Information about the preparation course

The university course is for the preparation of supplementary exams at Paris-Lodron-University of Salzburg (VPLUS). The aims of the course are to prepare international applicants so they can prove their knowledge of the German language according to (§ 63 (10) and (11) or §63 (10a) and (10b)  University Act of 2002). At the time of application proof of language proficiency at level B1 is required for admission to studies. Details on language certificates can be found here.

Students are eligible to participate in the preparation courses for three semesters and are classed as non-degree students during this time. The supplementary examination must be completed before admission to a regular course of studies at Paris-Lodron-University Salzburg (PLUS).

 Curriculum 2019S 


Prerequisites

Subject to sufficient course places, all participants who fulfil the following prerequisites can participate in the course:

  • Valid admission letter from the Rector of the Paris-Lodron University of Salzburg.
  • Registration and admission as a non-degree student with the given registration periods.
  • Full payment of the given course fees plus the Austrian Students’ Union (ÖH) fees within the given deadlines.
  • Obligatory placement test at registration.

*ÖH = Austrian Students’ Union


Course fees

Participants must pay course fees of EUR 850 per semester to attend the course.
Costs for course books are extra.
The course fee of EUR 850 is to be paid after registration.
If participants are not accepted on the course as places are limited or if the course is not held due to an insufficient number of participants, the course fee will be refunded.


Student Status

All participants registered in VPLUS are classed as non-degree students. You are classed as members of the university and receive a student card from the Paris-Lodron University of Salzburg.


Aims of the course

Students acquire language skills at level B2 + of the  Common European Framework of Reference for Languages. Students will develop language skills so they can cope in Austrian academic and general everyday life. They will have a good command of German which will enable them to follow and actively participate in courses. In addition to the linguistic and specialist knowledge required for their studies, study-specific skills, including the ability to learn autonomously and intercultural competences are key areas of VPLUS. This will enable students to act autonomously in university and non-university life.


Structure

The VPLUS consists of 3 modules including German courses at three different levels. The grouping is based on the language skills of the students according to a placement test. The passed placement test corresponds to the final exam of the previous module.

Modules following the curriculum 2019S

  • Module 1: Independent Language Use (starting at A2 – target level B1)
  • Module 2: Independent in Language and Culture (Start B1 – target level B1+/B2)
  • Module 3: Competent in Studies and Daily Life (Start B1+/B2 – target level B2+)

Examination & attendance

The courses continuously assess the student’s performance which means attendance is compulsory and is calculated from the first day of the course.  In all modules, assessment will take place in sub-module examinations (course-based examination form). When all courses in a module have been completed successfully, the module is considered complete.
The supplementary examination which needs to be carried out as a condition of the letter acceptance is considered to have been completed upon successful completion of the course. Along with the certificate of course completion you will also receive a confirmation of the completion of the supplementary examination.
In addition, the provisions of §§ 72-79 of the  University Act of 2002 and the study law section of the regulations of the University of Salzburg apply.