Berlin, Germany

Summer - Language & Culture

Study Abroad
Length:
Summer

At a Glance

Housing:

Apartment

Credits:

6 to 9 per Summer

Language of Instruction:

English, German

Language Prerequisites:

None

About the Program

Immerse yourself in the contemporary culture of Berlin while exploring the rich heritage and fascinating history of Germany through integral course-related trips that take you outside of the classroom. 

Background Image Mask
Improve Your German

This program connects your coursework with the city's history.

Background Image Mask
Berlin Will Be Your Classroom

Journey outside the classroom to discover Berlin's rich heritage.

Background Image Mask
Study in the Historical Center of Berlin

Which has vibrant cafes, restaurants, and galleries.

Background Image Mask
Connect with Your Program Advisor

Your IES Abroad advisor is your #1 resource for preparing to study abroad.

Summer 2025

Program Dates:

June 03 - July 19

Application Deadline:

Estimated Cost:

$
6,953

Program Advisor

This person does not have a headshot photo

Sabrina Wu

Once you’ve applied for a program, I’ll be your direct point of contact. From housing to course registration and everything in between, I’m here to help you prepare to study abroad. Once you’re accepted to your program, you’ll find even more detailed information about what you need to know before you depart in your Predeparture Guide. Let’s get started!

📱 800.995.2300 ✉️ study@IESabroad.org

About the Destination

An arial view of Berlin, Germany.

Why Berlin?

The minute you step off the plane in Berlin, you’ll feel its energy. It’s a place of new ideas, where sustainable technology and modern design are a way of life, and art galleries can be found on nearly every corner. But don’t forget, Berlin has also been at the center of modern European history--from the intellectual foundations of Socialism and the introduction of the modern European welfare state to the catastrophe of two world wars that divided the continent: Berlin has no equal for leaving its imprint on the political, social and cultural history of the 20th century. We invite you to study the historical and cultural heritage of this vibrant city.

Learn More About Berlin

Get to Know Your New City

Background Image Mask
Relax in Parks & Green Space

Stroll, cycle, swim, or picnic in one of Berlin's 2,500 parks.

Background Image Mask
Visit Neighborhoods

The city's neighborhoods give Berlin its unique character.

Background Image Mask
Observe the Architecture

See restored buildings juxtaposed against modern structures.

Background Image Mask
Check Out the East Side Gallery

The Berlin Wall is now an outdoor art exhibition.

The Student Experience

View All Blogs

Housing

A student apartment in Berlin with a view overlooking the city
  • Apartment
  • Living with Locals

Apartment

Small Studio Apartment - You will live in a single studio with a private bathroom and either a private or shared kitchenette. Students typically prepare their own meals in their housing or dine in student cafeterias or affordable restaurants. No meals are provided with this housing option. All studios include high-speed internet. Laundromats are available at extra cost.

Shared Apartment - Live with other IES Abroad Berlin students in mixed-gender student apartments with separate rooms and shared living room, fully equipped kitchen, and bathroom. No meals are provided with this housing option. All studios include high-speed internet. Laundromats are available at no extra cost.

Academics

Our mission is simple: to provide you with the best study abroad program possible—which includes the highest quality academic and cultural experiences. We offer unique courses that explore German Language, History, Culture, and other topics through an in-depth and hands-on approach. Our experienced faculty facilitate a unique academic experience and provide you with new perspectives both in and out of class.

Courses

You take two courses for a total of 6  credits. You may take an additional German language course for a total of 9 credits at an additional cost.  

  • IES Abroad German Language courses (*3-credits) required for students with less than one year of college-level German; optional but highly recommended for intermediate-level students 
  • English-taught IES Abroad area studies courses (3-credits) 
  • German-taught IES Abroad Literature course (3-credits) (prerequisite: at least 4 semesters of college-level German) 

This is a list of planned course offerings. After you are accepted, you will see a list of final course offerings in your MyIESabroad account. Additionally, IES Abroad reserves the right to cancel a course due to insufficient enrollment or circumstances beyond our control.

IES Abroad Courses

Disciplines (9)

Architecture (1)

Course name Term Language Credits
US/AT/ES 315 - Urban Design and Sustainability Fall, Spring, Summer English 3
PRO-TIP

Apply for your passport today!

Getting your passport is a crucial step for studying abroad. With processing times taking longer than usual, consider this a gentle reminder to not procrastinate on getting or renewing your passport.

Learn More
passport stamps and stickers inside of passport books

Field Trips

Even though your adventure starts in Berlin, our field trips take you beyond the city to discover the culture and traditions of your host country. All trips are included in the program fee unless otherwise noted with ($).

NOTE: IES Abroad field trip destinations, activities, and lengths of stay may vary according to term and availability. 

Program Cost

Consider these prices as a starting point. We encourage you to contact your current college or university to determine the actual cost to you when factoring in financial aid, scholarships, your school's policies, and other factors.

Summer 2025

Tuition
$
5,227
Housing
$
1,591
Insurance
$
135
Total
$
6,953

Use Our Budget Worksheet to Calculate Your Costs

See the Worksheet
APPLY FOR SCHOLARSHIPS

$7 Million in Scholarships & Aid

We firmly believe that financial limitations should not prevent a qualified student from studying abroad. This is why we commit millions of dollars to our study abroad scholarships and aid.

Learn More
Two students snorkel in the ocean.

About the IES Abroad Center

The Center is where our highly trained local staff provide on-the-ground support throughout your time abroad. 

The IES Abroad Berlin Center is located in the city’s historical Center, called Mitte. Whether you’re taking a stroll through the nearby Humboldt University, bopping around the world-famous Museum Island, or commuting past the Brandenburg Gate, the Center is your study abroad hub.  

 

Orientation

Start at Home
Our Comprehensive Orientation & Re-Entry Experience (CORE™) begins at home with our virtual orientation to meet the IES Abroad Center staff, fellow students, and the city.
Arrive in Berlin
Orientation continues when you arrive onsite with activities focusing on adjusting to Berlin. Detailed information about other important topics is also covered.
Get to Know the City
Beyond orientation sessions, you will have opportunities to explore Berlin and attend a welcome reception to help you feel at home in your new environment.
Prepare to Learn
Feel prepared to begin classes with practical lessons, activities designed to help you learn your way around the area, and support from our dedicated student staff.
Settle In
Orientation continues throughout the semester with field trips allowing you to both further sample elements of German culture and get to know the other students.

Health & Safety

With 70 years of experience, we are proud to set the standard for health and safety in study abroad. Our Chicago-based and on-site staff are all highly trained and experienced in the matters of health, safety, and crisis management. We are here for you from predeparture to your return, and are ready to support you—no matter which time zone you’re in. We plan for "what ifs" so that you don’t have to. From international health insurance included in the cost of your program to highly-trained local staff who can connect you to English-speaking healthcare providers, we are working around the clock to ensure your health and safety while abroad.

Support You Can Expect to Receive on Our Programs

Background Image Mask
CISI International Health Insurance

In the case you need to see a doctor or mental health professional.

Background Image Mask
24/7 Emergency Support

Whether you encounter an issue while traveling or in your host city.

Background Image Mask
Mandatory Cell Phone Policy

Receive any emergency updates from IES Abroad staff via call or text.

Background Image Mask
Location-Specific Information

Health and safety information presented at orientation by on-site staff.

Background Image Mask
TripTracker System

Allowing you to share independent travel plans.

Background Image Mask
Crisis Drills

So that you feel prepared to respond to an emergency should one arise.

Program Dates

Summer 2025

Program Dates:

June 03 - July 19

Application Deadline:

Requirements

  • Eligibility Requirements
  • Application Requirements
  • Passport & Visa Requirements

Eligibility Requirements

  • 18 years of age 
  • In good standing at your home school 
  • 2.5 GPA or better on a 4.0 scale (GPAs under 2.5 will be considered on a case-by-case basis)
  • Graduate students and continuing education students encouraged to apply 
  • No previous German language study is required 

Frequently Asked Questions

Contact a Previous Student

Student Ambassadors

No one knows the IES Abroad experience better than a student who has lived it! From budget tips to housing experiences, our volunteer Ambassadors are here to share it all.

Contact an Ambassador
three students standing in front of fair table with IES Abroad catalogs

The Student Experience

How will study abroad redefine your world? We can’t wait to find out.

Apply Now
two students laughing while hugging