Philipps-Universität Marburg

This is in English purposefully, as I expect English speakers to be accessing this in preparation for and exchange year through one of the many partnerships Marburg has with American and UK Universities.
Although my experience is somewhat dated, as you can see, the program itself (and many of the instructors!) have not changed significantly (verified through a recent perusal of the course program materials online). Although I participated in a pilot exchange program through Penn State, rather than matriculating at Uni-Marburg directly, the educational course material was the same as a regular matriculated student, and I was in courses primarily consisting of native German university students.

Especially useful were courses in teaching enunciation of the German language, a course in creating classroom activities for beginning German language students, and the grammar instruction courses, which were designed very well for second language teaching. The student living facilities were fine, with communal kitchens that helped foster getting to know the other (German) students. Public transportation is frequent and accessible. Classroom environment was supportive for non-native speakers even in courses outside the DaF curriculum. (an especial thanks to the Department of Art History for allowing a pre-bachelor's degree student to take part in a post-doctorate level course in Denkmalpflege, and STILL manage to make a meaningful contribution to the class through a referat!)

In regards to student life, there was a variety of lively opportunities for meaningful social interaction within the university and with the community at large. Also, concerning student living, there *is* a meal plan, but due to the distance of the cafeteria from the dormitories, I did not find it especially helpful.