CRCC American Muslim Civic Leadership Institute

When will applications for the 2011-2012 program be available?

The application process for the 2011-2012 has concluded.

I was not accepted last year. May I resubmit the same application?

You are welcome to reapply, but a new application is required. The application form, essay questions, and recommendation letter requirements are slightly different for this year's program. You are welcome to incorporate content from previous applications, if applicable, but you must submit a new packet of materials and follow the guidelines listed in the current application.

May I submit a letter from an AMCLI alumnus for my recommendation letter?

A recommendation letter is required from a professional who has worked closely with you and can speak to your leadership qualities and accomplishments. An additional recommendation letter from an AMCLI alumni is highly encouraged, but not required.

What is the acceptance rate for the program?

Last year AMCLI received four applications for each person accepted into the program. We anticipate that the number of applications will increase this year. The number of fellows accepted into the program will remain the same.

Who is eligible to participate?

AMCLI is open to applicants who are:

• Staff of organizations engaged in civic work in the Muslim community, or organizations working on issues that affect the Muslim community. (Individuals who are chief executive officers, chief operating officers, program directors, program coordinators, lead organizers, and board members are qualified to apply.)
• Between the ages of 25-40 at the time of application.
• Proficient in written and spoken English. The program does not have formal educational requirements, but applicants with a bachelor's degrees or advanced degrees are strongly encouraged to apply.
• Able to attend all scheduled AMCLI residential programs and participate in four mandatory conference calls.

What does the program cost?

Accepted applicants are required to pay a non-refundable $750 registration fee and a $35 application fee to secure their place in the 2011-12 program. Money orders and cashiers checks only.

Through the generous support of our funders, AMCLI is able to underwrite the remainder tuition cost of the program ($15,000 per fellow for training, travel, accommodations, most meals, and materials).

Are travel costs covered?

Transportation between the airport and the venue for the residential programs will be covered by the program. Participants are responsible for the cost of ground transportation between their homes and the airport and any related costs such as airport parking or meals en route. In some instances, travel will be arranged by the AMCLI project coordinator prior to travel, and in other instances, participants will be asked to pay for their travel and submit their receipts for reimbursement. Detailed instructions will be provided in the acceptance materials that are sent to participants.

Do I need a BA or advanced degree to participate?

There are no degree requirements for the program, but a command of spoken and written English is necessary for full participation.

How long is the AMCLI program?

The program will convene over the course of eight months. During this period, AMCLI participants will participate in three residential programs, as well as a series of conference calls and online programs.

What are the program dates?

• Conference Call I: September 29, 2011 (4-5:30 PM PST/7-8:30 PM EST)
• Retreat I, Chicago: October 26-30, 2011
• Conference Call II: December 8, 2011 (4-5:30 PM PST/7-8:30 PM EST)
• Retreat II, Los Angeles: January 25-29, 2012
• Conference Call III: February 23, 2012 (4-5:30 PM PST/7-8:30 PM EST)
• Retreat III, Washington, D.C.: April 18-22, 2012
• Conference Call IV: May 3, 2012 (4-5:30 PM PST/7-8:30 PM EST)

What is the deadline for applications and when will I be notified if I have been accepted?

• August 31, 2011, 6:00 p.m. PST: Last day to request an application online form.
• September 6, 2011, 6:00 p.m. PST: Application online form, application fee, and recommendation letter(s) must be RECEIVED by this date.
• September 19, 2011: Acceptance Notification will be sent out via e-mail.
• September 26, 2011: Deadline for receipt of Acceptance Forms.

Who are the AMCLI lecturers?

AMCLI lecturers includes scholars, experts, and practitioners from across the country in the areas of Islamic theology, civic participation, and a range of skill-building and team-building topics. AMCLI staff have identified leading experts from within the host institutions, as well as from other universities and organizations across the country.

Where will participants stay and will participants have a roommate?

Participants will be provided with accommodations in either university housing or a hotel. Participants will share a room with two double beds with another participant of the same sex. In these instances, if someone prefers to have their own room, they will need to pay the additional cost of a private room.

What books and materials are required reading?

Materials will be provided to you before your arrival at each residential session and you will be notified at that time of the reading requirements for the sessions. You will also be sent materials to review in between the residential programs.

What is the dress code?

Business Casual dress for the residential sessions. Participants will be notified when formal attire is required.

Do I need to bring a laptop computer?

You may bring a laptop to AMCLI sessions, but one is not required. A laptop is optional for taking notes during the program.

When will I receive my certificate of completion?

The certificate of completion will be presented to each participant at the end of the program, during a graduation ceremony held during the third residential program.