Frequently asked questions about Hérodote & Hérodote Plus

• What is the difference between Hérodote and Hérodote Plus?

   

  Hérodote is for people who already meet the formal admission requirements of the University of Fribourg, but who have not yet reached the required B2 language level for their studies.

  Hérodote Plus is for people who are at least 24 years old, have an academic background, but do not meet the formal admission requirements. It prepares them for admission “sur dossier”, i.e. an admission based on an entrance exam at the end of the preparation year.

• I am not sure whether I can be admitted. Can I still contact the team?

   

  Yes. The first step is to contact the Hérodote team. The Office for Admissions and Registration will then review your application and determine for which of the two programmes your application can be considered. Even if you are ultimately not admitted to the programme, the team can still provide general advice and guidance on possible next steps and available options.

• What should I do if I do not yet have all the required documents?

  If you have difficulties obtaining some of the requested documents, you should contact the Hérodote team before submitting your application. In most cases, we are able to find a solution, provided we know ahead of time that an application will be incomplete. 

• I have an N permit. Can I still apply?

  Yes. People with an N permit may contact the team and apply. However, securing funding is more difficult in this situation. In some cases, support may be possible through private foundations, although this remains challenging. In any case, we encourage you to contact us: the team can provide information, look at your situation, and advise you on the options that may exist.

• What language level do I need in order to access the programme?

   

  For Hérodote Plus, admission is realistic once a B1 level as been reached. For Hérodote, we also recommend that you have a B1, however, admission is possible starting from A2. The language level is not the only selection criterion and we analyse each application holistically. Admission is therefore not guaranteed even if you have a specific language level. 

• Based on the information on this website candidates need a "clear study project" to apply. What does that mean?

   

  Before applying, you must already have chosen the degree programme you want to pursue after the preparatory year. However, this choice is indicative and does not have to be final at the time of application. During the preparatory year, participants test one field, and the study project can still evolve. What matters most is that you have already thought seriously about your direction, have a general idea of the field you are aiming for, and can explain why you are interested in it.

• How does the application procedure work?

  The procedure includes several steps: defining your study project, contacting the Hérodote team, completing the online application, uploading the required documents, review of the application, language test, selection interview, and finally an official decision.

• How much does the programme cost?

  The programme costs 3000 CHF per semester. The invoice is sent directly to the institution responsible for your integration. You do not yet need to have a confirmation of funding when you apply. 

• What is included in the cost?

  The cost covers participation in all components of the programme, but not the possible purchase of materials such as a computer, books, or software.

• How long do the programmes last?

  The normal duration of both programmes is one year. In some cases, it is possible to finish Hérodote in one semestre, in other cases, up to 4 semestres can be necessary. For Hérodote Plus, the minimal duration is two semesters. 

• What happens after the programme?

  At the end of the preparatory year, each participant receives a certificate of participation and an interim transcript. To move on to regular studies, the relevant conditions must then be met, especially the language requirement for Hérodote or the aptitude test requirement for Hérodote Plus. Whenever possible, the ECTS acquired during the preparation year, will be counted towards your regular studies.