CIEE High School Abroad Program in Germany

  Germany

• Other Cities in Germany: 
Braunschweig

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

Description: The High School Abroad program is the best way for you to become a global citizen and achieve fluency in German. Dr. Frank Sprachent Reisen (DFSR) of Frankfurt carefully selects and screens their volunteer host families. Students will be placed throughout the country. While students may express interest to live in a particular area, it is up to DFSR to make the appropriate placement for the student based on the application.

Students will be placed in a German Gymnasium (Academic High School). Students should be prepared to purchase their schoolbooks. Subjects in high schools are German language and literature, a foreign language, history, geography, chemistry, physics, biology, health, arts and physical education. Due to the differences in the German high school system, students have a limited choice of subjects.

At the end of the program, students will receive an official report card and/or transcript. Each student will be assigned a local coordinator appointed by DFSR. These local coordinators provide complete supervision and support for the students during their stay.

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 two 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. The language course is not available.

Eligibility Requirements

On the day of departure, students must be between 14 and 19 years old. Students must have at least 3.0 GPA and have completed 9th grade. For students departing in the summer no previous knowledge of the German language is necessary. Intensive language instruction and a cultural immersion program will be provided upon arrival to Germany. For students departing in the winter a partial command of the German language is required. Students should be able to cope with overall meaning in familiar situations and handle basic communication. A student must demonstrate through the application process their flexibility, maturity, adaptability, and readiness to face the challenges of living in a new culture.

Highlights: Geographically, Germany could be considered the heart of Europe. A total of nine 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 its 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.

Cost in US$: Please visit our website. Early Application discount of USD 150, if application is received by January 31 (July departure)/May 31 (January departure).

    * Selection, interview and screening of an appropriate German family
    * Room and board with family
    * Placement of student in a high school
    * Supervision and support throughout the year by a Local Coordinator
    * Periodic progress reports
    * Transportation to and from a local airport
    * Orientation before leaving USA
    * Orientation upon arrival in Germany
    * International airfare between US departure city and Germany
    * Health and liability insurance

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

This Program is open to American Participants.

CIEE's Mission Statement: Since 1947, the Council on International Educational Exchange, known as CIEE, has been in pursuit of its mission, "to help people gain understanding, acquire knowledge, and develop skills for living in a globally interdependent and culturally diverse world. Our services to young people studying, working, teaching, and traveling abroad are more important than ever.

Year Founded: 1947