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Posted: December 5, 2025

SAIL 2026: Summer Study Abroad in Laos

Dates: June 29 – July 31, 2026 | Application Deadline: April 16, 2026

Join the Summer Study Abroad in Laos (SAIL) program and study at the Lao-American Institute in Vientiane Capital, Lao PDR, while engaging with local communities on a daily basis. The program is organized by the Center for Lao Studies.

Program Overview

SAIL offers intensive Lao language training, courses on Lao history and culture, and opportunities to experience everyday life in Laos through excursions and optional volunteer work.

New in 2026
For the first time, former SAIL participants can return at a reduced cost of US$1,800. Students who joined the 2024 or 2025 SAIL programs are eligible for this returning-student rate.

Program Details

  • Dates: June 29 – July 31, 2026
  • Location: Lao-American Institute, Vientiane Capital, Lao PDR
  • Eligibility:
    • Open to undergraduate and graduate students, educators, and education administrators
    • Also open to those interested in Lao, Lao American, Southeast Asian, and Asian cultures and society
    • Participants must be 18 years or older
    • Please contact the Center for Lao Studies to confirm eligibility
  • Program Cost:
    • US$3,800 – first-time SAIL students*
    • US$1,800 – returning SAIL students**

* Partial scholarships available for first-time SAIL students through the Center for Lao Studies.
** Returning within two years after attending SAIL.

Program Highlights

  • Intensive Lao language course
  • Lao history and culture course
    • Optional for returning SAIL students
  • Classroom guest speakers
  • Cultural excursions in Vientiane and other provinces
  • Optional volunteer work program with a local or international organization
  • Opportunity to earn up to 10 college credits
    • Returning SAIL students may earn 5 credits

Scholarships & Financial Aid

Scholarships are available.

  • Partial scholarships are offered by the Center for Lao Studies for first-time SAIL students.
  • Additional financial aid may be available through participants’ home institutions for those who qualify.

For more info go to: https://www.laostudies.org/