To encourage students to complete their study within the allotted time, EUR uses the binding study advice (BSA) system that requires students to proceed into the second year with a clean slate. The BSA might now also be introduced in the second and third

Week 18: Binding Study Advice in second and third year?

To encourage students to complete their study within the allotted time, EUR uses the binding study advice (BSA) system that requires students to proceed into the second year with a clean slate. The BSA might now also be introduced in the second and third year. What do students think about this?

Silvia Danaj (20), IBA student from Albania

I think the binding study advice is a bit harsh. It puts a lot of pressure on students. Of course, it is good to provide guidance and to keep students on track. But the risk that you may not obtain enough credits and have to stop with the program creates too much pressure. So I certainly do not think that it is a good idea to introduce the binding study advice in the second and third year. I think there are other ways to encourage students to complete their study within the allotted time. It is, for example, important to create an environment in which students do not feel pressured.

Beppe Dipierro (26), Exchange student from Italy

Generally, I think that the binding study advice can work to encourage students to complete their study within the allotted time. And it is important if you want to maintain the quality of education. After all, ranking can also be based on the number of students passing. So, I’d say that a binding study advice for not only the first, but also the second and third year is a good idea. But, of course, it also depends on the specific requirements. It would create too much pressure if students had to obtain all of the credits on their first attempt, for example.

Jean Paul Levier (21), IBCoM student from Brazil

Personally, I think it is a good idea to have a binding study advice for the second and third year too. It keeps you on track and it is always good to have students disciplined and focused. Guidance always helps people. Of course, it can also create some pressure, but it is organized pressure. So, the sort of pressure that helps you to get your work done and to stay focused. But still, the requirements should be lenient in a way. NL