Will I have my cell phone?
Students are not allowed any electronics on NOLS courses (no cell phones, iPods, etc.) Course instructors will carry the means to contact emergency personnel should the need arise.
Read MoreWho can go on an alumni trip?
These trips are open to any NOLS Alumni. NOLS Alumni can also bring guests along with them, we do not limit the number of guests that an Alumni can bring.
Read MoreWhere do you go?
We are proud of the wide breadth of location offerings and always expanding more. Alumni Trips take place in the U.S. and in many other countries around the world. Some trips are based our of our NOLS campuses but others travel fast and light operating in countries where NOLS doesn’t have an established physical location.
Read MoreWhen will I hear about my award?
Financial aid decisions are typically communicated within 2-4 weeks of submitting a complete application. Applying early gives you more time to plan and explore additional funding sources if needed.
Read MoreWhen will I be able to contact my family on a course?
NOLS students may be in electronic communication with friends and family before and after the course, not during (exceptions made for semester and year courses). Some courses have the option of sending letters in and out during re-supplies of food and gear; ask your admission officer if this is a possibility and what the process…
Read MoreWhen should I book my travel for my course?
As soon as possible, please complete your student health form and submit these documents to your student Dashboard (link to Dashboard login page). Once NOLS clears it, you can start booking travel for your course.
Read MoreWhat’s the difference between WFA, WFR, and WEMT?
Wilderness First Aid (WFA) is a 16-hour introductory course. Wilderness First Responder (WFR) is a comprehensive 70-80 hour course and the industry standard for outdoor professionals. Wilderness EMT (WEMT) combines the WFR with EMT-Basic certification for the highest level of wilderness medical training.
Read MoreWhat kinds of trips are these?
Alumni trips cover a variety of activities, skills, and locations. Some of them are highly technical, others are focused on skills development, and others are simply focused on enjoying and exploring a new place.
Read MoreWhat kind of job can I get from taking a NOLS course?
While the skills learned on NOLS courses are most applicable to jobs in the outdoor industry, the leadership, interpersonal, and self-reliance skills that a student gains while on a NOLS course are applicable in any field or facet of life. In addition, the NOLS Jobsnetwork is available to connect job-seeking alumni with outdoor, conservation, and educational employers.
Read MoreWhat is your cancellation and transfer policy?
You can find this information on our policies page.
Read MoreWhat is the cancellation and refund policy?
Cancellations made more than 60 days before the course start date receive a full refund minus a processing fee. Cancellations within 60 days may receive a partial refund or course credit depending on timing. Full details are included in your enrollment agreement.
Read MoreWhat is NOLS’s safety record?
NOLS maintains one of the strongest safety records in outdoor education. We publish annual safety data transparently and continuously refine our risk management practices based on decades of field experience. Safety is built into every aspect of course design, instructor training, and field operations.
Read MoreWhat if I have dietary restrictions?
NOLS accommodates a wide range of dietary needs including vegetarian, vegan, gluten-free, and common food allergies. Indicate your requirements during enrollment and our rations team will plan accordingly. In the field, groups prepare meals together using carefully planned food supplies.
Read MoreWhat gear do I need to bring?
After enrolling, you will receive a detailed gear list specific to your course and location. Required personal items typically include a backpack, sleeping bag, boots, and clothing layers. NOLS provides technical group equipment. We also offer a gear shop with recommended items at discounted prices.
Read MoreWhat doesn’t tuition protection and travel insurance cover?
Situations when NOLS cancels the course Voluntarily choosing to leave your NOLS course Being expelled from or asked to leave your NOLS course Being unable to participate in your NOLS course due to a preexisting condition For a comprehensive list, please refer to the general exclusions section of your plan document.
Read MoreWhat does travel protection and travel insurance cover?
Injuries before or during your course that prevent you from being able to participate in the course Illnesses occurring before or during your course that prevent you from being able to participate in the course With some policies, expenses related to canceled travel reservations such as airlines, hotels, etc. due to the above injury or…
Read MoreWhat do you eat on NOLS Expeditions? Can I still remain a vegetarian/vegan/gluten-free during the course?
Each NOLS rations department is a little different, but we are prepared to accommodate vegetarians, vegans, gluten-free students, and students with food allergies. It’s important to make sure that any dietary needs or preferences are noted on your health form, and that your admissions officer is aware of them. Don’t hesitate to bring it up…
Read MoreWhat certifications will I receive?
Certifications depend on the course. Expedition students may earn Leave No Trace Trainer, Wilderness First Aid, or swiftwater rescue certifications. Wilderness Medicine students earn the specific certification for their course (WFA, WFR, or WEMT). All are nationally recognized.
Read MoreWhat about laundry and hygiene in the field?
There are no laundry facilities in the backcountry, so plan on wearing the same clothes for extended periods. NOLS teaches Leave No Trace hygiene practices including hand washing, water purification, and waste disposal. You will learn to stay clean and healthy with minimal resources.
Read MoreIs there an age requirement?
Age requirements vary by course. Teen courses are designed for ages 14-17, young adult courses for 18-25, and adult courses for 23 and older. Some semester and specialized programs have specific age ranges listed on the course page.
Read MoreIs NOLS WFR accepted by my employer?
The NOLS WFR is the most widely recognized wilderness medicine certification in the industry. It is accepted by the National Park Service, AMGA, ACA, and hundreds of outdoor organizations, camps, and guide services worldwide. Check with your employer for specific requirements.
Read MoreIs NOLS approved for Veterans Benefits?
Yes! Find more information about AmeriCorps award policies on our financial aid page.
Read MoreIf I’m on an interest list, what are my chances of getting on an Expedition?
While we want to accept everyone on our courses, NOLS’ commitment to excellent student-to-instructor ratios, permitting limits for the sensitive areas where we operate, and other operating restrictions mean we cannot always accommodate every person on their desired course. When spots open up on full courses we reach out to people on the interest list…
Read MoreHow should I prepare physically?
We recommend building cardiovascular endurance and strength in the weeks before your course. Hiking with a loaded pack, running, swimming, and core exercises are all helpful. Your pre-course packet includes specific fitness recommendations based on the demands of your course.
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