IMPRESSUM

OUS Policy has been legally reviewed and approved by MME Switzerland

This is a short form of the full Policy. the full policy is available in the library

By Applying to Study at OUS, the student agrees to accept the following terms and conditions are part of the General terms and conditions GTC (or can be called sometimes Policy, AGB, Allgemeine Geschäftsbedingungen or Standard of Excellence, any of those names are treated as "Terms and conditions" and the following information are applicable)

All programs have an additional 8.2% AQT tax (do not mix with MWST).

OUS will try to record all classes and upload them to our library however if for any reason some classes will not be recorded, the student is responsible for reading his/her lecturer handouts and contacting the lecturer for any questions.

Equal Opportunities Policy

OUS welcomes students from all countries. We neither discriminate on the basis of race, color, religion, national or ethnic origin, sex, age, or disability in access to, or participation or employment in, its programs or activities. OUS seeks students of good character who have demonstrated academic achievement and the potential for further growth. Admission is selective only on the basis of the academic record.

OUS programs are not limited to young full-time school leavers. As the importance of education becomes recognized, more and more people in the workforce are heading back to school. The Academy provides many different courses aimed at professionals or individuals who wish to further their education and career prospects.

The same academic regulations apply to students in these programs unless otherwise specified.

Your new life at OUS Switzerland starts here…

Amongst the sights and sounds of one of the world’s most exciting cities, you are embarking on your journey to become what you would like to be. Use this Handbook to navigate your way through your time at OUS Switzerland, from your first day to your leaving day, and beyond, helping you to get the most out of your enjoyable experience.

- "How to use this Handbook"

This Handbook has been designed to help you settle into life at OUS Switzerland with greater ease, as well as to show you the impressive range of support services available to OUS Switzerland’s students and provide a comprehensive guide to any questions you may have about student life. The booklet informs you about these support services and also offers practical advice and information on a wide range of subjects.

This Handbook is just a starting point for a lot of the information contained in it and has been designed for use in conjunction with other resources such as OUS Switzerland’s website. This handy booklet will help guide you through your first days at OUS Switzerland. Make sure you read it carefully so you are prepared with the correct documents to make the enrolment process hassle-free.

During your first few weeks, you will find yourself referring to the Handbook frequently as you orientate yourself at OUS Switzerland, but it will also be of use in the longer term as it provides information and advice on a comprehensive array of topics.

1. WELCOME MESSAGE FROM THE CHIEF EXECUTIVE

"Faith, unity and discipline are the keys to success"

OUS Royal Academy of Economics and Technology in Switzerland – is a dynamic, modern Institute in the heart of Switzerland, with a focus on all aspects of the management and business industry. There is a long tradition of management in Switzerland, and it is the ideal environment for young people from all over the world wishing to study in the most important business and management professions.

For many of our students, it is the first time they study online and study with a group of students for a long period and from completely foreign cultures. We, therefore, offer them round-the-clock support from the time they start studying until the completion of their studies. Even after they have graduated we are always available to listen to their questions.

Students learn about the business and management sector in a familiar atmosphere. The curricula include all subjects related to business management, and after the courses, students can undertake appropriate to continue studying. The school’s manageable size enables individually supported teaching and considers the cultural and religious backgrounds of each individual.

OUS AQT Team

2. ACADEMIC ISSUES

If a student wishes to carry out a particular procedure within a country’s Department of Education regarding their diploma earned at OUS, such procedures are to be carried out independently by the student. OUS respects the unique rules and regulations of each country and does not intervene or influence the respective authorities. the following text will be on all OUS Diplomas/Degrees "All Certificates remain the property of, and must be returned to OUS Switzerland upon reasonable request".

2.1 Enrolment

2.1.A. For on-campus students:

When you arrive at OUS Switzerland, you will be welcomed to the campus during our Enrolment Day. Enrolment is the administrative process you will attend when you first arrive at the Institution, and it will involve registering for classes, settling any outstanding fees, and collecting books (if applicable) and timetables. It is also an opportunity for you to meet academic and administrative staff, get a letter for opening a bank account, apply for your student discount card, a letter to register with your local GP and much more. Please note that OUS Switzerland only accepts students who are 18+ years old prior to the course commencement date.

2.1.B. for Online students:

For Online students, we have at the beginning of each term an Orientation DAY, during the Orientation we show you how to login to our Library and External Libraries, how to login to OUS email… etc. and We try to answer all your questions.

2.2 Registration with the Awarding Body

Registration with the relevant awarding body is mandatory. Please note that you are registered with one of the under-mentioned Awarding Bodies as per their Rules & Regulations before or at the time of taking admission in OUS Switzerland

2.3. Know your Subjects

It is very important that you know well about the subjects you will study. Please make sure you know the following details beforehand:

- Subject-name
- Number of core and optional subjects (if any)
- Name of the lecturer teaching a particular subject
2.4 Class Timetable

The class timetable will help you avoid any clash between your lectures and other commitments. It is strongly recommended that you do not get involved with other commitments when your course or term time is going on.

2.5 Know Your Lecturers

The most important thing is that you must know who your lecturers are. They are the people who will be helping you throughout your academic life in OUS Switzerland. It is recommended that right from the beginning of your course you must know who your lectures are. You must know the following things:

- Name of the Lecturer

- The Subject was taken by the Lecturer

- Day and Time of the Lecturer’s Class

2.6 Know about your Class Rooms, Library, etc.

Reception: Zurich 2nd floor OR support1@e-student.club

Administrative Room: Zurich 2nd floor OR support1@e-student.club

Class Room: On-Campus / Online

Library:

http://www.ous.estudent.club/  (based in Switzerland)

http://www.researchgate.net/  (based in Germany ) (you can register yourself by using OUS.email account)

http://www.emeraldinsight.com/  (based in the UK) (you can register yourself by using OUS.email account)

https://www.academia.edu/  (based in the USA) (you can register yourself by using OUS.email account)

Café/ Student Common Room: On-Campus / Online

Conference Room: On-Campus / Online

Accounts and Marketing: Admission@ousedu.ch

2.7 Academic Obligations

All information (books, materials, lectures, notices...etc.) belongs to OUS and the students have right only to use them for their study during their study time at OUS. They have no right to forward them, publish them, sell them or do anything else for any reason without the permission of OUS QUALITY committee. The permission should be signed by the head of the Committee.

Any student who breaks this rule puts him/herself under legal responsibility.

3. ADMINISTRATIVE ISSUES

3.1 Who is Who?

For the full and updated list please visit our website 

3.2 Paying Your Fees

You can pay your fees by cheque, cash, bank transfer, or/and other payment methods. If you are experiencing financial difficulties, that prevent you from paying your fees duly, you may talk to one of the Institution’s administrative staff or the Student Welfare Officer. Study fees are subject to change without prior notice and can increase for current and future students without prior notice if needed.

Please note that you may pay your tuition fees in a single payment at the time of enrolment or in installments.

Single Payment: Single payment should be made up to 30 days before the course start date (For those who got early payment scholarship, should be paid within the given period in the Letter of Acceptance).

Payment by Instalments: You may pay by three installments as well. No supplementary charge will be added to the tuition fees (subject to change).

50% of the study fee should be paid prior to the study and the remaining amount can be paid in installments during your study (maximum up to one year, if you need an exception please contact the administrative)

The following conditions will apply to you if you pay by installments:

- You must continue to pay your installment until the full balance of the course fee is paid in full.
- A facility to pay by installments may be withdrawn or charged interest from you if you who fail to meet installment deadlines promptly or your cheques are dishonored.

3.2.1. The fees are subject to change without prior notice. In addition to tuition fees, there is 8.2% AQT tax. You may check Google, XE or any other service to know how much, approximately, is the fee in your local currency

3.2.2. 1000 Euro additional for the exit (early exit)

3.2.3. 500 Euro additional for the direct entry (credit transfer)

3.2.4. 1000 Euro additional for the exit (to change the program to a shorter one)

3.2.5. 1000 Euro additional for the direct entry (entry into the upper year)

3.2.6. The total estimated fee covers the regular duration, which means the students must pay the semester fee for any extra semester may take.

3.2.6. Please note: students who are going to pay their study fee through a 3rd party must pay a 10% additional fee.

3.3 Institution Letters

As a student, you may require all or one of the following letters issued by the Institution:

- Bank letter, (To open up a bank account) (only for on-campus students)
- G P letter, (To register at the surgery so as to obtain basic medical facilities) (only for on-campus students)
- Council letter, (To get Council Tax Exemptions on House Rent) (only for on-campus students)
- Other relevant letters
Depending on the type of letter, you must allow 3–5 working days to process the letters. Please note that you must fill in the relevant form in order to obtain the letter sometimes we do accept just an email in order to prepare for you the letter.

3.4 Opening Bank Account (only for on-campus students)

students Welfare Officer can provide you with information on how to open a bank account on arrival at the Institution.

To open up a bank account in Switzerland you will need to provide the following documents:

- OUS Switzerland Enrolment Letter
- Passport
- Swiss ID card
- Confirmation of Switzerland and Overseas address
It is worth mentioning that most phone bills and other utility bills are preferred to be received by Direct Debit. Thus, it is useful to have a bank account to keep the continuity and of your day-to-day transactions.

3.5 Registration with Local GP (only for on-campus students)

You are also eligible to use the National Health Service (NHS), free of charge, during your studies here in Switzerland for the first year. You should book an appointment with your local GP first, and then you need to take a letter from the Institution addressed to the GP. Remember, you will not be able to get free treatment unless you are registered with your local GP.

3.6 Student ID Card (ISIC Card)

ALL OUS students will get an ISIC card (only through OUS Switzerland) The ISIC Association is the non-profit organization behind the International Student Identity Card (ISIC). The ISIC card is the only internationally accepted proof of bona fide student status and it comes with UNESCO logo.

For on-campus students: Students without a Student ID Card will not be allowed to enter the Institution premises to attend lectures or to use any Library facilities, IT facilities, and so on. The ID card proves your status as a student of OUS Switzerland. You must, at all times, keep your ID card with you whenever you enter the Institution premises.

3.7. Grading system

The student needs to have a minimum of 51% in order to pass.

Our grading system is as follows:

A: 91% - 100% (Exceptional)

B: 81% - 90% (Excellent)

C: 71% - 80% (Very good)

D: 61% - 70% (Good)

E: 51% - 60% (Pass)

F: 0% - 50% (Fail)

For Information about the Thesis, please refer to the handbook “How to Write a thesis”.

4. ACADEMIC SUPPORT

4.1 Induction Pack

The Induction Pack has been designed to provide all the necessary information to the students. All information relating to academic and administrative matters is provided in the Induction Pack. This helps you understand the following things:

- Course Details
- Relevant details relating to academic matters
- Administration process outline
- Guide to apply for letters and other facilities
4.2 Lectures

In OUS Switzerland one of the most important methods of course delivery is a lecture where a lecturer addresses students face to face. Your lecturer will make you well acquainted with all the topics of a particular subject and you are highly encouraged to participate in the discussion to clarify any issue that you do not well comprehend.

For online students, you have live classes and we try to record most of them and upload them to our library and you can watch them anytime you want during your study period again and again. some student register only for recorded programs. please be sure about which program are you enrolled in.

4.3 Lecture Handouts

The lecture handout is designed to give a suggestive approach as to the study of a particular topic. The lecturers of OUS Switzerland are required to distribute handouts to students to make the taught topic easy to understand. However, you should make sure that you consult all the recommended books on top of the lecture handouts.

4.4 List & Guide of Essential & Additional Reading

There are lots of books in the market for each of the subjects and it is not possible for new students to actually understand what to read or not to read. Most importantly the students can not decide which book to read to meet the standard of the level they are studying. In such a case students need guideline from the academics. OUS Switzerland’s lecturers provide a list of academic textbooks that are recommended as essential reading. They also recommend another list of books as additional reading.

You are strongly advised to read and focus on the essential reading list. The additional readings have been recommended to help you learn more and get support to your essential understanding of the topic.

4.5 Module Tutor

The Module Tutor is responsible for preparing and delivering a program of study for each module. He/she is a model of excellence for the students.

The Module Tutor will guide you through the subject he/she has been entrusted with. You will be ensured by the Module Tutor that you are going through the whole curriculum properly. If you have any problems or concerns regarding your studies, you can consult your Module Tutor without any hesitation.

4.6 Personal Tutor

As a student, you will be allocated with a personal tutor by the Institution. Your personal tutor will assist you to retain an interest in your personal and academic development throughout your academic career. You can consult her/him for any of your academic matters.

Your Personal Tutor is responsible for offering guidance in your academic work, monitoring progress and initiating the provision of additional support where this may be required. He/she is always prepared to fulfill a more generally supportive role and to discuss any matters affecting your academic work. In cases where personal difficulties are affecting your academic work, the Personal Tutor may consider initiating appropriate consultation with you and/or the Course Coordinator and Academic Head.
For the thesis, you have to send us a proposal of what you are planning to write and we will assign the right supervisor to you.
All students must submit a „Plagiarism Checker report” with their thesis/project using http://en.writecheck.com/ Turnitin, LLC.

WriteCheck is an online plagiarism checker that also provides a grammar checker tool by ETS® and a Tutor service by Pearson®. WriteCheck helps students become better writers by identifying grammar errors and unoriginal content in written work. WriteCheck was developed with the guidance and input of instructors who saw the need for a simple service to help students identify and correct writing mistakes in a formative manner.

4.7 Course Co-ordinator

There is a Course Coordinator for each course administered by the OUS Switzerland. The Course Coordinator deals with the overall management of the academic affairs of the relevant discipline and acts as a course leader. He/she is responsible for ensuring that lesson plans and practical activities are relevant and appropriate. He/she conducts teaching observations on request by the Academic Head or as part of the Institution's observation policy; gives feedback and leads on where the quality of teaching needs to improve and suggests development activities etc. You can consult your Course Co-coordinator for any of your academic matters, however, you need to book an appointment with him/her through your Module Tutor. The Course Co-ordinator is usually members of the students Welfare team.

4.8 Academic Head

The Academic Head leads the Institution in the development and implementation of its academic quality assurance and enhancement strategies and procedures. He/she is responsible for ensuring that the academic sessions of the Institution run smoothly. He/she is also responsible for advising and contributing to the development of the Institution’s programs. You can consult the Academic for any of your academic matters especially if you have any serious problems in making progress. However, you need to book an appointment with him/her through your Module Tutor.

4.9 Revision Lectures

When all lectures are finished, you need to understand the style of questions and effective ways to give the answer to those questions. Although you may have full realization of the topic, however, you may not be able to do well in the examinations, if you do not know how to answer effectively or to the satisfaction of the examiners.

We have seen that although students have taken better preparation, they fail to achieve good results because of a lack of understanding of examinations techniques. OUS Switzerland is keen to provide revision lectures to prepare you explaining essential techniques of examinations.

OUS Switzerland is trying to have before the end of each term and before the exam few days for open questions where you can contact your Lecturer directly and ask him/her questions.

4.10 Mock Examinations

OUS Switzerland is always sincere about the quality assurance and this is the reason why all the courses include Mock Examinations for the students. The students must appear at all the mock examinations before they actually appear at the final examinations.

4.11 Academic Feedback

OUS Switzerland is very much keen to prepare the students for the final examinations. To prepare the students properly the lecturers provide feedbacks, written and oral. The feedbacks actually provide details of strengths, weaknesses of the students and also provide ways to improve the weaknesses.

The feedback also provides the guideline to continuously develop their skills and analytical ability in dealing with problems as posed by the questions. The purpose of feedback is not to show the students what their difficulties are, but to show what they need to do to develop in case of any difficulties.

4.12 Special Revision Classes

We understand that before the examinations the students are mostly worried about the examinations. The students mostly are concerned about the techniques of examinations, about the issues that are most likely to be examined by the examiners, and so on.

The special revision lectures have been designed to deal with the examinations preparations, to discuss different techniques about how to tackle a question in the examinations. These preparatory revision lectures help the students to develop the confidence to appear in the examinations.

4.13 English Language Support

OUS Switzerland provides its registered students with free English Language Support in addition to the main course. If you have any weakness in English or if you are advised by your module tutor, you can participate in the English Language Support program free of cost. Furthermore, you will get sufficient English Language books and other resources in the Library to enrich your skills in English. Besides the books, we do have a specific module {business English} which has more than one level. This module will help all non-native English speakers to improve their skills in business English.

4.14 OUS Switzerland Library

OUS Switzerland library is online . The library is, in fact, resourceful as it contains numerous leading textbooks, journals, prospectuses of different universities and so on. Apart from your studies in the library, you can borrow books and other study materials from the library as well following the Library Procedures. Please note that you need to show the Institution ID Card to use library facilities.

OUS Education Group has teamed up with ResearchGate GmbH to give access to our students to access millions of publications and be able to publish their own work. ResearchGate is a social networking site for scientists and researchers to share papers, ask and answer questions, and find collaborators. All that you need to read ResearchGate is OUS email account and choose OUS from the list.

OUS Education Group has teamed up with Emerald Group Publishing to give access to our students free of charge. Emerald the world’s leading scholarly publisher of journals and books in business and management to provide you with an extensive online library of journals to help you with your studies. All that you need to read Emerald is OUS email account.

4.15 IT Lab

The Institution provides excellent online IT support for the students, we have a special team hired for IT.

4.16 Study Room

OUS Switzerland has a common study room ONLINE/ZURICH. The room is specially designed for individual and group study.

4.17 Photocopying & Printing Facilities

OUS Switzerland provides in campus photocopying and printing services to the students. You do not need to go outside the campus for printing or photocopying learning materials. The services are provided at a minimum price.

Online students, you should find somewhere near you.

4.18 Examinations & Assessments

4.18.A. For Joint/double award: Examinations are arranged by the Awarding Bodies, with the entry process being arranged by the Institution. It is essential that you consult your Course Coordinator thoroughly about your examination entry and collect any forms promptly when requested to do so by the Admin Office.

Awarding Bodies’ examinations are held in their allocated locations. Awarding bodies will assess your examination scripts; publish your results and let you know directly or through the Institution according to their own principles and policies.

4.18. B. OUS award: The complete Examinations processes are arranged by OUS. It is essential that you consult your Course Coordinator thoroughly about your examination entry and collect any forms promptly when requested to do so by the Admin Office.

OUS examinations are held online or at OUS in Switzerland. Your examination scripts will be corrected and marked from your lecturers and then we will publish your results on the online Library.

4.19 Brief Guide to Make Effective Plan of Your Studies

OUS Switzerland strongly advises that you prepare your own study plan. This will help you make the appropriate level of preparation for the examinations. The planning depends on your personal circumstances and commitments that you currently have. However, we can give you some suggestions which we believe will immensely help you make an effective plan.

- Know your route.
- Know your syllabuses.
- Know the dates of your examinations.
- Calculate the weeks that you have to finish your syllabuses.
- Assess how much you have to study a week to keep pace with your syllabuses.
- Assess the levels and urgency of your commitments.
- Make a priority list as per your existing commitments.
- Now try to fix the time that you can allocate for your studies.
- Prepare the timetable for your studies.
- Stick to your timetable till the examinations take place.

 

5. ACADEMIC OBLIGATIONS

5.1 Attending Lectures (on-campus students)

According to OUS Switzerland Attendance Policy, students must attend a minimum of 80% of their whole course of study.

1. 1. If a student is absent in 3 (three) expected contacts and that absence is not excused, he/she will be given a warning by E-mail/Telephone.
2. 2. Students who have been absent for 6(six) expected contacts will be issued a written warning stating that the student will be expelled from the Institution if he misses 10 (ten) expected contacts. If the student is absent for 10 (ten) expected contacts, he/she will be terminated from the Institution.
3. 3. Finally, the Institution will also notify Switzerland Border Agency immediately of the student’s failure to comply with the Attendance Regulations.
For more information about student attendance, please refer to our ‘Procedures for Recording and Monitoring Students’ Attendance’.

Online students must watch all recorded classes.

5.2 Absence of Teacher (on-campus students)

It is important to know that if a lecture is suspended due to a lecturer’s absence as a result of any emergency circumstance e.g. accident, illness etc, cover-up lectures will be provided for you and you will be notified about it duly.

5.3 Punctuality (on-campus students)

The Institution believes that being late for classes is not only detrimental to the academic process of the latecomer, but also disruptive for the entire class. A student can be marked as absent if he/she arrives for class more than 20 minutes after the start or leaves the class more than 20 minutes before the end. All students are required to attend daytime classes for a minimum of 15 hours per week.

5.4 Going Ahead with your Lectures (on-campus students)

Students are strongly advised to maintain consistency with the class lectures. You must follow the lectures in the class and be prepared for the lessons when you attend each class. This in actual fact helps you follow your next lectures. Do not keep your homework pending until the last minute. This is very dangerous for any student. Please try and avoid all attitudes that in the end jeopardize your academic life.

Going ahead with your lectures means following step-by-step, the process set out below:

1st Step: Listen to your Lectures carefully, and take full lecture notes

2nd Step: Read your notes when you go home

3rd Step: Identify any point you do not understand

4th Step: Take an active part in the next lecture or seminar

5th Step: Correct your misunderstandings in that seminar or class

6th Step: Prepare additional notes for your better understanding and exams.

5.5 Submitting Coursework/Assignment

You must submit all the coursework/assignments in due time. One of the main purposes of assignments is to assess your understanding of a subject area. They also serve other intellectual purposes:

- To organize your thinking.
- To bring a wide range of material to bear on a given problem or issue.
- To respond critically and with your own ideas to the issue.
- To select and use the information to support an argument.
- To present this argument in a clearly structured and literate way.
Please note that failure to submit your assignments in due time may result in unsatisfactory progress in the final assessment.

5.6 Filling in the Examination Entry Form

Students of the external bodies must be aware that there will be mostly written examinations at the end of the course. The examinations are conducted by the relevant bodies and their own examiners usually examine the papers.

However, the first task, at this stage, for you is that you must fill in the relevant Awarding Body’s Examination Entry Form if applicable. Without filling the Examination Entry Form, you will not be able to appear in the examination. Therefore, our advice to you is – fill in the forms and pay for the examinations entry.

5.7 Academic Progress

You are required to make overall significant progress in order to achieve your goal; enhance your career prospect and comply with the regulations of the immigration department (for on-campus students). You are permitted to proceed with your approved course of study only if you maintain satisfactory progress as evidenced by attendance at classes, satisfactory performance in examinations and the proper completion of such other work/task as may be allotted to you. Please note that if your progress is unsatisfactory, you will be given extra care and support and other relevant remedial measures to help you make progress. At the same time, you will be warned about the consequences you might face due to your unsatisfactory progress. If you persistently make unsatisfactory progress even after pursuing our remedial measures under a given a period of time, you may eventually be excluded from the Institution and your details will be reported to the immigration department (for on-campus students)

Further information relating to your Academic Progress can be found in OUS Switzerland "Policy and Procedures on Monitoring and Report Students’ Academic Progress." You are strongly encouraged to contact your personal tutor who will be able to assist you should you have any queries regarding Academic Progress.

5.7.A. for Joint/dual award students: If in the early and mid-term monitoring your progress is unsatisfactory, you will be given 1st warning letter, if you fail in the Final Examination of the Awarding Bodies in the 1st attempt, you will be given 2nd warning letter, if you fail in the Final Examination of the Awarding Bodies in the 2nd attempt, you will be given final warning letter, and if you fail in the Final Examination of the Awarding Bodies in the 3rd attempt, you will be terminated from the Institution and Immigration departments will be notified immediately.

5.7.B. for OUS students: You will get the information regarding the date and time of the exams from the students Welfare Officer. if you fail in the Examination we will assign for you another date for re-examination and if you fail in the Examination again we will assign for you the 3rd attempt, and if you fail on the 3rd attempt, you should repeat the course or you will be terminated from the Institution. For foreigner students on campus, the Immigration departments will be notified immediately.

5.8 Re-Sits & Retakes

You are expected to finish your intended course on time in accordance with the advised Institution course start and end dates. Each student is also expected to pass their examinations/assignments/ dissertation as per the Awarding Body/University schedule. If you are unable to complete the course and pass the examinations you will have to pay an additional fee to the Institution and the awarding body/university in order to re-sit or re-take examinations in accordance with their specific guidelines. Students’ at OUS Switzerland will only be allowed to re-sit examinations or repeat any part of their course up to two times per individual examination or module.
5.9 Mitigating Circumstances

It is obvious that there are some circumstances that genuinely prohibit some students from performing well in their studies. Please find the circumstances below that will be considered in mitigation:

- Severe illness,
- Sudden accidents,
- Parental illness or accidents,
- Illness or accidents of the sisters, brothers, or close relations,
If you are faced with any of the above situations, you must immediately inform your teachers, you will then be advised to put in writing. However, there is no automatic guarantee that consideration will be given. Each case will be dealt with individually and on merit.

6. ADMINISTRATIVE SUPPORT

6.1 Keeping Your Records Updated and Change of Address Notification

6.1.A For on-campus students: The Institution will keep all students’ passport pages, showing all personal details (including biometric details) and leave stamps or immigration status documents – including evidence of their entitlement to study in Switzerland and the period that they have permission to stay in Switzerland. The Institution will update these records as necessary. It is your responsibility to ensure that you notify the Institution immediately if there is any change in your contact details e.g. address, telephone number, mobile telephone number, or any other change in your personal circumstances. You can notify any changes by completing the Change of Details Form which is available at the reception.
You must provide the details of your next of kin at the time of application and notify the Institution immediately should there be any change pertaining to your next of kin.
Your whereabouts are very important for us to know. We will from time to time be sending you letters and information in connection with your study with us such as attendance notification letter, examination notice & schedules, examination admission notice, course materials, or another kind of academic letters. Obviously, we will not be able to communicate with you properly, if we do not have your exact address. So, make sure that you duly inform us about any change in your address. If you do not give us your up to date address, we will not be able to provide exact address details which will result in the refusal of your application to the bank, reference, etc. and most importantly, failure to notify your current address to the Institution may even jeopardize your studentship at OUS Switzerland.

6.1.B. For online students: The Institution will keep all students’ passport pages, showing all personal details this besides to all contact details. The Institution will update these records as necessary. It is your responsibility to ensure that you notify the Institution immediately if there is any change in your contact details e.g. address, telephone number, mobile telephone number, or any other change in your personal circumstances. You can notify any changes by sending your new information to the students Welfare Officer.
You must provide the details of your next of kin at the time of application and notify the Institution immediately should there be any change pertaining to your next of kin.
Your whereabouts are very important for us to know. We will from time to time be sending you letters and information in connection with your study with us such as attendance notification letter, examination notice & schedules, examination admission notice, course materials, or another kind of academic letters. Obviously, we will not be able to communicate with you properly, if we do not have your updated email address beside the OUS email address. So, make sure that you duly inform us about any change in your personal email address. If you do not give us your up to date email address, we will not be able to provide exact address details which will result in many negative things.

6.2 Visa Issues (on-campus students)

If you have any questions regarding visa issues please get in touch with the Administrative Support Team, or a Student Support Officer who will be happy to help you in any way they can.

6.8 Sickness Affecting Study Performance

6.8.A. for on-campus students: OUS Switzerland understands that no human has control over illnesses. It is natural that students may suffer illness and therefore, students’ performances and attendance at lectures may severely be affected. In such circumstances, the students must see a GP to get medical attention and treatment. The student who suffers illness must submit relevant documents in support of his or her illness.

The Academic Committee of the Institution will decide about extra classes or extension of time to submit coursework or assignment if any. The academic committee will communicate its decisions after due assessment of your case.

6.8.B. for online students: OUS Switzerland understands that no human has control over illnesses. It is natural that students may suffer illness and therefore, students’ performances and attendance at lectures may severely be affected. As the lectures will be recorded and uploaded into the online library of OUS, so most of the illnesses don't affect the online study.

The Academic Committee of the Institution will decide about the extension of time to submit coursework or assignment if any. The academic committee will communicate its decisions after due assessment of your case. For online students no extra classes will be discussed as the student can watch the recorded lectures.

7. CONDUCT

You are expected to conduct yourself responsibly on the Institution premises. Misconduct may result in you being suspended from the Institution. In such cases, no refund of fees will be given and any outstanding tuition fees will be payable.

The student is required to settle the fee by the day of graduation, irrespective of having completed the final exam. As long as the student has not received their award, they will continue to be regarded as an active student.

7.1 Disciplinary Procedures

When you enroll in a program of learning at the Institution, you agree and commit to a Code of Conduct. If your behavior, attendance record or academic standards are persistently below the standards required of the Code and are not resolved by informal discussion and negotiation, then disciplinary proceedings may be started against you.

The disciplinary procedure is a formal process which applies to all learners enrolled at the Institution. There are two types of activity in which disciplinary action may be required:

7.2 General Misconduct

This covers student’s behavior such as refusal to show the Institution ID Card, breach of health and safety regulations, being under the influence of drink or drugs, bullying and harassment of others or carrying weapons. It also includes misuse of Institution computers, online library, OUS Materials including teaching materials and publications, online classrooms, Forums, Media including Social Media and other equipment on campus or online or any other action or incident considered to be of a similar nature to the above examples.

In Addition, forwarding of information to a 3rd party like password or teaching methods for any use without getting permission from the head of OUS QUALITY team will be counted as misconduct.

All spamming and/or hacking activity as well pretending as representative of OUS without official approval will be counted as a high level of misconduct and may lead to legal persecution

7.3 Academic Misconduct

This covers students’ behavior in relation to their program of learning such as copying, plagiarism, collusion, cheating, etc or any other action or incident considered to be of a similar nature to the above examples.

In addition, each has three levels of seriousness: Level 1 Minor; Level 2 Serious and Level 3 Major.

Reasons for immediate suspension – some examples are below:

- Assault, fighting or other acts of violence, vandalism, bullying and harassment, theft, being in possession of illegal drugs, firearms or other weapons, committing or attempting to commit any act of arson, behaving in a way that brings the Institution into disrepute.
- Computer hacking, cheating in exams, extensive and/or persistent plagiarism or use of model answers, buying, selling or stealing of work.
- All information (books, materials, lectures, notice...etc.) belong to OUS and the students have right only to use them for their study during their study time at OUS. They have no right to forward them, publish them, sell them or do anything else for any reason without the permission of OUS QUALITY committee. The permission should be signed by the head of the Committee.
Any student break this rule put him/herself under legal responsibility.

For more information, please refer to the ‘Students’ Disciplinary Procedures’ of OUS Switzerland

7.4 Complaints Procedure

OUS Switzerland endeavors to create a positive learning environment for students, one in which each student has the opportunity to achieve their personal best. Part of the maintenance of that positive environment is a fair and open complaints procedure made available to all students.

7.5 Informal Complaint

This is a less formal procedure where a complainant may raise his or her concern about the way the services were provided. The complainant simply may see the Complaint Officer and orally inform the matter which will be dealt with immediate basis. However, if the matter is serious and the complainant is utterly dissatisfied, the compliant officer will rather accept the complaint as a formal one.

7.6 State Secretariat for Education and Research Law On The Validity of Private Swiss Degrees (contact us for information)

7.6 Formal Complaint

If a student or a visitor wants to bring a serious complaint about any matter in relation to the way the services are provided, the complainant may bring a formal complaint. It requires the complainant to take a complaint form from the reception. The complainant may also additionally write his or her allegations in addition to filing the complaint form.

For more information about our complaints procedure, please contact either to the student affair office or to the quality office:

Students affairs

OUS Switzerland
Freilagerstrasse 39, 8047 Zurich
Email: quality@ousedu.eu
Quality Office

OUS Switzerland
Freilagerstrasse 39, 8047 Zurich
Email: quality@ousedu.eu

8. SECURITY

8.1 Identification Card (on-campus students)

You will be issued with an ID Card which is valid for one academic year. You must carry it at all times whilst you are at the Institution and must produce it when requested by a member of the Institution staff. Failure to produce your ID card may result in you being asked to leave the Institution premises. The card is also required for using library facilities and for sitting your exams.

8.2 Valuables

As personal possessions are your own responsibility during your time at OUS Switzerland, you are advised to ensure the security of those possessions. OUS Switzerland also advises you to consider personal possession insurance that would also cover educational visits and work experience.

9. STUDENT WELFARE ISSUES

9.1 Health and Safety (on-campus students)

Everyone in the Institution has a responsibility to those around us, and to ourselves, to ensure that we all remain safe in the Institution environment. You are requested to go through the ‘Health and Safety Manual” of the Institution and know the arrangements provided by the Institution.
Do not bring knives and other sharp implements into the Institution. Do not misuse the Institution property or equipment.

9.2 Fire Drills (on-campus students)

Make sure that you know where the fire exits are and how to use them. Do not tamper with fire alarms or fire extinguishers. The Institution will hold fire drills at regular intervals; make sure you know the procedures to follow.

9.3 Procedures in the Event of a Fire (on-campus students)

On discovering a fire, activate the nearest fire alarm.

On hearing the fire alarm, leave the building immediately by the nearest available exit (including fire exit doors). Lecturers are responsible for ensuring that the classroom in which they are teaching is evacuated.

Every student and staff must know the fire assembly point

On hearing fire at the alarm, go to the fire assembly point at the front main gates. Do not re-enter the premises until told by the controlling officer to do so.

9.4 Accidents & Incidents (on-campus students)

If you see anything that could be of danger to anyone then report it immediately to a member of staff – do not try to deal with it yourself.

In the case of an accident or incident, contact the nearest member of staff or the Reception. Please ensure you are aware of the location of the ‘First Aid Boxes’, a member of staff will be able to help you with this.

9.5 Smoking Policy (on-campus students)

With regard to the health and comfort of all members of the Institution and its visitors, and to comply with recent Government Policy, smoking is only permitted in the designated areas. Please note that smoking is completely prohibited inside the Institution premises.

9.6 First Aid (on-campus students)

OUS Switzerland has trained First Aiders who can be called if there is an injury. Should you need assistance, please contact a member of staff or Reception.

9.7 Health & Safety on your Programme of Study (on-campus students)

You will receive health and safety guidance related to your program of study as part of your induction. A full copy of the Health and Safety Policy is available in students Welfare Officer.

9.8 General Counseling (on-campus students)

OUS Switzerland provides counseling services to those students who fall back in their studies. This is assistance to those students who have the ability to follow the course but for some reasons, they have failed to perform well. OUS Switzerland faculty members usually hold a meeting with the students and try to understand as to why the students have failed to maintain the required level of progress. Once reason has been detected the counselors then provide advice and necessary supports, or give the indication to academic personnel his required assistance if it is purely an academic matter.

9.10 Financial Advice

OUS Switzerland understands that you may experience financial difficulties and may not be responsible for such difficulties. In such cases, OUS Switzerland provides advice to you as to how to manage your resources in terms of money to tackle the situation.

9.11 OUS Switzerland Student Union

The OUS Switzerland Student Union helps bridge the gap between the students and the lecturers and administrative personnel of OUS Switzerland. It represents the interests of the students and raises issues in relation to student welfare to the OUS Switzerland Management. Members of the Student Union are elected by the students and the elected members usually serve the students for a term of two years. The Student Union has one representative from each faculty of the Institution. We recommend that the students which will be elected to be in the student union to be either in Switzerland or to be a person who doesn’t need a visa to enter to Switzerland so that he/she can participate in important meetings which usually takes places in Switzerland.

9.12 Social & Cultural Programmes

OUS Switzerland is a leader in organizing social and cultural events on the campus. The purpose of such an event is to allow you to learn and enjoy the beauty of different cultures. Students from different countries take part in such social and cultural events. In those programs, they present their cultural activities, thoughts, ideas & beliefs. However, you are advised not to advance any political or disputed doctrine in the name of presenting the cultural and social program.

9.13 Career Advice

Whilst studying at OUS Switzerland it is important to start thinking about your future career. Career advice and guidance provided by the Institution is available to all the students. For more information on career advice, please contact the Student Support Service.

9.14 Accommodation Support (on-campus students)

The Institution may be able to assist you in organizing accommodation for the duration of your stay. If you require any help in these matters please contact the Student Support Team using the details below.

Student Welfare Officer

Nicola Didanovic

E-mail: admission@ousedu.eu

9.15 Airport Pickup Services (on-campus students)

Overseas students arriving in Switzerland for the first time may wish to be met by the Institution Representative at the airport. If you would like to arrange this please contact the Institution well in advance of your arrival.

Student Welfare Officer

OUS Switzerland

Freilagerstrasse 39, 8047 Zurich

E-mail: admission@ousedu.eu

Note: Please note that the Accommodation & Airport Pickup service will be arranged according to availability. It is neither a guaranteed nor a mandatory service provided by the Institution. In the event of OUS Switzerland not being able to make suitable arrangements, students are advised to make their own arrangements for airport pickup and accommodation.

9.16 Local Library Information (on-campus students)

Apart from the OUS Switzerland library, you have many other libraries not far away from the OUS Switzerland campus. You can take membership and use books as per their rules & regulations. Generally, you need to have proof of your identity and proof of address in order to apply for membership of the library. The following libraries are within easy reach in terms of locality.

Pestalozzi-Bibliothek Zürich Altstadt: Zürich Altstadt - Zähringerstrasse 17, 8001 Zürich, 044 204 96 90 (Mo-Fr 10-19 Uhr, Sa 10-16 Uhr)

Pestalozzi-Bibliothek Zürich Altstetten: Zürich Altstetten – Lindenplatz 4, 8048 Zürich, 044 431 27 60 (Mo-Fr 12-19 Uhr, Sa 10-14 Uhr)

9.17 Local Sports & Leisure Information (on-campus students)

OUS is proud to be a member and sponsoring organization for the Swiss National Tourist Office which is known as MySwitzerland.com. MySwitzerland is responsible for almost all tourism/hospitality activities in Switzerland, they guide the tourist to the best locations in Switzerland and the best trips to enjoy your time during staying in Switzerland. OUS is a member of MySwitzerland because we believe that by sharing our know-how with the Swiss National Tourist Office, we can achieve the goal which we want and make our country be a most famous country for tourism and hospitality worldwide.

http://www.myswitzerland.com/

10. CONCLUDING REMARKS

We are dedicated to providing better education to our students and with this view in mind, we have concentrated on employing our resources to maximize the facilities so that our students can use them for their benefits. We will ensure that the students are satisfied with the standards of our lectures, resources, and facilities. Please note that we are always prepared to listen to your suggestions. If you have any suggestions that will improve our services and standards please feel free to contact us. Please call us on OUS Switzerland or alternatively email us at OUS Switzerland

11. Graduation in Switzerland

OUS will do from time to time (at least once per year) graduation parties, where all students are welcome to attend.

EU students don’t need a visa, please check if you need a visa.

https://www.bfm.admin.ch/content/bfm/en/home/themen/einreise/merkblatt_einreise.html

We can’t guarantee a visa to any student.

12. OTHER IMPORTANT ISSUES

12.1 Equal Opportunity

OUS Switzerland aims to promote equal opportunity for all and to ensure that no one is discriminated because of gender, race, ethnic origin, disability, nationality, color, religion, political/religious beliefs, age, sexual orientation, marital status, or family responsibilities.

12.2 Data Protection

Next, to its people, OUS Switzerland regards information as to its most important asset. Because of this, the Institution recognizes the importance of protecting its information assets and, in particular, the information relating to its staff, students and other individuals in whatever form that information is held. All data, whether held electronically or manually, are kept securely and not disclosed unlawfully.

12.3 Disability Strategy

OUS Switzerland is keen to consider all the potential students irrespective of their abilities in terms of physical and mental health. For disabled students who cannot follow the course due to their disability, OUS Switzerland will take the necessary steps to consider their application for admission.

Please refer to the ‘Disability Strategy’ of the Institution for more information.

12.4 Disclaimer

This Handbook does not replace OUS Switzerland’s regulations. All students will be required, as a condition of enrolment, to abide by and submit to the procedures of OUS Switzerland which are amended from time to time.

Every effort has been made to ensure the accuracy of the information contained within this Handbook, but it is subject to alteration without notice. OUS Switzerland will use all reasonable endeavors to deliver programs in accordance with the descriptions set out in this Handbook. However, OUS Switzerland reserves the right to make variations to the contents or methods of delivery of programs, to discontinue programs and to merge or combine programs, if such action is reasonably considered to be necessary by OUS Switzerland. If OUS Switzerland discontinues any program it will use its reasonable endeavors to provide a suitable alternative program.

13. FAQ

Q. Where do I go first to register my course?

A. For on-campus students: You must go to the Admissions Office to register yourself in the desired course. The admission staff will help you in registering you in the course.

A. For online students: You must visit our website and then click on apply now under the title https://www.academy.zuerich/apply-now

After it, you should fill the requested information to register yourself.

Q. Where do I go to receive the Institution letters?

A. You must go to the Reception to fill in the required forms. The staff in the Reception will advise and help you in filling the forms. You just have to tell them what you actually want.

For online students, you can simply send us an email.

Q. Where do I go to receive my ID Card?

A. For on-campus students: You must apply by filling the ID Card Form which will be available at the Reception desk and hand with your application 2 personal pictures of you. You will need to allow time for your card to be processed. You can collect your ID Card from the Reception once it is ready.

B. For online students: You should request it from the student affair after it, you have to send us by mail 2 pictures of you. Once your IC card is ready we will send it you by regular post.

Q. Where do I go to discuss my financial difficulties?

A. You must meet the Student Welfare Officer to discuss your difficulties.

For online students, you can simply send us an email to the students Welfare.

Q. Where do I go to discuss my weakness in studies?

A. Go to the Reception in order to book an appointment with your Personal Tutor.

For online students, you can simply send us an email to the students Welfare.

Q. Can I work part-time?

A. As an online student, you are able to work full time in your own country and as a student on campus, you are able to work part time.

Q. How do I know about the details of my course?

A. You will be given a full induction at the beginning of your course. You will be provided with an intensive induction pack where all the necessary information will be included. The induction pack will contain the following information:

- The full title of your course
- The course duration
- The certificate awarding body
- The advance date of your examination
- The modules you will be taught
- Who your course Co-ordinator is
- Who your lecturers are
- When to apply for the examination entry.
Please read the induction pack carefully and try to grasp the most important information in order to make a smooth start to your study. If you have any queries you must meet one of our students Welfare Officer.

For online Students: you will get all the above-mentioned information per email from the students Welfare and some of the information will be uploaded directly into the online library.

14. COMMENTS & COMPLIMENTS

OUS Switzerland aims to provide high-quality education and services to everyone who studies at OUS, works and visits the Institution. Your views are important to OUS Switzerland and we need you to tell us when a service is failing or something is not right. OUS Switzerland would like to hear from you about services that you like and/or if you have an idea for any improvement or change to a service.

15. USEFUL CONTACTS

OUS Switzerland: www.academy.zuerich

OUS students Welfare: support1@e-student.club

OUS admission office: admission@ousedu.ch

OUS QUALITY team quality@ousedu.eu

Swiss Border Guard Corps: www.ezv.admin.ch

Federal Department of Foreign Affairs: https://www.eda.admin.ch/eda/en/home.html

Travel Information www.traveline.info

The Swiss Federal Council http://www.admin.ch/br/org/index.html?lang=en

Swiss tourism information www.myswitzerland.com 

Embassies around the world www.embassyworld.com 

In Switzerland: Emergency Police, Fire Service, and Ambulance No: 112

 

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