The Austrian Integration Fund (ÖIF) relies on binding rules of conduct, violence prevention, and consistent quality control in its subsidized German courses. The goal is a safe and respectful learning environment for all participants. To this end, binding guidelines apply to course providers and teachers, as well as clear rules for course attendance. The teaching of Austrian values and basic social norms is an integral part of the curriculum in ÖIF German courses. In cases of serious rule violations, participants may be banned from the premises or expelled from the course. The ÖIF monitors compliance with these guidelines through ongoing inspections and unannounced evaluations.
Clear rules and consequences for violations
All German courses funded by the Austrian Integration Fund (ÖIF) have binding course rules and house rules. Participants are informed about their rights and obligations during their initial consultation with the ÖIF and subsequently by the course providers. These include respectful behavior towards others, regular attendance, and active participation in class. A structured warning procedure is applied in cases of non-participation, which can lead to course termination. In cases of serious rule violations, bans from the premises and disciplinary exclusion from the course are also possible, according to the applicable regulations. Security-related incidents must be documented, reported to the ÖIF, and filed with the authorities. In cases of imminent danger, the police or the relevant authorities will be contacted immediately. All relevant information regarding course exclusions and terminations is also transmitted via the federal integration interface to the responsible agencies, such as the social welfare authorities of the federal states.
Ongoing and unannounced inspections by the ÖIF
The Austrian Integration Fund (ÖIF) establishes binding quality standards for its German courses and monitors compliance through ongoing monitoring, documentation reviews, and unannounced on-site evaluations. Particular attention is paid to teacher qualifications, teaching quality, the mandatory teaching of values, and adherence to the code of conduct. If deficiencies are identified, the ÖIF demands improvements and verifies their implementation. Depending on the severity of the violations, measures ranging from retraining and contractual penalties to contract termination or withdrawal of certification are possible, provided the relevant conditions are met.
Mandatory values education and accompanying counselling
In all Austrian Integration Fund (ÖIF)-funded German courses from A1 to B2, Austrian values and orientation are taught from the very beginning. This includes, in particular, the rule of law, gender equality, self-determination, and rights and responsibilities in society. Non-violence, the prohibition of physical and psychological violence, and the protection of women and children are also integral parts of the curriculum. Furthermore, the ÖIF offers counseling and support for personal problems, conflicts, and difficult life situations at its integration centers, women's center, and men's support center. Course providers are also required to offer regular office hours and, if necessary, refer participants to appropriate support services.