Osher Lifelong Learning Institute (OLLI)
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ’s)
- Where is OLLI located? We are on the Southern Oregon University (SOU) campus in Ashland, off Siskiyou Blvd., at 655 Frances Lane.
- How do I get there? Coming from the North on I-5, take exit 14, turn right on Ashland Street, turn left on Walker Ave, right on Siskiyou Blvd., and left on Frances Lane (at Starbucks). Go uphill holding to the left; we are the first stucco building on the right, with the archway. If coming from the South on I-5, the same instructions apply, only turn left on Ashland Street. Or, Google the address and zip code 97520. See: www.sou.edu/map/CampusMap.pdf
- What about Medford classes? For the fall term, classes in Medford will meet only on Fridays. They are held in the Higher Education Center (HEC) at 101 S Bartlett Street. Parking is available behind Jackson County Library (closed on Fridays) and across the street from the library on Central. There is also on-street parking. More information about the Higher Education Center, including parking information, is available at the HEC website.
- Can I take OLLI classes in both Medford and Ashland? Yes. You may enroll for classes at both venues.
- What will membership in OLLI cost me? OLLI Annual Membership Dues are $100 per person for the entire academic year (three terms), September to June, and is nonrefundable. Dues cover as many courses as you are able to gain admission. If you join OLLI in midyear, the fee is still $100; we do not prorate the fee.
- How do I get the classes I want? Many courses are popular and oversubscribed. Therefore, it is very important to list classes you want in your order of preference. We always try to give members’ their first choice, but sometimes we cannot. In those cases, a lottery is performed. If you want one class in particular, we suggest that you only sign up for that class, greatly enhancing your chance of being admitted. Also, notice the number of students allowed in each class. That number might help determine your priority level.
- Do you offer classes in the summer? No. Courses are centered on the SOU academic calendar of three terms.
- How do your classes differ from Elderhostel and Senior Ventures? Please see their websites to compare those programs with ours.
- How do I sign up to teach a course? See the Class Guidelines and Proposal section on the Teach a Course page of this web site or pick up the form in the OLLI office.
- What are the office hours? When classes are in session, our office hours are Monday - Friday, 8:30 - 1:00.
- Are your classes regular University classes? No. If you want University classes, and you are over 65, you can audit regular University classes if space is available in the class. Contact the Registrar's Office for more information.
- Is financial aid available? A limited number of scholarships may be available each year. Speak to Sally Klein, the OLLI Coordinator, for more information.
