Germany opens its educational facilities to students from all over the globe. They have an extraordinary educational system that welcomes any student with the right credentials. Although there is a lot involved with an international relocation, by hiring professionals such as migration agents and professional movers, you can greatly ease the transition of going from the United States to Germany. Of course, you’ll still have a lot you’re held responsible for so carefully plan and prepare as necessary.
The Requirements for Admission
The requirements for German education differ according to the degree course you choose to enroll in. You can, however, assume that you’ll need to know and understand the German language to avoid any language barriers. Knowing the German language is held as a requirement by most of their universities. Another sure requirement is having your high school diploma accepted and accredited by the German university you plan to enroll at.
Aside of providing proof and documents for certain things, you’ll also be required to take some tests. These assessment tests are only for students coming to Germany from non-EU countries. You may also need to attend special preparatory classes before you can start courses at the university. It’s during these classes that foreign students learn of the qualifications for the degree they seek to earn. The classes also give them further information regarding the University of their choice.
Germany’s Student and Study Visa Options
Below are the three student and study visas and a brief explanation for each.
- Language Course Visa (Visa for Language Learning) – is the perfect option for those that want or need to learn the German language
- Student Applicant Visa (Visum Zur Studienbewerbung) – if you want to study in Germany, but are still trying to find the right program or you still haven’t got the confirmation letter from your university of choice
- Student Visa (Visum Zu Studienzwecken) – visa for students who have already been accepted by a German university
Before you can apply for a visa, you’ll need to schedule your visa interview. This interview includes answering general questions to see if you fit the criteria for a visa. Once you pass the interview, you’ll need to apply for your visa. This may entail setting up an appointment with the German Embassy or Consulate in the U.S.
Prepare for Your Move after You are Approved for a Visa
Once you have earned your student visa, you’ll need to prepare for your mover to Germany as a student. There will be lots to get done and organize so try to start this preparation process well in advance. Hire professionals to assist you with this process. For example, movers will care for your belongings and a migration agent can help you with the legalities of your move.
Find Student Housing
Finding adequate housing in a new nation is perhaps one of the more time consuming responsibilities that you’ll face. Fortunately, there is plenty of student housing offered around the universities in Germany. Apartments, flats and expat communities also exist. If you’re moving to the country because of a scholarship, you may receive assistance with housing and other living expenses while you’re studying abroad. Always read over the stipulations of your scholarship to see what is included before you choose housing and make other relevant decisions.
The cost of living in Germany for students is around 850 euros a month (roughly $1,000 in U.S. dollars). This includes housing, utilities and other living expenses. In larger German cities, the living expenses may be higher. In smaller cities, they may be lower. Make sure you do thorough research of the area you’re moving too.
Get Your Living Expenses Situated
It’s not easy managing your money as a college student, much less as a student in a foreign country. It’s in your best interest to save at least a few thousand dollars to bring with you to Germany. Remember to have your U.S. currency exchanged for euros before you leave.
Although Germany accommodates and welcomes expats, it may still be more difficult to find a job due to the cultural differences and language barrier. The best places to look for job openings include career boards, online and local publications. You can find many jobs where very little experience is necessary. Most of these jobs are perfect for young expats and are found located around the campuses. Having a part time job will help greatly with your living expenses in the nation.
The cost of food, transport, entertainment and housing in Germany isn’t too far off from that in the United States. In fact, it may be a little less expensive depending on your location in the foreign country. Just make sure you always have enough money aside to carry on with your daily endeavors without worry.
Arranging to Transport Your Belongings
Shipping your belongings over is much easier with help from professional movers. Luckily, these services are quite inexpensive and extremely helpful. As international movers, they’ll even make sure your stuff is approved by Customs for its import. Of course, as a student it’s probably not necessary to ship over a whole home full of belongings, so it shouldn’t be too difficult to take advantage of these moving services. The less you decide to ship to Germany, the cheaper it will be. Try to condense your stuff so that you’re only bringing over the necessities with you. Many movers offer student discounts on their services. Make sure you ask them if you qualify.
Written By:Joe Webster
Joe Webster began his journey in the auto transport field by attending the University of Southern California (USC), where he graduated with a Bachelor of Business Marketing.
After college, he started his career in the auto transport industry from the bottom up and has done virtually every job there is to do at A-1 Auto Transport, including but not limited to: Truck Driver, Dispatch, Sales, PR, Bookkeeping, Transport Planner, Transport Manager, International Transport Manager, Brokering, Customer Service, and Marketing. Working with his mentor Tony Taylor, Joe Webster has learned the ins and outs of this industry which is largely misunderstood.
With over 30 years experience in the industry, we've been helping people ship their vehicles, motorcycles, RV's, heavy equipment, household goods and more across the country or overseas without a hitch. Ask us anything.
