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Certificate, Transcript of Records, Grades

  • Standard ISU course load

      - 1 German Course (four weeks) - 6 ECTS
      - 1 Supplement Course (two weeks)
      - 2 Academic Seminars (two weeks each) - 3 ECTS (each)

  • ECTS Credits

    ISU uses the grading system of Philipps-Universität Marburg. The system ranges from 15 (100%) to 5 (60%, passing). If you obtain less than 5 points as your final grade, you will fail the class and will not receive ECTS credits. The transcripts will always contain exclusively German/Philipps-Universität grades.

    A sample transcript is found below which lists grades, contact hours and the European credit system. The sample transcript shows a regular course load for one ISU program.

  • Attendance

    Attendance is mandatory. If you fail to attend classes without any given reason, this can result in grade cuts and/or a grade not being issued to you. Exams will not be accepted from participants who have not attended class. Health issues and other serious reasons for missing lectures, if reported to your teacher and ISU staff, count as excused . You may, however, be required to do additional work to make-up missed classes.

  • Coursework

    Lecturers will recommend relevant literature for their class and participants are expected to complete all required readings, as part of their grade. Independent study is a crucial element of the academic freedom of a German institution and is designed to encourage self-motivation and engagement. Therefore, the ISU expects that in addition to required readings, students will independently search for literature on their own to promote a more interesting discussion.

    Each module is comprised of 46 hours (in-class) plus study time for readings, homework, etc. Additionally, in order to receive the full amount of ECTS points for the academic thematic module, you are required to participate in evening events and in the mandatory weekend excursions. Please note, that the three-day excursion and one of the other trips is obligatory. If you wish, you can of course also participate in all excursions.

  • Class room building

    German universities typically do not have a central campus and the classrooms, libraries and administrative buildings and offices are usually scattered throughout the town. All ISU lectures will take place in the same building, the Center for Near and Middle Eastern Studies, but you will have to walk around town, if you wish to find the other faculties. The most important university related buildings for your program, such as the International Office, the ISU Office and the University library will be very close though.