Study Abroad in Salzburg: Student Life

The University is housed in a collection of classical and modern buildings throughout the city. Most AIFS students attend classes at the Faculty of Arts at Nonntal, 15 minutes by bus from the city center.

Activities

AIFS staff organize activities throughout the year such as a tour of Salzburg, tours of ice caves in the Dachstein glacier region, visits to salt mines, medieval Werfen Castle, Thanksgiving dinner (fall semester), horse-drawn sleigh ride to an alpine lodge, trip to the Salzburg Zoo and visit to Hellbrunn Palace.

Community involvement

One of the best ways students immerse themselves in another culture is by working in the community. Students who meet relevant criteria can volunteer at a local hospital with children or senior citizens. Students must demonstrate maturity and a working knowledge of German. Placements are made after arrival.

Music

Salzburg is an ideal place to pursue an interest in music. Students can learn an instrument or deepen their appreciation of one. AIFS can help arrange lessons (for a fee of approximately $70 per hour) with a private tutor.

Sports

Salzburg is ideal for those who love the outdoors. In the winter, students can enjoy some of the finest downhill and cross-country skiing in the world. The world-class ski areas of Kitzbühel and St. Anton are within easy reach. Other excellent resorts are easily accessible for half-day or day trips. In warmer weather students can climb, hike, raft, sail or windsurf locally. There are facilities for cycling, running and working out. The University runs an extensive sports program for students at the University Sports Center. Sports offered include basketball, aerobics, fencing, tae kwon do, karate and tennis. The cost of one basic course is included in the program fee. For an extra fee, students can take climbing, weekend horseback riding, downhill skiing, windsurfing and mountain biking. Participation in sports is one of the best ways to meet other students.

Visas

Students must apply for a visa with the Austrian consulate as soon as they are accepted on the AIFS program. Upon acceptance, AIFS will provide instructions and the necessary official documents about the academic program and the semester in Salzburg; however, students must contact the Austrian consulate directly for the appropriate visa forms.