When is the registration deadline?

We can guarantee enrollment if student applications are turned in before June 1st.  After June 1st,  students are still welcome to apply but space may be limited.

Do you offer financial aid?

One option for those who cannot make a full payment immediately or by the June 15th deadline is an installment plan.  We can work with you to make camp financially viable by spreading out the cost of camp over several months beyond the normal deadline.  In addition, in limited circumstances we do offer reductions in tuition.  This is rare as IDE is already one the most affordable and low-cost camps in the country, but it is possible to reduce tuition given certain circumstances.

What are your refund policies?

In general, we do not refund tuition (with some exceptions).  Specifically,

1.) No refunds for disciplinary dismissal
2.) Refunds for medical departure subject to fees paid to Saint Mary’s University based on the duration of the student’s stay
3.) The $300 deposit is non-refundable

Should my child bring extra money to camp? What other items should they bring?

Yes. We recommend students bring cash for extra food or snacks at the camp store, meals from nearby restaurants, or other purchases from St. Mary’s.

Students are encouraged to bring anything that will make them more comfortable on campus.  Whether that is a fan, fridge, or television, it is up to you.

Do I need to pack dress clothes?

No, all rounds and the camp tournament are done in casual dress.

What flight should I book and to which airport?

Please book your flights into the Minneapolis/St. Paul International Airport.  Students should arrive on August 4th, preferably before 4pm.  They will be shuttled to and from the airport by a staff member.  Once you have booked your flight,  please forward the itinerary to institute4debate@gmail.com

I can’t be at camp for the entire two weeks, can I still attend?

Yes, tuition for students who cannot attend the full 2 week program is on a sliding scale.  The tuition for 1 week at IDE is $900.

Are fees for health service covered by IDE?

No. Any required health services are not covered in the original tuition. Medical care cost rests solely on the parent.

Who do I contact in case of an emergency?

As camp approaches, contacts for lab leaders as well as administrative staff will be sent out to parents.

Where can I send care packages etc. during camp?

Saint Mary’s University
Institute For Debate Education
Name of Camper
700 Terrace Heights
Winona, MN  55987

How is dorm security?  Are boys and girls in separate dorms?

The dorms are monitored 24 hours a day by SMU security.  The doors will also be locked all day, and only residents will be able to enter.  In addition, IDE staff members will be present and will supervise the dormitory at night.  Dorms are separated by gender by floor.

What are the dorms like?

Rooms are approximately 11’ x 16’.  Most rooms are carpeted and do not have air conditioning.  Amenities provided:

  • 2 beds with extra-long mattresses
  • 2 wardrobes with built-in dressers
  • a sink, with vanity underneath and medicine cabinet above
  • 2 built-in desks
  • 2 desk chairs
  • phone jack
  • towels
  • bedding (sheets are provided but students may bring additional blankets for comforts sake)
  • cable and internet hook-up (including access to the SMU wireless network)

There are common areas in the dorms as well:

  • main lounge;
  • study/break space;
  • laundry room with five washers and six dryers (fifty cents per load); and
  • community kitchen with a stove, oven, microwave and refrigerator.

Are meals covered?

Yes.  Students will be provided breakfast, lunch, and dinner.  Students are free to order delivery from nearby restaurants.  A list of restaurants close to St. Mary’s will be provided upon arrival.

Vending machines are located on campus and we will operate a small store offering snacks and drinks. 

If any students have any food allergies or special meal requirements please let us know.

Are recreational facilities available?

SMU has state of the art recreational facilities that are available for use for a $25 fee.  We have adjusted the schedule from last year to guarantee more free time for students.  While there are some outdoor facilities for use regardless, the $25 will give students access to the SMU pool, workout facility, basketball courts, and disc golf courses.