Frequently Asked Questions about Study in Marburg, Germany

Requirements

Who can study there?

Junior standing with strong German language skills (9 credits beyond GERM 004)

What are the programs dates?

The fall term is from early October through mid-February, while the spring term is from late March through mid July.

Do I need to know German?

Yes; classes are taught in German, and you will need to complete 9 credits beyond GERM 004 or 010 beore participating in this program.

Will my financial aid transfer? 

Because this is a Marquette-exchange program, most financial aid generally applies. To learn more about how this program will affect your specific financial aid package, please see the Office of Student Financial Aid.

Do I need a visa?  How do I get a visa? 

Yes, you need to apply two months in advance for your visa. More detailed information is available from Dr. Hosseini.

Do I need vaccinations before I travel?

Visit the Center for Disease Control's Traveler's Health Web site and/or SOS International for vaccination information.

About the Program

Who will my classmates be?

Your classmates will be student from Germany, other European countries and the rest of the world.

How many classes are taken per semester, on average?

On average students take 5 courses per semester.  

How many credits can I earn?

The number of credits for these classes range from 1 to five credits each depending of the program.

What subjects are offered?

German Language, Sciences, Mathematics, Philosophy, Theology, History, Literature, Political Science, Archaeology, Sociology, Geology, and Economics, to name a few.  A complete list of classes will be available when you apply.

Will my grades transfer? What are passing grades?

At Marburg, you will need to earn a grade point average of at least 3.5 points in order for your credits to transfer. 

Where will I live?

Student hostels are the first possibility. The student administration maintains 20 student hostels with a total of 2049 places for student accommodation in Marburg. Apart from student hostels, many students live in private accommodation or share flats.

Is there an orientation?

Yes. There is an extensive orientation for international students, as well as study support programs, reflecting UM’s experience with and dedication to integrating international students into its programs.

About the City

What is public transportation like?

Your student-ID serves as a ticket for the Rhein-Main-Verkehrsverbund RMV (Rhine Main PublicTransportation Network). With the semester ticket you are allowed to use any kind of public transportation belonging to the RMV, including buses, metros, trams and trains. The system covers the entire state of Hessen and extends to the main train station of Kassel.

How do I get around?

You are free to travel as often as your schedule allows.  German Federal Railways equal or surpass almost any other system in Europe today. Trains are said to be punctual, clean, and comfortable. 

Most fares are set up to be more costly for short trips.  You can save money with the Eurailpass, or by traveling in second class.  Buy your international railway tickets and railway agency coupons outside Germany to save money.

Another option is the Wunder Card: nine days of unlimited coach-class travel for around US$150, 16 days for close $200 (first class is slightly more); the card gives holders free bike rentals, discounts on river steamer voyages, and reduced fares on roundtrips to Berlin.

What is the weather like?

Germany has a temperate climate with warm summers and cold winters. The warmest time of the year is from May to September. The average temperature in July, for instance, varies from 61° to 68° F according to location. In January, the variation is from 21° to 34° F.

What is the cost of living compared to the United States?

The German unit of currency is the Euro. Credit cards are accepted in only about half of all businesses, so it's a good idea to carry cash or Eurocheques. As of June 2005, the exchange rate was 1.00 USD for 0.83 Euros. Tipping is not common, except to taxi drivers. The cost of living is comparable with the European average.

How can I find out more about the city?

For more information, please visit the city's Web site.

 Applying

What is the application deadline?

Program-specific applications are due by October 1 for the spring semester and March 15 for the fall semester.

How do I apply?

Program-specific applications are available from Dr. Jamshid Hosseini in Straz Hall 101.