Commonly Asked Questions

+ How can I schedule a tour and observe classes?

Please email [email protected] to reserve a spot on one of our tours and to arrange to observe a class. Check our tour schedule for upcoming dates.

+ Can I talk to an admissions counselor?

Please send your request and your daytime contact information to [email protected]. Advising is available by appointment.

+ When should I apply?

SIEAM accepts applications beginning in September for entry into the program for the following September until the class is full. Since class size is limited, prospective students are encouraged to apply early. Applications typically take approximately two weeks to process. All qualified applicants are required to complete an in-person interview with SIEAM faculty, so applicants should account for any travel that will be necessary to complete the interview.

+ How much is tuition?

For tuition information, please see the tuition section in our Programs Catalogue.

+ When was SIEAM founded?

SIEAM, originally the Seattle Institute of Oriental Medicine, was founded in 1994 and is accredited by the Accreditation Commission for Acupuncture and Herbal Medicine (ACAHM).

+ Is it possible to transfer credit from another school?

SIEAM does not accept transfer credit for any acupuncture or East Asian Medicine training done at other institutions. Assessment of transfer credit for basic science courses is done on a case by case basis. Credit transfers do not affect the tuition costs or the length of training at SIEAM.

+ Is it possible to attend SIEAM part-time?

No, all students must enroll full-time. We do not have any part-time students.

+ Is there financial aid available?

SIEAM students currently receive financial aid loans through the Federal Direct Loan Program. For more information, please contact us at [email protected].

+ Is it possible to apply if I have not yet completed all the prerequisites?

Yes. If you have outstanding prerequisites, you may apply on a contingency basis. Please provide a plan of completion with your application. If you apply and are accepted, your acceptance will be contingent upon your completion of any remaining prerequisites with a grade of "B" or higher and updated transcripts showing the completion of remaining prerequisites must be submitted prior to the first day of the fall trimester.

+ What kind of schedule does SIEAM have?

SIEAM is on a 15-week trimester schedule, with 3 trimesters per year. Breaks between trimesters are typically two or three weeks. Please see our school calendar for more information.

+ Are SIEAM graduates eligible to sit for the California Board exam?

Not at this time. SIEAM has recently re-applied for California Acupuncture Board approval, but we cannot guarantee our application will be approved.