Studying abroad is a dream shared by many youngsters who have just finished school/ college. As with many big dreams, this one also needs a lot of work to make it happen. Being able to study abroad is a great opportunity to experience new adventures, to explore different parts of the world, and become part of different cultures.
Learning to handle life away from home, on your own, is certainly not easy, but if you decide to grab every opportunity, you-all have an absolute best time, while growing into an independent and educated adult.
If you are thinking about studying in Europe, Germany has caught the eye of thousands of international students, by its reputation for high quality and low costs, beautiful culture, and rich history. But before you submit your application, and embark on your journey, make sure you are equipped with all the necessities, official rules, and background information from the foreign office. If you are coming from a non-EU country it is necessary to have a visa and a residence permit, which is renewed every two years and allows you to stay and also work in the country. It is necessary to have health insurance in Germany, for which you should apply before the entry in the country and the beginning of the studies. You should consider private health insurance Germany-wide, because of the faster appointments and shorter waiting time. As a student, you can freely join without any further requirements.
Here are a few things that you should know about living and studying in Germany.
Learning the German language
After all the hard work of applying and researching for university, applying for a visa, and arriving in Germany, it is time to get to it and start studying. If you only speak English, you might not have trouble with the young Germans, but you may experience some difficulties in everyday life. When dealing with German authorities you need to have a good knowledge of the German language, because not everyone can speak English.
There are also situations like going on the market for shopping, going to a hairdresser, or visiting a public library, situations that don’t require much talking but will be rather challenging than academic or professional ones. We recommend getting acquainted with the basics before arriving in Germany, but there are also many options for you to learn the language there such as university programs, online courses, or private language courses.
Figure Out Your Student Accommodation
Every German university doesn’t have accommodation facilities. Universities that do offer student accommodation, typically have affiliated lodging house, or student housing arranged through partner organizations. Usually, international students in Germany tend to live in shared flats, but if you like to find something convenient and affordable you should start hunting immediately. Germans like everything planned, so you’ll have bigger chances if you arrange your accommodation long before arriving in Germany. You can check recommendations for the area from your school office, or simply you can find plenty of resources in English on the internet nowadays. Resources like Airbnb, and Berlin Apartments, among many others, are number one when hunting for a student apartment.
Whatever type of accommodation you choose, having a roommate is likely. As an international student, choosing a german roommate can be beneficial for you. It’s an opportunity for you to start speaking German more often and improve your language skills. You will have the advantage of finding the best sights around you since you’ll be living with a local.
Germans value organization and punctuality
Keep in mind that in Germany it is considered unpleasant when someone is late even by a few minutes. From going to classes to meet friends, you should make punctuality your best combine when you are in Germany. Being on time is a type of commitment that Germans highly recommend since they are known for being strict, organized, and methodical.
One of the most important tips for effective studying is good time management. You can receive expert advice on how to organize your studies and improve your result at your university. But, since not all courses are mandatory you’ll be responsible for organizing your studies, as well for your motivation and hard work to succeed in your studies. So if you are planning to leave good impressions, buy a wristwatch and never be late to a friendly meeting, work meeting, or a class.
You’ll Have to Juggle Study and Work
There are a few states-supported bodies offering a wide range of scholarships and research grants for international students, whatever your field of study may be, engineering, literature, or art, all you have to do is be attentive while applying for a grant. There are also a lot of other organizations that help international students to get the education they want and the financial stability to manage the living expenses in Germany, but if you don’t succeed in it, part-time work is quite beneficial.
International students in Germany earn extra income through part-time jobs. If you do decide to take up a part-time job alongside your studies, you will have to enhance your time management skills because juggling study and work, and social life also can be a challenge. Part-time jobs are a great opportunity to get to practice your language skills while working, create friendships, and enhance other skills that will be useful after graduation.
Finishing words
You’ll find out that Germany is a wonderful country with endless possibilities for young minds. Make sure to enjoy every moment while you are there because when this student experience is over you-all want to extend it for a few more months, or maybe forever. Studying abroad is often meant to be the highlight of each student’s university life. There are struggles, challenges, ups, and downs, but in the end, is once in a lifetime experience.
