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Academic Year Abroad Students and adults ages 17 and above www.ef.com

Student Handbook Your guide to the EF experience.

Welcome to the EF family We can't wait to help you develop your language fluency, but before you arrive and start exploring new cultures, be sure to read this handbook on the EF experience.

Dear Student, Welcome to your EF Academic Year Abroad. Prepare for an unforgettable adventure as you explore a new destination, meet new friends and dedicate yourself to fluency in another language. You’ll head home at the end of your course with an international network for life – not to mention the academic credentials you’ll need to bring your professional dreams to life.

You’ll make maximum progress by learning a language where it’s natively spoken – and gain confidence as you make your destination your home. We’ll ensure that you have dedicated support to make the most of your time abroad, whilst you set personal and educational goals for the coming months to benchmark your success.

This handbook will provide the information you need for your stay abroad – from arrival and your first day of class to settling into a new culture. Take a little time to read through it and be sure to bring it to your destination as you never know when you’ll need to find out more about something.

Good luck and travel safely – we’re looking forward to welcoming you at our course center.

Sincerely, Name Title

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Contents Welcome to the EF family 3 What to expect

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Meeting a new culture

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Getting ready for your trip

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Starting your program at school 17

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How you’ll learn

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A home away from home

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Accommodation FAQs

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Your free time

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We are here to help

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Our school code

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Share your experience

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Things to remember

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What to expect You’re in store for a great adventure.

Know what to expect from your Academic Year Abroad – and what we expect of you.

From our innovative teaching styles and language exams to accommodation and required attendance, this is what to expect during your time abroad with EF. What to expect before you depart › Information about your course and destination › Assistance in arranging flights and organizing visa applications › Access to MyEF › Invitation to pre-departure meetings What to expect from your language course › Staff to provide support and answer questions around the clock › Teaching that blends classroom lessons, interactive tools and cultural immersion › Assistance if you wish to prepare for a language exam › A wide range of leisure activities – either free or for a small cost › A course diploma and a language certificate, which requires 80% attendance › EF Mentor – a member of staff who you will meet at the beginning of your program and is available for support and advice in any issues related to your welfare.

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›E F Academic Follow Up meetings where you'll discuss your academic progress and goals with a member of the academics team.

What to expect from your homestay ›E xperiencing a new culture ›E njoy breakfast and dinner Monday-Friday and all meals on weekends ›A one-hour maximum commute to school ›S haring twin accommodation with a student from another country What to expect from your residence ›A one-hour maximum commute to school ›S haring your accommodation with a student from another country.

What we expect from you ›T ell EF School Staff if something feels wrong or doesn't meet your expectations. ›R espect your homestay hosts, fellow students and environment ›F ollow all regulations set out by your school, as well as the laws of your host country ›K eeping your belongings neat at school and in your residence or homestay › At least 80% attendance in class 7

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Meeting a new culture Exploring a new culture is one the most rewarding but challenging aspects of an EF Academic Year Abroad. It's not always easy to leave the familiar behind, but we are here to help every step of the way.

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New friend s!

New clothes!

New architecture!

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New greetin gs!

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Culture | ˈkʌltʃə |

Welcoming another culture

What is culture shock?

Culture is a mix of beliefs, customs, art and language that define a society or population. It’s learned from family, teachers and friends, knowingly and unknowingly. Your culture determines how you perceive yourself, the way you relate to others and what you consider important. It shapes your identity – and makes it easy to connect with people from your country.

Culture shock can begin as the initial excitement of your new destination subsides. You may feel uneasy or homesick, which leads to identifying drawbacks of the new country and becoming critical to those around you. It’s not uncommon to experience physical symptoms like trouble sleeping or losing your appetite. Rest assured that this period of adjustment will pass – and we’re here to help.

Behaviors and practices are easy to see, but our attitudes and core values aren’t as simple to pinpoint. Immerse yourself in a new culture by reflecting on what you’re most excited to try or learn about your destination’s culture.

Remember: a new culture isn't better or worse – it's just different. Your EF Academic Year Abroad is a truly unique opportunity to embrace the differences of another culture and return home as a more informed and culturally aware individual.

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Culture shock | ˈkʌltʃə ʃɒk |

How to conquer culture shock › Make friends from countries other than your own – and spend time with those people. › Keep busy – from studying to playing a sport and joining a club. › Sleep on decisions – like changing your course or homestay. These are best made after you’ve adjusted to your destination. › Write it down to help sort through how you're feeling. › Set goals. You’ll be reminded of your Language Course’s purpose. › Remember that you’re growing through these experiences – overcoming them will make you stronger. › Talk to members of staff and your EF Mentor.

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CHECKLIST    

Getting ready for your trip Your trip is right around the corner. Be sure you don’t miss anything before you leave – from applying for visas to getting airline tickets.

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Sign and return the Code of Conduct

Sign and return the Terms and Conditions

Sign and return your completed medical form

Take the Placement Test on My EFTM Ensure you have a valid passport Apply for the required visas

Long-term study abroad insurance Book flights

Arrange transfers

Enter your flight details into My EFTM Attend an EF Departure Meeting Pack medicine

Phone numbers and addresses of your loved ones and emergency contacts in your destination

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Get money in your destination’s currency Get school supplies Driver's license Adapters

Mobile phone and charger

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My EF

Passport

Transfers

pre-Departure meeting

Log on to My EF – a social network exclusively for EF students. Use it to take your placement test, get in touch with future classmates, fill in flight and airport transfer details, join our Ambassador program, practice your language skills or explore your destination. Check your inbox for the email you received with login details upon enrollment – and log on at my.ef.com.

Make sure that your passport is valid for the duration of your stay abroad and six months after your return. If you’re required to have valid identification while at your destination, your passport will work for this. Before you leave, make a copy of it to bring along to your destination and one to leave at home – this will come in handy if your passport gets lost.

Your local EF office can help with arranging transportation to and from your destination's airport – which you can reserve over the phone or on My EF. Students who choose to use our transfer service will be met at the airport by an EF Representative and driven to their accommodation’s front door. Please keep in mind, we have many students arriving at the same time so you may have to wait a little for other students to arrive.

You’ll find out more about life at your destination, get a packing list and meet fellow classmates at our Pre-Departure Meeting – which is essential for you to attend. You’ll receive an email invitation to your Pre-Departure Meeting, which you can attend either online or in person.

Phone numbers and addresses

My Visa

Long-term Insurance

Medicine

We’ll provide the instructions if you need to apply for a visa prior to departure. You’re responsible for your visa application – so, be sure to start applying in time and pay all fees required for the application process.

You can always get in touch with your local EF office for more information regarding the visa you need to travel abroad.

It is mandatory for all EF students to have travel coverage. Erika Insurance Ltd. offers tailor-made coverage exclusively for EF Students which includes: › Unlimited medical coverage (some exclusions apply) › Flight, hotel and meal costs for two family members to visit in case of a critical illness or accident › Refunded course fee per day that is missed due to illness or accident › Coverage for all EF-organized sports and activities › Coverage in case of theft of personal belongings – including valuables and cash › Third Party Liability and Legal Assistance.

If you take medicine, it’s important that you bring enough of your prescription to last for the duration of your trip – unless you’re sure you can get a prescription at your destination. Tuck away any extra medicine, glasses or contact lenses in your carry-on luggage.

Flights Your local EF office can help with arranging your flights. Our travel services ensure competitive prices and flexible tickets – which means you can rebook your flight. Once your flight booking is completed, enter your trip details into My EF, so the school staff and your homestay hosts know when to expect you and can arrange your transfer from the airport.

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PASS

Erika has been the exclusive insurance provider to EF customers for 19 years.

People working in the EF schools are familiar with this insurance company and know what to do and where to call in case of an emergency. They also have claim forms at hand to help students with minor issues.

Make sure that you have the phone number and address of your local EF office, airport transfer service, EF school and accommodation filled out at the back of this handbook. These will come in handy if you need to communicate flight delays or changes in your schedule.

Money

School supplies

Bring enough money to cover public transportation expenses for the first week of your stay. You may want to bring a little extra in case you’d like to purchase snacks or souvenirs. You can request the currency used in your destination from your local bank.

Bring pens and notebooks along with you to your destination. Should you choose to bring a dictionary with you – we recommend bringing one translated into your native language, as well as one in your study language. You’ll receive all additional course material upon your arrival to school.

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Learning a language with EF is more than just classroom study – you’ll also sharpen your skills by practicing in real-world situations and in technology-enhanced lessons, which we call iLab. Make sure you speak your study language as much as you can – you’ll see the results in no time.

Your language level Before you leave for your course destination, you’ll need to log on to your My EF account and take our language test. We’ll use your results – along with an oral test on your first day of school – to make sure you’re in the right class. There are six different stages and each stage has three different levels (i.e. B1-1, B1-2 and B1-3).

Starting your program Get everything you need to know about your year abroad with EF – from what your first day of school will look like to what to do when you’re absent.

› A1 – Beginner › A2 – Elementary › B1 – Intermediate › B2 – Upper Intermediate › C1 – Advanced › C2 – Proficiency

Your first day of school Your first day of school starts at 8.30am on the Monday after you arrive – most students arrive at their destination on Sunday. Your first day will be spent getting ready for your studies by taking an oral assessment and meeting classmates and teachers. You’ll also receive your timetable, academic year calendar, student ID and a welcome pack before going on a neigbourhood tour.

Your schedule EF Academic Year Abroad programs are divided into different terms depending on length: › Academic Semester – 2 terms, 1 vacation › Academic Year – 3 terms, 2 vacations › Academic Year Extended – 4 terms, 3 vacations Your timetable is structured based on the program you’re studying. You’ll have either 32, 30 or 26 lessons per week, each lasting for 40 minutes – mostly organized in double lessons lasting one hour and 20 minutes, with classes in both the morning and afternoon. There are no lessons on national holidays

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Vacations Start Date: Jan 2016 Semester: 19 March - 3 April Year: 19 March - 3 April, 4 June - 12 June Start Date: April 2016 Sem: 4 June - 12 June Year: 4 June - 12 June, 3 Sep - 18 Sep Start Date: June 2016 Sem: 3 Sep - 18 Sep Year: 3 Sep - 18 Sep, 24 Dec - 8 Jan Start date: September 2016 Sem: 23 Dec - 8 Jan Year: 24 Dec - 8 Jan, 8 April - 23 April Start date: November 2016 Sem: 24 Dec - 8 Jan Year: 24 Dec - 8 Jan, 8 April - 23 April Start date: January 2017 Sem: 8 April - 23 April Year: 8 April - 23 April, 10 June - 18 June

Attendance It’s really important to attend all of your classes – but, if you’re ill or can’t make it, be sure to let the Academic Office know.

If you’re ill for three days or more, you’ll need to bring a doctor’s note with you when you return to class. If you’re not sure how to get a doctor’s note, talk to the staff at your school.

Please remember that we’ll have to send you a warning letter if your attendance gets close to the minimum of 80%. If you're under 18, we’ll also have to contact your parents or sponsors if your attendance continues to decline.

Changing or extending your program The Academic team can advise you on all the different study programs that EF offers. If you’d like to change your program or school or extend your stay, just come see us.

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Our learning methodology combines classroom lessons with multimedia materials and EF course books – we call it the EF Efekta™ Learning System. It’s a blended learning approach, which means you’ll learn both in class and online, using iPads and iLabs.

General language lessons Fourteen of your lessons will focus on general language skills like vocabulary, grammar, reading, writing, listening, speaking and pronunciation. A further six teacher-led lessons will take place in iLab or in class using interactive iPad activities.

You’ll also have one, 80-minute lecture per week. Each one will focus on a different subject – like history, art, local culture or current affairs.

How you’ll learn Our innovative learning method guarantees that you’ll make maximum progress in your studies – and you’ll have our support around the clock.

Special interest classes In addition to your General Language classes, you’ll have 10 Special Interest classes (SPIN classes) for subjects that you’re interested in or that you’d like to use for your career or education goals. The SPIN class options you can choose from depends on what program you’re enrolled in and which classes are available during your stay. You can also take online SPIN classes, which you can complete in individual iLab sessions.

Academic year abroad projects As part of your EF Academic Year Abroad Program, you'll also complete special projects that combine classroom lessons with real-world practice and research. They're designed to combine academic study with a unique cultural experience. All students will read a novel, make an academic portfolio of their work and enjoy study visits.

iLabs iLabs are computer rooms where you'll complete some of your course curriculum.

You can also study, complete online work for class or just access the Internet to check your Facebook. Check the school notice board for iLab opening times.

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Outside the classroom Traveling to another country to learn the language means a lot of opportunities to practice. To really advance your fluency, speak the language outside of the classroom and make friends with students from other countries.

And remember, don’t be afraid to make mistakes!

ACADEMIC FOLLOW UP

To ensure you meet your academic goals, you will regularly meet with EF teachers to discuss your progress and best practices to maximize your language development.

Homework Your teachers will give you homework to complement your work in class. Ask your teacher if you’d like extra homework, practice or assignments.

Monitoring your progress To check that you’re at the right learning level, there will be class tests and quizzes each week.

We’ll also give you a progress test at the end of each study stage. You can follow your progress on your iTracker.

Proof of your success EF offers language exams in all the languages that we teach. If you’ve attended at least 80% of your classes, you can take the EF Standard English Test (EFSET) in your final week at school.

This test evaluates your language level using the internationally-recognized Common European Framework of Reference standards.

We can also prepare you for official exams in your study language. If you reserve them in advance – and they're available at your course center. Talk to your school's Academic Team or EF Office to find out more about exam dates, costs and availability.

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Accommodation FAQs

A home away from home Sit back and relax – whether you’re coming home to a local family, living at a residence in the heart of your destination city or staying just steps from the school.

What is typical EF accommodation like?

Our homestay hosts come from all walks of life and from a wide range of ethnic and religious backgrounds, reflecting the multicultural society of your destination. Our homestay demographic is represented mostly by middle-income households. There’s no typical homestay. Among EF hosts there are people of all ages; including young professionals, middle-aged or retired people, couples without children, families or single parents with children of any age, single people.

An EF Residence is usually off-site while an EF Campus is usually just steps from your classes.

With both types of accomoodation, you will live with students from around the world. The location of EF Residences can vary, but they're always located near local amenities and transport links.

Do I have a curfew time?

If you’re 16 or 17 years old, you have a curfew for returning home. This may vary from destination to destination but please respect the times you are given, they are for your own safety.

What should I do if I want to stay out?

You may only do so if you’re over 18. Always tell your homestay or Residence Advisor if you’re not going to spend the night at home or going away for the weekend. If your hosts are expecting you home and you don’t arrive, they will report you as missing to the police. When going out, it’s a good idea to only carry exactly what you’ll need – like small amounts of cash, your EF ID and a copy of your passport.

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How do I keep my important things safe?

Keep your passport, return ticket, money, traveler’s cheques and anything else valuable in a safe place (i.e. your locked suitcase). Tell your school staff immediately if anything goes missing.

What should I do if I damage something in my accommodation?

At an EF Homestay, any damages or breakages you cause should be resolved between you and your homestay hosts – but we can help if needed. It’s best that you offer to pay for any damages you cause or claim them on your insurance. At an EF Residence or Campus, you may have to bring an accommodation deposit along with you to your destination. This will be returned upon your departure, given there are no damages.

Can I change my accommodation?

Please come see the Accommodation Team at your EF center if you're not comfortable – as it's one of our top priorities. Changes are usually made on the weekend – and we'll need parental consent if you're under 18. For homestays, please keep in mind that it is not possible to change based on distance from school and that it may not be possible to change your family immediately during busy times of the year.

Can I stay in my own accommodation?

If you’re staying in your own or private accommodation, you must tell EF about address and telephone number and update us of any changes during your time with us. Remember, it’s your responsibility to deal with landlords and letting agents, not EF’s.

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EF Homestay

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EF Residence or EF Campus

Stay with an EF Homestay for maximum cultural exchange. Keep in mind that each host is different and unique – just like your family back home.

Staying at an EF Residence or EF Campus gives you the chance to meet new friends and share your experience of living in another country.

Some important things to remember: › You

may be sharing a room in your EF Homestay with another EF student of the same gender › You’ll be given a key to the house – but if you lose it, you’ll have to pay for a new one. ›Y ou should always ask your hosts’ permission before bringing friends back to the house. ›B reakfast and dinner (Mon-Fri) and all meals during the weekend are included. Be sure to let your homestay hosts know if you're going to miss a meal. › P art of living abroad means you’ll need to try new dishes. If there are certain foods you really can’t eat for any reason, let the staff know. › I f you get hungry during the day, you’ll need to buy extra snacks for yourself. ›Y our hosts will wash your bed linen but you’ll need to clean your own clothes, either at home or at a local laundrette. Ask your hosts how it works in their house and speak to your school staff to find out more about how much a laundrette costs. ›A lways ask your hosts before using their home telephone to make a call. It’s usually easier to buy a prepaid phone card from the Activities Office at your EF course center. ›Y ou can always access the internet at your EF school. Ask your homestay host’s permission to use the Internet at home. Remember never to download any illegal material from the internet, either at school or your homestay.

Some important things to remember: › You may be sharing a room with other EF students. The number of students in your room varies depending on your destination and your specific residence. You’ll find out who your roommates are when you arrive at your residence. › Nationalities of students staying together in an EF Residence vary greatly, so it’s a great opportunity to connect with people from around the world. › Meals provided depend on your destination and residence. Many residences feature shared kitchens where you can prepare your own meals. Speak to your local EF office or school staff to find out more about catering options. › It’s a good idea to prepare for your stay abroad by planning a weekly budget. Remember that you’ll be sharing space with other students. › Alcohol is not allowed on any of EFs premises, including the Residence and Campus.

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Our Activities Team fills the weekly schedule with fun activities for you to take part in. You’ll find a variety of day, evening and weekend excursions, events, sports, parties and visits to attractions including theme parks, museums and iconic landmarks.

Exciting weekly Activities

Your free time Make the most of your trip abroad – explore your new city, go on a weekend getaway or simply enjoy time with fellow students.

Activities organized by EF make it simple and fun to learn more about the country, meet friends, practice your language skills – and take home some great memories. You can get a new weekly schedule every Monday from the Activities Office or log on to my.ef.com to find out what’s been planned.

Excursions We organize day and weekend trips to the most famous cities and main attractions in the country, available throughout your stay. You’ll find these trips advertised in advance with posters around the school, as well as on My EF and Facebook. Simply sign up in the Activities Office, where you can find more information on all the excursions offered by your EF course center.

18+ activities The legal drinking age in many countries is 18 years old, although the exact age depends on the specific country you’re staying in. EF will sometimes host parties off-site, and for many of these events you must be the minimum drinking age or older to attend. You’ll need to show a valid ID, such as a passport or national identity card. Drink responsibly – and we recommend traveling home in a group for safety.

Items for sale You’ll find plug adapters, postcards, EF souvenirs, SIM cards for mobile phones and other useful items for sale in your school’s Activities Office.

Sports equipment If you need sports equipment, check with the Activities Office to see if you can borrow things like footballs, tennis rackets or ping pong paddles and balls.

Independent travel If you’d like to travel by yourself, our Activities Team are always available to offer helpful advice and suggestions. You’ll also find guide books, magazines and folders full of useful information about places to visit.

EF student card You’ll be given your EF student card on the first day of school. Always keep it with you, as it will be used to identify you within the school or EF accommodation. You can usually use this card to get discounts around the city in restaurants, shops and attractions – find out more at your school’s Activities Office.

Destination to-do list:    

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Eat local

Be amazed

Explore your city

Take a trip out of town

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Your school’s team Raise your concerns, ask your important questions and let us know how we're doing.

Director of Studies & Academic Director Talk to the Director of Studies regarding any academic-related matters – such as certificates or exam dates.

School Director The School Director is the head of the school and manages school operations and staff.

We're here to help Regardless of whether you have a question or just need some friendly advice – we’re here for you.

You

Residence Advisor Any queries regarding residence life should go to the Residence Advisor.

Accommodation Manager & Housing Director Any queries regarding host families should go straight to the Housing Director.

Teachers If you think you’re in the wrong class level, let your teacher know – and they'll give you the support you need.

EF Office After talking to members of staff at school, contact (market's) EF Office with any remaining questions.

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Our school code was created together by EF school staff and students to make sure our course centers are happy places to be. It’s essential that you stick to the following guidelines at all times:

The pieces of a successful program

To ensure maximum progress, speak your study language at all times.

Actively participate in class and complete all homework.

Arrive to class on time – you won’t be allowed in if you’re more than ten minutes late.

If you’re going to miss a class because you’re sick or for any reason, let the school know immediately.

Your property is special – and so is ours. Make sure you take care of it.

Always treat your fellow students, staff and homestay hosts with respect.

Our school code You deserve the best experience – that’s why we have a school code. Follow our guidelines for the experience of a lifetime.

Attend all your lessons – you need at least 80% attendance to graduate and take the final language exam.

Keep your mobile phone switched off in class and don’t bring food or drinks to lessons

Most importantly, you must always follow all national and local laws.

What happens if I break a rule?

Our school code is important to us – but any national laws are much more serious. If you break any EF rules or local laws – like persistent absence from class, demonstrate disruptive behavior or commit any criminal offence – we reserve the right to terminate your course.

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You are about to start the adventure of a lifetime – but how will you remember the view from your room, the smell of your favorite bakery or that first moment of language fluency? Here are some ways to make the memories last longer than your suntan:

Blog

Share your experience Capture every moment of your EF adventure and share it with friends and family through blog posts, vlogs and photo journals.

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Creating a blog is an easy way to document and share your experience abroad – as well as practice your language skills! There are no limits to what content you can produce as spending up to 11 months exploring a new culture will turbo charge your creative side. Try your hand at travel writing, review popular foods from your destination or keep a detailed journal to look back on for years to come – the choice is yours!

What's more, it doesn’t cost a thing to set up a blog on Wordpress, Blogger and Tumblr.

Instagram Wherever you go and whatever you experience, you are guaranteed to see sights that will leave you speechless – in all languages you speak!

Luckily, where words fail you, your camera is there to help. Once you’ve captured the iconic sights and hidden gems of your destination, make sure to post them to Instagram with #EFmoment included in the caption.

Share on social media Once you’ve snapped, typed and posted your experiences, share your story on social media so your friends and family can follow your journey.

Vlog Press record. Talk. Edit. Upload. Setting up a vlog is that easy. Plus, it captures your exact emotions and reactions to your year abroad.

Talk about cultural misunderstandings, life on campus or give life to any story you want to tell about your time in a new country. Speak in your native tongue or practice your new language skills – you’ll be surprised at how much a vlog can help develop your fluency, especially with local expressions and phrases.

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Things to remember This contact information will come in handy during your stay. Be sure to fill it all in before you leave for your adventure abroad.

Important addresses and phone numbers My local EF office Address: ____________________________________________________________________ Phone: ______________________________________________________________________ Email: _______________________________________________________________________ Skype: ______________________________________________________________________ You can find the following information on My EF. My transfer service Address: ____________________________________________________________________ Phone number: _______________________________________________________________ Emergency phone number: ____________________________________________________ My EF school Address: ____________________________________________________________________ Phone number: _______________________________________________________________ School director’s name:________________________________________________________ My accommodation Address: ____________________________________________________________________ Phone number: _______________________________________________________________

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Notes

The place for your own #EFMoment

The place for your own #EFMoment The place for your own #EFMoment

The place for your own #EFMoment

The place for your own #EFMoment

The place for your own #EFMoment The place for your own #EFMoment

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Check out #EFMoment on Instagram for student memories.

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Combined language and academic studies www.ef.com

EF International Language Centers www.ef.com Bureau de Bordeaux Tél. : 05 56 80 17 93 Fax : 01 42 86 09 91 ef.bordeaux@ef.com Tél. : 03 88 16 16 05 Fax : 03 88 16 17 89

Bureau de Nantes 2 allée Duquesne 44000 Nantes Tram: place du cirque Tél. : 0800 94 01 31 Fax : 01 42 86 09 91

Midi-Pyrénées Sophia Djemmali 29 bis rue Ingres 31130 Quint Fonsegrives Tél. : 05 61 23 63 94