Frequently Asked Questions

What is INCOSE?

INCOSE is the International Council on Systems Engineering. Information about the history of the organization, its mission and objectives can be found on the website at www.incose.org.

What is the INCOSE symposium?

The INCOSE symposium has a rich history that dates back to 1991, and has continued uninterrupted every year to the present. The symposium continues to be the largest annual gathering of systems engineering professionals, educators and researchers.

When and where is the symposium this year?

IS2018 is taking place in Washington, DC - USA from July 7 – 12.

Who can attend the symposium?

The symposium is an open event and everyone who registers and pays their registration fees is welcome to attend. Attendance includes access to the technical sessions, the exhibition area and food and beverage for the day. Access to some special events, such as tutorials and tours, will require special registration.
Although early registration is encouraged, it is possible to register on-site, but some limited-availability options, such as the banquet, may be closed. Participants are encouraged to bring their family members, but special conditions may apply regarding access to the event. Extra guest tickets are available for some sessions on a first-come, first-served basis.

Is there a theme for IS2018?

INCOSE began to brand the International Symposium since 2010 under the specially designed INCOSE International Symposium logo. The IS2018 theme as posted on the web site: Delivering Systems in the Age of Globalization.

How much does symposium registration cost?

Registration options for the symposium include a full registration, which covers all six days, unlimited access to plenary and technical presentations, food and beverage for lunches and breaks, access to the exhibit hall and all activities scheduled therein, registration materials, access to on line proceedings. Tutorials, external tours, banquet and guest tickets are available for sale when you register. Registration for a single day or a two-day entrance is also available. Attendance for three days is treated as a full registration. INCOSE members and members of affiliated organizations are eligible for discounts on the basic registration fees. These discounts do not apply to other activities such as tutorials, tours, receptions or the banquet. For more details about registration fees, please check registration fees webpage.
Questions about registration should be directed to registration@incose.org

When can I register?

Registration will open in March 2018. The early discount period generally extends until 40 days before the event begins. Online registration closes 3 working days prior to the start of the event. On-site registration is also accepted.

Where can I stay?

A number of rooms have been pre-reserved at negotiated rate at the Grand Hyatt Washington. On line booking is available from Accommodation webpage.

I am a presenter; do I have to pay to attend the symposium?

Unless special arrangements are stipulated, all presenters shall pay the required fees to attend the symposium, at the minimum for the day of their presentation(s). Failure to register before the specified deadline may result in removal of the paper or panel from the final published proceedings and forfeiture of your place in the technical program.

What is the difference between an open and closed meeting at the IS?

INCOSE values transparency in all its actions and activities. An open meeting is one in which you can just drop in and start contributing to the work of the participants - in true workshop style. Closed meetings are those with a focused agenda and an audience qualified to address the agenda. In many cases, you can reach out to the chair of a meeting in advance - either to join the group or to observe. In some cases, it may be inappropriate; for example, the CAB is for corporate members; the CAG is the advisory group for Certification discussing sensitive topics where the meeting must be closed to protect the integrity of the process and the certification.

Travel to the U.S.

Passport & Visa
Most travelers to the United States must hold a valid visa and a passport that is valid six months longer than the intended visit. Visitors planning to visit or attend a meeting will most likely apply for a B-1 visa. Visa applicants are advised to apply as soon as they decide to travel to the United States and at least 3 to 4 months in advance. All Visa Waiver Program (VWP) travelers will be required to have a machine-readable passport (MRP) in order to enter the United States without a visa. As a standard part of the visa process, the State Department now requires that consular officers interview almost every applicant. Some consulates may have a long wait for an interview so applicants should contact the consulate to schedule an interview as early as possible. Contact the nearest U.S. consulate or embassy for details on visa application procedures at that location.

ESTA - Latest information for VWP travelers
ESTA is a fully automated, internet-based electronic system for screening Visa Waiver Program VWP passengers before they begin travel to the United States.
Effective since January 12, 2009, ESTA is mandatory and all VWP travelers are required to obtain an electronic travel authorization prior to boarding a carrier to travel by air or sea to the U.S. under the VWP.

International travelers who are seeking to travel to the United States under the Visa Waiver Program (VWP) are now subject to enhanced security requirements and will be required to pay an administrative fee.

More information can be found at:
www.cbp.gov/travel/
www.cbp.gov/travel/international-visitors/esta

Disclaimer
The information is provided as a courtesy but is subject to change. If you are uncertain of your personal status, please contact the US Bureau of Consular Affairs.