The academic year (LUKUVUOSI) in the Savonlinna Departments consists of two terms and four periods:
Autumn Term 2005 (SYYSLUKUKAUSI): 29 August - 16 December
Spring Term 2006 (KEVÄTLUKUKAUSI): 9 January - 31 May
An orientation day for the visiting foreign students (or individual guidance) will be arranged in the beginning of both semesters. Departmental Coordinators and other teachers will provide assistance in choosing appropriate courses/ making a schedule. Student tutors will also assist foreign students in getting to know Savonlinna. It is strongly recommended that the visiting students would arrive at the beginning of the Autumn/Spring Semester (i.e. the beginning of September or January).
Although there is no Summer Term, it is possible to take exams during the summer months, and the library and the cafeteria remain open throughout the summer.
You should register yourself at the Office (KANSLIA) of your department in the beginning of the semester. You can obtain the registration forms (in English) from the International Relations Coordinator.
Student Union membership is compulsory for those who are studying for Bachelor’s or Master’s Degree as well as for visiting international students (see also the chapter on Student Union). In 2001-2002, the fee is 89 euros for the whole year and 47 euros for one semester. This includes a health care contribution that entitles students to inexpensive health care services (see the chapter on Health Care). Furthermore, the student card, which is issued about three weeks after the payment of this fee, entitles its bearer to a number of benefits.
The payment can be made in any bank. The bank giro forms to pay the fee can be obtained from the International Relations Coordinator (room C 133). Do remember to keep the receipt for the payment because you will have to show it when registering at the office of your department; the receipt also counts as a proof of student union membership until the actual student card is issued.
The Office of the Savonlinna Department of Teacher Education (OKL:n KANSLIA/ room A 135): Mon-Fri, 10 a.m. - 2 p.m.
The Office of the School of Translation Studies (KVL:n KANSLIA/ room C 139): Mon-Fri, 9 a.m. -11 a.m. and 1 p.m. - 3 p.m.
