BCI 10-Day Experience 2023

For any students whose school responsibilities don’t end until after the BCI start date of June 15^th, we are happy to help make accommodations for you to still participate in the program and arrive late if necessary. You can note this need in your application and we will be in touch with you about making accommodations, or reach out to us at bci [at] aju.edu (bci[at]aju[dot]edu) if you have specific questions.

The BCI 10-Day Experience provides transfer credits for a standard 3-credit course. Transfer credits are earned by completing the 10-day program and submitting a short personal essay or presentation. 

Transfer credits are granted by American Jewish University. Typically, these will transfer as elective or general education credits. The transferability of credits is at the discretion of a student’s home institution. We will work with any student’s home institution for any questions or concerns regarding the courses a student completed with us, however it is up to the institute to determine what they will accept. 

If I attend the BCI 10-Day Experience, can I still attend the 26-day another year? 

Yes! Any participants in the BCI 10-day Experience remain eligible for the 26-day program in a subsequent year. 

Applying to the BCI 10-Day Experience is complete with the submission of an online application (takes approx. 30 min.) 

Since there is limited space available, we begin the rolling admission process in December. The sooner we receive your application the better your chances are of acceptance into the program.   

Once we receive your application, applicants will be notified of program acceptance within 2 weeks. Accepted applicants will be sent the link to the online payment form to pay their BCI tuition in order to secure their spot. 

BCI participants are housed with 2-3 other participants in our adult conference center cottages – basic hotel-style rooms with a private bathroom, shower, and mini-fridge. 

BCI is an inclusive and accepting space for all who identify as LGBTQ+. Participants will have the opportunity to specify housing preferences once accepted (i.e. sharing a room with others who share your gender identity or sex assigned at birth). 

BCI is a pluralistic program which strives to create an environment that will make everyone feel comfortable no matter their religious background, while offering participants many opportunities for personal and spiritual growth. BCI is not affiliated with any particular movement. The kitchen at BCI is Glatt Kosher and is under orthodox rabbinic supervision. We observe Shabbat at BCI - but do use instruments during Kabbalat Shabbat services on Friday nights (before the sun is down). When multiple options are offered on shabbat, some options may involve recorded music, writing, or other non-traditional shabbat observances; when these occur, there are always shabbat-friendly alternatives provided. 

If you live outside of Southern California you will need to fly into LAX on Tuesday, June 15th. Once you arrive, BCI will provide transportation from the airport to the BCI.  If you live in Southern California and/or are not flying into LAX, you will be responsible for arriving at BCI by the evening of Tuesday, June 15th. On the last day of BCI, we will provide transportation from BCI to LAX airport (unless you drove yourself to BCI or are being picked up by someone). Transportation is only provided to LAX airport. You are more than welcome to extend your ticket (as many participants have done in the past), but any additional travel arrangements/costs will be your responsibility.  

The food at BCI is incredible! (We're not just saying that!) Before the summer we'll ask about your food allergies so that we can make sure the kitchen is stocked with the right food for you.  At dairy meals we always provide a non-dairy option, and at meat meals there is always a vegetarian and a vegan option. 

All meals provide clear labeling for dishes that are gluten/dairy-free and vegan/vegetarian. 

Some providers do get reception (i.e. T-Mobile, Verizon), but since BCI is located in a valley, there is no guarantee that your cell will get reception equally everywhere. Check your provider's website for coverage (the ZIP is 93064). 

BCI does provide free wifi access in the main buildings. 

While BCI does provide free wifi access in the main buildings, the more present you are - physically and mentally - at BCI, the more you will get out of it. In order to facilitate that presence, participants are not permitted to use their computers, smart phones, or other internet-enabled devices during programming. During free time, you may use your computers as desired...though you may find yourself wanting to go on a hike instead!