Numerous investigations have recently focused on the prevalence and causes of problem drinking among American college students. The present study examined alcohol consumption and negative consequences due to drinking among 216 American college students at an American university in West Germany. American students in Germany reported a substantially higher frequency and amount of drinking, along with higher rates of negative consequences as compared to their stateside peers. The data are discussed in terms of the relationship between the American collegiate life-style of alcohol abuse and life in an alcohol-permissive society. Recommendations for changing the collegiate norm of alcohol abuse are presented.