| Location | Food | Orientation |
| Program Comparison | Program Structure | Travel |
| Dates | Academic Structure | Financials |
| Cost | Eligibility | Insurance |
| Housing | Credit | Health |
Where is the program located?
Berlin is located in northeast Germany. It is a large contemporary European city, which is known for its high energy, business, technology, politics, and cultural heritage.
How does this program differ from the Berlin program in the IES catalog?
Unlike the other IES Berlin program, the Business Studies in Berlin program offers classes in English. There is no language prerequisite, and it is specifically designed for students studying business, marketing, and economics. Students on the Business Studies in Berlin program are able to enroll in classes at both the Berlin School of Economics and the IES Center. An intensive pre-session language course is offered. Students receive basic support from the IES office. Participants on the other IES Berlin program are required to have four or five semesters of German and enroll in courses at Humbolt University and the IES Center.
What are the dates for this program?
This program is a spring semester program running approximately March through August. For updated program date information please visit the program dates and fees page.
Are there fees that I will have to pay to apply?
Yes, there is a $50 application fee.
Where will I live?
You will live in apartments with Germans. Your hosts will be German adults, families or students.
When will I find out where I am living? With whom will I live?
You will learn your exact housing location approximately four weeks before the program begins.
How close will my housing be to my classes?
Apartments are located throughout Berlin, and commuting distances are 15 to 45 minutes by public transportation from the IES Center.
Will I be able to meet and interact with people from the country in which I am studying?
Yes, you will be living with German students and some classes are integrated with host country nationals.
Where will I be eating my meals?
Cooking facilities are available in the apartments. You are responsible for your own meals. Participants will be provided with a blank university cafeteria pass and may add value to their cards at their own expense.
Are there food options available for vegetarians or vegans?
The student cafeterias offer a variety of meal options.
Who is in charge of the program?
The program is sponsored by the University of Minnesota and Penn State University. It is organized by IES, the Institute for the International Education of Students.
Who will I work with for all my pre-departure planning?
You will work with the Learning Abroad Center for all pre-departure planning.
How much work will I need to do on my own to prepare?
You should identify types of courses in advance that you would like to take while abroad and begin or continue to work on your language preparation.
What subjects can I study?
You can choose your courses from a specially selected list of courses offered at the Berlin School of Economics and the IES Center.
Will I know the exact classes I will be taking before I leave?
Yes, enrollment in desired courses is usually not a problem.
With whom will I be taking classes and who will teach my classes?
All classes at the Berlin School of Economics are with host country nationals or other foreign students and are taught by university professors. The courses at the IES Center are for program participants only.
How often will I attend class?
Classes typically meet for three hours per week. Students typically enroll in a total of four or five courses each semester.
In what language will my courses be taught?
English.
Is the Global Identity course required?
No, but this course is highly recommended and will help you make sense of the new ideas and experiences you encounter while abroad. Global Identity is a 1-credit, online course that will help you gain a better understanding of how to apply your new intercultural skills to your post-graduation plans.
What are the eligibility requirements for this program and do I have to take any prerequisite classes before I go?
You must have an overall GPA of 3.0 and sophomore, junior, or senior standing. You must also have a B average in business or economic classes and may have needed to complete some course prerequisites depending on your course selections.
Do I have to be an undergraduate student at the University of Minnesota to participate?
Yes.
How many credits will I receive and what kind of credit will I get?
You will receive 12–15 semester resident credits each semester.
How long will it take for my credits to show up on my transcript?
Two to four months after the end of the university’s examination period.
How will I know if these credits will count toward my degree requirements?
Students should consult with their departmental adviser prior to departure.
Will I attend an orientation before I leave?
Yes, a mandatory orientation is held in November. Visit the Orientation web page for orientation details and schedules.
Will I have an orientation once I arrive on site?
Yes, IES offers an orientation for all participants.
Are there other meetings I will have to attend before I leave?
If you are using financial aid, you should contact the Learning Abroad Center regarding a Study Abroad Cost Estimate.
Will I have to arrange my own travel or will it be arranged for me?
Students arrange their own flights.
Is there a group flight?
No. The Learning Abroad Center recommends STA and Village Travel but you use the vendor or travel agent of your choice. However, please do not purchase your ticket until the Learning Abroad Center verifies that your program dates are final. This usually means that you will book your ticket after your program orientation.
Will someone meet me at the airport when I arrive?
No. Students find their own way to the IES Center but you will receive additional information prior to departure with arrival instructions.
Do I need a visa?
No. You will enter Germany with only your passport and IES will assist you in getting a student residence permit upon arrival.
Can I travel during this program?
Yes, during official university and/or program breaks.
Are there any excursions planned during this program and will I have to pay for them separately?
Yes, IES offers excursions in and around Berlin.
Can I use my financial aid for this program?
Yes, you will need to receive a Study Abroad Costs Estimate (SACE) from the Learning Abroad Center after you are accepted.
Can I use my scholarships for this program?
Scholarships can usually be applied. Check with your scholarship provider.
Are there study abroad scholarships that I can apply for?
The University of Minnesota offers several scholarships. More information is available here.
Will I be covered by insurance while abroad?
You will be covered by Learning Abroad Center CISI insurance.
Do I need to keep my US insurance while I am abroad?
Yes. It is strongly recommended that you maintain your current insurance in order to cover pre-departure, return, and pre-existing conditions.
Are there any vaccinations I will need to get before going?
Generally not. Refer to the Centers for Disease Control website, and be certain all regular vaccinations (including tetanus) are up-to-date. You may also visit Boynton’s Travel Clinic.
What should I do about the prescription medicine I take?
Consult with your local physician and the German embassy. In most cases, take your medication along and bring the prescription. If significant medication is required (for conditions such as diabetes), be certain the dosage exists in Germany and identify an alternative as a precaution.
Last modified on November 21, 2008 |