High School in Germany
Participants
You can participate in the program if you are between 14 and 18 years old. German beginners may participate in the program as we offer intensive language training at the beginning of your stay. Our students come from all over the world. During the first two weeks you will participate in a language and orientation course at our DFSR premises in Heppenheim that prepares you for your stay. You will then travel to your host family.
Language and orientation course
33 years experience in inbound and outbound programs has shown us how important the orientation phase is for the success of a high school year. All DFSR students attend a language and cultural training course at the beginning of their time in Germany.
We are convinced that we have the responsibility to make sure that students coming from different cultures with little knowledge of German are well prepared before they go to their host families and start attending school.
Students are picked up at Frankfurt airport and then spend two weeks with us, getting used to the time difference, the language and being away from home. In their time here they are surrounded by students from all over the world, many stay in contact and all describe their time with us in Heppenheim as fun and helpful.
This period is also an opportunity for DFSR staff to really get to know the young people they take care of and the relationship established makes communication easier if problems come up later in the year. Our students enter the high school program relaxed and refreshed and in a position to face the new challenges with energy and confidence.
The language and orientation course includes accommodation, full board, 25 lessons per week, leisure activities and two full day activities.
In exceptional circumstances a student may enter the high school program without attending the language and orientation course. In those cases, a telephone interview is arranged to check the German skills before departure and the local coordinator carries out a shorter individual orientation in the host family home.
Host families and School
Host families are carefully screened and accept you into their home as a part of their family. They provide meals, comfortable living quarters and accessible transportation for their student. They help you become involved in social activities and take their time to help you in school. While you are living in Germany you will attend the local High School in the community. The High School provides an environment in which you can learn as well as making German friends.
Coordinators
DSFR has approximately 50 coordinators across Germany. Most of them have experienced an exchange year with DFSR. They are familiar with living away from home for a long time, know about the requirements and problems of the students, speak at least two languages fluently and have experience in adapting to a new country. In addition to assisting you with academic and social growth, our coordinators often serve as friends, providing insight and encouragement to program participants.
Travel opportunities
Located in the middle of Europe and offering a variety of points of interest, Germany is the perfect starting point for travelling. DFSR offers trips for all our international students for example to the famous castle of Neuschwanstein or to the beautiful city of Paris. With the permission of your parents, you will also be able to explore Germany on your own.
