THE EXPERIENCE

A place to practise.

Fo Guang Shan's verified English programme combines Buddhist study with the practical routines of monastery life: meditation, chanting, cleaning and dining-hall service. It is a substantial residential course with narrowly defined admission criteria. The 2026 session has ended, so this record identifies a demonstrated pathway and contact route rather than an available booking.

What you can practise

  • Humanistic Buddhism
  • meditation
  • chanting
  • monastic life
  • communal service

Where you will stay

Full-programme monastery residence; tuition and accommodation sponsored for accepted participants.

Time & commitment

Historical English Buddhist Studies Programme: June 23–July 19, 2026.

Joining from overseas

Overseas participants addressed. Specific English programme: unmarried 18–35-year-olds, tertiary education, English proficiency, interview and willingness to follow monastic rules.

English support stated. Confirm instruction, translation and orientation for your specific programme.

DETAILS TO CLARIFY

  • 2026 session is past; no later intake verified.
  • A pilgrims' lodge or a one-day temple tour is not equivalent to admission to this residential programme.
  • Do not extend this programme's English access to every FGS retreat.

Start a useful conversation.

Include your dates, nationality, language and previous experience when contacting the host.

  • Are you accepting overseas participants for my intended dates, and what is the full required length of stay?
  • Which sessions have English instruction or translation?
  • Where exactly will I sleep, and what are the room-sharing and meal arrangements?
  • What is the full daily schedule, total cost and cancellation policy?

THE EVIDENCE BEHIND THIS ENTRY

Read the original sources.

Reviewed 12 September 2026. The documented programme has already taken place. This record is retained for research and does not indicate a current intake.

  • 2026 Short-Term English Buddhist Studies Program Host / organiser · Programme / report date: 2026-06-23/2026-07-19

    Official monastery announcement links the dedicated programme site and identifies the 2026 dates.

  • English programme details Host / organiser

    All courses conducted in English; monastery residence throughout; study, meditation, chanting and practical service.

  • English programme admission details Host / organiser

    Single unmarried applicants aged 18–35, completed tertiary education, English proficiency and interview; application period ended May 31.

We have not visited or inspected this programme. Our summaries distinguish provider claims, historical notices and independent accounts. Read our research method.