FAQ

How many attendees and faculty are in attendance at workshops?
Typically each workshop has from 10-30 students. There are usually several faculty members who are present throughout the workshop and various special guest faculty members who will visit for a meal, a discussion, a presentation or an evening.

Do your workshops fill up fast?
Some popular workshops do fill up very quickly, so if you think you might be interested in attending, visit our registration page to save your space. Note: a few workshops do require an application, and those are noted on the workshop page.

How much writing time will I have at my workshop?
The schedule for each workshop is different, according to the type of workshop and the faculty’s agenda, but each workshop is designed to include instruction, discussion, writing time and critiques.

How do I register for a workshop?
You can reserve your spot at a workshop on our registration page. As noted on the individual workshop pages, a few workshops require an application. After you register for an application workshop, we will send you an email with a link inviting you to apply. We will notify you of your acceptance and provide you with additional registration information in a timely manner.

What if my desired workshop is full?
Applicants who qualify for a workshop after it is filled will be added to the waitlist. Also, we’re happy to suggest similar workshops happening this year, or let you know as soon as next year’s workshop is available.

What is included in my workshop tuition?
All-inclusive registration includes workshop tuition, lodging, meals, beverages, and snacks. Complimentary pickup is available from Scranton/Wilkes-Barre (AVP) International Airport.

Do you offer payment plans?
A deposit is required upon acceptance with the balance due before the workshop begins. We will be happy to work with you on a payment plan – e-mail support@highlightsfoundation.zendesk.com, or call 570-253-1192. Find out more.

Do you offer scholarships or other financial aid?
We do offer scholarships and occasional special grants. Scholarships are awarded on three criteria: seriousness of purpose, talent and financial need. To learn more, visit our Scholarship page.

What is your refund/reschedule policy?
Our reschedule/refund policy reflects our community values, especially during the COVID-19 pandemic. Learn more about it here.

What’s the best way to travel to your Retreat Center?
Our Retreat Center is located about 2.5 hours from New York City. Visit this page to discover the different ways you can get here.

Can I arrive a day before my workshop begins, or stay afterwards?
We try our best to accommodate requests for extra days but if we are not able to find room, you may have to stay in a hotel if your travel schedule necessitates an early or late arrival. To inquire about extra nights, email support@highlightsfoundation.zendesk.com.

What are the accommodations like?
We provide comfortable and fully-furnished lodging in our cabins and lodge.

Will I be able to use my laptop during my workshop?
Yes! All workshops will take place in the Barn. Classroom space has abundant electrical outlets. Writing tables are provided in the cabins for working on your own. The Barn and the Lodge also have a computer and printer available for student use.

Does the property have wireless internet access?
Yes, wi-fi is available in the Barn and in the cabins. Please be aware that bandwidth is limited, so be kind to your neighbors and minimize the streaming!

What if I have special dietary restrictions?
Our chef will be happy to work with you. We’ll be in touch in advance of your visit to be sure we have all of your dietary needs taken care of.

The Highlights Foundation is committed to an environment free from harassment and intimidation. Any person visiting the Highlights Foundation retreat center is expected to follow and respect this policy (click here for the full policy).