Buddha Jewel MonasteryMeditation Courses

FAQ

Common questions about the course system, registration, and your account

Registration & Waitlist
How do I register for a course?
Go to the "Register" page, find the course you want, and click through to the registration form. Select whether you're a new or returning student, then submit. The system will immediately confirm your spot or place you on the waitlist if the class is full.
Will I receive a confirmation after registering?
Yes — a confirmation email is sent to your account email address (or your notification email if you've set one in your profile). It includes the class schedule, location, and key reminders.
What is the waitlist, and how does it work?
When a course is full, you're automatically added to the waitlist in the order you registered. If a confirmed student cancels, the system promotes the next person on the list and sends a confirmation email — no action needed on your part.
Do I need to do anything while on the waitlist?
Nothing at all — just wait. You'll receive an email if your spot opens up. If the course begins and you haven't been promoted, your waitlist entry expires without any obligation.
Can I register for more than one course at the same time?
Yes, but level prerequisites still apply. You cannot register for a higher-level course until the required prior level is completed.
Absences & Makeup Sessions
I missed a class. Can I make it up?
Yes. Confirmed students who miss a session can book a makeup class within the makeup window — typically within 30 days after the last session of the term (exact duration is set per course).
How do I book a makeup session?
Log in and go to the "Makeup Request" page. Select the course you missed, then choose an available makeup session of the same level. You'll receive a confirmation email once booked.
Are makeup spots limited?
Yes. Makeup capacity is tracked separately from regular enrollment (and online vs. in-person are counted separately). Book early to secure a spot.
Can I still apply after the makeup deadline?
No — the makeup window closes automatically on a set date after the final class. Once it expires, no further bookings can be accepted.
Is there a fee for makeup sessions?
No. All classes and makeup sessions at the monastery are completely free of charge. Donations are gratefully welcomed.
Course System
What levels are offered, and are there prerequisites?
Four levels: Beginner, Intermediate, Advanced, and Sutra Study. Each level requires completing the previous one — there is no skipping. Sutra Study becomes available after completing the Advanced level.
Which course should a first-time student take?
Start with the Beginner class. No prior experience with meditation or Buddhism is required — the course is open to anyone who wants to learn.
Is there an attendance requirement?
Yes. Each course has a minimum attendance threshold. Students who meet it receive a completion certificate from the monastery. Check the individual course description for the specific requirement.
What is the difference between online and in-person classes?
The curriculum is identical. Online classes are held over video conferencing; in-person classes require attending at the monastery. Spots are counted separately for each format, so please choose the one that fits your situation when registering.
Are courses free?
Yes — all meditation courses are offered completely free of charge. Donations are welcomed and support the monastery's mission.
Account & Notifications
How do I update my profile information?
Log in and click your name in the top-right corner to reach "My Profile". You can update your name, phone number, notification email, age range, and more from there.
What kinds of notifications will I receive?
The system sends emails for: registration confirmations, waitlist promotions, course cancellations, makeup confirmations, and upcoming class reminders. Important system messages are always delivered regardless of your notification settings.
How do I unsubscribe from announcement emails?
Go to "My Profile → Notifications" to manage push notification settings and opt out of general announcement emails. Note: booking confirmations, waitlist promotions, and other critical system emails are not affected by this setting.
I forgot my password. How do I reset it?
Click "Forgot Password" on the login page, enter your email address, and a reset link will be sent to your inbox. The link is valid for 60 minutes.
Still have questions? Reach us at buddhajewel@ctzen.org or call (206) 721-9921.