F.A.Q.

F.A.Q. (Frequently Asked Questions and Answers)

1. Is it possible to change classes?

Class changes are not advised except in extreme cases. If this is necessary, the student must see his or her teacher and the relevant coordinator.

2. Can I still pass my level if I fail an exam?

Exams are very important but they are part of a mark. The semester mark will include midterm and final exams, portfolio and quiz marks and the overall grade needed to pass the level is 60% in most cases.

3. Why do I need to pass the proficiency exam?

The proficiency exam is an important indicator of students’ ability to cope with the language aspect of their courses. Students with weak English will have a serious impediment compared to students who have proficiency in English.

4. Do I have to buy books?

Yes. You need current course books so that you have the same material as other students in your class. Book costs are included in your course fees.

5. How can I access my teacher outside of normal classroom hours?

Teachers are available to assist students on an individual basis. Teachers are empathetic to student problems and are here for the students welfare.

6. Do you accept exam results such as IELTS, TOEFL etc?

Yes.

7. Does Girne American Foundation English School have an institutional language exam?

We accept the GAU proficiency exam which is paper based.

8. What are the registration dates?

The registration date is posted on the GAU Foundation English School website. The date changes each semester.

9. Can I register online?

We do not accept online registrations. You need to register in person.

10. What happens if I do not register during the registration period?

Registration deadlines are strict and students registering late will have to pay a late registration fee.

11. Are there any evening classes?

No. All classes are held in the daytime.

12. Is attendance required?

Yes. Insufficient attendance will result in a student not being allowed to write an exam.

13. How can I prove that I am a Foundation English student?

All Foundation English Students will be issued with GAU identity cards.

14. How will I be graded?

Foundation English students are graded on a midterm exam, a final exam and on their portfolio.

15. What is a portfolio? How does it help me?

The portfolio is an important part of the student’s term work and consists of quizzes, assignments and a journal. The portfolio’s tasks help to develop the student’s productive skills and creativity. As well, as it forms part of the semester grade, marginal students may find the portfolio’s grades useful in passing the semester.

16. My department is Turkish. Why must I study in the Foundation English program?

English is the global language. As GAU is fundamentally an English language university, all students entering departments must have adequate English to communicate. Students without basic English are directed to the Foundation English Program to rectify this.

17. What is the attendance policy?

Attendance is taken in each lesson. Students are required to maintain an 85% attendance average. Failure to do so will result in the student being ineligible to write mid term and final exams and therefore not passing their level.

18. What should I do if I need extra help with my English?

See your lecturer as soon as possible. All teachers are happy to provide extra help for students requiring assistance.

19. How can I study at home to improve my listening and speaking skills?

Television channels like CNN, CNBC, BBC and BBC Prime all broadcast English language programming. As well the internet has many sources of English language material such as You Tube. Many English language radio stations have websites where you can download or listen online. As well, most of the text books used come with interactive CDs with listening exercises and other exercises. In addition, Girne has a large expatriate English community who speak English as a first language and are usually happy to converse with GAU students.

20. Who teaches the classes?

All lecturers have a minimum of a Bachelor’s degree and English teaching qualification. Several lecturers have graduate degrees and qualifications. All are experienced and excellent communicators who are dedicated to student welfare and the progress of their academic careers.