The Best Advice for Studying Abroad in Germany

Studying abroad in Germany will expose you to a rich cultural history, widely spoken language, delicious traditional foods, and a high-quality education system. Many German cities are multicultural, dynamic places to live, and Germans tend to be direct, honest, and sensible people.

Tip number one on any list of studying abroad in Germany advice: Don’t miss this experience!

You’ll find there is so much to love throughout the country. Germany is a place where you can make connections—and memories—that will last a lifetime! Whether you’re only starting to consider Germany as a study abroad destination or you’re certain you’ll be studying abroad in Germany, advice that lets you know what to expect can help you make the most of your time overseas.

Is Germany a good place to study abroad?

Yes! Students in Germany can expect to experience a high quality of living that is also affordable. There’s a ton to explore in your free time, including a vibrant nightlife, traditional festivals, museums galore, and nearby countries like Austria, France, and the Netherlands.

An extensive public transportation system makes getting around easy and cheap. Tuition for German universities is free, even for international students, so you’ll be saving big bucks that can go toward your adventures!

READ: 11 Reasons to Study Abroad in Germany

12 helpful tips for studying abroad in Germany

When you’re studying abroad in Germany, advice from those who’ve experienced the country can help set you on the right path. International travel is a great opportunity, but living and learning abroad doesn’t come without some challenges.

These tips for studying abroad in Germany will make your introduction to German life and culture a bit easier—and your experience unforgettable:

1. Get in your paperwork

From applying for a residence permit to registering for classes, you’ll want to research what is needed to live and study in Germany and get everything in on time to avoid any complications.

You will need to set up a blocked bank account to prove you have sufficient resources to study abroad in Germany to get your visa. Depending on where you’re coming from, you may have to wait to arrive in Germany before you can apply for actual residency.

Your program provider may offer support with paperwork prior to travel and the international office at your school can usually assist you with understanding and filling out paperwork. Don’t be overwhelmed—paperwork is just part of the process of being an international student.

2. Sign up for insurance

It’s mandatory to obtain health insurance when studying in Germany. You can purchase public health insurance, which varies in cost based on your age and other factors, or opt for private health insurance. Your home country insurance may also be recognized in Germany, but either of these options require additional paperwork.

3. Know your options for accommodation

Your WG might just be the launchpad to lifelong friendships.

One of the most exciting (but also intimidating) tasks when studying abroad is finding housing. From learning what options are available to determining the best location and finding great roomies, finding accommodation is both important and fun!

You’ll want to check with your school if there is a place to register for housing, or if you’ll be responsible for finding your own. Starting early is key, as dorms usually have waitlists. And yes, you guessed it, some additional paperwork could be involved if you’re finding a place outside the university setting.

Apartment sharing, Wohngemeinschaft in German, is common among international students studying abroad in Germany. This is a great way to meet other international students and “WG parties” could provide some much needed relaxation time after classes! However, if you want to be fully immersed in German culture, opt for German roommates.

4. Choose a program of study that interests you

There are many courses of study to choose from at German universities. If you choose a course that is provided in German, you’ll be expected to be fluent. Otherwise, opt for English classes.

You’ll soon learn that your professor has ultimate authority and student interaction is limited to guided activities given by teaching assistants. When registering for classes, you’ll also need to register for exams, which count for a large part of your overall grade.

5. Be on time and prepared for class

Being on time is valued in German life and culture. At school, you’ll become accustomed to the academic quarter, basically classes that start 15 minutes after the listed start time and end 15 minutes before the end time. This gives students time to get to their classes and have a small break and will be indicated when you register. Be sure to note which classes have this break time and which do not!

Being prepared for class is also important. Attend office hours with your professor if needed and meet other students by forming study groups. Your grade depends on either a written, oral, or project-based exam, but the responsibility for learning the material lies with you!

6. Stay organized

Along with punctuality, organization is important when studying abroad, especially in Germany. Your academic advisor can help you come up with a game plan for staying organized, or it may come naturally to you. You’ll want to stay up to date with your coursework, paperwork, and travel plans.

7. Do as the locals do

Live like a local and spend your downtime in one of Germany’s many green parks.

You’ll soon settle into German life and start living like a local. Sundays are a day of rest—practically everything is closed, so don’t plan to do any shopping! During the week, take advantage of the many food stands and markets, especially around the holidays. Just be prepared to pay in cash.

Germany offers many great activities outdoors: Take a stroll through a local park, meander historic streets, and join a sports club. Soccer is a favorite pastime and you may be able to catch a Bayern game—an incredible cultural experience!

8. Learn the language

As always, learning the language is a great way to show Germans respect and better immerse yourself in the local culture. Free lessons are usually available at universities. Learning even basic German language skills will help you get around, make friends, and better experience the country.

9. Take advantage of public transportation

The German public transportation system is renowned worldwide. From light rails and trolleys to the bullet train, there’s always a way to get around affordably. Plus, as a student you’ll get a transport ticket that covers all travel costs for a semester (within the state). Sounds like a good deal!

10. Make German friends

Having German friends will help you learn the language, how to get around, and where to go—think restaurants, cafes, galleries, and other points of interest. They can also help with studying if you’re taking any German classes. Having international friends, and a global network, will be something you’ll value for the rest of your life.

11. Plan your holiday breaks

Take advantage of Germany’s central European location and try to see some sights during your holiday breaks. Or, take time to explore your local community—volunteer, go to museums, spend time with friends.

The rail network in Germany makes exploring other places in Germany and Europe a breeze.

Make sure to plan your adventures around your exams. There’s much to do within Germany without leaving the country, including castles, mountain ranges, and colorful rural towns, but weekend trips to the Alps in Austria, or to Paris, France, are possible.

12. Stay connected

After your international study abroad experience, don’t lose touch with the connections you’ve made. As you further your career, you will find your international experience looks great on a resume, and those connections may open doors that would not have been there before. Keep developing your language fluency and maintain the skills you’ve gained by studying abroad: cross cultural communication, adaptability, leadership, problem-solving, and more!

Our Online Advisor can match you with 5 study abroad programs in Germany—it’s free!

3 cool study abroad programs in Germany

Haven’t picked a program yet? Check out these top programs provided by experienced organizations:

1. IES Abroad Berlin – Language & Area Studies

• Why? Live in Berlin and take classes at multiple German universities! You can choose from a multitude of subjects while also learning German. You’ll live with local students and participate in cultural excursions to cities like Vienna, Budapest, and Dresden. Berlin is an exciting multicultural city with an intriguing history. You’ll have a hard time leaving!
• Where? Berlin
• Read IES Abroad reviews

2. English-Taught Bachelor’s Programs at EU Business School

• Why? Earn your undergraduate degree in Europe and broaden your worldview. This program will allow you to study in multiple destinations—Barcelona, Geneva, Montreux, and Munich—during the first four semesters. When in Munich, explore the wonders of Bavaria! Known primarily for Oktoberfest, this city was home to royalty and wows visitors with its churches and castles.
• Where? Munich
• Read EU Business School reviews

3. Earn your Outdoor Education Diploma in Europe in 6-Months with Camp Europe

• Why? Looking for something outside the cities of Germany? Spend six months on an outdoor adventure with Camp Europe! You’ll walk away from this experiential learning program with knowledge ranging from adventure sports to accounting. Plus, you’ll have the chance to earn a weekly stipend when putting your new skills into practice.
• Where? Bavaria, Hamburg, Regensburg
• Read Camp Europe reviews

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You’re ready to study abroad in Germany!

No matter where you decide to study abroad in Germany, you’ll have the experience of a lifetime.

Take our advice: A study abroad program in Germany will not only further your education, it will provide you with the tools and resources you’ll need to kickstart your career. You’ll also grow personally—travelers are endowed with curiosity about the world, empathy, open-mindedness, and cross-cultural communication skills. Your journey will be unique, but the advice from those who’ve walked a similar path will help you make the most out of your time abroad.