Attendance Policies at ISS

First Day of Classes

Students are expected to be present on the first day of classes. Absence is only excused in cases of illness or emergency.

Obligatory Attendance

The ISS takes place during six intensive weeks. Instruction is concentrated and based on active participation on behalf of the students, so daily attendance is required in all courses.

Attendance Sheets

Attendance is registered in class every day, where all students present sign their names.

Planned Absence

The student must inform the teacher in advance about any unavoidable planned absence. This makes it possible to discuss how the student can independently work through material that is discussed in class during the absence. The teacher should note any arranged absences on the attendance sheet.

Unforeseen Absence

In case of unforeseen absence (for example, due to illness), the student must inform the ISS Office or their teacher as soon as possible. This type of absence will also be noted on the attendance sheet.

Follow-up of Absence

Where the attendance sheet shows that a student is unexpectedly absent two days within one week, the ISS Office will attempt to contact the student to find out the reason for absence. Students, however, are ultimately responsible for fulfilling their attendance obligations. 

Consequences of Absence

• Admission to take the final exam in all courses requires a minimum attendance of 75 percent (the absence may not exceed 25 percent regardless of the cause).
• Scholarship recipients are required to attend class and take exams. Absence without good reason is not acceptable.
• Students who have been absent for more than 25 percent of the lectures in a course will not receive a certificate of participation for having attended the course.