Languages Abroad Adults, professionals and executives
Student handbook Your guide to the EF experience www.ef.com/language
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Welcome to the EF family 3
Dear Professional,
Contents
Your EF language course is the start of an enriching experience abroad. We’ll do everything we can to make sure that you enjoy your stay – with dedicated support, an innovative learning method and a full schedule of leisure activities. Set some goals for your journey in the coming months, so you can benchmark your progress.
03 Welcome to the EF Family
This handbook will provide all the information you need for your stay abroad – from arranging a transfer to conquering culture shock. Take time to read through it and be sure to bring it along with you to your destination. You never know when you’ll need to find out more about doing laundry or arranging a transfer. Speak to a member of EF Staff if you have any questions. We’re here for you around the clock – all so you can make your experience a memorable one. We look forward to welcoming you. Sincerely, Your EF Team
04 What to expect 05 Meeting a new culture 07 Getting ready for your trip 08 The essentials 10
Your language program
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How you’ll learn
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Accommodation FAQ’s
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A home away from home
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Your free time
20 Friendly support 22 Our school code
What to expect 4
You’re in store for an enriching experience abroad. Find out what to expect from us – and what we expect from you.
The key to success is simple: Seize every opportunity to improve your language skills inside and outside of the classroom – and, of course, enjoy the journey.
What to expect from your language course -- Information about the course location before departure. -- Staff to provide support and answer questions around the clock. -- Teaching that blends classroom lessons, interactive tools and cultural immersion -- Accommodation in a homestay or residence. -- Assistance if you wish to prepare for a language exam. -- A wide range of leisure activities – either free or for a small cost. -- A course diploma and a language certificate, which requires 80% attendance.
What to expect from your homestay -- Experiencing a new culture. -- Breakfast and dinner on weekdays and all meals on weekends. -- A one hour maximum commute to EF’s course campus. -- Sharing your twin accommodation with a student from another country.
What we expect from you -- At least 80% attendance in class. -- Respect for your homestay hosts, fellow students and environment. -- Obeying all laws and regulations applicable in the country and course campus. -- Keeping things orderly at the course campus and in your residence or homestay. -- Telling EF school staff if something feels wrong or does not meet your expectations.
The culture 5
The experience of a lifetime comes with meeting a new culture. Prepare for your trip – and get ready to immerse in your destination’s culture.
New food
New architecture
New friends
New pastimes
New clothes
New greetings
The culture 6
Welcoming another culture Culture is a mix of beliefs, customs, art and language that define a society or population. It’s learned from family, teachers and friends, knowingly and unknowingly. Your culture determines how you perceive yourself, the way you relate to others and what you consider important. It shapes your identity – and makes it easy to connect with people from your country. Behaviors and practices are easy to see, but our attitudes and core values aren’t as simple to pinpoint. Immerse yourself in a new culture by reflecting on what you’re most excited to try or learn about your destination’s culture.
Conquer culture shock Culture shock can begin as the initial excitement of your destination subsides. You may feel uneasy or homesick, which leads to identifying drawbacks of the new country and becoming critical to those around you. It’s not uncommon to experience physical symptoms like trouble sleeping or losing your appetite. Rest assured that this period of adjustment will pass – and we’re here to help. Take conscious action towards understanding and living in a new culture, for example:
-- Connect with people from countries other than your own -- Keep busy – whether it’s studying or going for a jog -- Sleep on decisions – like changing homestays. These are best made after you’ve adjusted to your destination. -- Write it down to help sort through how you’re feeling. -- Set goals. You’ll be reminded of your language course’s purpose. -- Remember that you’re growing through these experiences – overcoming them will make you stronger.
Getting ready for your trip 7
Your trip is right around the corner. Be sure you don’t miss anything before you leave – from applying for visas to getting airline tickets. Checklist Sign and return the Code of Conduct Sign and return the Terms and Conditions Sign and return your completed medical form Take the Placement Test on My EF Ensure you have a valid passport Apply for the required visas Book flights Arrange transfers Enter your flight details into My EF Attend an EF Info Meeting Pack medicine ack the phone numbers and P addresses of your loved ones and emergency contacts in your destination Get money in your destination’s currency Get school supplies
The essentials 8
My EF Log on to My EF – a social network exclusively for EF students. Use it to take your placement test, get in touch with your future classmates, reserve an airport transfer, join the EF network, practice your language skills or explore your destination. Check your inbox for the email you received with login details upon enrollment – and log on at my.ef.com.
Passport Make sure that your passport is valid for the duration of your stay abroad and six months after your return. If you’re required to have valid identification while at your destination, your passport will work for this. Before you leave, make a copy of it to bring along to your destination and one to leave at home – this will come in handy if your passport gets lost.
Visa We’ll provide the instructions if you need to apply for a visa prior to departure. You’re responsible for your visa application – so, be sure to start applying in time and pay all fees required for the application process. You can always get in touch with your local EF office for more information regarding the visa you need to travel abroad.
Travel protection All EF students must have travel coverage. Included in your course is Erika Insurance Ltd., which provides coverage exclusively for EF students including: -- Unlimited medical coverage
(some exclusions apply). -- Flight, hotel and meal costs for 2 family members to visit in case of a critical illness or accident. -- Refunded course fee per day that is missed due to illness or accident. -- Coverage for all EF-organized sports and activities. -- Coverage in case of theft of personal belongings – including valuables and cash. -- Third Party Liability and Legal Assistance. Erika has been the exclusive insurance provider to EF customers for 19 years. People working in the EF schools are familiar with this insurance company and know what to do and where to call in case of an emergency. They also have claim forms at hand to help students with minor issues.
Flights Your local EF office can help with arranging your flights. Our travel services ensure competitive prices and flexible tickets – which means you can rebook your flight. Once your flight booking is completed, enter your trip details into My EF, so the school staff and your homestay hosts know when to expect you and can arrange your transfer from the airport.
Transfers Your local EF office can help with arranging transportation to and from your destination’s airport – which you can reserve over the phone or on My EF. Students who choose to use our transfer service will be met at the airport by an EF representative and driven to their
9 accommodation’s front door. Please keep in mind, we have many students arriving at the same time so you may have to wait a little for all students to arrive.
Departure meeting You’ll find out more about life at your destination, get a packing list and meet fellow classmates at our departure meeting – which we recommended you attend. You’ll receive an email invitation to your departure meeting, which you can attend either online or in person.
Medicine If you take medicine, it’s important that you bring enough of your prescription to last for the duration of your trip – unless you’re sure you can get a prescription at your destination. Tuck away any extra medicine, glasses or contact lenses in your carry-on luggage.
Phone numbers and addresses Make sure that you have the phone number and address of your local EF office, airport transfer service, EF school and accommodation filled out at the back of this handbook. These will come in handy if you need to communicate flight delays or changes in your schedule.
Money Bring enough money to cover public transportation expenses for the first week of your stay. You may want to bring a little extra in case you’d like to purchase snacks or souvenirs. You can request the currency used in your destination from your local bank.
Supplies Bring pens and notebooks along with you to your destination. Should you choose to bring a dictionary with you – we recommend bringing one translated into your native language, as well as one in your study language. You’ll receive all additional course material upon your arrival to your course campus.
Your language program 10
Get everything you need to know about studying abroad with EF – from what your first day of school will look like to what to do when you’re absent. Language learning
Your first day
Learning a language with EF is more than just classroom study – you’ll also sharpen your skills by practicing in real-world situations and in technology-enhanced lesson. Make sure you speak your study language as much as you can – you’ll see the results in no time.
You’ll start learning on the first day of your course, and most of our students arrive at their destination the previous day. Your first day will be spent getting ready for your studies ahead and meeting classmates and teachers. You’ll also receive your timetable, as well as information about your course campus and destination city.
Your language level Before you leave for your course destination, you’ll need to log on to your My EF account and take our language test. We’ll use your results – along with an oral test on your first day– to make sure you’re in the right class. There are 6 different stages and each stage has 3 different levels (i.e. B1-1, B1-2 & B1-3). A1 Beginner A2 Elementary B1 Intermediate B2 Upper Intermediate C1 Advanced C2 Proficiency
Your timetable Your timetable is structured based on which program you’re studying. You’ll have either 32, 26 or 20 lessons per week, each lasting for 40 minutes – mostly organized in double lessons lasting one hour and 20 minutes. You’ll recieve your timetable the week prior to the one it applies to.
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Attendance It’s really important to attend all of your classes – but, if you’re ill or can’t make it, be sure to let the academic office know. If you’re ill for three days or more, you’ll need to bring a doctor’s note with you when you return to class. If you’re not sure how to get a doctor’s note, talk to the staff at your school. Please remember that we’ll have to send you a warning letter if your attendance gets close to the minimum of 80%.
Changing or extending your program The academic team can advise you on all the different study programs that EF offers. If you’d like to change your program or extend your stay, just come see us. We can also prepare you for official language exams in your study language (English, German, French, Spanish, Italian, Mandarin and Japanese) if you reserve them in advance – and they’re available at your course campus. Talk to your school’s academic team to find out more about exam dates, costs and availability.
How you’ll learn 12
Our innovative learning method guarantees that you’ll make maximum progress in your studies. And you’ll have our support around the clock. EF Efekta™ Our learning methodology combines classroom lessons with multimedia materials and EF course books – we call it the EF Efekta™ Learning System. It’s a blended learning approach, which means you’ll learn both in class and online, using iPads and Project Sessions.
General Language Lessons Sixteen of your lessons will focus on general language skills like vocabulary, grammar, reading, writing, listening, speaking and pronunciation. A further four (two for the basic course) teacher-led lessons will take place in Project Sessions or in class using interactive iPad activities.
Special Interest Classes In addition to your General Language classes, you’ll have some Special Interest classes (SPIN classes) for subjects that
you’re interested in or that you’d like to use for your career or education goals. The choice of SPIN class depends on what program you’re enrolled in and which classes are available during your stay. You can also take online SPIN classes, which you can complete in individual Project Sessions.
Project Sessions Project Sessions are interactive online workshops where you’ll complete some of your course curriculum. You can also study, complete online work for class or just access the internet to check your Facebook. Check the school notice board for Project Session opening times.
Lectures You’ll have two lecture sessions every week. Each one will focus on a different subject – like history, art, local culture or current affairs.
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Outside the classroom
Proof Of Your Success
Traveling to another country to learn the language means a lot of opportunity to practice. To really advance your fluency, speak the language outside of the classroom and make friends with students from other countries. And remember, don’t be afraid to make mistakes!
EF offers language exams in all the languages that we teach. If you’ve attended at least 80% of your classes, you can take the EF Standard English Test (EF SET) in your final week at school (English courses only). This test evaluates your language level using the internationally-recognized Common European Framework of Reference standards.
Homework Your teachers will give you homework to complement your work in class. Ask your teacher if you’d like extra homework, practice or assignments.
Monitoring your progress To check that you’re at the right learning level, there will be class tests and quizzes each week. We’ll also give you a progress test at the end of each study stage. You can follow your progress on your iTracker.
Accommodation FAQ’s 14
Sit back and relax – whether you’re staying with a local family, living at a residence in the heart of your destination city or staying steps from your course campus. What should I do if I damage something in my EF Homestay? At an EF Homestay, any damages or breakages you cause should be resolved between you and your homestay hosts – but we can help if needed. It’s best that you offer to pay for any damages you cause or claim them on your insurance.
How do I keep my valuables safe? Keep your passport, return ticket, money, traveler’s cheques and anything else valuable in a safe place (i.e. your locked suitcase). Tell your school staff immediately if anything goes missing.
What should I do if I want to stay out? Always tell your homestay or residence advisor if you’re not going to spend the night at home or going away for the weekend. If your hosts are expecting you home and you don’t arrive, they will report you as missing to the police. When going out, it’s a good idea to only carry exactly what you’ll need – like small amounts of cash, your EF ID and a copy of your passport.
Can I change my EF Homestay host? Please come see the accommodation team at your EF campus if you’re not comfortable – as it’s one of our top priorities. Changes are usually made on the weekend. Please keep in mind that it is not possible to change your homestay based on distance from the course campus and that it may not be possible to change your family immediately during busy times of the year.
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Can I stay in my own accommodation?
What is a typical EF Homestay like?
You can stay in your own or private accommodation, but you must tell EF the address and telephone number and update us of any changes during your time with us. Remember, it’s your responsibility to deal with landlords and letting agents, not EF’s.
Our homestay hosts come from all walks of life and from a wide range of ethnic and religious backgrounds, reflecting the multicultural society of your destination. Our homestay demographic is represented mostly by middle income households. There’s no typical homestay. Among EF hosts there are people of all ages; including young professionals, middle-aged or retired people, couples without children, families or single parents with children of any age, single people. This means that there might not be people your age in the homestay. It’s one of the reasons why we usually try to place you with students of your age range. However, you may be the only guest in your homestay.
A home away from home 16
EF Homestay Stay in an EF Homestay for maximum cultural exchange. Keep in mind, each homestay host is different and unique – just like your family back home. Some important things to remember: -- You may be sharing a room in your EF Homestay with another student of the same gender from your EF course campus. -- You’ll be given a key to the house – but if you lose it, you’ll have to pay for a new one. -- You should always ask your hosts’ permission before bringing friends back to the house. -- Enjoy breakfast and dinner during the week and all meals during the weekend. Be sure to let your homestay hosts know if you’re going to miss a meal. -- Part of living abroad means you’ll need to try dishes you might not have tasted before. If you have certain dietary restrictions or allergies, let the staff at your EF course campus know.
-- If you get hungry during the day, you’ll need to buy extra snacks for yourself. -- Your hosts will wash your bed linen but you’ll need to clean your own clothes, either at home or at a local laundrette. Ask your homestay host how it works in their house and speak to your school staff to find out more about how much a laundrette costs. -- Always ask your hosts before using their home telephone to make a call. It’s usually easier to buy a prepaid phone card from the Activities office at your EF course campus. -- You can always access the internet at your EF school. Ask your homestay host’s permission to use the internet at home. Remember never to download any illegal material from the internet, either at your course campus or your homestay.
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EF International Language Campus New York
EF Residence or EF Campus Staying at an EF Residence or EF Campus gives you the chance to make new connections and share your experience of living in another country. An EF Residence is usually off-site, while an EF Campus is usually just steps from your classes. The location of EF Residences can vary, but they’re always located near local amenities and public transport links. Some important things to remember: -- You may be sharing a room with other EF students. The number of students in your room varies depending on your destination and your specific residence. You’ll find out who your roommates are when you arrive at your residence. -- Nationalities of students staying together in an EF Residence vary greatly, so it’s a great opportunity to connect with people from around the world.
-- Meals provided depend on your destination and residence. Many residences feature shared kitchens where you can prepare your own meals. Speak to your local EF office or school staff to find out more about catering options. -- It’s a good idea to prepare for your stay abroad by planning a weekly budget. -- Remember that you’ll be sharing space with other students. -- Alcohol is not allowed on any of EF’s premises, including the residence and campus. -- You may need to bring a accommodation deposit along with you to your destination. Given there are no damages, this will be returned upon your departure.
Your free time 18
Make the most of your trip abroad – explore your destination city, go on a weekend getaway or just relax with new friends. Activities office Our Activities team fills the weekly schedule with activities for you to take part in. You’ll find a variety of evening and weekend excursions, networking events, sports, parties and attraction visits including theme parks, museums and iconic landmarks.
Weekly timetables Activities organized by EF make it simple and fun to learn more about the country, make new connections, practice your language skills – and take home some great memories. You can get a new weekly schedule every Monday from the Activities office or log on to my.ef.com to find out what’s been planned.
Excursions We organize day and weekend trips to the most famous cities and main attractions in the country, available throughout your stay. You’ll find these trips advertised in advance with posters around the course campus, as well as on My EF and Facebook. Simply sign up in the Activities office, where you can find more information on all the excursions offered by your EF course campus.
Weekend getaway EF offers several all-inclusive weekend packages at special prices – from a weekend at the spa to a tour of wine
country. The EF Activities team can help you plan your own private escapes.
Independent travel If you’d like to travel by yourself, our Activities team is always available to offer helpful advice and suggestions. You’ll also find guide books, magazines and folders full of useful information about places to visit.
EF student card You’ll be given your EF student card during the first week. Always keep it with you, as it will be used to identify you within the course campus or EF accommodation. You can usually use this card to get discounts around the city in restaurants, shops and attractions – find out more at your school’s Activities office.
Items for sale You’ll find plug adapters, postcards, EF souvenirs, SIM cards for mobile phones and other useful items for sale in your school’s Activities office.
Sports equipment If you need sports equipment, check with the Activities office to see if you can borrow things like footballs, tennis rackets or ping pong paddles and balls.
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Friendly support 21
We’re always here to help you - whether you have a question or just need some friendly advice.
School Director The School Director is the head of the school and manages school operations and staff.
Residence Advisor Any queries regarding residence life should go to the Residence Advisor.
Director of Studies & Academic Director Talk to the Director of Studies regarding any academicrelated matters – such as certificates or exam dates.
Accommodation Manager & Housing Director Any queries regarding host families should be go straight to the Housing Director.
Your school’s team Raise your concerns, ask your important questions and let us know how we’re doing.
Teachers If you think you’re in the wrong class level, let your teacher know – and they’ll give you the support you need.
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Our school code 23
You deserve the best experience – that’s why we have a school code. Follow our guidelines for the experience of a lifetime. The school code Our school code was created together by EF school staff and students to make sure our course campuses are welcoming, pleasant places to be. It’s essential that you stick to the following guidelines at all times: -- To ensure maximum progress, speak your study language at all times. -- Actively participate in class and complete all homework. -- Attend all your lessons – you need at least 80% attendance to graduate and take the final language exam. -- Arrive to class on time – you won’t be allowed in if you’re more than ten minutes late. -- If you’re going to miss a class because you’re sick, or for any other reason, let the school know immediately. -- Keep your mobile phone switched off in class and don’t bring food or drinks to lessons. -- Your property is special – and so is ours. Make sure you take care of it. -- Always treat your fellow students, staff and homestay hosts with respect. -- Most importantly, you must always follow all national and local laws.
What happens if I break a rule? Our school code is important to us – but any national laws are much more serious. If you break any EF rules or local laws like persistent absence from class, disruptive behavior, or a criminal offense, we reserve the right to terminate your course.
The faster way to learn a language.
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