Guide for exchange students of the United States and Canada

Purpose and Organization of this Information
The purpose of this information is to help American university students prepare for study in Germany, and particularly for study at the Eberhard-Karls-University of Tübingen. The information contains "everything you need to know" to prepare for and to begin International Exchange Studies in Tübingen.

The information has two parts. Part One, "Studying at a German University," provides general information on university education in Germany, particularly in comparison with American university education. Part Two, "Studying at the University of Tübingen," provides specific information to facilitate your studies here in Tübingen.

The information contains words particularly relevant to an understanding of the German educational experience. These words are printed in italics, and are listed with their definitions in the Glossary at the end of the information.

This information has been prepared by the Dezernat für Internationale Beziehungen , the International Office of the University of Tübingen. If you have questions, or need special information, please contact our office. We're here to help!

Dezernat für Internationale Beziehungen,
Universität Tübingen,
Nauklerstrasse 14,
D-72074 Tübingen,
Telefon: +49-7071-29-76448,
Telefax: +49-7071-29-5404.

II. UNIVERSITY EDUCATION IN GERMANY

Important Differences between the German and American University Systems
University education in Germany is remarkably similar to that in the United States. There are, however, some important differences between the two systems. An awareness of these differences can greatly enhance your year of studies in a German university.

American students generally find the following differences in the German system.

The German university system is publicly financed and supported through the Länder , the sixteen federal states of Germany. There are few private universities.
The German system requires students to be more independent. There is less assessment and "feedback" from professors.
Teachers generally are less accessible. There is less contact between professors and students.
The German concept of a university is more like the American concept of a graduate school. Courses often focus on narrow subject areas from the beginning of studies, since it is assumed that preparatory studies have been completed in the German Gymnasium
Academic success is measured primarily through examinations in the middle and at the end of the program of studies. Less "credit" is earned by the successful completion of individual courses.
German students tend to be a bit older than their American counterparts. The average age of graduating students is 27.
Social life in the university and in the dormitories is organized differently than on American campuses. Activities tend to be organized on a smaller scale, by smaller and more informal groups.

An Overview of the German Educational System
German education proceeds through three levels:

Primary (comparable to American Elementary School)
Secondary (comparable to American Middle School, High School and the first two years of University), and
Tertiary (comparable to the last two years of American University study and two years of graduate study).

A student's progress through the German educational system is determined primarily by academic ability rather than by the interests and intentions of the student. There is some flexibility, however, which prevents the system from becoming too rigid.

Primary Education
German students begin mandatory Primary Education at the age of six in the Grundschule . This may be preceded by Kindergarten (Nursery School) and Vorschule (Pre-School). Primary Education lasts four years and is the only level at which all German students receive the same education.

Secondary Education
German students complete Primary Education at the age of ten. About a third of the students proceed into the Hauptschule , whose five-year program teaches basic skills in preparation for apprenticeship or semi-skilled positions in the job market.

The next third of the students are sent to the Realschule , whose six-year program leads to a diploma and further studies in vocational or technical schools. These students will enter the middle strata of business and industry.

The final third of the students proceed to the Gymnasium , whose ten-year program of studies prepares students for higher education in the Tertiary educational institutions.

Tertiary Education
Because university preparation has been completed in the Gymnasium , tertiary education begins at a level comparable to the Junior year of an American university. Students commit themselves to two major fields of study (or to one major and two minors). They normally begin their course work in rather limited and specific subjects. Tertiary education ends with a degree comparable to a Master's Degree in the United States.

The Four Main Types of Tertiary Institutions
The four main types of German tertiary educational institutions are:

Fachhochschulen
Kunsthochschulen and Musikhochschulen
Gesamthochschulen
Universitäten

Fachhochschulen
Fachhochschulen are comparable to Technical Institutions in the United States. They provide students with practical skills and training needed for a specific profession. Their degree courses are shorter than those of the Universitäten, and graduation often leads directly to employment.

Kunsthochschulen and Musikhochschulen
These specialized institutions offer training and education in artistic and musical skills.

Gesamthochschulen
Gesamthochschulen are best described as "comprehensive universities." They offer in one institution all of the education and training found in the Universitäten , Kunst- and Musikhochschulen , and Fachhochschulen . Their purpose is to facilitate transfer between the various "schools" of instruction.

Universitäten
The pillars of the German higher educational system are the Universitäten .They attract the largest number of students from the United States, and normally offer a complete range of subjects: Humanities, Economics, Law, Sciences, and Medicine.

Some Universitäten also offer specialized training in a particular academic discipline, and are designed according to their specialization. Technische Universitäten (or Technische Hochschulen ) offer specialized technical training. Medizinische Hochschulen, Theologische Hochschulen , and Pädagogische Hochschulen (Teacher Training) offer specialized preparation for their respective professions.

The Professors
Historically, the "backbone" of the German university is the Lehrstuhl , the Teaching Chair, and the one who sits in it, the Lehrstuhlinhaber , or Professor.

The German professor traditionally has two main tasks: research and teaching. The concept of academic freedom to study and teach is cherished. The concept of "service," however, particularly in terms of availability and accessability to students, is still rather uncommon in the job description of German professors. They generally conceive their best service to students as being a high level of academic and professional excellence, exemplified in their research and teaching.

This means that American students generally find German professors rather aloof and inaccessable in comparison to professors in the United States. Sprechstunde (office hours) for German professors are generally limited to one hour a week -- when the professor is in town.

The Students
There are about 1.7 million students enrolled in some 300 tertiary educational institutions in Germany.

About 80 percent of the students are enrolled in the Universitäten and Gesamthochschulen . About half of the Universitäten have more than 10,000 students. The five largest Universitäten (Munich, Berlin, Cologne, Munster and Hamburg) have enrollments of over 40,000 students, and account for one-fouth of the total student population.

Approximately 300,000 students attend the Fachhochschulen , and another 20,000 are enrolled in 30 Kunsthochschulen and Musikhochschulen .

There are about seventy-five thousand international students in Germany. They represent about six percent of the total student population.

German university students tend to be older than their American counterparts; the average age of graduating students is twenty-seven. Most of them have spent a year in either military or social service. As a result, they generally begin university study with definite academic and professional plans and goals.

And because the required general courses have been completed in Gymnasium , they enter a course of study which is often single-subject from the first semester. Even courses such as Law, which in the United States would be taught in a professional school, are taught from the first semester of university study in the German system. German students, therefore, tend to concentrate on their academic and professional preparation.

Organization of the University and its Social Life
In contrast to American colleges and universities, most universities in Germany do not have a "central campus" gathered around one location. Instead, most university buildings and facilities are scattered throughout the university town. This contributes to a different kind of "university life" than that in the United States.

The most noticeable difference is in the organization of student social life. In American universities, the campus tends to be the center of organized student life, university wide activities and sports events. In German universities, however, with their "de-centralized" structure, there is usually no campus upon which activities can be focused.

Student activities, therefore, tend to be organized on a smaller scale by smaller and often informal groups. Fraternities and sororities are of almost no importance. Student activities tend to focus on "serious" issues such as politics, the environment, and social justice.

Most dormitory rooms are single-occupancy. German students often seek friendships and activities away from the dorms and the university proper, in restaurants, cafes, pubs and discos, or at a friend's place. Therefore international students who live in dormitories may sometimes feel a bit isolated and alone if they do not seek new friends outside the dorms.

Common Difficulties for American Students
Because American students tend to rely rather heavily on their professors "in loco parentis," and because student social life has been so accessable on the American university campus, it can be rather difficult for American students to "adjust and feel at home" in a German university.

In addition, the average American student is an "extrovert" in comparison to the more "reserved" and "distant" Europeans. Young adults in the United States tend to form friendships rather quickly; this process takes longer for Europeans. As a result, German students generally consider Americans to be flighty and superficial, while American students often regard Germans as stilted, snobbish and aristocratic.

Another factor which contributes to discomfort is that European students generally are much better informed about American life and culture than American students are about European life and culture. The typical German student displays a love of American pop-music and icons, but a rather harsh criticism and rejection of the American political and social system. In discussions with German students, the average American student can rather quickly become insecure and defensive if he or she does not have a firm grasp on the relative strenghts and weaknesses of both the American and German systems.

And finally, international students cannot allow themselves the luxury of forgetting about academic credits during their year of study abroad. Getting the most out of the experience often means earning the same amount of credit abroad as they would have earned at home. Students should be fully aware of credit transfer rules and requirements before they depart from their home institution if they want to receive full credit for their studies in Germany.

III. ORGANIZATION OF STUDIES

The following information focuses on the organization of studies in German Universitäten , including the University of Tübingen.

The Semesters and the Academic Year
The academic year is divided into two semesters. The Wintersemester begins in October and ends in February. The Sommersemester begins in April and ends in September. There is no Summer School as commonly found in American universities.

Course activities for the Wintersemester generally occur between mid-October and mid-February, and for the Sommersemester between mid-April and mid-July.

A Semester Break occurs between the Winter- and Sommersemesters , from mid-February to mid-April. Semester Break is used by the professors to hold Examen , and by the students for studies related to the previous Wintersemester or to the comming Sommersemester . The period from mid-July to mid-October is a time for studies and summer vacation.

Grundstudium and Hauptstudium
In most academic subjects course of universitthe y studies is divided into two major stages: Grundstudium and Hauptstudium . Grundstudium studies are basic studies in the academic subject. Hauptstudium studies are the advanced studies in the subject. Both Grundstudium and Hauptstudium are studies in the student's "major." The difference is in the content-level of the studies.

Examen
It is common for students to be required to pass Zwischenexamen before being allowed to proceed from Grundstudium to Hauptstudium . Examen are intermediate examinations normally required after about four semesters of Grundstudium , and as noted above, are usually held during the Semester Break. In different academic departments they are also known as Zwischenprüfungen or Vordiplomprüfungen .

Examen generally are of two types: "university exams" and "state exams". University exams ( Diplomexamen and Magisterexamen ) lead to academic degrees ( Diplom , Magister Artium). State exams ( Staatsexamen ) lead to a state-recognized "degree" which qualifies German nationals for employment in civil service positions, such as secondary school teachers, lawyers, and doctors.

Successful completion of the Zwischenexamen does not yield a degree. Zwischenexamen are comparable to "barrier examinations" required in some American graduate programs: they are a pre-requisite to continued and final studies. Students completing the Zwischenexamen , however, have had at least fifteen years of education, and are approximately at the level of students who have completed a B.A. in the United States.

The University Degree
Students who have successfully completed their Zwischenexamen are eligible to begin Hauptstudium , which can lead to a university degree. The degree is usually earned by an accumulation of course "credits", a written thesis, and written and oral examinations at the end of university studies. Successful completion of the examinations is more important, and accumulation of course credits is less important, than in the American system. As a result, German students tend to study with an eye toward their final university examinations, and are less concerned than American students with performance in individual courses.

Length of Studies
The time required to earn a German Magister Artium degree is approximately that required to earn a B.A. in the United States: four to five years beyond secondary education. German students, however, generally allow themselves more time to attain their final degree, for several reasons.

First, they enjoy a high level of academic freedom in selecting and scheduling their courses. Their "required course" requirements are more flexible than in the American system. Secondly, they are not divided into classes based upon the number of hours they have accumulated, (Freshman, Sophomore, etc.). They pay less attention to the academic progress of others in their age group. Finally, since many German students receive direct, monthly national scholarship assistance and pay no tuition fees, there is often less financial pressure to complete their studies as quickly as possible. In theory, they are able to maximize their opportunities for study and academic development during their university years.

IV. TYPES OF CLASSES

There are three basic types of classes in German universities:

Vorlesungen (Lectures)
Seminare (Seminars)
Übungen and Praktika (Laboratories and Practica)

Vorlesungen
The Vorlesung is the most common course encountered in the German university, and accounts for most of the credits transferred "back home" by American students. It is also the course most different from those offered in American universities.

In a Vorlesung , the professor normally delivers a monologue on a given subject. There is no dialogue with the students, though sometimes questions are permitted at the end of a lecture.

The student's role, however, is not entirely passive. The professor generally provides the students with a recommended reading list at the beginning of the semester, and a considerable amount of outside reading is expected. But attendance is not checked, and there are no tests or required written assignments. No course grade is given for a Vorlesung .

Vorlesungen are open to all students and, in accordance with German university tradition, to the general public as well. Lectures with more than a hundred persons in attendance are common, and with popular professors, it is not unusual to have more than a thousand.

Seminare
There are two basic types of Seminare: Proseminare in the Grundstudium and Hauptseminare in the Hauptstudium . In both types, the format of the seminar is the same. The difference is in the academic level of the course material: basic, introductory material in Proseminare , more advanced material in the Hauptseminare .

A Seminar is the course most similar to the typical course in an American university. There is continuous interaction between the professor and the students. Successfull completion of the course requires at least one written paper (submitted during or after the semester), a written exam, or both. Attendance is limited to a specific number of students, who must first obtain permission to attend and then register for the course. Attendance is a factor in evaluating the student's performance in the course.

Upon completion of the course, the student receives a Schein . A Schein is an official administrative document issued by the professor. It certifies successful participation in the course, and may or may not have a grade recorded on it.

Übungen and Praktika
Übungen and Praktika are comparable to "Lab courses" in American universities. They are oriented toward the attainment of practical skills, rather than to an in-depth treatment of a particular topic. American students studying languages in Germany typically encounter the Übersetzungsübungen (translation courses) in the German language departments. Übungen and Praktika are similar to Seminare in that they have limited attendance, examinations are required, and Scheine are issued.

Oberseminare and Kolloquien
Oberseminare and Kolloquien are seminars and colloquia for advanced students and doctoral candidates. The number of students is limited, and permission to participate is required.

University Courses and "c.t./s.t."
German universities have a tradition of beginning courses fifteen minutes after the hour. This quarter-hour is known as the "Akademisches Viertel." Courses which begin fifteen minutes after the hour are designated "c.t." (cum tempore) and would be listed as beginning at 9:00 c.t., 10:00 c.t., etc. Courses which begin precisely on the hour are designated "s.t." (sine tempore), and would be listed as beginning at 9:00 s.t., 10:00 s.t., etc.

V. SUMMARY

Although there are important differences between the German and American university systems, there are many more similarities than differences. Students are students, courses are courses, professors are professors -- and those characteristics which define the differences are the "spice" of the international educational experience!

When American students are aware of the differences and make adequate preparation for life and studies in German culture, their studies abroad can be an unforgettable and rewarding experience!

PART TWO:

STUDYING AT THE UNIVERSITY OF TÜBINGEN

I. A BRIEF HISTORY OF THE UNIVERSITY

Beginnings
The University of Tübingen was founded in 1477 by Count Eberhard im Bart . In 1534 Duke Ulrich I of Württemberg brought the Reformation to Tübingen, and two years later established a Protestant Theological Seminary, "The Tübinger Stift" , as an academic bastion of the new faith in southern Germany. This theological institution has been of particular importance in establishing the University's reputation, and has had a significant influence on the course of German intellectual history.

Expansions and Improvements
Until the middle of the eighteenth century, however, the University was only a sleepy little institution in provincial Tübingen. Then Duke Karl Eugen began a vigorous program of reform and renovation which greatly expanded and improved the University's curriculum and facilities.

These improvements, in turn, became the foundation for substantial additional expansions in the nineteenth century: new departments, institutes, and teaching chairs were developed, and The University of Tübingen began to establish its reputation as one of the outstanding universities in Europe. Student enrollment began a general trend of increase, including luminaries such as Hegel, Hölderlin, Schelling and Möricke.

The years following the First World War were predictably difficult, marked by social turmoil and concessions to the political authority of the Third Reich. At the end of World War II, however, Tübingen was one of the few German towns fortunate to have survived intact, and the University was able to quickly reorganize and resume research and education.

The University of Tübingen Today
Since 1769 the University has born the name "Eberhard-Karls-Universität", in commemoration of both its creators: Count Eberhard and Duke Karl Eugen. Today it is among the world's finest institutions of higher learning in the German and European traditions.

Current enrollment is approximately 26,000. Official academic exchange exists with institutions in France, Belgium, Switzerland, Italy, Poland, Great Britain, Ireland, Brasil, Mexico, Canada, The People's Republic of China, Japan, South Korea, Australia, New Zealand and many colleges and universities in the United States.

More than 2,000 international students are currently studying in The University of Tübingen.

II. SCHOOLS AND DEPARTMENTS IN TÜBINGEN

The Tübingen faculty consists of more than 1,600 teachers and researchers in the University's sixteen Fakultäten (colleges). Each Fakultät has its own Dekan (Dean), its own Dekanat (Dean's Administration Office), and one or more Institute (Institutes) or Seminare (Schools or Departments).

The University cooperates in several research projects with other institutions in Tübingen, including the Deutsche Forschungsgemeinschaft, the Goethe Dictionary, the Max Planck Institutes for Biological Research, and the Federal Research Institute for Viral Diseases in Animals.

III. ADMISSION TO THE UNIVERSITY OF TÜBINGEN

Admission to The University of Tübingen
International applicants gain admission to The University of Tübingen through the

Zulassungsstelle für ausländische Studierende,
c/o Dezernat für Internationale Beziehungen,
Universität Tübingen,
Nauklerstrasse 14,
D-72074 Tübingen,
Telefon: +49-7071-29-76448,
Telefax: +49-7071-29-5404.

Our admission policies are designed to facilitate international exchange and to give you maximum access to Tübingen's facilities and course offerings. If an exchange program exists between your university and the University of Tübingen, admission as a non-degree student should be rather simple.

International applicants participating in such an exchange program are admitted for one semester. This admission can be renewed for a second semester.

International Exchange Students are allowed to register for classes and earn course credits under the same conditions as regular students. Courses in Medicine and laboratory courses in the Sciences, however, are normally restricted to regular students and International Exchange Students who are majoring in those subjects.

The Admission Procedure
The admission procedure is simple. International applicants must submit The University of Tübingen's "Application Form for International Exchange Students," which asks for:

basic personal data
a short description of studies intended at the University of Tübingen
a short curriculum vitae, and
a nomination by the Exchange Program Coordinator at your home institution, or by the person responsible for the exchange program at your home institution.

Since admission is based upon the nomination of your home institution, it is not necessary to furnish your academic records.

Application deadlines are December 31 for the Sommersemester and May 31 for the Wintersemester . Application forms generally are available in your university's International Exchange Office or in your German Department.

Housing
In contrast to many American universities, the University of Tübingen does not have university-owned dormitories. Student dormitories are owned by private and public institutions. These dormitories usually house about 3,400 students.

Many students must find rooms which are not in dormitories. Rooms in Tübingen are scarce, because 26,000 of the city's 85,000 residents are students. Many students must find rooms outside of the city.

The Studentenwerk Tübingen (AöR) is a student services organization in Tübingen. It has a Housing Office which helps International Exchange Students find rooms. It is imperative that you promptly return your Housing Application to the Studentenwerk's Housing Office in order to receive a dorm room.

Send it to:

Studentenwerk Tübingen,
Wohnheim-Verwaltung,
Waldhäuser Ost,
Fichtenweg 5,
D-72076 Tübingen,
Telefon: +49-7071-96-9715,
Telefax: +49-7071-96-9720.

Please note:

Direct all inquiries concerning housing to the Studentenwerk . The Dezernat für Internationale Beziehungen does not process Housing Applications.
The Studentwerk processes Housing Applications in the order received. Housing Applications from International Exchange Students are given priority when received promptly. The sooner you return the application form, the better your chances to find accommodations in a dormitory.
The Housing Office cannot guarantee accommodations for you on the exact date for which you apply. Please be flexible and be prepared to rent your accommodations earlier or later, depending on availability.
Room rents in dormitories are from DM 250,- to DM 400,- per person, per month. Private rooms are from DM 300,- to DM 500,. Apartments in a dormitory cost between DM 300,- and DM 500,(or more) per month. Couples and families who apply to the Studentenwerk for an apartment must sometimes wait for long periods -- as long as two years.
In most dormitories you must pay a Kaution (Damage Deposit) of DM 400. This Deposit is paid when you move into your room. The Deposit will be returned to you when you move out of the room, if you owe no debts to your landlord.

Once a room is available, you will receive notification and a housing contract with a deadline for your confirmation of acceptance. Your notification and contract may arrive as little as two weeks before your proposed arrival date. Please be patient, and remember to direct all inquiries concerning Housing to the Studentenwerk .

When you arrive in Tübingen, call the Studentenwerk at 969715. They will tell you where to get your room key and where to pay the DM 400 Kaution.

The Studentenwerk office is at Fichtenweg 5.

Office hours:
during the semester: Mon, Wed, Fri: 9.30-11.30; Thur: 14.00-16.00
during the semester break: Mon: 9.30-11.30; Thur: 14.00-16.00.

IV. SUGGESTIONS FOR TRAVEL TO TÜBINGEN

Currency Conversion: Dollars to Deutsch Marks
Once you've arrived in Germany you'll need about three hundred Deutsch Marks (DM 300,-) to get to Tübingen and get moved in. If you do not change dollars to DM in the US you'll need to do so as soon as you arrive in Germany. All major airports have a Geldwechsel (currency exchange). The "i" information Desk in the airport can direct you to it.

Travel to Tübingen
Most persons flying from the United States land at Frankfurt International Airport. The best way to travel from Frankfurt International to Tübingen is by train.

To find the airport train station ask the "i" information Desk, or follow the signs with the big "S". The "S" stands for the S-Bahn, Frankfurt's urban railway system. These signs also have a big "DB" which stands for D eutsche B undesbahn , the German National Railway System.

At the airport S-Bahn ticket counter, purchase a secondclass, one-way ticket from Frankfurt International Airport to Tübingen, via Stuttgart. The price is about DM 80,- for the "Intercity" train (IC), and about DM 90,- for the faster "Intercity Express" train (ICE). Travel time from Frankfurt to Tübingen is about three-and-a-half hours with the ICE train, an hour longer with the IC train.

If you're loaded down with baggage, you can check it directly to Tübingen at the airport train station. If your baggage is manageable you can carry it with you on the train.

Take S-Bahn train number 15 from Frankfurt airport to Frankfurt Hauptbahnhof , the Frankfurt main train station. Once there, you'll change trains for Stuttgart. Look for the big sign with the departure times, train numbers, destinations and Gleis (track) numbers. It will give you all the information about the trains to Stuttgart.

When you arrive in Stuttgart you'll change once more for the train to Tübingen. Be sure to change trains in Stuttgart for the train to Tübingen.

If you fly from the States directly to Stuttgart-Echterdingen Airport, you can take either S-Bahn S 2 or S 3 from the airport to the Leinfelden Bahnhof . In Leinfelden you will change for RBS Bus 7600 to Tübingen. Cost is about DM 10,-. Travel time from the airport to Tübingen is about an hour.

Arriving in Tübingen
Trains to Tübingen arrive at Tübingen Hauptbahnhof , a block from downtown and within walking distance of the University. Buses arrive in the large parking lot across the street from the Hauptbahnhof .

It's a good idea to arrive in Tübingen on a weekday and during working hours (9 a.m - 4 p.m). If you have someone in town to contact, you can call from phonebooths in front of the Hauptbahnhof . You can also phone us at the International Office at 29-6448, 29-5403, 29-2937, or 29-6450. We're open Monday, Tuesday, Thursday and Friday from 9 a.m. till noon. Local calls cost 30 Pfennige for the first eight minutes.

You may want to store your luggage for the first few hours while you get your bearings around town. If so, you can rent a Schliessfach (storage locker) inside the Hauptbahnhof . Cost is DM 1,- for 24 hours.

City maps are available by the ticket counter in the Hauptbahnhof , and also in the tunnel passage from the Hauptbahnhof to the bus parking lot across the street. City buses depart every few minutes from the bus parking lot to all parts of the city. Bus service is slower after 9 p.m. and on Sundays.

If you happen to arrive at night or on a weekend and cannot contact friends or the Dezernat für Internationale Beziehungen , you can spend your first few nights at the Jugendherberge (youth hostel). It's located at Hermann-Kurz-Strasse 4 and is within walking distance of the Hauptbahnhof , if you've stored your heavy luggage. It costs about DM 20,- per night with a valid IYHF youth hostel card, and about DM 25,- without. Their telephone number is 230-02.

An early "must-stop" is the Verkehrsverein (Tourist Information Bureau). It's located at the foot of the Neckarbrücke , the bridge over the Neckar River near the center of town. The Verkehrsverein has everything a new arrival needs, from city maps to bus passes to concert tickets. They have plenty of free pamphlets and programs, and for a DM 2,- service charge they'll help you find a temporary room. They're open weekdays from 8 a.m. to 12:30 p.m., afternoons from 1:30 to 6:30; Saturdays from 8:30 a.m. to 12:30 p.m. Telephone 350-11.

Transportation in Tübingen
Tübingen is not especially large, but the main part of the University is located in the center of town, and some of the dormitory facilities are far enough away that you probably will not want to walk to class.

Hitchhiking is common among students, and it's usually fairly easy to get a ride, especially at the major pick-up points. Women hitching alone, however, should exercise caution and not be reluctant to turn down a suspicious-looking ride, especially at night.

Much more reliable is the Municipal Bus System. Ist schedule is posted at every bus stop, and you can purchase a complete list of routes and timetables in the "Kreisfahrplan und Stadtbusfahrplan," available in bookstores, newsstands and the Verkehrsverein.

Students are eligible for bus passes at reduced rates, and the Dezernat für Internationale Beziehungen can issue a pass which you validate each month by buying a sticker at almost any newsstand. A convenient newsstand is located at Wilhelmstr. 30, in front of the University Clubhaus .

Having a car in Tübingen is expensive, impractical, unnecessary and a pain in the neck. The builders of medieval towns failed to plan for adequate traffic routing and parking, and even in the new parts of Tübingen finding a parking place can be frustrating. Taxes and insurance are very high, and gasoline costs about three dollars a gallon.

If you do plan to drive in Germany, your American driver's license will be valid for one year. If you plan to stay longer, it would be wise to get an Internationaler Führerschein (International Driver's License) from the American Automobile Association before coming to Germany.

V. THE REGISTRATION PROCESS

Academic Calendar - Winter Term 1996/97

Application for Admission
Application deadline: May 31, 1996
Required documents: see application form

Housing
Application: As soon as possible. All inquiries should be be directed to:

Studentenwerk Tübingen,
Wohnheimverwaltung,
Fichtenweg 5,
D-72076 Tübingen.

Office hours:
Mon and Wed: 9.30-11.30; Thur 14.00-16.00
Tel.: +49-7071-96-9715
Fax: +49-7071-96-9720

Enrollment
September 11 - October 27, 1996
Enrollment Forms are available after arrival

Student Counseling and Advisement
October 7, 1996 - October 10, 1996
Introduction: "How to study at the University of Tübingen (20 DM for materials)

Classes:
Begin: October 14, 1996
End: February 15, 1997
No courses November 1 and December 24, 1996 - January 6, 1997

Course Information
ATTEMPTO-Verlag,
Tübingen GmbH, Wilhelmstrasse 7,
D-72074 Tübingen.

A Vorlesungsverzeichnis (Calendar and Catalogue of courses for the current Semester)
can be ordered by FAX. Price: DM 12.00
Tel.: +49-7071-29-2530
Fax: +49-7071-22479

The Registration Process will begin after you arrive in Tübingen. The Registration Process will accomplish your enrollment as a student in the University of Tübingen.

Student Health Insurance
In Germany all university students, including International Exchange Students, are subject to compulsory health insurance until completion of their 14th full semester and up to a maximum age of 30. This health insurance covers virtually all cases of illness. It also covers check-ups, surgery, emergencies, dental care, eye glasses and prescription drugs.

If you are married, and if your spouse resides with you in Germany during the time of your exchange studies, your spouse will normally be covered by your student policy and will not need extra insurance coverage.

The Dezernat für Internationale Beziehungen can furnish you with a list of Krankenkassen (health insurance companies) where you must apply for your student health insurance policy. The Krankenkasse will issue you a Versicherungsdoppelkarte which you must present at the Studentensekretariat in order to enroll in the University. You cannot enroll in the University without this Versicherungsdoppelkarte . You'll also need it at the end of the semester for your Rückmeldung .

Please note : Your insurance coverage will not actually begin until you are officially enrolled in the University. We strongly urge you to ensure yourself for the interim between your arrival in Germany and your official enrollment in the University. This may be done through a private American health plan or through a private German insurance policy.

If you are older than 30 years of age on arrival in Germany, you will not be eligible for student insurance. You are strongly advised to insure yourself with a private health insurance plan, since medical fees and hospital expenses are very high in Germany.

Temporary Residence Permit
United States citizens need only a valid passport to come to Germany. They do not need an entry visa.

As soon as you have a place to live in Tübingen, you must apply for an Aufenthaltsgenehmigung (Residence Permit). Take your passport to Room 13 of the Amt für öffentliche Ordnung , (Wilhelmstrasse 24, Mon - Fri, 8:00 to 11:30 a.m., 2:00 to 5:00 p.m.). There you will fill out an Anmeldung (registration form). They will issue you a Temporary Residence Permit valid for two months. You will need this Temporary Residence Permit in order to enroll in the University.

Do not fail to register your address with this office within a week of the time you move into your housing. Your landlord is already in contact with this office, and failure to register could result in a fine along the order of a traffic violation.

Student Residence Permit
After you have officially enrolled in the University, you must return to the Amt für öffentlichte Ordnung for a Student Resident Permit . Take your passport, Studentenausweis or Immatrikulationsbescheinigung , a small photo, documentation of your fellowship (if you have one), and DM 30,- cash (no checks are accepted). They will tell you when to return and pick up your Residence Permit , and keep your passport for a few days while your Residence Permit application is processed.

If you move or change your address while in Tübingen you must notify the Amt für öffentliche Ordnung of your new address.

Abmeldung
You should also notify the Amt für öffentliche Ordnung before you leave Tübingen at the end of your studies. This Abmeldung (going-away notification) is not a requirement for leaving Germany. But if you should decide to return to Germany for studies in the future, an Abmeldung will save you a lot of time and paperwork. If you forget, a letter from the U.S. will suffice.

Send it to:

Bürgermeisteramt Tübingen,
Ausländerbehörde,
Wilhelmstrasse 24,
D-72074 Tübingen.

Enrollment in the University
Your actual enrollment as a student will take place in the University's

Studentensekretariat,
Wilhelmstrasse 11,
D-72074 Tübingen.

Our Zulassungsbescheid (Letter of Admission) will contain the specific details of what you must bring to the Studentensekretariat in order to enroll.

Enrollment confers official student status. Enrollment means you are officially allowed to attend classes and lectures at the University.

Enrollment in the University is not registration for the specific courses you wish to take during the semester.

At enrollment you will be issued a Studentenausweis and a Studienbuch and officially become a student of the University of Tübingen. The Studentenausweis is your official student ID card and will be needed for administrative purposes in the University. It also entitles you to eat in the Mensen (student restaurants) and to receive price reductions on public transportation, concerts and cultural events.

The Studienbuch is your "official transcript." At the beginning of each semester you will place in it a Belegbogen , a written record of all Vorlesungen, Seminare, Kolloquien , etc., which you attend during the semester. At the end of the semester you will place all Scheine which you receive in the Studienbuch . The Studienbuch contains the only record of your academic work at Tübingen . It is wise to make a duplicate copy and to keep your Studienbuch and the copy in a safe place.

After your enrollment is completed, the Studentensekretariat will mail you a Datenkontrollblatt . The Datenkontrollblatt contains the personal data relevant to your official student status. It is your official "student file" and contains all forms necessary for your Rückmeldung . It should be placed in your Studienbuch and kept in a safe place.

If you move to a new address while in Tübingen you must notify the Studentensekretariat in order to receive your Datenkontrollblatt .

Rückmeldung
Your enrollment is valid for one semester. It must be renewed prior to the beginning of the following semester. This process is called Rückmeldung and usually takes place at the end of each semester.

At the time of your Rückmeldung you must

submit proof of sufficient health insurance coverage, and
pay the Sozialgebühren (student welfare contribution) to the Studentenwerk (appr. DM 45,- per semester).

The Sozialgebühren is a non-waivable fee which all students must pay to the Studentenwerk each semester in order to enroll in the University. There are no waivers, exemptions, exceptions or special cases.

The forms required for Rückmeldung will be mailed to you by the Studentensekretariat .

VI. ACADEMIC LIFE

Course Selection
American universities normally publish an annual University Catalog containing administrative and academic information, as well as a list of all courses offered in the university. In addition, a Schedule of Classes is published at the beginning of each semester, containing specific information needed in order to select specific courses and make a schedule for the semester.

German universities publish a Vorlesungsverzeichnis at the beginning of each semester. The Vorlesungsverzeichnis contains both the administrative and academic information about the university and the list of courses which will be offered in the coming semester. It also lists the times when each course will be taught, but not the location.

Also at the beginning of each semester, most departments in the University publish a Vorlesungs - or Kurskommentar . This Kommentar lists all the courses which will be taught in the department, including their locations and any last-minute changes in scheduling.

In addition, each department has a bulletin board on which all course information is posted, and there is normally a University-wide bulletin board containing course information for all departments.

Vorlesungsverzeichnisse can be purchased in any bookstore. Vorlesungskommentare are available for a small fee in the departmental library or administrative office.

Studies "parallel" to the Vorlesungen
In addition to normally scheduled courses, there are also special "parallel study groups" for students with a deeper interest in certain topics. These studies are usually taught by assistant professors or advanced students, and offer more flexibility and opportunity for student input than the Vorlesungen . Subject matter can be discussed in detail and questions answered. A "final exam" can usually be given, providing American students with the evaluation they need for credit transfer.

Information on the various study groups is furnished in the related courses.

Scheduling Suggestions for American Students
While still in the United States it can be difficult to determine which courses in Tübingen would be appropriate and accessible during your year of studies. And it's unlikely that the content of courses in Tübingen will exactly correspond to that of courses at home. Therefore, flexibility and good communication between yourself and your academic advisor are of utmost importance, both while still in the States and after you arrive.

Course descriptions can be very helpful in determining which courses would be best. Course descriptions are available only in the Vorlesungsverzeichnis and in the Kurskommentare from the Fakultäten. Course descriptions for the coming semester are usually available at the end of each semester.

The Dezernat für Internationale Beziehungen does not furnish course descriptions.

You should put together several possible combinations of courses before leaving your home institution. Then you can "fine tune" your schedule after arriving in Tübingen. And remember: airmail letters can take up to two weeks to reach Germany from the United States.

If you wish to concentrate on German language and civilization studies, you should be aware that you will be competing with native German speakers who are highly competent and comparatively sophisticated in the language and in the literature. If your German skills are not high, you should consider taking courses in German for non-German speakers. These courses, known as Deutsch als Fremdsprache , are offered in Tübingen through the section Internationale Sprachprogramme , a section of our International Office. Many American students find these courses ideally suited to their needs.

Course Load
Concepts like "contact hours" and "fulltime load" do not necessarily apply in the German university context. In a "two-hour Vorlesung ," for example, attendance is not mandatory and there are no tests or written assignments. But the "two-hour Vorlesung " may entail two hours of lecture, an hour of Kolloquium and an hour of Übung each week -- a total of four hours. This will not always yield four hours of credit in your home institution.

The student's actual course load, therefore, depends upon the types of courses in which he or she enrolls. Two or three Seminare (four to six hours), two or three Übungen (four to six hours) and two Vorlesungen (four hours) will constitute a reasonably full load of twelve to sixteen hours in terms of course load in the United States.

Generally speaking, American students tend to take on too much during their first semester of international study. The demands on time and energy are greater than at home, so the time and energy available for courses and studies are diminished. An overload is likely -- and counterproductive. So set a relaxed and reasonable pace of study while in Tübingen.

Obviously, a considerable amount of self-discipline is needed to accomplish a year of studies abroad. But allow yourself the leisure to become acquainted with Tübingen, with Germans, and with Europe while you study. Isn't that a major reason for studies abroad in the first place?

Registration for Courses, Dropping and Adding
Enrollment in the University confers official student status on the student. Enrollment does not register the student for individual academic courses.

Registration for individual academic courses takes place in the respective Institutes (Departmental Administrative Offices). The registration process for a specific course is usually specified in the Departmental Kurskommentare , along with the time and location of the course.

The registration process may vary among the Institutes. Some types of courses require registration and some types of courses require no registration.

No registration is required for Vorlesungen .

Dropping and adding of courses takes place in the respective Institute (Departmental Administrative Office).

Libraries
The University of Tübingen possesses one of Europe's outstanding university libraries. Known as the "U.B." ( Universitätsbibliothek ), it's located in the center of the University at Wilhelmstrasse 32, across the street from the Mensa Wilhelmstrasse , and is modern, well-staffed and well-equipped. The U.B.'s resources for German Studies and German Language Studies are excellent, and its resources for theological studies are generally considered to be the world's finest.

In addition to the UB, each department in the University has its own library, known as a Seminarbibliothek .

Each library furnishes detailed information on ist facilities, regulations, and obtaining a library card.

Scheine and Course Grades
German universities keep neither records nor transcripts of students' academic progress and performance. The only record of a student's course participation is a Schein .

A Schein is an official administrative attestation that a student has successfully participated in a course. It is issued by the course professor, and may or may not have a grade recorded on it. A student receives a Schein for each successfully completed course (with the exception of Vorlesungen ), and must present Scheine for all required courses before receiving a university degree.

The grade scale in German universities is from 1 to 6, with 1 being the highest and 6 the lowest possible grades. Grades below 4.5 are failing. If no numerical grade is recorded on a Schein , there generally will be a written indication of successful or unsuccessful participation in the course, signed by the professor.

Since the university keeps no records of students' course work, students are not able to "have a transcript sent" from a German university. The course Scheine with their grades and are the only records of a student's course work. It is advisable that international students get duplicate copies of all Scheine and keep them in a safe place.

Use of the Semester Break
The German academic calendar has a Semester Break that is eight weeks long, generally from mid-February to mid-April. No courses are taught during this period, with the exception of some labs and excursions.

Semester Break can be a disruptive time for international students who, after their first semester, are just beginning to get the hang of the German university system. After five months of Vorlesungen , Übungen and Seminare , the student is suddenly faced with two months of time in which there are no formal courses or contact hours.

It is advisable for international students to use Semester Break as a time for earning independent study credits which can be transferred back to their home institutions. Students generally develop some specific areas of interest during their first semester. Some imaginative projects can be developed which allow the student to meet course requirements in the home institution, even though there are no specific courses in Tübingen which meet the requirements.

These special projects are an excellent way to gain better insights into German life and culture, for example through studies of the German press, cinema, broadcast media, contemporary literature, economic system, etc. These independent study projects should be evaluated by the student's home department, in order to facilitate the transfer of credits.

Course Credit for Vorlesungen
Course grades are not given in Vorlesungen . However, an international student may need to receive course credit for a Vorlesung in order to meet degree requirements in the home university. When this happens, it is sometimes possible to convince the Vorlesung lecturer to give a private examination (usually oral) over the content of the Vorlesung . Or the student may be allowed to prepare and submit a written report or research project. In either case, the student is able to receive a grade and transfer credit back to the home institution.

It should be noted, however, that some professors and lecturers do not need the extra work of preparing private examinations and grades, especially when there is no way of knowing if the student has regularly attended the course and has a real knowledge of ist contents. If a grade for a Vorlesung is needed, you should make appropriate arrangements with the lecturer at the beginning of the course.

Transfer of Credits
The success of a year of studies abroad is determined at least in part by the transfer of credits from your German university to your university in the United States. You should become fully aware of credit transfer rules, regulations and procedures before you leave your home institution. Discuss these with your advisor, your department, your Studies Abroad office and the appropriate persons in your university's administrative departments. This will help ensure the exciting and enjoyable experience of international university studies!

Leisure Time and Entertainment
Tübingen is a European university town, and as you might expect, the opportunities for cultural and artistic experiences are many. If you're into classical music or European Civilization, for example, your problem will be finding time to attend all the events and activities offered in the city.

But Tübingen is also an international gathering point for scholars, researchers and students from all over the world. It's on the cutting edge of issues in politics, religion, the environment, and the international economy -with the emphasis on making "what's happening" available to students and professors.

General information on activities and events is listed daily in the local newspaper. Posters and pamphlets cover the University and its environs, and the various departments and student services organizations are always up-to-date with information.

Tickets for University events are available in the University's ticket center, and the Verkehrsverein downtown at the foot of the Neckarbrücke has information and tickets for events in the University, in Tübingen, and in Stuttgart, including performances of the Stuttgart symphony, ballet and opera.

The Mensen Wilhelmstrasse and Morgenstelle are the scenes for regular rock, jazz, blues and reggae concerts, featuring performers and groups from Europe, the United States, Latin America and Africa. And like all university towns, Tübingen has its popular nightspots -- most typically the restaurants, pubs and Bierkellers for which Southern Germany is famous.

Four cinemas offer a wide selection of European and American films, and movies are shown regularly in dormitories and in the University Clubhaus . Two theatres in Tübingen feature both student and professional talent in a wide variety of stage productions.

The D eutsch- A merikanisches I nstitut (DAI) is located near the Neckarbrücke and offers a variety of programs, films and lectures designed for international university students. They also have a library with the latest American newspapers and magazines, to help you keep in touch with what's happening in the "old country".

Sports events and activities are offered through the University's Sportinstitut , located at Wilhelmstrasse 124. The Institute offers a wide range of opportunities for group activities, from aerobics and weightlifting to karate and cross country cycling. Tübingen is near good ski-country, and outings are regularly organized by various groups, including dormitories and the Sportinstitut . Perhaps the most popular sports activities are hiking and bicycling in the forested hills around Tübingen. The Schönbuch , a large, protected national forest, is located just north of town, and the countryside is laced with quiet trails and foot-paths, perfect for long, relaxing walks with friends, or for getting away to be alone with yourself for awhile.

Tübingen has a wide range of religious and spiritual organizations and groups. There are churches of European and American denominations, and a large number of special-emphasis groups meet for study or for specific action focused on local, European and international issues.

VII. PRACTICAL INFORMATION

The "Most Asked Questions" From Exchange Students

Q1: I have a question about Housing. Who do I contact?
A1: Please contact the Studentenwerk . The Studentenwerk handles all matters related to Student Housing. Read the Housing section of this information.

Q2: I've received the letter of admission from the Dezernat für Internationale Beziehungen . What should I do now?
A2: Read the letter until you understand it. The letter will tell you what to do.

Q3: What do I do when I get to Germany?
A3: Read the Suggestions for Travel to Tübingen section of this information. It will tell you what to do when you get to Germany.

Q4: I've just arrived at Tübingen Hauptbahnhof . What do I do now?
A4: You should have received a Housing Assignment from the Studentenwerk before leaving for Germany. Call the Studentenwerk and find out where to pick up your room key.

Q5: I'm all moved into my room. What's there to do in Tübingen?
A5: Meet new friends!

Q6: How do I meet new friends and people in Tübingen?
A6: One of the best ways is through the Orientation Program for new international exchange students. You'll be able to take part in lots of activities with international exchange students from all over the world. We recommend it!

Q7: When do I finally select my courses?
A7: After you've arrived in Tübingen. Read the Academic Life section of this information.

Q8: Where can I find course descriptions for the courses I'm interested in?
A8: Course descriptions are found in the Vorlesungsverzeichnis and in the Kurskommentare of the various Fakultäten and Institutes. The Library in the Dezernat für Internationale Beziehungen has a copy of the Vorlesungsverzeichnis . Kurskommentare can usually be obtained from the various Fakultäten and Institute . The Dezernat für Internationale Beziehungen does not furnish course descriptions.

Q9: When and where do I register for classes?
A9: Read the Registration for Courses section of this information.

Q10: How much does it cost to live and study in Tübingen?
A10: See "Expenses," below.

Expenses
Cost of living in university towns is usually a bit more expensive than in non-university towns. The German Academic Exchange Service (DAAD) estimates minimum student expenses to be about DM 1000,- per month, as detailed below.

Housing: DM 250,-
Food: DM 300,-
Health Insurance: DM 70,-
Clothing: DM 70,-
Books: DM 60,-
Transportation: DM 50,-
Personal Hygiene: DM 50,-
Laundry: DM 15,-
Miscellaneous: DM 85,-

TOTAL: DM 950,-

Meals and food
Your largest monthly expense is likely to be food. Dormitory rooms have kitchen facilities, but no dormitory cafeterias are available.

You can eat most inexpensively in the Mensen (University cafeterias) which serve state-subsidized meals twice daily. Prices range from DM 1,70 for a stew to about DM 5,- for normal cafeteria selections ( Wahlessen ). A daily, standard-fare meal of meat, vegetables, salad and soup is very popular at DM 2,80, or you can create your own main-course salad from a large buffet and then pay according to its weight.

There are five Mensen located in Tübingen.

1) The NEUE MENSA (Mensa Wilhelmstrasse, Wilhelmstrasse 13) serves lunch Monday thru Thursday from 11:30 a.m. to 2:00 p.m. (Friday from 12:00 to 2:00) p.m. and supper from 6:00 p.m. to 8:15 p.m. It's also open on Saturdays from 11:45 a.m. to 1:15 p.m.
A snack-bar and a smaller cafeteria are located in the Mensa downstairs and are open Monday thru Thursday from 7:30 a.m. to 8:00 p.m., Fridays to 6:30 p.m.

2) The FERGENHANS is in the same building as the Neue Mensa, and offers a Wahlessen .

3) The ALTE MENSA (or Mensa Prinz Karl) is at Hafengasse 6 in the Altstadt (Old City). Lunch is from 11:30 a.m. to 2:00 p.m., Monday thru Saturday. It is closed in the evenings.

4) The SCHLATTERHAUS is at Österberg 2 and has the same hours as the Alte Mensa.

5) The MENSA MORGENSTELLE has a regular Mensaessen and a Wahlessen . Lunch is served from 11:30 a.m. to 2:00 p.m. It is closed evenings.

Eating at the Mensa could get pretty old. There are plenty of fine restaurants and bistros in Tübingen. You'll find lots of typically German Gaststätten serving the local Swabian specialities, and plenty of foreign restaurants, especially Greek, Italian, Yugoslavian and French.

Telephone
Ortsgespräche (local calls) from phone booths cost 30 Pfennige for the first eight minutes.

Ferngespräche (long-distance calls) to places inside Germany can be made from all phone booths. Ferngespräche to places outside Germany can be made from booths marked by a green sign, and from metered phones in the post office.

R-Gespräche (collect calls) cannot be made from phone booths.

Direct-dialing to the United States is accessed by dialing 001 + US area code + US number. Calling Germany from the United States is less expensive than calling the US from Germany.

Some useful telephone numbers are:

Information (domestic):		01188


Information (foreign):		00188


Telegrams:			113


Police:				110


Medical Emergency:		112


Fire:				112

Banking
It is advisable to open a Bankkonto (bank account) during your stay in Tübingen. You will probably want to open a Girokonto (ordinary checking account) rather than a Sparkonto (savings account).

Paying by check is not as widely accepted in Germany as in the United States, and it is often difficult to cash checks. Some monthly payments (rent, for example) can be made through an Überweisung , a direct money-transfer from one bank account to another. Your bank can explain the various available services when you establish your account.

All banks are closed on weekends. If you need cash on Saturday you can cash Traveler's Checks at the Hauptpostamt (main post office) which is open on Saturday from 8:00 AM to 12:30 PM.

Mail and Postal Services
The Deutsche Bundespost (German Postal Service) is responsible for all postal services. It also offers telephone, telegraph, and even some banking services. Tübingen's Hauptpostamt (main post office) is located a block from the Hauptbahnhof near downtown. Branch post offices are located in the various parts of the city.

Luftpostbriefe (airmail letters) to and from the United States generally take about twelve days. Telegrams to the U.S. are expensive. A better deal is the Brieftelegramm : it is dispatched like a telegram and arrives the next day.

The post office also offers banking services that are attractive because their service charges are slightly less than those at the bank. You can open a Postscheckkonto (postal checking account) which allows you to cash personal checks at any post office -- but only at a post office, not at a bank.

Please note: The Post Office makes a very thorough ID check on all banking transactions, as well as on claims for packages mailed to you from the United States. You will need your passport or Studentenausweis to transact banking matters or to claim packages in the Post Office. A Driver's License is not official identification in Germany.

Handy words in the post office are:

Luftpost (airmail)
Normalpost (surface mail)
Eilboten (special delivery) and
Einschreiben (registered mail).

Shopping
Most stores in Germany close each weekday from about noon to 2:30 or so, then re-open till about 6:30. On Saturdays most stores close at about noon and remain closed until Monday morning. However, the first Saturday in each month is langer Samstag (long Saturday) and many stores stay open until as late as 4:00 PM.

Passport Photos
It's a good idea to bring about a dozen passport photos from the U.S. They will be attached to the various administrative forms relevant to registration, enrollment and the Residence Permit application. Photomats are located in the Tübingen Hauptbahnhof and in the Mensa Wilhelmstrasse .

Electrical Appliances
German- electrical appliances operate on 220-volt current. This means that American appliances designed for 110-120 volts will burn out if plugged directly into an electrical outlet. Although some radios, electric shavers, etc., may already be adapted for 220 volts, most American appliances will need an adaptor, available in both the United States and in Germany. Be sure to get adaptors with round prongs: German wallsockets are the round-prong type, rather than the flat-prong type common in the United States.

Laundry Facilities and Washing Machines
All dormitories are equipped with coin-operated washing machines. There are coin-operated laundries in Tübingen, one on Pfrondorferstrasse and one on Herrenbergerstrasse .

German washing machines have a hot-water cycle called Kochwäsche . The word "kochen" means "to boil" -- and this should be taken literally when doing your laundry. Anything that will shrink or fade will definitely do so in the Kochwäsche .

VIII. CONCLUSION

What kind of Place is Tübingen?
Tübingen is unique. And also a bit difficult to categorize.

Tübingen is often described as "provincial". It's off the beaten path, alright, and most folks who live here like it that way. Yet Tübingen is in the heart of Europe practically equidistant from Vienna, Prague, Berlin, Amsterdam, Brussels, London, Paris, and Rome.

And Tübingen is one of the few remaining medieval cities in Germany. People stroll along the cobblestone streets, dropping into quaint shops and taverns for shopping or small-talk with friends. The quiet Neckar River flows gently through the town, and swans glide serenely through the shadows beneath the overarching branches.

Yet Tübingen is home to one of the world's outstanding universities. Twenty-five thousand students and professors are engaged in the exciting and challenging pursuit of excellence in scholarly research and in professional preparation and service. There is always something "on" in Tübingen.

The local stock, the Schwabian Germans, are an affable and "easy to get along with" folk, especially if you're inclined to learn their Swabian dialect! The University of Tübingen is deeply interwoven into Swabian culture and tradition. Yet Tübingen has the "air" of an international community: students, professors and researchers from around the world are gathered here, and the many cultures and traditions create an ambience that is distinctive and unique.

So Tübingen is not quite the medieval idyll depicted on picture postcards. But neither is it as hectic and fast-paced as most modern cities. Life is a bit slower, and the air is full of the flavors people like to associate with southern Germany: great beers and regional wines, quaint taverns and inns with hearty, robust meals, warm conversation and jolly and congenial German folk. There's a castle on a hill, and a venerable university that has been home to the likes of Kepler, Hegel, and Hölderlin.

Like anywhere else, Tübingen has its good points and its bad points. It's a good place to study. The pace of academic life is slower than that of the typical American university, and that means there will be time to do some things you've really wanted to do! Time to develop that thesis or pet project that your regular studies have prevented. Time to do some traveling and skiing and hiking. Time to meet some great new friends and make that cycling trip through Europe.

On the other hand, not everything in Tübingen is perfect. It's hard to get a tan in Tübingen, and it's difficult to find a parking place and peanut butter. But Tübingen is a good place to relax and to study and to challenge yourself. It's a good place to walk in the woods, to climb some hills, and to learn Hochdeutsch .

Tübingen is a blend of the old and the new, the urban and the rural, the academic and the idyllic. It's a good place to live and study for a year, and we believe you'll find the experience rewarding.

If you've already made the decision to come to Tübingen, "Herzlich Willkommen!"

If you're still thinking about it, "Entscheide Dich für einen Tübinger Austausch!" , and contact the International Office at your University.

We're looking forward to seeing you!

GLOSSARY

This glossary contains words helpful in preparing for university study in Germany and in Tübingen. Each word is followed by one or more page numbers on which additional information can be found.

Abmeldung: official notification from the student to the university that the student is terminating his or her official student status.

Dezernat für Internationale Beziehungen: that section of the university administration responsible for the admission and counseling of international students. It is the best source of information and orientation to the university.

Akademisches Viertel: the custom of beginning a course fifteen minutes after the hour. Courses which begin at this time are designated "c.t.". A course beginning at 8:00 c.t. begins at 8:15.

Altstadt: the "old city," the medieval city of Tübingen, which today is the "downtown" center of modern Tübingen.

Amt für öffentliche Ordnung: the office of the German government which issues an Aufenthaltsgenehmigung (official Residence Permit) to an international student.

Anmeldung: official notification form submitted to the Amt für öffentliche Ordnung as the first step in obtaining an Aufenthaltsgenehmigung .

Aufenthaltsgenehmigung: official Residence Permit issued by the Amt für öffentliche Ordnung to an international student, after his or her registration as a student in the university is completed.

Bankkonto: bank account.

Belegbogen: A form for recording all Vorlesungen, Seminare, Kolloquien etc., which you attend. It should be filled out at the beginning of each semester and inserted into your Studienbuch . It is available in the Dezernat für Internationale Beziehungen .

Brieftelegramm: an overnight-delivery telegram, less expensive than a standart telegram.

c.t.: "cum tempore," the Akademisches Viertel . Courses beginning at a time designated "c.t." begin fifteen minutes after the hour. A course which begins at 8:00 c.t. begins at 8:15.

Count Eberhard im Bart: founded the University of Tübingen in 1477.

Datenkontrollblatt: a student's official "personal datasheet," mailed to the student after enrollment. It contains Immatrikulationsbescheinigungen necessary for obtaining a Student Residence Permit, and the forms necessary for Rückmeldung .

DB: "Deutsche Bundesbahn," Germany's national railway system. Signs with a "DB" lead to a train station.

Dekan: the Dean of an academic "faculty" or "college" in the university, usually (still) elected for a one-year term.

Dekanat: the administrative office or "Dean's office" of an academic department of "college" in the university.

Deutsch-Kurse: a variety of courses designed especially for international students, and offered by Internationale Sprachprogramme .

Deutsch-Amerikanisches Institut: an Institut offering a wide variety of American and English-language programs, films, and lectures designed for international students.

Deutsche Bundesbahn: the German national railway system.

Deutsche Bundespost: the German national postal system.

Deutsche Mark: the official German currency.

Diplom: an academic degree, comparable to a Masters Degree in the American university system.

Diplomexamen: university Examen which lead to an academic degree, such as the Diplom and the Magister Artium.

Duke Karl Eugen: in the eighteenth century began the transformation of the University of Tübingen from a provincial university into one of Europe's leading academic institutions.

Eilboten: special delivery mail.

Einschreiben: registered mail.

Fachhochschulen: comparable to Technical Training Institutions in the United States.

Fakultät: major academic subdivision of the university, a "college" or "school" within the university. For example, the "Juristische Fakultät" or "Fakultät für Kulturwissenschaft" .

Ferngespräch: long-distance telephone call.

Gaststätte: restaurant.

Geldwechsel: a currency-exchange booth or office. Located in airports, banks and major train stations.

Gesamthochschule: a comprehensive German university offering training and education in all areas of higher education.

Girokonto: an ordinary checking account.

Gleis: a railway track. For example, a train from Frankfurt to Stuttgart on "Gleis 5" would depart from the Hauptbahnhof on Track #5.

Grundschule: the German equivalent of an American elementary school.

Grundstudium: basic university studies in the student's major academic subject.

Gymnasium: comparable to an American High School and the first two years of university studies. It prepares about twenty-five percent of German students for university study.

Hauptbahnhof: the main train stations.

Hauptpostamt: the main post office.

Hauptseminar: a Seminar in Hauptstudium .

Hauptschule: comparable to an American Middle School. It prepares about half of all German public school students for apprenticeship training of for semi-skilled workplaces in the economy.

Hauptstudium: advanced university study in the student's major academic subject.

Immatrikulation: administrative registration ("matriculation", "enrollment") into the university. It is not a registration for courses.

Immatrikulationsbescheinigung: the student's official certificate of enrollment, a part of the student's Datenkontrollblatt . The Immatrikulationsbescheinigung is necessary for various administrative purposes, including obtaining a Student Residence Permit. The Datenkontrollblatt and Immatrikulationsbescheinigung are mailed by the university to the student when the registration process is completed. They should be kept in the student's Studienbuch .

Institut: a specialized institute or department of study within a Fakultät. For example, The "Institut für osteurop"ische Geschichte" in the "Geschichtswissenschaftliche Fakultät."

Institut für Sportwissenschaft: the university's "Sport Center," offering a wide variety of athletic and recreational programs and activities.

Internationale Sprachprogramme: Part of the Dezernat für Internationale Beziehungen of the University of Tübingen, offering a variety of German Language courses and international programs.

Internationaler Führerschein: an International Driver's License, available from the American Automobile Association.

Jugendherberge: a "Youth Hostel." A combination hotel and dormitory offering temporary overnight accommodations for travelers.

Kaution: a DM 200,- damage deposit paid to the Studentenwerk when one moves into dormitory housing.

Kochwäsche: a "boil and wash" cycle on German washing machines.

Kolloquium: a seminar for advanced students and doctoral candidates. Permission is required in order to enroll. Written assignments are required, and a final grade is received.

Krankenkasse: Health insurance company.

Kunsthochschule: a university-level institution offering specialized education and training in Fine Arts.

Kurskommentar: a list of course offerings published by each academic department at the beginning of each semester. It gives the time, location, and name of the professor for each course. Also known as a Vorlesungskommentar .

Länder: the sixteen German "states" comprising The Bundesrepublik Deutschland . The Länder furnish the financial support and resources for their universities.

Langer Samstag: the first Saturday in each month, when most stores and businesses remain open longer than normal.

Lehrstuhl: the "Teaching Chair" or Faculty position in a German university.

Lehrstuhlinhaber: the person, normally a professor, occupying a Lehrstuhl or position in the Faculty of a German university.

Luftpost: airmail.

Luftpostbrief: airmail letter.

Magister Artium: the name for the academic degree to which the Magister Artium Examen leads.

Mensa Morgenstelle: a university cafeteria located near the Natural Sciences Departments.

Mensa Wilhelmstrasse: the main university cafeteria, located across the street from the Universitätsbibliothek .

Mensen: university cafeterias.

Musikhochschulen: university-level institutions offering specialized education and training in Music.

Neckarbrücke: the "bridge over the Neckar " River. The Neckarbrücke is located in the center of town, and is the busiest and best-known location in the city.

Neue Mensa: The Mensa Wilhelmstrasse

Normalpost: surface mail.

Oberseminar: seminar for advanced students and doctoral candidates. Permission is required in order to enroll. Written assignments are required, and a final grade is received.

Ortsgespräch: local telephone call.

Pfennig: the smallest German coin, comparable to a US penny.

Postscheckkonto: a postal checking account.

Praktika: comparable to "Lab courses" and "Field courses" in American universities. Examinations are required, and a final grade is received.

Primary Education: The first stage of German public education, beginning at age six. Comparable to American elementary education.

Proseminar: a seminar in Grundstudium .

R-Gespräch: collect telephone call.

Realschule: comparable to an American Middle School and two years of High School. It prepares about twenty-five percent of German public school students for mid-level positions in the workforce.

Rückmeldung: "re-immatriculation" into the university. Each student enrolled in the university must renew his or her official student status before being allowed to enroll for the following semester. Appropriate forms and instructions are mailed to the student by the university each semester.

s.t.: "sine tempore." Courses designated "s.t." begin precisely on the hour. For example, a course which begins at 8:00 s.t. begins precisely at 8:00. See also Akademisches Viertel and c.t.

Schein: an official administrative document issued by a professor to the student upon successful completion of a course. It may or may not have a grade on it. It is the only administrative record of the student's participation in the course.

Schliessfach: a coin-operated storage locker, found in all airports and major train stations.

Schönbuch: a large, protected natural forest just north of Tübingen. One of the most popular recreational sites in the region, its hills are laced with hiking and biking trails, brooks and streams.

Secondary Education: The second stage of German public education, beginning at age ten. Comparable to American Middle School, High School and the first two years of university study.

Semester Break: the period between the end of the Wintersemester and the beginning of the Sommersemester .

Seminar
a.: the course most similar to American university courses. The professor interacts with students through dialogue and presentations. Tests and written assignments are required. The student receives a final grade for the course. b.: a specialized school or department of study within a Fakultät . For example, the "Deutsches Seminar" within the "Neuphilologische Fakultät."

Seminarbibliothek: departmental library.

Sommersemester: begins in April and ends in September.

Sozialgebühren: A non-waivable student services fee which all students, including international exchange students, must pay in order to enroll in the University. There are no waivers, no exemptions, no exceptions and no special cases regarding the payment of the Sozialgebühren .

Sparkonto: savings account.

Sprechstunde: the "speaking hour" or "office hours" of a German professor.

Studentenausweis: official student ID card.

Studentensekretariat: The administrative office of the University responsible for the enrollment of students in the University. Located at Wilhelmstrasse 11.

Student Residence Permit: Official residency permit issued to an international exchange student by the Amt für öffentliche Ordnung .

Studentenwerk: the "Student Services Organization" responsible for placing international students in dormitory housing. The Studentenwerk handles all questions related to dormitory housing.

Studienbuch: The student's "Official Student File and Transcript Book," issued to the student following his or her first registration. The student enters into the Studienbuch :

his or her Datenkontrollblatt following initial enrollment and each subsequent Rückmeldung
Belegbogen at the beginning of each semester, and
all Scheine from Vorlesungen, Seminare, Kolloquien , etc., at the end of each semester.

The Studienbuch is the only official record of the student's course work at Tübingen. A copy of its contents should be made and kept along with the Studienbuch in a safe place.

Temporary Residence Permit: An official Temporary Residence Permit issued to an international exchange student by the Amt für öffentliche Ordnung . The student should apply for this temporary permit immediately after moving into his or her housing in Tübingen. The Temporary Residence Permit is required in order to enroll in the University.

Tertiary Education: the third stage of German public education, comparable to the Junior and Senior years of Bachelor studies and two years of Master's studies in the American University system.

Tüinger Stift: founded in 1536. The Protestant Theological Seminary instrumental in establishing the academic reputation of the University of Tübingen.

Übersetzungsübungen: translation courses in German Language Departments.

Überweisung: a direct transfer of money from one bank account to another. Often used to pay routine monthly bills, such as rent, insurance, etc.

Übungen: comparable to "lab courses" in American universities. "Translation courses" in German Language Departments generally are listed as Übungen . Examinations are required, and a final grade is received.

Universitäten: German universities, offering either comprehensive or specialized education comparable to the Junior and Senior years and two years of Graduate study in an American university.

Universitätsbibliothek: the main university library, located at Wilhelmstrasse 32, across the street from the Mensa Wilhelmstrasse .

Verkehrsverein: the "Tourist Information Bureau" in Tübingen, located at the foot of the Neckarbrücke . It's the best source of information and orientation to the city.

Versicherungsdoppelkarte: an official health insurance coverage Identification Card. It is issued to the student by his or her German Krankenkasse , and is required before the student is allowed to register in the university.

Vordiplomprüfung: intermediate examination required after the fourth or fifth semester of studies in the Natural Sciences and some other majors. Successful completion of the Vordiplomprüfung is required before the student is permitted to begin the Hauptstudium . See also Zwischenprüfung .

Vorlesungen: the most commonly encountered courses in German universities. The professor delivers a monologue on a given subject. The course is open to all students. Attendance is not checked and there are no tests, written assignments of final grades.

Vorlesungskommentar: a list of course offerings. Published by each academic department at the beginning of each semester. It gives the time, location, and name of the professor for each course. Also known as a Kurskommentar .

Vorlesungsverzeichnis: a paperback book published by each German university at the beginning of each semester. It is best described as a combination "university catalog" and semester "Schedule of Classes." Available in all bookstores and newsstands in Tübingen.

Vorschule: the German equivalent of an American "Pre-School" for children.

Wahlessen: a typical "cafeteria" selection of food items.

Wintersemester: begins in October and ends in March.

Zulassungsbescheid: the official Letter of Admission into the university.

Zwischenprüfung: intermediate examination required after the fourth or fifth semester of studies in the Liberal Arts and Sciences and some other majors. Successful completion of the Zwischenprüfung is required before the student is permitted to begin the Hauptstudium . See also Vordiplomprüfung .

Homepage E-Mail (qzigr01@mailserv.uni-tuebingen.de)

qziinfo@www.uni-tuebingen.de

Housing:	DM 250,-
Food:	DM 300,-
Health Insurance:	DM 70,-
Clothing:	DM 70,-
Books:	DM 60,-
Transportation:	DM 50,-
Personal Hygiene:	DM 50,-
Laundry:	DM 15,-
Miscellaneous:	DM 85,-


TOTAL:	DM 950,-