Studying in higher education institutions, students are expected to look for accommodation themselves. Mostly students opt for cohabitation and hence prefer sharing a flat or an apartment. By this the costs of power, water, rent and other basic amenities are shared and prove to be cost effective. Average accommodation can cost around 280-400 euros monthly. Accommodation contracts are long term and short term contract options. Many prefer to stay in dormitories as they are cheaper options. They are important options for the freshmen, the first year students. University accommodations or dorms, are generally equipped with internet connectivity, laundry, drying rooms, play area etc. Laundry machines can sometimes require extra fee. Guesthouses, homestays are also the other options that students prefer. Some students prefer studios and that can cost 500 euros or even more. Generally it is cheaper to live in East Germany than in west. Shared flats and dorms give a ready opportunity to meet a lot of other international students and even German students.
Universities would normally provide assistance typically the agent details for rented accommodation. It is beneficial to stay in these as proximity to university is better, assistance easier and saves commutation time and money. Staying with the accommodation provided by the universities is wiser and help is easily available and within reach. Cities are smaller and university areas are not big enough in terms of area to house campus accommodation.
It is important to start searching and book options available well in advance with the increasing demand. In the popular cities in Germany, student’s accommodation becomes an issue if not booked on time. Students normally get housing faster for summer semesters than winter ones.
Knowing German language is an important requisite when in Germany. It is utterly imperative that students in Germany know their language. In a 100percent German speaking country like Germany, business language too is German. If not already started, at least after their courses begin, students should readily start learning German language. Many universities make it a part of the course or at times give it as an addition on the curriculum. Some universities will charge small fee and some will give it free of cost.
Accommodations are many a times equipped with Internet connectivity. Mobile phones emails are a standard ways of communication. Public phone booths are available in public places. Prepaid cards are available and used widely for communication.
Accommodations are many a times equipped with Internet connectivity. Mobile phones emails are a standard ways of communication. Public phone booths are available in public places. Prepaid cards are available and used widely for communication.
Students enjoy many good bargains at the discount shops. Local Supermarket chain stores in cities give students opportunity to save on deals and discounts. Important part to know here is Public Holidays and Sundays even these shops and stores are closed. Shops close at 8 and hence planning is needed when shopping for things in Germany, specially the groceries and everyday breads.
Primarily a meat eating country, it is advisable that students learn to cook their own meals. Shopping stores not open till late evening so a planned approach towards meals is a must. Cities are equipped with restaurants and majority of possible vegetables, fruits, food grains is available. Kartofel (Potatoes) is their favourite food. Germany is known for largest production of Potatoes across EU. I am sure most of the Indian students will be more than happy. Some universities do provide canteen facilities.
Students are expected to make health and travel insurance before Visa. If insurance company not recognised in Germany, then students have to buy insurance there which can cost almost 80-100Euros per month or even more. Healthcare system is very strong in Germany.
It is very much possible to feel lonely and homesick in this cold climate country. Knowing the German language becomes a great help and when you start communicating with the Germans, understand them then you will realise that they are very friendly people and very welcoming.
Most of the universities will arrange for a student to come and fetch you at the airport or the railway station, or bus station. First thing needed is registration and enrolment at the student’s services office. It’s the most important thing to do on arrival. You receive your student ID.
There is no induction week but some universities do have a orientation week. The first day is normally an official welcoming to students with the bigger universities having a special function arranged. Normally the students office is the contact point for all the assistance. Students are shown the universities around with the amenities and facilities provided.
It does take a while to adjust to the cultural differences. Hence again language is imperative to understand the people. Adjustment to the lifestyle comes easier with language.
Germany has lots to offer. Almost every region has its own music festival. Concerts at times have festivals offering Arts and cultural activities too. Students can go kayaking, forest trails, or strolls too.
Largely known for its heritage buildings and traditional places with its historical look maintained. Popular places of visit for tourists are the Brandenburg Gate, River Rhine, Neuschwanstein Castle, etc
Well connected with railways and metros. Travel is no problem at all. The famous motorway –Autobahn, makes travel faster and easier. It is important to read in German to understand the routes. Hence again language is important.
Concessions on public transport are available on busses, subways, trams etc for the students. Bicycles are a common mode of transport enjoyed by students.
Traditionally Germans are very logical, prompt, ethical, time conscious, formal people. Very friendly once they know you and are friends for life.