Study Abroad in Salzburg: Academics

The AIFS program at the University of Salzburg is open to students with a 2.5 or better GPA. Previous German language study is not required. There are three aspects to the academic program offered to AIFS students at Salzburg: (1) German language preparation, which begins during the 2-week orientation and continues throughout the year in a wide range of courses; (2) a wide array of courses taught in English and German by the University of Salzburg especially for AIFS students; and (3) qualified AIFS students can enroll in any course offered by the University of Salzburg where enrollment is not limited. AIFS students must have at least two years of college level German to take regular University courses. Students take a German language course plus three or four courses in English or German.

Whether you begin with some knowledge of German or none at all, this program is designed to enable you to participate in all levels of University life. Courses are held Monday through Friday.

Transcripts are issued by the University of Salzburg approximately eight weeks after the semester ends. A letter explaining the Austrian system for the home institution is included with each transcript.

Classes meet for 12 weeks (plus two weeks of language orientation) each semester. Exams are taken during class time. Classes meet for 45-minute sessions.

Student advising The Resident Director provides academic advice and serves as a liaison between students and the University.

AIFS Study Center AIFS has its own headquarters in the heart of the city where students can meet or use the library.

Attendance is required for full credit. Students exceeding limits of absences receive an “incomplete.”

Textbooks Students can expect to spend around $250 per semester
for textbooks and course supplies.

Grading/Assessment Grades are based on tests taken at the end of the semester. The grading system uses numbers that roughly correspond to American letter grades: 1=outstanding achievement, 2=achievement above the required, 3=satisfactory, 4=work barely meets course requirements, 5=fail.

Computer facilities Students at the University have e-mail access at no charge. Various University departments offer limited student computer facilities. Local providers charge approximately $5 an hour. Limited use of computer facilities are available at the AIFS office.

Libraries In addition to the extensive University libraries, AIFS has its own selection of books related to the AIFS courses available for student reference (a $50 deposit is required to check out books).