In its new activity report, the Student Ombudsman Service advocates a higher language barrier for foreign applicants who must complete prior education. Instead of the current level A2, in the future they will have to prove German language proficiency at level B1 in order to participate in the course.
The reason given by the ombudsman is that many universities are currently overloaded with many admission applications from international applicants. Anyone who, as a third-country national, wants to study in Austria as a regular student must, depending on the university, demonstrate German language proficiency at B2 (“independent use of the language”), but usually at C1 level (“competent use of the language”). the language”).
Preparation course for language acquisition
Until then, even without language skills, as an exceptional listener you can follow a so-called language acquisition preparation course, which ends with an additional exam. To participate in this course, you must currently demonstrate basic German language proficiency at A2 level.
Recently, applications for admission from international students to some universities have continued to rise. This has led to the ombudsman being regularly approached by foreign students about postponed admission decisions. After all, admission to a university is not the only process they have to go through to obtain a residence permit.
Real opportunity
From the Ombudsman’s point of view, a higher language level for previous education makes sense because it could lead to a reduction in the number of admission applications and therefore those applicants would have a real chance “because of the knowledge of German they have already acquired”.
Deadlines are better respected
In addition, deadlines can be better adhered to, so that international students can submit a visa application on time and comply with official agreements. And finally, in the preparatory course it is easier to get from B1 to the language level B2 or C1 required for the course within four semesters than to drop from the A2 level.
Source: Krone
I am Wallace Jones, an experienced journalist. I specialize in writing for the world section of Today Times Live. With over a decade of experience, I have developed an eye for detail when it comes to reporting on local and global stories. My passion lies in uncovering the truth through my investigative skills and creating thought-provoking content that resonates with readers worldwide.
