Course Registration FAQs
Q. Can I take German Intensive 1 even if I’m not a complete beginner?
A. Intensive/Basic 1 is designed for beginners, but if you’ve studied a bit before and want to start fresh—from greetings and the alphabet—please talk to the instructor. They’ll be happy to advise you!
Q. If I’ve had some prior exposure to German, do I need to inform the instructors?
A. Yes, it’s a good idea to reach out. You’ll likely receive helpful advice tailored to your situation.
Q. Can I start from Intensive or Basic Level 2 or higher?
A. Yes. If you pass the placement test, you may begin at a level above Intensive or Basic 1.
Q. I’m not a first-year student. Can I still register?
A. Absolutely. Many second-year (and above) students begin a new language—there’s no problem at all.
Q. I didn’t pre-register. Is late registration possible?
A. If you’re a first-year student, your language class may already be pre-assigned by the university, so changing your language might not be allowed. Otherwise, contact the instructor by email to discuss your options.
Q. Where can I buy the textbook?
A. Textbooks are available at the campus co-op bookstore.
Q. German Intensive 1 seems to be mostly for new students. If I submit the application assignment and get accepted, can I take the class regardless of my year?
A. Yes, students of any year can join if they pass the selection process.
About the Class
Q. Do instructors stay the same on fixed days each week?
A. Yes. For example, in a class that meets twice a week, each session is usually led by a different instructor assigned to a specific day.
Q. Should I install the Slack app?
A. It depends on your device, but we recommend installing it on your phone so you can check messages easily. You can find more information about how to use Slack [here].
Other Questions
Q. I’m interested in becoming a Student Assistant (SA), but honestly I’m not confident in my grammar. What’s the typical German level of current SAs?
A. It varies—some have lived in Germany, while others started learning German at university. Some SAs had never been to Germany and began helping out right after completing Intensive 3. SA duties aren’t limited to just answering grammar questions, so if you have a genuine interest in German, go for it!
Q. Are there any recommended learning tools or reference books?
A. Yes! The German Department has created original digital learning materials. You can find more details [here]. They also have a variety of German resources available for borrowing.