2026 Summer Chan Residency Program

We are delighted to offer the 2026 Summer Chan Residency Program, led by Guo Gu. Designed for English speakers with prior meditation retreat experience, this program enriches Chan understanding and practice in the West. Even if you’re new to Chan, the program fosters resilience, clarity, and a deepened sense of purpose.

“It helped me to think more in terms of cause and effect when it comes to meditation practice. In that way, I feel more empowered to observe, diagnose, and remedy problems that may come up in my meditation practice.” — Summer Resident, 2025

Participation options (2026):

• Full-Month Program: May 7 – June 4; includes a 3-day and a 9-day retreat.
• Study-Focused: May 7 – May 26; includes a 3-day retreat.
• Practice-Focused: May 27– June 4; only includes a 9-day retreat.

“The residency program felt like an extraordinary experience of togetherness. The trust and community were so strong.” — Summer Resident, 2024

Program Details

• On-site residency required at the Tallahassee Chan Center. Vegetarian meals provided.
• Classes by Guo Gu on Chan teachings; text announced before start.
• Noble silence is observed during retreats.
• Restricted phone usage for a focused environment.

Applications close on January 10, 2026.

Applicants should have prior experience in a 7-day intensive Chan/Zen retreat. Young adults (18–35) are encouraged to apply even without prior retreat experience. Applications will be reviewed after the deadline, with acceptance notifications sent by mid-February 2026.

Please be prepared to provide two non-relative character references in the application.

Deposit Waiver: If you cannot make a deposit at this time,
email tccresidenceprogram@gmail.com
with your situation and we will send you the application link.

Cost of Program
Note: Program fees may be adjusted in 2026 to account for increased stipends, cost of living, and inflation.

Payment Details and Options
If accepted, your deposit is applied to your chosen tier. Payment plans are available for supported, regular, and sustainer tiers.

Additional Costs and Considerations
The supported tier covers basic participation; the regular tier includes additional teaching and maintenance costs; the sustainer tier supports the center and other participants. The practice period pricing reflects inclusion of the nine-day intensive retreat and is higher per day than the full-month option.

Scholarship Opportunities and Eligibility

Financial assistance is available. In the application, indicate scholarship need. We especially welcome applications from young adults (18–35), women, people of color, LGBTQ+, and those who are economically disadvantaged.

Accommodations and Logistics

“The dorms are cozy. We had what we needed, and any issues were handled immediately.” — Summer Resident, 2024

Accommodations are simple and shared. Two dormitory buildings with bunk beds are available first-come, first-served. Bathrooms are shared. Camping on-site is also an option.

Schedule

For schedules, see our weekly calendar and the daily schedule.

Required Texts

The program features 3+ hours of daily study and discussion. Residents secure their own copies of the texts.