, are much easier for travel.
Travelling in the metro in the weekends for leisure will not be a problem at all.
Credit
All Undergraduates
A student’s workload must be approved by the director in India. Students are not permitted to take lighter
loads, nor will they receive additional credit for heavier loads.
To facilitate the granting of major credit, students will be asked to complete and bring back a
“Course Information” form, available from the director abroad, for each course taken in India.
Students should attach to these forms course syllabi, papers, and any other relevant documentation.
Students should take these forms and supporting documents back to the home institution for the
granting of departmental credit, if applicable.
Middlebury Undergraduates
Middlebury College students receive four units of credit for the fall or spring semester, and nine units
of credit for the academic year.
Students from other Colleges & Universities
Middlebury College considers a semester/academic year abroad equivalent to a semester/academic
year in the U.S., students who transfer their credits to other institutions typically receive 15-16 credit
hours per semester or 20-25 quarter units per semester for four courses. Because an undergraduate
student’s home institution determines the number of credits awarded for work abroad, you are urged
to consult with your advisers well ahead of time.
Registration
Registration for classes will take place in country under the advisement of the director in India. At
that time more detailed information about studying in India will be given, and specific questions will
be addressed. The registration of courses will be conducted on-site. The international student
coordinator at each college will have detailed discussions with you on your course choices and will
set up meetings with the department chairs accordingly. The colleges will give you about 1 week (or
up to 10 days) to decide if you would like to change any courses.
Typical Academic Schedule
Single semester students and first semester academic year students:
1. Two/three university classes alongside Indian peers at the selected host institution
2. Any required tutorials (discussion sections), or laboratory sessions
3. Hindi Language Class
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Second semester, academic year students’ curriculum will be developed based on their progress
during the first semester, and may include an internship, and/or an additional course at the
university.
Student-Teacher Relationship
The relationship between teachers and students in India is different from that in the United States. It
is more formal than you find at American colleges and universities. If you keep a few of these
differences in mind, it will help prevent misunderstandings and miscommunication between you and
your teachers. In India there is still a ‘Guru-Shishya’ relationship followed in most educational
institutions which translates into a respect and a more hierarchical relationship with the teacher. But
approaching teachers for meetings in India is quite easy.
Classroom Etiquette
Students should show a high level of respect toward their teachers. This respect may be shown in
ways that are somewhat different than in the United States. It is expected that students will go to
class on time, turn their cell phones off, be well-prepared, and let the teachers know if they are sick
or will otherwise miss class. Keep in mind that some behavior that is acceptable in the United States
may convey a message of disrespect in India. The School in
India maintains a strict “no eating in class”/no chewing gum, or
noisy drinking of non-alcoholic beverages policy. It would also
be recommended not to wear shorts in the class; a pair of jeans
or trousers will best suit the college dressing etiquette.
It is not common practice for Indian students to converse freely
with, or question the opinions of, their professors. This is both
a matter of learning philosophy and classroom etiquette, and
American students will likely find less interaction in their courses
in Delhi than they are used to at home. You may even
encounter situations in which your professors scold or actively
disagree with your opinions. This is, believe it or not, a normal part of the educational philosophy in
India, and should not be taken personally.
Within the classroom, an instructor may call on students whom they feel are not speaking up enough
for answers. Students should not feel that they are “being picked on.” It is common for students to
come to the campus and realize afterwards that the classes are cancelled. In situations like this the
student either gets an email from the professor or a message from the class representative on your
phone. The information is always up on the noticeboard. This can be frustrating, however on the
bright side, there are many other things you can do during these spontaneous breaks, and your Indian
peers will be in the same position as you, with unplanned, free time on their hands. Your Indian
friends would have many suggestions for you to make use of the spare time.
Learning Outside the Classroom
Middlebury College encourages all undergraduate students to take full advantage of their experience
abroad by participating in learning experiences outside the classroom. Volunteer work and cultural
activities provide students with opportunities to deepen your social immersion in Indian culture,
enhance your language skills, and gain a better understanding of present-day India.
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Volunteer Work
Students wishing to contribute time and service to the community may choose to work as volunteers
with organizations in the non-profit sector. The director in India will help students find volunteer
opportunities. Students are encouraged to participate in at least one extracurricular activity, be it
volunteering or another activity like meeting regularly with a language partner. Both LSR and St.
Stephen’s have opportunities in the campus to volunteer with NGOs.
Cultural Activities
Other options that facilitate student immersion include sports, cultural, and outdoor activities. Delhi
provides plenty of cultural resources if one looks for them. The Director is available to advise
students on the wide range of possibilities the city has to offer, and there are many clubs, sports
teams and student associations that our students can join at the host college.
Living in India
Housing
The School in India arranges accommodation for students with homestay families or in apartments
that the Director has approved. Accommodation is arranged close to the college so that students do
not have a long commute to college.
After acceptance to the program, students will complete a housing form to convey your housing
preferences to the director, who will place you accordingly. Students should understand that while
every effort will be made to accommodate your request, it is not always possible to grant everyone’s
first choice. We encourage students to keep an open mind in terms of your housing, as with all other
aspects of the experience.
Students who have contacts in India and wish to arrange their own housing (of any type) must
communicate this with Middlebury and the Director in India. The Director in India has the final
word on approving students’ housing to ensure their safety and maximum cultural immersion.
Meeting Indians
One of the questions we are asked most frequently is how to go about meeting local students. Those
of your predecessors who have been successful in this respect would say that the best approach is to
find a group activity that includes local people: Dance clubs, gyms, Yoga lessons, sports, volunteer
work, local cricket /or other sports, etc. You will need some courage and a good deal of initiative.
Results may not live up to your expectations, especially right away, and given the cultural differences
between the US and India, your friendships with your Indian peers may not be quite the same as your
relationships with friends in the U.S. But if you are patient, persistent, and open to relating to peers
in a different cultural context with different social norms, you can still develop deep and life-long
connections. In general college students are quite friendly and would be open to forming friendships.
Indians also tend to ask personal questions quite early in any relationship, this is usually an
expression of wanting to know more about you in a positive way.
Keep in mind the strategies you would use at home to meet people you are interested in knowing:
you try to be where they are, you try to share an interest or an activity that will bring you into contact
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with them, and you get to know people who know them. It goes without saying that if you have one
or two Indian acquaintances to start, it can only make things easier.
For your own well-being, it is best not to divulge your on-site address or cell number to strangers,
and this is especially true for women when it is Indian men asking for this information. If anything,
you could exchange your email address, but not your address or phone number; however with your
fellow students you could do so if you are comfortable.
While we recognize and respect that college students must lead their own lives, we do not
recommend dating in India, students or otherwise, while you are there… for both men or women.
Relationships in India have different connotations and implications than they do in the U.S., and
students can both get themselves into precarious situations, and mislead Indian friends
unintentionally, which can have further ramifications for them long after you’ve left the country.
When female students are talking to men in India, it is important that you are mindful that they not
get a false impression from you that you are interested to have a relationship with them.
Heritage Learners
If you are of Indian descent, studying in India may be the realization of a long held desire to learn
more about your own heritage and roots. It is a wonderful opportunity to experience first-hand the
country or culture that you’ve heard and read so much about and, of course, to improve your
language skills. It may also be an important phase in developing your understanding of yourself. At
the same time, some students have felt that they were psychologically unprepared for the challenges
to their self-identity that they encountered in India. There is often a feeling of being “caught
between two worlds.”
You may be surprised by the assumption made by classmates, locals and even some teachers, that,
since you are an Indian, you should speak Hindi well; when off campus with your classmates, some
locals may mistake you as their guide. Or they may tell you how poor your language skills are while
your non-Indian peers are complimented for their fluency! While being of South Asian descent will
help you blend in and avoid the stares that your other classmates may regularly encounter, at other
times you may be envious of the “novelty” treatment your fellow classmates receive—everything
from photo requests to spontaneous invitations home for a meal. The vast majority of the time,
however, people will simply be curious about your upbringing and keen to hear about your
experiences in the U.S. as an Indian. Indians are proud of their heritage, and will be pleased to learn
that you have “returned” to study the language and culture.
Harassment
(Gentlemen, please do not skip this section. You should be aware of this as well.)
Regrettably, for women studying in India, sexual harassment is a part of life. For the most part, this
comes in the form of stares, touching in crowded places, and unsolicited comments, including
marriage proposals from strangers. While this would be considered completely inappropriate
behavior in the United States, it is not uncommon in South Asia, especially in Delhi. (It should be
noted, however, that this behavior, and the attitudes that one can associate with it, should not be
universally attributed to all men in India.). The best way to avoid unpleasant situations will be to
travel in groups (if you have an Indian friend from college who is willing to accompany you, this
would be ideal), ignore eye contact with strangers (with time you’ll learn to ignore the unsolicited
comments). We also recommend that women travel in mixed-gender groups as often as possible. Do
not travel alone at night. Delhi is NOT SAFE TO ROAM ALONE IN THE NIGHT TIME. If
you are attending a late night party please go in groups and book for a cab service to drop you back
at the guest house. There are simple ways to keep yourself safe in Delhi and India if you follow some
very simple rules. The campus area has police vans parked outside with policemen and policewomen
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who are usually helpful. The campus areas are usually safe and there haven’t been any such incidents
taking place within the campuses.
Most men abhor these actions and will berate perpetrators when they are made aware of it. The onsite Director is more than willing to discuss particular incidents, should the need arise, and this topic
will be discussed during the on-site orientation in India. There is little that we can do to affect Indian
culture, so a woman's best defense from harassment in India is awareness, and perhaps some
reflection on what types of reactions feel most natural to you.
Delhi can also present challenges for students of African descent as well. Acts of discrimination and
racial intolerance have been reported in the past. This has been more common in the middle class
localities of Delhi where people from African countries rent accommodation. The discrimination and
the backlash is a result of the involvement of a small minority of these residents in drug dealing and
other illegal activities (which is sometimes overblown). The University area and other areas where
you will live will likely not have such a problem. However, public transport and public areas can be
less predictable and require all students to be alert.
Travel within India
While in India, the following tourist guides are recommended:
 The Rough Guide to India
 Lonely Planet India
Whenever you leave the city of Delhi, you should contact the Director and let her/him know where
you will be going and when you expect to return to Delhi. For these purposes, a simple text-message
will suffice. Do not switch off your phone while travelling. Don’t forget to take your charger along.
Delhi
Buses: We strongly recommend that students not use buses for transportation in Delhi. If you are
travelling with your college friends you may use the red, air-conditioned ‘DTC’ buses, do not board a
crowded bus on your own. The metro and taxis are better options.
Taxis: The main type of taxi is a yellow taxi which has the word Taxi on the top of its roof. These
taxis are reasonably priced, but there are also cheaper, less official taxis. We would recommend you
to always use ‘radio taxis’ which are offered by many service providers like Meru. They are a bit
costlier than the regular yellow and black taxi’s, but very reliable and air conditioned. These taxis are
metered by law and have a GPS system monitored by their employers. You need to be especially
careful when you're laden with bags and searching for a hotel or heading out in the evening to an
expensive restaurant. It is a good idea, especially If you are a woman, to either take a photo of the
taxi’s license (doing so in a manner that alerts the driver that you are doing so) or have a friend do so,
so that the driver is aware that any improper behavior can be traced back to him.
Metro: There is a decent metro system in Delhi, though not all areas of the city are accessible by
metro alone. You can travel to any distance/destination in Delhi by combining the Metro and Auto
(tuk tuk).
Auto’s/ Rickshaw: Autos are usually a safe mode of transportation in Delhi but rampant overcharging
is common. Even if the autos go by meter, they usually have complicated calculation which most
people find difficult to comprehend. The autos usually would quote a price and with the help of an
Indian friend you’ll be able to find rough estimates. Please do not travel in autos at night time.
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Travel outside the Host Country
If you plan to travel to other countries, be advised that regulations vary and may change at very short
notice. In some cases a visa and inoculations may be required. You can refer the U.S. State
Department consular information website for specific travel regulations to other countries or consult
a travel agent for current procedures.
If you travel before you have received your official resident permit in India you will have to buy
another visa.
When leaving the country, even between semesters, all students are required to email the
Director about your travel plans. This is simply a matter of safety, so that we have some idea
of where you are if an emergency arises.
Hitchhiking as a mode of transportation anywhere in South Asia is strongly discouraged as a matter
of College policy. The practice is regarded by security officials to be extremely unsafe and is often
illegal. Buses and trains provide a low-cost, safe alternative.
Lonely Planet India provides an excellent and comprehensive guide to traveling in the region.
Health and Safety
Whenever you go to any foreign country, you are exposed to germs against which your body has not
yet built up a resistance. You may, therefore, be more susceptible to illness than local people are.
This is as true for Americans going abroad as it is for those coming to the United States.
The most common areas for health problems are digestive and upper respiratory systems. It is also
important to keep these things in mind:
Bring enough medicines for your entire stay, as they may be difficult to acquire, and customs may
prohibit shipping of medicines. Any medication that requires refrigeration should be brought to the
attention of Middlebury prior to the departure as special arrangements may be necessary.
We would recommend not eating street food as hygiene standards of street food in India is often
very poor. When eating in restaurants, pay special attention to cleanliness of eating utensils and food.
Be particularly careful about salads, and at the very least, squeezing lemon onto salad will kill off
some of the germs…though we recommend that you avoid all cut fruits/raw vegetables and salads.
The School in India’s staff reserves the right to send any participant home who, in the judgment of
the staff, is not mentally or physically fit to continue in the program. Students who must leave India
early for documented health reasons may be eligible for a partial tuition refund. Please refer to the
information in the Schools Abroad General Handbook on tuition refund insurance, and health
insurance for further details.
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Sexual Assault and Harassment
A recent study has shown that studying abroad may increase your risk of unwanted sexual contact.
The Department of State has this to say:
http://studentsabroad.state.gov/smarttravel/forwomentravelers.php.
Our on-site staff is your primary resource for advice to keep yourself safe and can also direct you to
local support resources.
Drugs
Different countries view use of narcotics in a variety of ways. In India, there is a strict code of social
mores and drug use for other than medicinal purposes is illegal, can result in time in prison, and the
local authorities may take official action against anyone found using or possessing any kind of drugs.
The use of recreational drugs while attending the School in India is strictly prohibited. Furthermore,
students using drugs or alcohol within the campus are subject to immediate expulsion by the
University
While use of drugs by foreigners in India may result in jail sentences and penalties, the penalties for
Indian nationals can be much more severe.
Water
The quality of tap water in India is not potable. We recommend that you have RO water (reverse
osmosis) or bottled water everywhere you go. The apartments and college will have fitted RO
systems. Under no circumstances should you drink untreated tap water. In restaurants and eateries
always ask if the water is filtered or from RO, if not, ask for bottled water. A bottle of water will cost
you about 30 cents. Some people have diarrhea just changing countries; the adaptation period can be
minimized by avoiding fruits or vegetables that are unpeeled, uncooked, or grown with irrigation
water. These same precautions will also provide some protection from hepatitis, typhoid, and
cholera. The Center for Disease Control does not recommend shots for cholera, since the protection
they provide is uncertain.
Tips for Safety in India
In addition to the general safety guidelines that are published in the General Handbook (which you
really should read), below are a few suggestions that are more specific to students studying in India.
Middlebury College monitors all programs closely through news channels, regular communication
with staff overseas, and special information and notifications from the United States Department of
State and other sources. Descriptive material and current warnings can be found on the State
Department website. If for any reason a situation arises that we feel threatens the safety of our
students, we will delay and/or suspend the program or program activities. Nonetheless, there are
general safety measures that students should practice on site.
As in any large city, you should take reasonable precautions against crime. Be sure to lock your room
and guard your money and passport against pickpockets, especially on buses, trains, metros, and
other crowded places. When traveling, you should keep your eyes on your luggage, as theft is a risk
in any location. We recommend that you use a money pouch or passport bag that can be worn
inside your clothing. Students (particularly women) should be careful about jogging or walking alone.
Students at St. Stephens are advised to avoid the area known as the Ridge, as this wooded area,
though tempting for its seclusion, can also be a dangerous place precisely because it is isolated.
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Students are advised to go out in groups, ideally with other Indian students, though this won’t always
be possible. According to the social norms in India, women are not normally outside of the home at
night, especially unaccompanied. We advise you to avoid coming home later than 9 pm since you
might get into precarious situations. Female students are advised not to walk alone at night-time,
after 9:00p.m., in Delhi, just as Indian women do not walk alone at night-time. You should bring
your passport with you whenever you leave Delhi. It is recommended that you keep a photocopy of
your passport in your wallet or purse at all times. (If you uploaded your current passport to your
online application, you can download a copy of your passport from there and print it out in India, if
you need to replace a copy.) Remember, when it comes to safety, a little bit of common sense goes
a long way!
As is mentioned elsewhere in this handbook, it is both inconsiderate of the host culture, and unwise
for reasons of personal safety to dress immodestly. Men should not wear shorts except when
engaged in athletic activities, and women should not wear sleeveless, low-cut neckline, or tight-fitting
blouses, or short skirts. For most casual settings, loose-fitting t-shirts are fine.
The on-site staff will go over safety issues and precautions particular to India in detail during
orientation.
The School in India does not carry insurance for stolen property, and students who are particularly
concerned should look into taking out such a policy before leaving the U.S. The School in India
cannot offer to store money or valuables for students.
To help protect yourself from violent crime:
 Do not appear drunk in public;
 Try not to dress in expensive-looking foreign clothes;
 Identify the dangerous areas of the cities you visit or live in, and stay out of those areas;
Local officials may conduct searches at customs entry and exit points for drugs and other
contraband. Anyone found with contraband is subject to punishment as specified by the laws of the
host country. Neither Middlebury College nor your country’s embassy can be responsible for the
consequences of such an arrest.
Medical Care
Travel and study in a foreign country can be very strenuous. It is important that you take action
immediately when an illness or injury occurs.
When you are sick in India, you need to be patient at a time when you may feel least able to be so.
Hospital visits can sometimes take hours. Such experiences can test your cultural sensitivity.
In the event of an illness, use your common sense about whether or not to seek outside help.
Degrees of helpfulness vary as greatly from institution to institution as they do from individual to
individual. You should speak with the Director in all cases of serious illness, and before agreeing to
hospitalization. You can also contact the Director about accompanying you to the doctor.
Hospitals
Adequate medical and hospital services are available in India. Delhi has dozens of hospitals and some
of the best medical facilities available in the region. The following is a list of some of the hospitals in
Delhi. HTH Worldwide insurance does have a relationship with several Hospitals in Delhi, including
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all of those listed below. These hospitals can bill HTH directly for your care, so that you do not
need to pay your bills and then submit a claim form to HTH. In order for HTH to pre-arrange for
your payment, however, you should call them before going to a hospital or clinic. (You can call
HTH collect 24/7 at 610-254-8771. Of course, if it is an emergency, don’t delay seeking care first.)
However, you should always contact the Director before seeking treatment at a hospital, as some
hospitals specialize in one type of medicine or another.
Max Medcentre - Panchsheel Park
N 110, Panchsheel Park
New Delhi 110 017
India
91.11.2649.9870
Max Specialty Centre - Panchsheel Park
S-347, Panchsheel Park
New Delhi 110017
India
91.11.2649.9880
Max Super Specialty Hospital - East Wing
2 Press Enclave Road, Saket
New Delhi 110017
India
91.11.2651.5050
Max Super Specialty Hospital - West Wing
1, Press Enclave Road, Saket
New Delhi 110017
India
91.11.6611.5050
Fortis Flt. Lt. Rajan Dhall Hospital
Sector B, Pocket 1, Aruna Asaf Ali Marg, Vasant Kunj
New Delhi 110070
India
91.11.4277..6222
Expat Counseling and Coaching
B 34 Nizamuddin East, Ground Floor
New Delhi 110013
India
91.98.7123.2747
Sharp Sight Centre
A-28 Westend Colony, Near Shanti Niketan
New Delhi 110092
India
91.11.2411.2301
Dr. Khosla's Dental & Orthodontic Clinic
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B-4/76 Safdarjung Enclave
New Delhi 110029
India
91.11.2610.6382
Fortis Escorts Heart Institute
Okhla
New Delhi 110025
India
91.11.2682.5002
Psychological Health & Counseling
Students should be very realistic about their abilities to function in a high-stress environment. India
can be a difficult place in which to live at times and certain health conditions can be exacerbated by
being abroad in general. Psychological counseling services are available in India, but they may not be
what you are used to in the US, in terms of personal counseling. Students with particular concerns in
this area are encouraged to consult with staff at Middlebury prior to departure.
On-Site Money Matters
Currency Exchange
The currency in India is the Indian Rupee. ($1 U.S. equals approximately 67 Indian Rupees as of
February ,2014.)
The exchange rates are usually set at a fixed rate. The private money changers tend to have longer
hours and transactions are much faster than in Indian banks. Opening hours are generally Monday to
Friday from 10:00a.m. to 2:00p.m. and 10:00a.m. to 12:00p.m. on Saturdays.
Money and Banking
Accessing Money
We suggest that you travel with several sources of money (ATM/debit card, credit card, traveler’s
checks, and cash). This will ensure that if one of your means for accessing money fails, you will not
be stranded without money. ATM/debit cards can be used to obtain cash if they have a major credit
card logo (Visa, MasterCard, Cirrus Network, or Plus Network) on them, but they should not be
relied upon exclusively, since they are subject to breakdowns, fraud, and other scams. If you do plan
to use debit or ATM cards while overseas, be sure to check with your bank regarding applicable fees,
which can sometimes be quite steep, but this is the most convenient way to access your funds. Also,
be sure to notify your bank and credit card companies that you will be traveling so they do not freeze
your account, and to insure that your PIN will work while you are abroad. If you choose to bring
cash with you, please examine your bills carefully before departure to make sure they are in good
condition.
Bank Cards
CIRRUS, PLUS, Visa and MasterCard are accepted in India, and you will see signs for them at
automatic tellers all over the country (in cities). Check with your bank to make sure your card is
activated for overseas use and that your PIN will work overseas. By using ATMs you can get trade
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exchange rates, some of which may be better than those charged by banks for changing cash. Note
that there is also a daily limit on ATM cash withdrawals, usually around $200. It is recommended
that you consult with your bank about the variations and rules or charges for Indian branches and
carry the phone number of your local bank in case you lose your ATM card.
Credit Cards
Credit cards are accepted at major hotels, top-flight restaurants, and some of the fancier shops in
New Delhi, and airline offices. The vast majority of monetary transactions are carried out in cash.
Where credit cards are used, the best known are Visa, MasterCard, and American Express. They are
accepted more and more, although not to the same extent as in the U.S. There are some travel
booking sites which will not accept U.S. issued credit card; Indian railway’s online booking system,
Indian travel portals etc.
Emergency Cash
BEFORE you leave, you should discuss with your family a plan for getting more money during the
program. The best way to be sent money is to have a family member deposit cash into your bank
account which you can then access via an ATM. Following that, American Express money orders
mailed through a reputable express mail carrier such as Federal Express, UPS, DHL, etc. is a good
alternative. Western Union is also available.
Communication with Home and Friends
Communication and Immersion
Students who seek maximum immersion should note that regular communication with home can
significantly hinder your adjustment to the new culture. If your goal is maximum immersion, you
should prepare family and friends for the reality that you may be difficult to contact and that, even
when possible, regular calling or e-mailing may interfere with your cultural adjustment in India. If
something has gone wrong, your family will learn about it immediately. Otherwise, you can remind
them that no news is good news. Wifi connection is available on both college campuses. For those of
you who have a smartphone, you can also download an application called ‘Viber’ which makes it
‘free’ to call home. ‘Whatsapp’ is another chat application used widely in India and you would use it a
lot to stay in touch with your friends. Facebook could also be another way to reach out. Your friends
in India will also be extensively using it to keep in touch.
Some students have found keeping a blog to be a good way to keep family and friends up to date on
their experiences without having to have multiple conversations. Please be aware, however, that as a
Middlebury student you are a representative of Middlebury’s program and of the U.S. as a whole.
Make sure to keep your blog culturally respectful and open-minded, as any stranger reading it will
take it to be a representation of the way American students studying in India think.
Mail
Students should have all mail sent to them through AIIS at the address below:
[Your name]
AIIS
D – 31, Defence Colony,
New Delhi – 110 024
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Packages should not be sent to arrive before the students have arrived in-country. As a general rule,
fifteen percent of all international mail never arrives. Some packages of former students have never
arrived, while others have arrived months after the end of the semester. We do not advise having
packages sent from the States unless it is urgent.
Airmail takes two to three weeks from North America and between a week and ten days from
Europe.
E-Mail
You will have wi-fi dongles for internet service . You should be able to access your home school
account via a browser-based email service, and this is a good way to ensure you receive important
information from your home campus.
Past students have reported that, unsurprisingly, the less time they spend online while abroad, the
more they learn about Indian culture, and Hindi as well. Accordingly, it would be wise to minimize
your time on chat, Skype, Facebook, etc.
VOIP – Voice Over Internet Protocol
Students usually use Skype or GoogleVoice to keep in touch with family.
Phones
During orientation, you will have a chance to purchase SIM cards for your cell phones, or a new
Indian smart phone; you will need to pay for these (roughly $85 for a new phone)
• If you have an unlocked (GSM or 3G/4G) phone bring that to India. An iPhone or Samsung
could be more expensive in India than in U.S.
• Owners buy pre-paid minutes.
• Cell phones may be used to call the U.S., but this is very expensive. Use Skype or Viber to call
home free from your smartphone Rates for calling within India depend on the plan that you’ve
bought. It’s not expensive to call within India however your friends will ask you to download
free messaging services like ‘Whatsapp’ , BB messenger or similar services to keep in touch (for
free)
The telephone at the Middlebury office in Delhi is for the use of the staff only. Students may not
receive telephone calls through this office, except in cases of emergency.
Fax/Xerox
The School in India’s photocopier is for office use only. Please note that any photocopying required
for coursework is considered the responsibility of the student, and the school photocopier cannot be
used for such purpose. There are a lot of bookshops and stationers with photocopying services.
Faxes can be sent through any of the many public fax services.
Local Resources
Emergency Numbers
Students should memorize the following emergency numbers and you should carry on your person at
all times the card that you will receive during orientation containing emergency contact numbers.
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Delhi Police: 100,1091 (for Women, anti-stalking, anti-obscenity calls)
Ambulance 102
Fire: 101
Accident and Trauma: 1099
Tourist City Information System:1280
Women’s Helpline:1091
Important Telephone Numbers
Delhi Metro Enquiries: www.delhimetrorail.com
24 Hours DMRC Helpline No.:+91-11-128128
For calling from mobile phones
PLEASE DIAL 011 -128128
AIRPORT ENQUIRIES
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Domestic Terminal
http://www.newdelhiairport.in
Delhi Airport - +91-124-3376000
International Terminal
Exchange +91-11-3376000
ROADWAYS ENQUIRIES
Anand Vihar, ISBT 22152431
Sarai Kale Khan 24358343/ 8092
Kashmere Gate 23865181/ 23868836
Ext. : 217
DTC Local Enquiry 23317600
DTC Website : http://dtc.nic.in
U.P. Roadways 22149089
Railway Enquiries
http://www.indianrail.gov.in
General Enquiries - 139
TOURIST ENQUIRY
ITDC - 91-11-23719039
Delhi Tourist City Information Service - 1280
Transport Arrangements - 91-11-24674153, 26884312
Tours Department - 91-11-23363607, 23365358
TOURISM DEPARTMENTS
Delhi (DTDC) - 91-11-23363607; 91-11-23365358
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Haryana - 91-11-23324910; 91-11-23324911
Himachal Pradesh - 91-11-23325320;
91-11-23324764
Punjab - 91-11-23343055
Rajasthan - 91-11-23383837; 91-11-23389525
Uttar Pradesh - 91-11-23711296; 91-11-23322251
Uttranchal - 91-11-23350481
U.S. Embassy in India
U.S. Embassy
Shantipath, Chanakyapuri
New Delhi - 110021
Tel: 011-91-11-2419-8000
Fax: 011-91-11-2419-0017
American Center
24, Kasturba Gandhi Marg
New Delhi - 110001
Tel: 011-91-11-2347-2000
Drug Stores
Medication is very easy to get from pharmacies which are located all over the city. Many pharmacies
are available very close to your apartments. Some of the pharmacy chains in Delhi are Guardian
Pharmacy and Apollo Pharmacy etc.
Taxi Service
There are on call Radio taxis available which are safe and air-conditioned. These taxis are fitted with a
GPS system and driven by licensed and trained drivers. Ola Cabs which has a mobile app is currently
most popular with its reliability and economical rates. We would recommend that you always book
these taxis for travel within the cities, For travel outside AIIS has a recommended taxi services which
could be used. Some of the taxi services which you could use are as follows:
Meru Cabs -011-44224422
Quick Cabs – 011 – 67676767, 011 - 45333333
Mega Cabs - 011 41414141.
Easy Cabs – 011-43434343
Bookstores
There are plenty of bookstores in and around Defence colony/Delhi University. Some of
the prominent ones are Teksons, Om Book Store, Book Mark, Cross word, Midland etc.
They are very easy to find on Google maps.
Places to visit in Delhi:
There is plenty to explore in Delhi during the weekends and holidays. Delhi is home to beautiful
parks, historical monuments , places of worship and old buildings of the British era. A few
suggestions are as follows:
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India Gate
Sansad Bhawan
Rashtrapati Bhawan
Lodhi gardens
Humayun’s Tomb
Red fort
Old Delhi / Chandni Chowk
Purana Quila
Safdarjung Tomb
Qutub Minar
Akshardham Temple
ISKON Temple
Jama masjid
Lotus Temple
National Museum
Rail Museum
Jantar mantar
Nizamuddin dargah
Shopping
Stores and other businesses in the downtown area generally stay open from 10:00am until 9:00pm.
In some neighborhoods you may find that they close for two or three hours for lunch. Other
shopping opportunities can be found in one of the many malls all over Delhi; and usually you will
find smaller shops near the place where you live. Some of the places you could explore for shopping
are :
Old Delhi Shopping
Connaught Place
Janpath
Baba Kharak Singh Marg
Paharganj
Karol Bagh
Kamla Nagar
Tibetan Market
South Extension
Ansal Plaza
Greater Kailash
Saket
Khan Market
Sarojini Nagar
INA Market
Nehru Place
Lajpat Nagar
Hauz Khas
Vasant Vihar/Vasant Kunj
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Calendar 2016-2017
For the most current calendar, please refer to the online calendar.
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