Dear Prospective Students,
please find below the answers to the questions most frequently asked by our applicants. Please read these questions and answers carefully. If you need information not listed below, you should feel free to contact us.
Can I apply to the BA American Studies without German Language Skills?
While all our classes are taught in English, the program consists of a major in American studies and a minor for which you are expected to choose supplementary modules. Most of these are offered in German, limiting access to the program for students who do not speak the language. As of the Fall of 2016, international students have two options:
To apply to our regular BA program , you need to prove German language proficiency corresponding to 500 hours of instruction (~B1 in the metrics of the Common European Framework). This is meant to enable you to choose supplementary modules from the university's regular offerings.
Alternatively, you can apply to our new BAIT program . To apply for this program, you do not need any German language skills and select supplementary courses only from the English language offerings by other departments. You are expected to aquire basic German proficiency throughout the program. For more information, see our BAIT FAQ .
Are my English Language Skills sufficient?
To study in the BA program, you need language skills corresponding to the level B2. For German students, this usually means English language lessons starting in the seventh grade (six to seven years, depending on your type of school). Cf. also the Studentensekretariat and their PDF . For international students: If you are unsure whether your certificate is good enough, please contact the Studentensekretariat .
What is the language of instruction?
All classes at American Studies Leipzig are taught in English.
Is my Abitur Grade good enough to pass the NCU?
The NCU is determined annually by the university. The only way to find out is to try and apply.
Who can I turn to with more questions?
German applicants, please contact the Studentensekretariat with all questions on the admissions process. International students should also contact the International Center . If you have questions about American Studies (not the application process itself), you should also feel free to contact the ASL study advisers , preferrably in person during their office hours.
Is there a special entrance exam (Eignungsprüfung) for the BA program?
No. You only need the general "Hochschulzugangsberechtigung"--the permission to study at a German University—and evidence of the required English skills (cf. above)
I do not have a German Abitur. Can I still apply for the BA program?
If you are an international student (i.e. without a German highschool diploma called 'Abitur'), you should contact the University's International Center to learn about your options. The application process for the BA program is handled by the Studentensekretariat/the International Center, not by ASL directly, so we cannot help you with specific questions about this.
I want to transfer to Leipzig from a different university. Can I also transfer credit?
Generally, credit can be transferred. The specific number of credits that will get transferred, however, can only be determined once you have been admitted to the program at Leipzig.
Where can I take preparatory German classes?
The university offers a range of German courses, customized for different needs and target groups. Please consult this website: http://www.zv.uni-leipzig.de/en/study/international-study/general-information/preparing/german.html