India

In general, you should be prepared for some differences between the overseas and U.S. academic systems and be aware that you may experience a period of adjustment.  Be sure to fully take advantage of the support services provided by the Alliance program.  The India education system is based on the UK model.  This is often characterized by a less structured class environment and less detailed syllabus, with more emphasis on self-directed, independent study outside of the classroom.  Students should be prepared to adjust to a very different academic environment.

China

As a general rule, CUHK follows the model of education seen in the U.K.; there is more responsibility placed on individual students to take the initiative and structure their time for study.  There is typically less actual contact hours in the classroom and more time for students to pursue their studies independently.  Also, for your grade you may be expected to concentrate your academic efforts in library research and writing, and it is not uncommon to have a large percentage of your grade be based upon only 1 or 2 exams/papers.  In general, you should be prepared for some differences between the overseas and U.S. academic systems and be aware that you may experience a period of adjustment.  Be sure to fully take advantage of the support services provided by your overseas host university.

South Korea

The Korean educational system is based on the lecture model of education.  Many courses are held in large lecture halls. It is not common to have class discussions and Korean students consider it a sign of respect not to “challenge” the professor by asking questions during the lecture.  For your class grade you may be expected to concentrate your academic efforts in readings and memorization, and it is not uncommon to have a large percentage of your grade based upon only 1 to 2 exams. Classes mainly for students studying abroad in Korea may be more similar in style to how courses are taught at AU. In general, you should be prepared for differences between the overseas and the US academic systems and be aware that you may experience a period of adjustment.  Be sure to fully take advantage of the support services provided by your overseas host university.