EF International Language Centers
Academic Year Abroad For adults and Students aged 16 & above
München Enjoy life in the beautiful Bavarian city of Munich. Our school provides excellent facilities for language learning near to the city centre. Enjoy spending time in this historic city with a modern attitude. Contact details: EF Internationale Sprachschule München, Sternstr. 5, 80538 München, Germany Tel: +49 89 23 11 90 50
EF Munich
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Accreditations and Memberships The EF International Language Centers in London, Cambridge, Brighton, Oxford, Manchester, Bristol and Bournemouth are:
The EF International Language Centers in London, Cambridge, Brighton, Oxford, Manchester and Bournemouth are members of:
EF Dublin is accredited by:
The EF International Language Centers in the USA are accredited by:
The EF International Language Centers in the USA are members of:
EF Vancouver and Toronto are accredited by Languages Canada.
The EF International Language Centers in Sydney, Brisbane and Perth are accredited by:
Important Note: Factual information contained in this document is subject to change.
The EF International Language Centers in Brisbane and Perth are members of:
The EF International Language Centers in Cambridge, München, Cape Town and Nice are accredited by:
EF Nice is recognized with the Label Qualité Français Langue Etrangère.
Federation of International Youth Travel Organizations.
All EF Courses are certified by Southern New Hampshire University.
EF Education is an active participant in the Comité Européen de Normalisation.
All EF Courses are recognized by Hult International Business School.
www.ef.com
Contents - Munich Section Topic
1 .......... Introduction to EF 2 .......... Welcome to Germany 3 .......... Weather watch 4 .......... Travel & transfer service 5 .......... School information 6 .......... Academics 7 .......... Accommodation & meals 8 .......... Money matters 9 .......... Phones, faxes & Internet 10 ........ Health care & insurance 11 ........ School activities & excursions 12 ........ Transportation 13 ........ Expectations 14 ........ German culture & living tips 15 ........ Adjusting to a new culture
Dear Student Thank you for choosing our school for your studies. We are committed to ensuring that your time here is enjoyable and rewarding. We believe that whether this is your first visit to Germany or if you are a seasoned traveller, you are guaranteed to have a wonderful time at EF Munich. The relaxed and friendly atmosphere of the school, along with the liveliness of Germany’s biggest university town will serve to make your stay here unique. We guarantee that your stay will be filled with new and exciting experiences in the warm and welcoming heart of Germany’s Bavaria. The school staff and I look forward to meeting you soon and helping you make the most of your time in Germany.
16 ........ EF school calendar & holidays 17 ........ Checklist
Best wishes, Dr. phil. Jürgen Oehler, School Director EF Internationale Sprachschule, München
1. Introduction to EF EF Education First, welcomes students of all ages from every corner of the world to learn a language at our schools all over the world. Our innovative curriculum uses an intensively structured academic program along with an array of educational and social activities, resulting in a fast and fun way to learn a language. EF students come from diverse backgrounds and like you, they have chosen a program to enhance their language skills as part of their academic or career plan. Many have planned for many years to take advantage of this opportunity. A large percentage of our students apply their new language skills by taking a recognized exam. Successful completion provides the necessary language qualifications for university and for professional endeavours. Many students view their time with EF as a chance to explore educational alternatives whilst honing language and study skills. A great aspect of an EF program is the variety of nationalities at our schools. We welcome you to join this international community where you’ll experience life and language with EF. We take great pride in our continuing dedication to our mission - breaking down barriers of language and culture.
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2. Welcome to Munich The origin of Munich goes back to the 8th century and a tiny monastic settlement known as “Bei den Munchen”, which literally means “by the monks”. Further development of the city followed in the mid 12th century through the action of Henry the Lion. On June 14, 1158 (according to the city’s foundation), he received approval from the Emperor for a bridge which he had put across the River Isar illegaly! At the same time, Munich was elevated to the status of a market-town and granted rights of coinage and toll collecting. In the 13th century, the city became the residence of the Dukes of Wittelsbach and in 1214 was granted the rights of a city. The rule of the Wittelsbachs endured more than 700 years. At this time, Munich, the commercial and residential city, obtained the reputation of a European centre of culture. The city is a time-machine showing monuments from every epoch and style of architecture including the mighty towers of the late Gothic cathedral tower over the city. The magnificent St. Michael, the largest renaissance church north of the Alps was built by religious Duke William V. The city rulers, however, left their most significant mark in the period of Baroque and Rococo. The Theatiner Church (built in 1664) in magnificent Italian baroque is downtown opposite the Royal Palace of the Residence. Other famous buildings, Nymphenburg and Schleissheim Castles, for example, or the world-famous Amalienburg, show the influence of its architectural style. When in the early 19th century, Bavaria became a kingdom, city walls were no longer needed in the capital. King Ludwig I had these medieval monuments removed. Munich expanded further and constructed Greek-style buildings, great forum-like squares, and the Ludwigstrasse, which is one of the most beautiful boulevards in Europe. The buildings of the late 19th century and of the Art Nouveau period, many of which are still standing today, lent Munich the appearance of a great metropolitan centre. The losses of World War II could, to a large extent, be restored, in
an exemplary reconstruction. Today the city is an active, living mixture of the old and the new.
3. Weather Watch Munich has an average Western European climate. Winter can be quite cold, summers warm to hot. Temperatures range from: Summer: 15° to 30°C Winter: -15° to 10°C
4. Travel & Transfer service Transfer service Arriving at a busy airport in a foreign city can be confusing. EF offers a one-way transfer service from the airport to your accommodation for an additional fee. We highly recommend that you take advantage of this service. At least one month before your arrival, you must inform the EF Office in your home country of the exact details of your flight (airline, flight number, date and time). We also recommend you to contact your host family by e-mail or telephone before arriving at the destination. For students who have booked the EF transfer service; the EF greeter will be waiting at the exit of the baggage claim/customs area with an EF sign. Should you not see the airport greeter, (he/she may be busy picking up other students) wait a moment at the exit, until the EF greeter arrives. Independent Arrival If you choose not to take advantage of the transfer service the transfer information below should allow you to reach your destination in Munich without any problems. Please plan to arrive at your homestay on the day preceding your course between 14.00 and 19.00. Arriving by train If you arrive at Munich’s main station - Hauptbahnhof - you can take the U-Bahn, S-Bahn, bus or taxi to your homestay.
Arriving by plane Munich’s International Airport is located 30 km away from the city centre so a taxi is very expensive (about 80€ to get to the city centre). We suggest one of the following: ❚❚Take the S-Bahn train (Either Line S 1 or S 8) directly from the airport to Hauptbahnhof which takes 39 minutes and costs 10.50€ (Streifenkarte). This a very safe and simple method, as transportation in Munich is very efficient and well organised. ❚❚Take the airport bus directly to Hauptbahnhof which costs approximately 10€, and then a taxi to your homestay. Arrival at the school Add space here: The EF Internationale Sprachschule is located right in the city centre. Take the U-Bahn lines U4 or U5 from Hauptbahnhof and get off at the metro stop “Lehel”. Choose the stairs to the right when exiting the U-Bahn and you will see the building of the school straight ahead. Follow Gewürzmühlstrasse along the building until the end of the street. The EF school entrance is at the corner at Sternstrasse 5.
5. School Information The EF Internationale Sprachschule is conveniently located in the heart of Munich: 10 minutes by foot from Marienplatz, 5 minutes from the beautiful Englischer Garten and 5 minutes by UBahn to Hauptbahnhof. The area of the school is calm and safe with many companies and banks being situated next door. Around the corner you find nice restaurants, cafés and shopping. The Englischer Garten is perfect for any kind of outdoor sports: jogging, football, volleyball, fitness, horse back riding, etc. In the summer you can swim and surf (!) in the river Isar. School facilities The EF school provides a tranquil and comfortable study environment in highly modern facilities. Classes are given in bright and wellequipped class rooms. Students can relax in the lounge area with access to computers. Wifi is provided in the entire school. Internet is also in the iLab for students to use whenever there is not class. Vending machines of hot and cold drinks and snacks are provided. The students can also enjoy the calm and nice court yard of the building. ❚❚ School facilities: Activities office, accommoda-
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tion office, wireless internet, vending machines, student lounge, courtyard, kitchenette and nearby sports facilities. ❚❚ Academic facilities: Academic office, iLab with 18 desktop PCs, Redaktion D system, online and offline study material, large and modernly equipped classrooms. Staff A very competent staff, including the school director, Dr. phil. Jürgen Oehler, the Housing Coordinator and the Activities Coordinator will be available to assist you. Questions about your course can be answered most easily if you ask the right person. The following people are always ready and willing to help - you only have to ask:
the activities and excursions available to you. By the afternoon on your first day, you will be given the name of your teacher and the classroom where your lessons will begin the next day and you will receive your personalised timetable for the week. Also on the first day, the school will help you to obtain a weekly or monthly transportation pass. During the first two school days, you will also be given a tour of the school area and the centre of Munich. Classes Each week you will have 20 lessons if you follow the Basic programme, 26 lessons if your are following the General programme and 32 lessons if you are following the Intensive or Exam programme. Each lesson lasts 40 minutes. Most classes are taught in double lessons lasting 80 minutes.
❚❚School Director: can help with anything to do with the general organisation of the course and will deal with any problems of a serious nature. He/she may also help with administrative problems such as banking, visas, course changes and insurance, as well as with more important academic matters such as class changes and examinations. ❚❚Housing Coordinator: can help with host family problems and financial questions. ❚❚Activities Coordinator: can advise on entertainment, sports, travel and other nonacademic events. ❚❚Teachers or Course Advisor: can help with any language difficulties or study problems. ❚❚Homestay hosts: Can help with domestic and general problems about life at home.
6. Academics EF language courses give students the opportunity to study the German language and the local culture for as long, and with as much intensity, as suits the student and his or her needs. All our teachers have academic or professional training and participate in specific training for teaching German as a foreign language according to the EF teaching method. Orientation On your first day of school, you will be welcomed by the School Director at 9.00 and you will be given a placement test, lasting about an hour. This test will allow us to find the right class level for you. You will also receive more information about Munich, the course, and
Class schedule Classes will be held either in the morning or in the afternoon. In addition, there will be six units of supervised studies/project work per week for Intensive course students. General German Classes The General German lessons focus on the development of the four skills of speaking, listening, reading and writing. They also include work on grammar, vocabulary and pronunciation. Special Interest Classes Special Interest classes allow you to improve your German through the study of a wide range of subject options. Admission to some of these will depend on academic and linguistic level and availability of places but most are open to all students in the programme. Some of the ‘Special Interest’ classes that have been held in the past have included Literature, Drama, Politics, Media Studies, Popular Music, History, Business German, Art History, New German Film, Intensive Communication, Grammar. Homework You are expected to complete all assignments set by your teachers in General German and Special Interest classes. Course books As part of your academic program, you’ll be expected to buy the books and classroom materials that you will use in class. The exact
number of books that you’ll need is determined by your academic level, progress and choice of special interest classes. If you wish to buy additional books you may need more money. The books you buy are yours to keep, write in and take home with you for future reference. Assessment You will be assessed at regular intervals throughout the course and, at the end of each term, a report stating your progress will be sent to your parents or sponsors. You will be assessed on the basis of attendance, participation, attitude and performance in class. At the end of the course you have the opportunity of receiving a European Language Portfolio, created by the Council of Europe, which documents and describes your language proficiency in German. Feedback You will be asked to attend regular meetings to discuss the course and to let us know your thoughts and opinions, problems and worries. You will also be assigned a counsellor who will monitor your progress throughout the year and answer any of your queries. Exams EF Munich offers preparation courses for exams of all the European language levels A1 to C2: TestDaF, Zertifikat Deutsch für den Beruf and Kleines Deutsches Sprachdiplom. The exams must be taken at an external examination centre and booked several months in advance. Advice for the most appropriate exam to take will be given to you by the school director. The enrolment fee is between 100 and 225 euros that you need to pay. We recommend 8-12 weeks of studying before the exam. Attendance You are expected to attend all classes. Consistent failure to attend class, for whatever reason, may result in expulsion from the program with no refund of course fees. In order to be eligible for an EF certificate, students are expected to participate in class and must attend at least 80% of all classes. Class Size The average class size is 15 with a maximum of 17 students in both the core German classes and the Special Interest classes.
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7. Accommodation & Meals We feel that accommodation in a host family is the best way for you to integrate into German society and make the most of your stay in Munich. If you prefer to find your own accommodation, your EF office can inform you of the amount that will be deducted from your total course fee. It is important that you consider your options before leaving your home country. Once you have chosen the homestay accommodation, you have committed yourself to staying with a family for the duration of your course. Host familiy Our host families are selected by the local EF Accommodation coordinator, who knows all of the families personally. Your accommodation is arranged from the Sunday evening prior to the start of your course, through the Saturday morning following the end of your course. Any special requests for arranging additional nights should be confirmed with your home office prior to departure. Room: your bedroom will have a bed, bed linens, closet space and towels for home use. You will also have access to a desk, which may or may not be in your own room. Generally, you will share a twin room with an EF student of another nationality, although we cannot always guarantee this. Laundry: your hosts will wash your sheets and towels, however they are not responsible for doing your personal laundry. (Some hosts may offer to do it for you and will charge a small
fee to cover water and detergent costs). Upon arrival, the information you will receive will contain a list of launderettes available to you. Inviting friends: please ask your hosts before you invite friends to your homestay. Also, please do not expect your hosts to serve meals to your friends. Telephone: you can telephone worldwide from nearly every payphone in Munich. Please be sure to ask your family before using their telephone. You can also make calls from the post office, where you pay for your call at the end so you do not need coins or a calling card. It is also possible to reverse the charges and make collect calls to most countries in Europe and the Americas. The computers in the iLabs have Skype for the students to use out of class hours. Damage to host’s property: should you cause any damage to your host’s property, please inform them immediately and settle the matter with them. EF cannot assume responsibility for any damage caused by students but may take the role of mediator if necessary. Host family problems: should you feel unhappy in your host family, please try to discuss any problems with your hosts. You may suffer from “Culture Shock” because the Germans may do things differently from what you are used to. However, if you do have serious problems and are still unhappy after the first week, you should contact the EF staff who will help you
to find a solution. This may mean moving to a new homestay, which is a last resort. It is very unlikely that this situation will arise since our homestays are selected with great care. Changing homestays: Should you wish to change to another homestay during the course, you must give the EF staff at least seven days notice. Failure to respect this will result in you being charged a penalty. Meals: All students will have breakfast and dinner with their hosts at their set dinner time. Meals will only be provided when you are home to participate. Please be sure to call your hosts if you are going to be late or if you are not going to be home for a meal. There will be no refund for meals not taken at home with your family. If you cannot eat certain foods, please inform your family at the earliest possible time. You are responsible for buying your own lunch during the week. Please note: you will not be able to use your host’s kitchen or your room for cooking.
8. Money Matters Currency The currency in Germany is the Euro. The symbol for this currency is €. The euro is divided into 100 cents (sometimes referred to as euro-cents, especially when distinguishing them from other currencies). Banknotes come in denominations of €5, €10, €20, €50, €100. They are of different colors to allow you to tell them apart more easily. Coins come in denominations of 1c, 2c, 5c, 10c, 20c, 50c, €1, €2. Spending Money For travelling, shopping and meals out during your stay in Germany, we recommend that you budget 400€ per month (excluding excursions) depending on your spending habits and leisure activities. Depending on the location of many host families, you may need to budget approximately 20€ per week to cover transportation costs to and from the school. Banking You are encouraged to open a bank account at the start of your course, the school staff will be on hand to help you. After the introduction of the Euro only a few banks in the centre of the city still have a Geldwechsel (money exchange)
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counter and the EF school does not exchange money. Traveller’cheques are only accepted by certain banks in the centre of Munich. Please give the bank account details to your parents or sponsors, as it will be very useful in case you need money to be sent to you. Wiring Money Wiring money internationally takes five working days. In case of emergency, the Western Union Service is a simple and quick (ten minutes to 24 hours) method for receiving money. In order to use this service your parents/guardians must be American Express card holders. They may send money from their American Express office. There will be an approximate 10% commission fee. You can collect the money from the American Express Office in Munich upon presentation of your passport. Credit cards We strongly recommend that students travel with either a Visa or MasterCard. Credit cards enable you to rent cars, reserve hotel rooms, and do various activities, which may be more difficult with just cash or traveller’s cheques.
Mobile phones When using your mobile phone from home in Germany you should note that you will be charged double due to international roaming rates. Most students find that it is useful to buy a German mobile phone with a prepaid chip. If you already have a prepaid compatible phone you may be able to purchase a German prepaid chip for that phone. How to dial ❚❚Local calls: Dial the 5 to 8 digit number (no area code) ❚❚Long distance calls within Germany: Dial 0 + Area Code + Phone Number ❚❚Long distance calls outside Germany: Dial 00 + Country Code + Phone Number ❚❚Collect calls can be made to most countries from Germany. Details will be given to you at the school. ❚❚Any telephone number with (130) or (800) for an area code is a toll-free number and you need to dial 0130 to get through. The call does not cost you anything. ❚❚Any telephone number beginning with an area code of (190) or (180) incurs additional cost to the caller for the connection.
9. Telephone, fax & Internet Telephone service When making calls to Germany from abroad, you must first dial the applicable international access code, the country code (49 for Germany) and omit the ‘0’ from the city code. You can telephone worldwide from nearly every payphone in Munich. Most public payphones in Munich are now cardphones, although there are still some coin phones. There is a minimum charge of 20 cents which covers up to 3 minutes during the day, and up to 6 minutes at night. Phone cards are available in credit values of 10 € and are sold at the EF School, the post office, kiosks and also in some supermarkets. You can also make calls from the post office, where you pay for your call at the end so you do not need coins or a calling card. It is also possible to reverse the charges and make collect calls to most countries in Europe and the Americas. To call abroad you need to dial 00 plus the code for your country followed by the telephone number you wish to call. Remember that if you make any calls from your host family‘s telephone, you should always ask them first and you should call collect.
Emergency numbers In case of emergency you should dial the following for: ❚❚Police 110 ❚❚Fire department/Ambulance 112 Fax Students may receive and send faxes using the school fax number, which is: +49 89 23 11 90 59. There is no charge for receiving faxes. The cost for sending faxes is: ❚❚Per half page: 2€ ❚❚Per full page: 4€ The post office also has a fax service, but it is much more expensive, at 5€ to 14€ per page depending on the destination. Internet access The school has a computer lab complete with Internet access. You will have access to the student computers for language learning. Students will also have access to the computers outside of the class timetable; a schedule of open hours will be available at the school. Wireless Internet access is available in
the entire school. We encourage students to bring their own laptops for use on the wireless network. Please note: due to virus protection and capacity issues, students will not have the capability to install hardware or special software onto the EF computer lab computers. Germany has rigid laws on illegal software, music and movie downloads which are often traced and result in costly fines. If you bring along a notebook you may purchase a stick which allows you access to wireless.
10. Health Care & Insurance We recommend very strongly that you take out a fully comprehensive health insurance policy before leaving for Munich. An insurance policy specifically geared to cover you in case of illness or injury while away from your home country is available through your local EF office, see the section below regarding Erika Travel Insurance. If you have any health problems during your stay, please alert your homestay hosts or the EF staff at the school, any of whom can put you in touch with a doctor. If you do have to see a doctor during your stay, you should: ❚❚Keep copies of all bills ❚❚ Keep all prescriptions or copies of prescriptions ❚❚Fill out an EF Insurance Claim Form if you have purchased Erika Travel Insurance (forms available upon request at the school). Mutual health insurance agreement The students from the following countries have a mutual health insurance agreement with Germany: Austria, Israel, Poland, Belgium, Italy, Portugal, Denmark, Liechtenstein, Spain, Finland, Luxemburg, Sweden, France, Morocco, Switzerland, Greece, Netherlands, Tunisia, Iceland, Norway, United Kingdom and Former Yugoslavia. We recommend that students ask their health insurance in their home country for an E -111, -106 or -109 form, which also acts as proof of valid health coverage required for students staying in Germany for more than three months. In case of an illness or medical emergency, the form can be exchanged into a German “Krankenschein” which permits students to have free care from both doctors
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and hospitals. Even students from the above countries should consider purchasing a supplementary insurance, since the German “Krankenschein” covers them only for basic treatment by the first available doctor. A supplementary private insurance like Erika Travel Insurance entitles the student to a wider choice of treatments and doctors, health services available to them more quickly, and preferential conditions for hospital stays. Students from all other countries staying in Germany for more than three months, need a health insurance with UNLIMITED coverage in order to obtain a visa for Munich. It is very important to bring with you a translation of your insurance policy into German or English (if you purchase Erika Travel Insurance through EF we can provide this for you). Any policies without UNLIMITED coverage will not be accepted by the local authorities, so it is essential to be certain of your coverage prior to coming to Germany. Otherwise, it can be very costly for you to purchase additional obligatory insurance after your arrival. Third Party Liability Insurance Please make sure that you have third party liability insurance. Particularly for Academic Year students, this is a condition for obtaining your visa for the local authorities. Please inquire with your EF office prior to departure, as this type of coverage may already be included in your policy if you have purchased student travel insurance through EF. Erika Travel Insurance Because security is EF’s number one priority, we have negotiated a comprehensive tailormade travel insurance package for EF students
with Erika Travel Insurance, an international insurance expert. The policy protects you against expenses incurred through accident or illness, and provides coverage for loss or theft of baggage and personal effects. It also provides coverage against interruption of your EF program due to illness as well as liability and legal expenses. The EF staff is trained to assist with your Erika Travel Insurance questions and claims. When you are sick or injured the last thing you want to do is deal with such issues. Let us help you!
11. Activities & Excursions Extracurricular activities contribute greatly to your social and academic success. They not only help you to relax after a day of studying, they also provide you with an opportunity to meet and make friends from other classes, other countries and other cultures. Your school’s activities and trips give you the opportunity to apply your life skills, practice German in real situations and familiarize yourself with the German culture. You will have the chance to take part in a comprehensive programme of sports, activities and excursions. Activities provide an ideal opportunity to meet and make friends with other students from all over the world; they are organised by the school at minimum cost to the student. A sample activity programme for a typical week is introduced below. Excursions Throughout the course, excursions are organised to cities of historical and cultural interest. Half-day excursions, for instance, Chateau Oberschleissheim, Dachau, the Upper Bavarian lakes cost about 8-10€; full-day
excursions, for example, Salzburg, Nürnberg, Neuschwanstein Castle, will cost between 1525€. There are also organised weekend trips to for instance: Paris, Berlin, Venice, Prague, Heidelberg, Zurich, Vienna etc. These trips are a great way to get together and discover Europe. You are advised to bring enough money to cover these excursions if you are planning to participate. The school also offers a wide range of activities in Munich; visits to the BMW World, to art museums, to the Olympic Park, activities and sports in the Englischer Garten, bike tours, beer and wine tastings, dancing, music evenings, movie nights, parties and much more. Apart from organised excursions, the school will help you to arrange special trips that are not included in the general programme of events according to your interests and wishes. Typical activity programme Monday ❚❚Guided Tour through the city of Munich. (Free of charge) Tuesday ❚❚Stammtisch in the Hofbräuhaus for Wine Tasting: Rhine, Moselle and Bavarian Wines. Wednesday ❚❚Guided Tour to Chateau Nymphenburg or a guided Tour of the Alte Pinakothek. (Pay entrance fee) Thursday ❚❚Group event such as sports or possibly a fancy dress party. (Free of charge)
Public transportation The EF International Language Center is in the heart of Munich only 10 minutes by foot to Marienplatz. There is an excellent and comprehensive network of U-Bahn, S-Bahn, streetcar and bus routes. They will take you safely and inexpensively to all parts of the city and its surroundings. EF can give you all the necessary information regarding weekly and monthly travel passes upon arrival. Bicycles Bicycle rental costs approximately 2.50€ / hour, 7.50€/day and 25 €/week. Students who travel from their home country by train may want to bring their bicycle with them, which is highly recommended and very economical. If you intend to bring a bicycle, please check in advance with your homestay hosts. The EF school has descriptions of bicycle tours available in and around Munich. Car rental If you wish to be more independent, you can hire a car. Various rental agencies are located near the railway station and at the airport. Rental costs are approximately 35€ /day plus 0.25 cents /km, or 70€ including mileage for the weekend. In order to rent a car in Germany, you must be at least 21 years old and should be in possession of a credit card. Only people officially registered with the car hire company are permitted to drive the car. Please note: We do not recommend bringing a car with you to Munich since you will probably spend most of your time looking for a parking space!
13. Expectations
Friday ❚❚Guided tour to the concentration camp of Dachau. (S-Bahn costs up to 7€, admission is free)
Expectations are a normal part of anticipating a new experience. We understand that everyone has their own individual beliefs and anticipations, however we ask you to come with an open mind.
Saturday ❚❚Full day bus excursion to Prague or Vienna. (Price: 40€)
What you can expect from EF: zS upportive staff, available for guidance and encouragement. zA n academic program which combines language, special interest, and culture-oriented classes. zF ull program of local activities and excursions at special EF rates. zA ccommodation in either homestay or student residence.
Sunday ❚❚Bus excursion to Castle Neuschwanstein or to Salzburg in Austria. (Price: 26€)
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zA ll designated meals. zE F Academic Year Abroad Diploma for Academic Year Abroad students with 80% attendance per term and good academic standing and academic records zE F Course Certificate for International Language Students with 80% attendance and good academic standing. zP reparation classes and/or materials for appropriate standardized language exams and availability of University Placement Service (UPS). What EF expects of you: zT o develop a greater understanding of the world around you. zT o attend at least 80% of all classes and to do your best in class at all times. zT o be respectful of your homestay hosts, your classmates, your teachers and your community. zT o keep your room and shared areas clean. zT o speak German at all times. zT o abide by all laws, rules and regulations of your host country, state, campus and school. z I n accordance with immigration regulations, non-EC students may not accept paid employment z I f you leave the programme during the course of the year, EF International Language Centers have the right to revoke your student visa and advise you to return home zY ou must notify the School Director and your homestay hosts if you plan to travel independently of EF and/or if you will be away overnight. zY ou must abide by all rules listed in the host family contract (where applicable) As representatives of your country, community and school, the highest standards of responsibility and behaviour are expected What you can expect from your homestay hosts: ❚❚A comfortable, clean place to live. ❚❚Prepared meals or accessibility to food to prepare yourself according to the meal plan. ❚❚Access to the school in maximum one hour by public transportation. All transportation costs are your responsibility. Rules and regulations You will be required to abide by all local and national laws as well as any rules of the EF school. Violation of these rules will lead to a verbal warning and possible disciplinary action by the School Director. Any student who
ignores a verbal warning will be given a formal written warning, a copy of which will be sent, where appropriate, to parent/guardian. Any further breaches of the rules may be followed by your expulsion from the programme. In the case of serious misbehaviour, you will have to return to your home country at your own expense. You will be required to sign a copy of these rules prior to your departure. The rules will be explained again at orientation. National laws zE veryone must carry identification at all times. zD rinking and purchase of hard liquor is prohibited under the age of 18. zU nder the current visa legislation, non-EC students are not permitted to be employed in Germany.
za valid passport z t he school’s acceptance letter zp roof that you have sufficient money to support yourself for your entire stay (preferably a current bank statement or alternatively a declaration from your parents). zp roof of medical insurance with unlimited coverage (we recommend that you take out the EF insurance whose coverage is recognised as sufficient by the German authorities). If you choose to purchase your own insurance, then we strongly advise students from non-EC countries to have a copy translated into German. Once you have arrived in Munich with your visa in order, you will have to register with the local authorities. The school staff will provide you with the necessary information to register.
zP eople under the age of 16 may not enter night clubs. Those under 18 may enter night clubs but must leave before midnight. Remember that you are legally governed by the laws of Germany. If you break these laws, your consulate cannot offer you free legal assistance or bail you out of jail.
Identity Card (Ausweis) According to German law, a form of identification must be carried at all times. EF students will receive a student card issued to them by the school. However, this card does not work as a legal identity card with authorities.
14. German culture & living tips Like any country, Germany has its fill of cultural nuances which are different than what you are used to and will take some adjusting to. The best way to cope with culture shock of this kind is to arrive in Germany as informed as possible and to have an open-mind. Read travel books and talk to people in your country who have travelled to Germany. The EF staff in Munich will provide an orientation to life in Germany upon arrival. Here are some hints and practical information to remember. Passport and Visa Issues All non-EC students must apply for a six/nine month student visa in advance in their home country. You must do this as soon as you receive the acceptance letter from the school as the procedure can sometimes take a few months. Please don’t come with a three month tourist visa as you may have to leave the country definitively after three months. Unfortunately, German authorities are very strict in this matter, and there is little EF can do to help you once you are in Germany. To apply for a visa at your local German embassy or consulate, you will need:
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Alcohol Consumption & Nightclubs You must be 16 years old in Germany to consume alcohol, many night clubs are only open to people aged 18 years and older. Young people under 18 are not allowed to drink hard liquor, frequent bars, night clubs or other places where their “moral safety is endangered”. You will have to show identification proving your age if you are frequenting 18+ clubs. The police check these establishments on a regular basis. Germany also has strong laws against driving under the influence of alcohol. Should you be stopped by the police for being over the legal limit, you will risk heavy fines, confiscation of your driving license and potentially a prison sentence.
and use round two-pin plugs. You will need to buy an adapter for electrical appliances that you bring if the voltage and/or plugs do not match the ones in your home country. Business Hours The hours during which stores are open in Germany are a little shorter than in most other countries. Most large stores remain open Monday to Saturday from 9.00 to 20.00. Small retail stores may close at 18.00. On Sunday all shops are closed with the exception of petrol stations and a few shops around the central station area. Mail The mail service in Germany is fairly reliable. For best service, make sure to write the complete address, including a return address on the envelope. Post offices are usually open on weekdays from 08.00 to 17.30 and on Saturdays from 08.00 to 12.00. Post offices are always closed on Sundays and Bank Holidays. Mail boxes are yellow and the current rates of postage are: ❚❚Standard letter within Germany: 0.55€ ❚❚Standard letter within the European Community (EC): 0.70€ ❚❚Standard letter mailed internationally from Germany: 1.70€ ❚❚Standard postcard within Germany: 0.45€ ❚❚Standard postcard mailed within the EU: 65€ ❚❚Standard postcard mailed internationally from Germany: 1.0€
Smoking It is no longer “cool” to smoke in Germany. In past years, people have become increasingly healthconscious. Laws have been passed to prohibit smoking on public transportation transportation and in restaurants. In the school smoking is not allowed and most host families will not allow that you smoke inside.
Recommended reading z München für Zugereiste by Harald Hordych and Jörg Buschmann (Emons 2004) z Gebrauchsanweisung für München by Thomas Grasberger (Piper 2002) z MARCO POLO Reiseführer München mit Szene-Guide, 24h Action pur, Insider-Tipps z Über die Deutschen: Eine kleine Kulturgeschichte by Alexander Demandt (Propyläen 2007) z Getting along with the Germans by Bob Larson, Richard Kurman (1983) z 1000 Gründe in Deutschland zu reisen: Das sollten Sie gesehen haben! by Christian Maiwurm (Moewig 2007)
Appliances Electric outlets in Germany have a 220 voltage
Useful websites ❚❚ www.munich-tourist.de/english
Facts about Munich, descriptions of places of interest ❚❚ www.bahn.de German railways, timetables, special offers ❚❚ www.mvv-muenchen.de Munich’s public transportation system ❚❚ www.virtual-munich.de Virtual walk through the main shopping district ❚❚ www.muenchen-panorama.de 360 degree panorama of Munich ❚❚ www.muenchenticket.de Tickets available on-line for top events in Munich ❚❚ www.freizeittip.de Major events coming up in Munich ❚❚ www.skigebiet.de Skiing areas around Munich ❚❚www.dw-world.de Plenty of listening comprehension
15. Adjusting to a New Culture The EF community is more than a group of students who have come together to learn German. It is also a multi-cultural group of young adults who are eager to share their own culture and learn the culture of their host country and fellow classmates. One’s culture is made up of values, beliefs, arts, traditions and practices of a specific community or population. Our culture affects how we view ourselves, how we relate to others and what we value as important in life. We are often unaware of how much our culture affects our lives. You may have already had some exposure to the new culture you are about to experience. You may have seen television shows, read books, or studied in school about Germany. While some parts of this culture may already seem familiar to you, experiencing a new culture first-hand will prove exciting. You will be meeting students from all over the world who, like you, are looking forward to spending a year learning and living a language, both inside and outside the classroom. As a visitor to a new culture, you may experience periods of fatigue and discomfort when you are uncomfortable. Culture shock is what sometimes happens when we try to meet challenges of our new culture by using the values, beliefs, and attitudes of our own culture. As visitors to a new culture, we must learn that
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cultural differences are merely different - not right or wrong. It is a good idea to bring traditional objects from your culture to share with other students and your host to teach them about your country. Tips on coping with change Remember that change does not come without some effort! We humans need a certain amount of stress to motivate us to learn new ways of being. Learning always involves some form of change. You should try the following: zW hile you might be tempted to surround yourself with things that are familiar to you, try not to isolate yourself by being only with others from your home country. Keep reaching out to your host, roommates and other students. zP ut off making major decisions such as an accommodation change, until you feel more “at home” with the culture in general. zT alk to us about your worries or problems. EF Staff are here to help and would prefer to know about any problem you may have so that we can help you. zS et goals, no matter how big or small, and accomplish them! You will feel good about yourself in doing so, and you will reduce the negative feelings associated with culture shock. For example, set a goal that you will speak German at all times. zR emind yourself that you came to this
country to experience a new culture, to meet others and to explore your new surroundings. Relax, take a deep breath and reflect back on the days before leaving your home country when you were excited about your new adventure. Try to refocus this former excitement towards your experience. Keeping a journal One way to keep track of emotions and changes that take place over the year is to keep a journal. By recording your experiences and feelings on a regular basis, you will be able to reduce the impact of culture shock. You will have a record of your academic and personal progress to look back on in days and years to come. Be sure to note changes in: zL anguage skills zS chool performance and involvement zC ampus/host adjustment z I ndividual learning and growth Keeping a journal will help to remind you that culture shock is truly a temporary phase of adjustment. Bring pictures and items from home If you have room in your suitcases for some music, a costume, pictures, or some typical crafts, it would be good to show other students, as well as to decorate your room
to make it seem like home. We have seen costumes and drums from Korea, dancing and music from Austria and a piñata and tortillas from Mexico. Please bring pictures of your friends, family and surrounding area.
17 May - Christi Himmelfahrt (Ascension Day) 28 May - Pfingstmontag (Pentecost Monday) 7 June - Fronleichnam (Corpus Christi)* 25 December - Christmas Day 26 December - St Stephens Day 3 October - Tag der Deutschen Einheit
16. EF School Calendar Academic Year Schedule The Academic Year is divided into three terms. (See the applicable start date below for your program’s specific term and break schedule). June 2012 Academic Year and Semester Program Orientation: Fri 8 Jun - Sun 10 Jun Term 1: Mon 11 Jun - Fri 7 Sep Holiday: Sat 8 Sep - Sun 23 Sep Term 2: Mon 24 Sep - Fri 14 Dec Semester Departure: 17 Nov 2012 Holiday: Sat 15 Dec - Sun 6 Jan Term 3: (Year) Mon 7 Jan - Fri 8 Feb Departure: 9 Feb 2013
2013 1 January - New Year 6 January - Three Kings Day 29 March - Karfreitag (Good Friday)* 1 April - Osternmontag (Easter Monday) 1 May - Tag der Arbeit (Labour Day) 9 May - Christi Himmelfahrt (Ascension Day) 20 May - Pfingstmontag (Pentecost Monday) 30 May - Fronleichnam (Corpus Christi)* 3 October - Tag der Deutschen Einheit 25 December - Christmas Day 26 December - St Stephens Day
Please note: there will be no classes on public holidays. Holidays will be compensated by extra lessons during the same week.” School holidays The EF International Language Center in Germany recognizes the following public holidays when there will be no classes. The school will be closed and teaching will not be made-up. If your arrival falls on one of these dates, please check with the school staff upon your arrival for an exact orientation schedule.
*Holidays will be compensated by extra lessons during the same week.
■■ Passport Photos (4) for EF student identification cards, travel cards and other possible documents ■■ Flight ticket ■■ Luggage correctly labeled
■■ M ake sure all EF forms are complete, especially the Health Certificate ■■ Medical and travel insurance documents ■■ Basic medical supplies, any medication you take regularly and a spare pair of contact lenses or glasses if you wear them. ■■ An International Driving License if you are planning on hiring a car. ■■ Local currency for first week and for any learning materials that are not included in the cost of the course.
Important telephone numbers
Homestay host’s or student residence name:
■■ Money in the form of an ATM card (Automatic Transaction Card), credit cards and/or traveler’s checks (Do NOT bring large amounts of cash in any currency!). ■■ Electric adaptor for any electrical appliances you plan to bring with you.
________________________________________ Homestay host’s or student residence address:
________________________________________ Homestay host’s or student residence telephone number(s):
■■ Pencil and/or pen and notebook. ■■ Items from your hometown or country so you can share your culture with friends, homestay hosts and teachers. ■■ Personal sports equipment.
________________________________________
■■ Favorite books, photos and a camera.
EF Sales Office telephone number:
________________________________________ EF School telephone number:
2012 1 January - New Year 6 January - Three Kings Day 6 April - Karfreitag (Good Friday)* 9 April - Osternmontag (Easter Monday) 1 May - Tag der Arbeit (Labour Day)
■■ Valid passport (with visa where necessary) It’s a good idea to make copies of these and pack them in your suitcase just in case. You don’t need to carry your passport with you while you are in the Germany but you must keep it and your other documents in a safe place while you are in the country.
■■ E F Confirmation letter & other EF documents
September 2012 Academic Year and Semester Program Orientation: Fri 21 Sep - Sun 23 Sep Term 1: Mon 24 Sep - Fri 14 Dec Holiday: Sat 15 Dec - Sun 6 Jan Term 2: Mon 7 Jan - Fri 8 Mar Semester Departure: 9 Mar 2013 Holiday: Sat 9 Mar - Sun 24 Mar Term 3: (Year) Mon 25 Mar - Fri 31 May Departure: 1 June 2013 January 2013 Academic Year and Semester Program Orientation: Fri 4 Jan - Sun 6 Jan Term 1: Mon 7 Jan - Fri 8 Mar Holiday: Sat 9 Mar - Sun 24 Mar Term 2: Mon 25 Mar - Fri 7 Jun Semester Departure: 8 Jun 2013 Holiday: Sat 8 Jun - Sun 16 Jun Term 3: (Year) Mon 17 Jun - Fri 16 Aug Departure: 17 Aug 2013
17. Checklist
+49 89 23 11 90 50 ________________________________________ EF School emergency telephone number:
+49 173 73258 79 ________________________________________
■■ Homestay or student residence details and emergency numbers.