Founded in 1959, the Middlebury School in Germany provides students with the opportunity to experience one of two diverse sites. By studying and living alongside their German peers, students have the unique chance to improve their German while choosing courses from the entire academic curriculum.
A 30-min train ride from Frankfurt will take you to Mainz, City of Science (2011) and one of the World Wine Capitals located in one of Germany's most renowned wine-producing regions. As the capital of the German state of Rheinland-Pfalz, Mainz boasts a 2,000-year history--from the Romans to medieval Christendom to modern Germany, a history that is evident throughout the city.
If you follow the city's cobblestone streets bustling with life, you'll pass by the cathedral, walk by 18th-century palaces, may step into highly specialized museums, choose to see a performance at one of the six theaters, enjoy local produce and goodies at the open-air markets and shop in vibrant neighborhoods rebuilt after World War II. Since Mainz is the heart of the 'Rhein-Main-Gebiet,' one of Germany's main cultural and economic centers, major newspapers, radio- and TV stations have their offices here, among them the headquarters of the ZDF. A short train ride takes you either to Wiesbaden, the capital of Hesse, or Frankfurt, where international companies and banks do business within the vicinity of the Frankfurt Stock Exchange. For the student who is fascinated by history, architecture, German culture, and life in a city catering to a student population of 36,000, Mainz offers a wealth of opportunities. Situated on the Rhine River, the city blends both rural and urban worlds. The combination of its unique local culture, characterized by openness, humor, and sociability with its easy-to-navigate setting make it the obvious choice for students who want to quickly and effectively immerse themselves in the local communities.
Due to the high standard of living and countless cultural events and festivals that take place year-round, Mainz and its university, the Johannes Gutenberg-Universität, attract approximately 36,000 students who enjoy all that the university, city, and region have to offer.
Mental Health & Wellness Resources
To ensure a successful study abroad experience, it is important to research the mental health and wellness resources provided by the study abroad program to determine if they offer appropriate support for your particular needs.
Middlebury in Germany provides online counseling sessions via GeoBlue and partners with Global Rescue to provide 24/7 Support to its visiting students. More information about health and safety will be distributed to students in country-specific handbooks by Middlebury. We urge you to explore these resources via the links that Middlebury has provided below to determine if your needs will be met.
Language Requirements
Completion of two 300-level content courses taught in German. Applicants from outside of Middlebury who have completed two years of German may complete an oral interview to demonstrate their qualifications for the program. (This option is not available for Middlebury undergraduates.) Applicants with just two years will take a preparatory intensive language course before classes start. Junior standing is also required.
