FAQ

01

I have basic questions concerning the LISA and would like to find out if the school is the right one for my child to attend. How may I inquire?

02

Can any child become a student at the LISA?

Yes, if the following three conditions are met:

  • The residence of the parent(s)/guardian(s) is located in Upper Austria
  • The application procedure is successful
  • There is a free place in the class

03

What is the application process for my child for the LISA? 

The following table will give you a quick overview, scroll down for more details: 

A · Grade one
Previous education: Austrian elementary school or the ABIS

Application for Grade:

One

Educational Requirements

Attendance of an Austrian elementary school or the ABIS (Anton Bruckner International School)

Procedures

1. individual application 
2. Parent/child interview
3. Language Creativity test

School year 2021/22

General

Application for the first grade LISA, if the fourth grade of an Austrian elementary school or the ABIS has been attended.

Who

Parents/guardian(s) (without child), individual application

Where

Administration of the Europagymnasium Auhof (ground floor), Aubrunnerweg 4, 4040 Linz

When

from 22.02.2021 to 26.02.2021 from 8:00 – 2:00 pm (Fridays only 8:00 – 12:00!)

Documents

  • Fourth grade semester report card and third grade report card
  • Application form
  • € 2,00

Requirements

  • Successful completion of the fourth grade elementary school (with a grade of „very good” (1) or a „good“(2) in the subjects of German, Reading and Mathematics.)

Or

  • Declaration of the elementary school teacher conference that the student can be expected to succeed in a grammar school setting due to his or her performance  in the other subjects, despite receiving a grade of „satisfactory“ (3) in one of the main subjects. 

Or

  • Entrance examination 

Procedure

  • Application – You will receive an appointment date for the second step.
  • Parent/Child interview; appointments given from the 1st – 2nd of March 2021.
  • Language Creativity Test  2:30 pm on the 26th February, 3rd  floor (approx. one hour long in groups)

B · Grade one
Previous education: An Austrian elementary school is not required 

Application for Grade: 

One

Educational Requirements

Attendance of an Austrian elementary school is not required 

Procedures

1. Online „Open Apply“
2. Placement Test

School year 2021/22

General

Application for the first grade LISA, if, prior to application, the fourth grade of a non-Austrian school was not attended: 

C · Grade two to eight

Application for Grade: 

Two to Eight

Educational Requirements

Complete or partial attendance of a school in Austria or abroad  

Procedures

1. Online „Open Apply“
2. Placement Test

School year 2021/22

General

Application for grades two to eight, if, prior to application, child completely or partially attended a school in Austria or a public/private school abroad:

04

How does the Parent Child Interview work?

The interview allows you and your child to get to know the school and usually lasts for about 15 minutes. It will be conducted by an assigned teacher who will ask you some questions. Use the opportunity to present your considerations in connection with the LISA and also to ask your own questions.

In the meantime, your child will be welcomed into a small group by a teacher where the interaction of the individual children in the group will be analyzed. This is generally not perceived by the students as a “test situation”, but rather as tasks that are partly to be solved in the group.

05

What is the Language Creativity Test?

This test consists of simple tasks which determine language creativity like, for example, picture stories. The task formats used are already familiar to children who attended elementary school.

This test may be taken in either German or English.

06

What is the Placement Test?

The placement test allows new pupils, according to their prior education and abilities, optimal placement in the LISA and to identify possible areas needing support.  This test may be taken in German and English. If you intend to start with LISA Language, you can also take a placement test in French.

The new pupil receives simple, cross-grade questions from different subject areas. The duration depends on the grade and lasts between one and two hours.

Under *** you will find the subject areas in mathematics that are taught in the individual grades at the LISA. If your child repeats the basics and simple application examples of the corresponding chapters, they will be well prepared for the placement test.

07

What is Open Apply and what is it used for?

Open Apply (OA) is a standardized online application process used at many international schools. You will be guided step by step through the program to register all the data and documents relevant for admission to LISA. You will immediately receive feedback on the status of the application.

Use Open Apply to arrange a personal consultation with the LISA coordination team or to plan a trial day in a LISA class for your child.

08

Is my child’s elementary-school-level knowledge of English enough?

Yes, it is.  Children starting in the first grade of the LISA are not required to have prior knowledge of the English language. The students are gradually introduced to the language of instruction, English, through bilingual (German / English) instruction. Documents, especially in the lower level, are offered in both German and English as required. 

09

We don’t speak English at home. Will my child still be able to attend the LISA?

YES, he/she will.  Parent information is offered in both German and English. All teachers speak German. Your child will work primarily in the lower level with bilingual teaching and learning material.  

10

Is there an entrance examination in the LISA?

No there isn’t. There is a Language Creativity Test

There is also a placement test for mathematics and English (in exceptional cases also in French), see point point 6.

Information on who is completing which of these formats can be found in the table under point point 3.

11

Where do LISA Pupils come from?

In addition to Austrian students, many children of different nationalities and mother tongues also attend LISA.

Special accompanying programs for the promotion of social skills from the first class, events and trips in the class association, English as the common language of instruction, intensive German lessons and individual support promote a positive, inspiring learning environment and a harmonious cooperation at our school.

12

Which language is spoken at the LISA?

English is the language of instruction and is spoken by almost all students regardless of their mother tongue when communicating with classmates.

In addition, students also speak in their mother tongues,  which tends to take a back seat with increasing English language skills and due to the diversity of our students.

13

We are returning to Upper Austria from abroad. What should be considered?

As places in the LISA are limited, it is advisable to contact the school as early as possible. Even if your relocation date is not yet fixed, we advise you to complete the formalities (Open Apply!) for admission to the LISA. This gives you immediate feedback on whether there are still free places available. In addition, you enable your child to catch up on any missed subject matter (e.g. in mathematics, languages).

14

My child is transferring from an Austrian school or one from abroad to the LISA. How will his/her placement be handled?

The LISA coordination team will suggest a class based on the submitted documents, taking into account the placement tests and the personal interview with the candidate. In addition, participation in (temporary) remedial classes will be approved and one of eight different German courses (beginning to native speaker level) will be selected. The head master makes the final decision.

15

My child has special needs (like dyslexia for example). Who do I need to contact for information?

Please contact the head Master with any questions concerning special needs: Mag. Franz Weißhäupl

16

Are special courses offered for gifted students at the LISA?

The majority of LISA students complete an AHS program (secondary grammar school curriculum) and in the seventh and eighth grades the International Baccalaureate Diploma Program (IB DP). This combination, which was originally unique in Austria and was developed further at the LISA, enables talented students to be promoted and supported individually through high-level specialization.

More information can be found at https://www.ibo.org/programmes/diploma-programme/ and  

More information can be found at: https://www.ibo.org/programmes/diploma-programme/ and https://lisa.europagym.at/ib-information/ 

17

What is the difference between LISA Language and LISA Economics?

From the third grade onwards, your child will attend either the LISA Language or the LISA Economics branch. The decision is to be made in the second grade at the end of the winter semester. 

A total of four languages ​​are taught in the LISA Language branch. German, English and French are mandatory, the fourth language (from the fifth grade!) may be selected from Spanish, Italian and Latin. Latin is offered in any case, since this is where classes are held with students from the other two school branches.  Whether both or just one of the other options is offered in your child’s year depends on the number of registrations.

In the LISA Economics branch, the focus is increasingly on economic and scientific subjects. German and English are mandatory, a third language (from fifth grade!) is selected individually from Spanish, French, Italian and Latin. Please keep in mind that, apart from Latin, the other subjects are only offered if a minimum number of students decide to take them. 

18

Questions about the standardized matriculation examination (Austrian Reifeprüfung/Matura)?

LISA students, like all students at Austrian secondary schools, take the standardized matriculation examination. With their “Matura certificate” they receive proof of their ability to continue their education at an Austrian or international university or university of applied sciences.

According to a special agreement with the Austrian Ministry of Education (BMBWF):

  1. Pupils from public international schools (e.g. LISA) take the matriculation examination for mathematics and German early in January *

2. The results obtained in English at the IB Exams are “converted” into an Austrian Matura grade and recognized.

* The curricula have been adapted so that LISA students have enough time to prepare. This regulation has been used very successfully for five years.

19

Questions about the IB Diploma Program?

In the sixth grade, LISA students choose their six IB subjects. Since 2019, an “IB Subject Choice Fair” has been offered, which gives parents and students alike a succinct overview of the options offered at the LISA. The families of the relevant year will receive an invitation to this in the autumn 2020.

In the seventh and eighth grades, LISA students are specifically prepared for the IB exams in three standard levels and three higher level subjects.

In May of the last school year, the “IB Exams” are completed worldwide in a standardized manner.

So far, over 750 LISA graduates have completed the IB exams and are now studying and working at universities and companies both in Austria and worldwide.

For further information:

20

What are the IB Fees?

One-time costs are due to the IB exam fees, which are prescribed by the IB organization of each school for the individual pupils depending on the number of subjects chosen and the registration period. Students who are registered for the date in May will receive a request for payment in mid-January. With the six subjects registered as standard, expect a total cost of approx. € 500.00 – € 600.00.

In addition, an amount of approximately ??? is due for a two-day, mandatory study visit by the IB pupils in Munich. This is already completed in the seventh grade.

There are no additional costs for IB textbooks, assistants, IA / EE supervision and assessment costs, they are covered by the LISA membership fees.

21

What is the Academy Program?

The LISA Academy Program runs over two school years and prepares students in small groups in the seventh and eighth grades (11th and 12th grade) intensively and specifically for the completion of the IB exams. It is aimed at students who do not have sufficient German language skills to take the standardized Austrian matriculation examination.

22

Why must a membership fee be paid for the LISA?

The LISA is a school branch of the “Europagymnasium Auhof” and therefore a public school. The federal government provides the funds for general school operations. All offers of the international program and all additional services at the LISA must be financed through the membership fees and sponsorship funds.

23

How much is the membership fee?

Regular grades 1-8

Membership fee per year

EUR 600,00 / year

Payment by installments possible

Reduction in social hardship cases


Reductions for younger siblings

Membership fee per year

EUR 500,00 / Jahr

Payment by installments possible

Reduction in social hardship cases

Academy Programme Grade 7

Membership fee per year

EUR 2.400,00 / Jahr

Payment by installments possible

Reduction in social hardship cases

no

Academy Programme Grade 8

Membership fee per year

EUR 2.400,00 / Jahr

Payment by installments possible

Reduction in social hardship cases

no

24

Is there a reduction for the LISA Membership Fee?

YES, there is. The membership fee (MF) for all younger siblings is automatically reduced. In addition, the regular LISA MF can be reduced in the event of social hardship.

25

May the Membership Fee be paid in Installments?

26

 What is the LISA Membership Fee used for?

The LISA membership fee (MB) guarantees the financing of all additional services and offerings at the LISA.

Since the school sponsor (federal government) only covers the basic costs, all “extraordinary” costs of the LISA have to be financed through membership fees and sponsorship money.

27

What is the LISA Support Association and what are its functions?

The LISA support association (LISA UV) is a registered association according to Austrian law (LI statutes). The LISA UV is responsible for the financial interests of the LISA insofar as it concerns the administration, the use and the raising of the membership fees and sponsorship funds. It also strengthens the LISA community, organizes events and supports students, parents and teachers and much more. Please find a detailed description of our activities here.

28

Who is a Member of the LISA Support Association?


Board

Chairman/Chairwoman (1st and 2nd deputy)
Treasurer (1st deputy)
Secretary (1st deputy)

Ordinary Members

Parents / Legal Guardians (active / passive right to vote)
Director, LISA Coordinator, IB Coordinator (right to vote)
Two teacher representatives (right to vote)

Extraordinary Members

(no voting rights)
LISA Teachers
Alumni (membership fee)
Legal Persons (membership fee)

Honorary Members

(determined by general assembly)

Board of trustees

(currently vacant, appointment by the Board of Directors, no voting rights)

29

Who/What is the LISA Network Committee?

30

I am new to the LISA and have a lot of Questions. Who may I contact concerning this?

The LISA Network Committee is there for you! Dedicated parents with many years of experience will be happy to answer your questions, help with the challenges associated with your move to Austria or Linz, make it easier to get started with the LISA, and will be happy to help and advise you with any problems.

31

How do I find the parent representative for the class?

Please find a parent class representative list at LISA parents.

32

 I would like to work actively in the support association. How do I do that?

We warmly welcome you! The strength of the LISA community is characterized by the commitment of many people who support this extraordinary school and its students through dedication, ideas, expertise and above all joy.

33

My employer/company would like to support the LISA. Who do I need to contact about this matter?

Thank you so much! As a public international school, LISA relies on support from companies, families and, of course, individuals. Without these financial and non-material contributions and in-kind contributions, many of the things offered at the LISA would not be possible.

34

Is there a parent association too? What is the difference to the LISA support association?

The parents’ association of the Europagymnasium Auhof is a parents’ association in the classic sense and takes care of all school issues:

“We see ourselves as committed parents who support teachers and students as part of the school partnership.”

35

How many students take the Austrian matriculation examination and the IB (International Baccalaureate)?

Around 80%

36

Is the LISA a public school or private one?

The Linz International School Auhof (LISA) is a branch of the “Europagymnasium Auhof” and therefore a public school.

37

What are the differences between the LISA and the Anton Bruckner International School?

Together, the LISA and the ABIS offer a continuous international training/education for children in Linz between the ages of 4 and 18.

LISA

Age of Students

10 – 18

Program

(English language) AHS
IB DP
Academy Program

Amount of Students

Graduation Tests

Standardized matriculation examination (Austrian Matura)
International Baccalaureat (IB Diploma)

Funding from

More information at

ABIS

Age of Students

4 1/2 – 16

Program

Amount of Students

Graduation Tests

Funding from

38

What is the difference between the three branches of the „Europagymnasium“ (ELLA, Kepler & LISA)?

LISA, ELLA and Kepler are the three branches of the Europagymnasium Auhof. In the LISA the working language is English; German is used in the Kepler and the ELLA branches.

39

I have an idea which I would like to implement. Who may I contact concerning this?

40

I have a complaint. Who should I contact concerning this?

However, if your concern is scholastic/academic, the following procedure is common at LISA.

41

How many students have graduated from the LISA so far?

LISA was founded in 1992 and started with one class in the same year. Since then, around 750 graduates have successfully completed the Linz International School Auhof. Learn more