High School Abroad

  Germany

Durations of Program: 3-6 months and 7-12 months

Description: Geographically, Germany could be considered the heart of Europe. A total of 9 countries border Germany. within the country a number of dialects exist with High German being the standard language spoken and understood in all of the country's regions. The landscape of Germany is as diverse as it's customs and dialects. The Bavarian Alps to the South are not only known for some of the finest ski areas in Europe, but a natural treasure in regards to flora and fauna. Approximately 500 miles to the north are the two coastlines of the North Sea and the East Sea. It was from here that Germany's ships set out to sea to trade and connect with the world.

The Federation of Germany has been in existence since 1871. It is the year that marks the adoption of a parliamentary system with a Chancellor as the head of nation. Until 1871, Germany consisted of numerous kingdoms. These smaller kingdoms were autonomous, yet ruled by the Kaiser, the king of kings.

Today Germany is a western country with political significance and economic strength. Modern and traditional industries form a unique equilibrium. One can observe metropolitan city life and rural country life within a one hour train ride. This program will introduce you to all you can find in Germany: history, unique language background, beautiful landscape, kind people, wonderful food, and an academically strong exchange program. This program is a once in a lifetime chance to get to know Germany in depth.

Highlights: The High School Abroad program is the best way for you to become a global citizen and achieve fluency in German. Council on International Educational Exchange has its own office in Berlin, the capital of Germany. CIEE Germany carefully selects and screens their volunteer host families. Students will be place all over the territory of Germany. While students may express interest to live in a particular area, it is up to CIEE Germany to make the appropriate placement for the student based on the application.

Academic Program:
High School Abroad participants are expected to follow Gymnasiums curriculum and fully participate in the academic program. All classes are conducted in German. Upon arrival to Germany, all students attend an intensive language course for three weeks. Gymnasiums accept students with the understanding that language skills may present academic challenges in the beginning. The January semester program is available to students with 2-3 years of German as language course is not available.

Eligibility Requirements:
On the day of departure, students must be between 15 and 18 years old. Students must have at least 3.0 GPA and have completed 9th grade. Previous study of a foreign language is helpful, but not required. Intensive language instruction and a cultural immersion program will be provided upon arrival of the student to Germany. A student must demonstrate through the application process their flexibility, maturity, adaptability, and readiness to face the challenges of living in a new culture.

Cost in US$: Please inquire

Program does not Include
* Round-trip domestic travel to US departure city
* Monthly spending allowance
* Textbooks and supplies
* Personal phone charges or other personal items
* Transportation to and from school

Participants Travel to Germany Independently

Typically Participants Work Independently

Application Process Involves:

• Phone Interview
• Physical Exam/Health Records
• Transcript
• Written Application

Council on International Educational Exchange's Mission Statement: CIEE's mission is to help people gain understanding, acquire knowledge and develop skills for living in a globally interdependent and culturally diverse world. We approach our tasks aware of the great responsibility we are given to help mold tomorrow's citizens in a complex and fast-changing world. We are committed to being a truly global organization. We continue to open new offices, establish new programs, and form new partnerships on every continent. We have initiated exchange activities between and among many of the newer countries we now serve and expect this pace to quicken in the coming years. We move into the next century, and into our next fifty years, with lofty, but achievable, goals. We are proud of our past and excited about our future and our ability to contribute to the world in which we live. CIEE moves forward with the same spirit of commitment that has already made us a worldwide leader in international education and exchange.

Year Founded: 1947