FAQ

Who attends Freedom Week?
Freedom Week is attended by thirty students every year, most of whom are undergraduates. Several lecturers will also stay the entire week, making it easy to have discussions or ask questions in a social context.

How much does Freedom Week cost?
Freedom Week is entirely free for the students. Meals and single-occupancy accommodation in the College are provided free of charge to all participants.

Are travel grants available?
No. Students are responsible for making their own way to and from Cambridge.

How competitive is the application process?
The application process for Freedom Week is very competitive, and unfortunately many applicants have to be turned away. But if you are talented and enthusiastic, please don’t let that stop you from applying. It is to your advantage to apply early, as participants are selected as and when applications come in.

How many hours of lectures each day?
The timetable for 2011 has not yet been finalized, but last year there were 5-8 hours of lectures on Monday, Tuesday, Wednesday and Thursday, and then a further 3 hours on Friday.

What social activities will be organized?
Evening activities will be organized every night, and will include a BBQ, a drinks reception, several dinners in the College, and trips to local pubs. Attendees will also be able to try their hand at ‘punting’ on the River Cam, and will have ample free time to explore Cambridge.

Is Freedom Week party political?
No – Freedom Week has no ties to any political party, and does not exist to serve any party political agenda. It is more concerned with ideas, principles and theories than it is with politicians and current affairs.

What is expected of Freedom Week participants?
Freedom Week participants are to arrive at Sidney Sussex College by Midday on Monday 11th July, and to remain in Cambridge for the duration of the seminar (which ends with lunch on Friday 15th). No exceptions will be made. While in Cambridge, participants are expected to attend all lectures and meals.

Do I need to have studied economics or politics?
No. There are no particular academic requirements for Freedom Week participants. We only ask that people be enthusiastic to learn about classical liberalism and free market economics.

Should I do any reading / preparation?
There is no reading list you must complete before attending Freedom Week. However, should you wish to familiarize yourself with some of the ideas and concepts that will be discussed at Freedom Week, the Adam Smith Institute’s A Beginner’s Guide to Liberty is available for free download here. The writings of Milton Friedman and FA Hayek may also be useful.

Will there be internet access?
Unfortunately attendees are not allowed to use Sidney Sussex’s college computers. However, the Freedom Week lecture theatre has WiFi so you can of course bring your own laptop and use it there.