Studying Abroad: How to Prepare

2. Make Use of Study Abroad Events and Fairs

Most universities and colleges regularly offer informational events and fairs about studying abroad. Here you can get general information about a possible stay abroad, meet representatives from partner universities and sometimes even talk to study abroad alumni, who can tell you everything you want to know. Usually there are also presentations about the formalities of the application process. If you are not sure if studying abroad is something you want to do or if you want to get some insights into the whole experience, visiting these kinds of events early on in the process can be very helpful and will help you make a decision. And remember: these application processes often take a really long time (especially if you need to apply for a visa) – you simply cannot get started too early!

3. Choose the Right University/College

Some students already know which school they want to go to from the very start. Others are still undecided and sometimes overwhelmed by the many choices. Having to choose not only a school but a country and a specific city can be quite the challenge. Think about which country you would like to live in first: which languages do you speak or would you like to learn? Which culture do you want to get to know better? Studying abroad is a once in a lifetime opportunity to really get to know a foreign country in depth. When you have decided for a country, start looking at the different universities. Check out which partner universities your school has – usually organizing your stay with one of them tends to be much easier. Also talk to your International Office – they often have written reports from former exchange students on file that can give you a first-hand impression of the different universities.

4. Pick the Best Time for Your Stay

Are Hast du dich erstmal für einen Ort entschieden, ist noch die Frage nach dem besten Zeitpunkt offen. Dafür solltest du dir zum einen überlegen, wie lange du im Ausland sein möchtest. Im Rahmen von Austauschprogrammen hast du oft die Wahl zwischen einem Semester und einem ganzen Jahr. Informiere dich über die Möglichkeiten an deiner Wunschuniversität. Außerdem solltest du deinen Studienplan in Deutschland beachten. In vielen Studiengängen gibt es Veranstaltungen, die nur einmal im Winter- oder im Sommersemester angeboten werden oder die man hintereinander besuchen sollte. Wenn du auf solche Zusammenhänge achtest, machst du dir das Studium und die Organisation des Auslandssemesters erheblich leichter. When you have decided for a country and school, picking the best time to go is next. Think about how long you want to stay abroad. You can usually either stay for one semester or an entire academic year. Look at the different possibilities for the university of your choice and also take into consideration your degree course scheme. Are there any obligatory classes that are only offered during a specific term? Looking out for these possible pitfalls now will make organizing your study abroad experience much smoother in the long run.

5. About Exchange Programs and Scholarships

Exchange programs like the European ERASMUS make going abroad much easier, since they often waive the tuition fees. They also support you with information about every aspect of your stay abroad, help you organize housing and offer meetings on-site, where you can get to know meet other internationals. Sometimes exchange programs can also facilitate contact with former exchange students at your chosen school, who can give you valuable insider tips. If you want to apply for further funding via a scholarship, there are national institutions like the DAAD (the German Academic Exchange Service), where you can apply. Just ask your International Office about funding possibilities!

6. Know the Requirements of Your Course of Study Abroad

This might sound a little bit boring, but you should get familiar with the requirements of the classes you will be taking abroad. Sometimes your course of study dictates certain classes or methods of examination you have to adhere to. If you want to transfer the credits you are earning abroad to your university course at home, there sometimes are requirements that you should be aware of. Talk to your study councellor if you are unsure. Some exchange programs or scholarships also require you to take a certain number of credits during your stay abroad. Getting all of that information now will prevent you from stressing out about it during your time abroad, if you end up not taking enough classes.

7. Get networking!

Of course the most important thing during your stay is getting to know the country, culture and people. Actively engage with other students, go to events and meet-ups or join clubs. Usually the Exchange Office or International Office at universites organize get-togethers for international students. To make your start abroad easier, try getting into contact with people on-site even before you get there. Maybe there is a WhatsApp group with other international students arriving at the same time? When you get there: most universities have introductory events the week or days before classes start, where you can take part in campus tours and fun activities to meet people. If you are worried about language barriers, think about taking a language class. Organizing that in advance will also give you a sense of security and preparation. Some language courses take part during the semester break – if you have the opportunity to arrive early and get acquainted with the new language, that could be a great option. There will also be other international students there who you can explore the campus with!

Talk to people, explore the area and really get to know your country of choice. Your study abroad experience is a once in a lifetime opportunity to really find out what life somewhere else is like. These memories will stay with you forever!

You are thinking about doing your entire course of study abroad? Have a look at our article about “Studying Abroad – All the Tips and Tricks You Need to Know”