Here’s what’s waiting for you
Do you want to know what your everyday life at university is going to look like?
On this page, you’ll find tips on topics such as finding an apartment as a student, finding a job, and what departments at IU you’ll be in regular contact with.
Here we’ll cover everything you need to know about campus life at IU, plus the benefits of international student life in Germany.
Your success is our mission
Even before you start your studies, our study advisors are here to answer any questions you might have.
And once you started your studies? You’ll have study guides available for any need you have as an international student, plus learning advice and motivation from study coaches, career coaches who‘ll prepare you for your career entry.
And the student office for any questions or requests about your studies.
Where Cultures Meet and Friendships Begin
Meet people outside your classes and form lasting friendships. Campus life at IU helps you quickly settle into your new environment.
Join social events, workshops and student-led activities where you can share experiences, discover new interests and grow your international network.
Whether you’re looking to make friends, feel at home or simply enjoy student life, our welcoming campus community is ready for you.
Use your status to your advantage
As a student in Germany, you’ll benefit from discounts during your studies:
For example, you can pay less on your Spotify subscription or Amazon Prime account.
As an IU student, you can improve your skills thanks to free access to LinkedIn Learning with over 5000 exciting courses, and get free access to programmes such as Microsoft 365 or Adobe Cloud, to help you work on class projects.
How is student life in Germany?
It’s multicultural
23% of Germany’s population are immigrants or children of immigrants—well above the EU average of 10%, making Germany one of Europe’s most international countries*.
Everything is accessible
Major German cities are evenly spread out, and smaller towns with a more intimate learning experience are just a short train ride from lively hubs like Cologne, Dortmund, and Düsseldorf - so university campus life can offer the best of both worlds.
Opportunities are everywhere
Living in Germany offers plenty of career prospects to international students, especially as an IU student. Your student visa allows you to work legally for up to 20 hours per week during your studies, enabling you to apply the knowledge you have learned in practice and gain valuable professional experience.
Kickstart your career in Germany
If you would like to enter the attractive job market in Germany after completing your studies, as a graduate of an on-campus degree program, you have the option of applying for an 18-month job seeking visa.
International student community
You'll find yourself among a diverse group of peers from all corners of the globe. This rich tapestry of cultures not only enhances your academic experience but also opens doors to friendships and networks that span the globe.
You can learn a new language
While English is the main language of instruction, you’ll also have the chance to learn German. It will enhance your personal and professional growth and help you connect with the local community.
Student Life in Germany: Our Tips for Working, Studying, and Living
Moving to another country, finding your first job as an international student, sorting out your accommodation:
These are all exciting aspects of being an IU student on campus.
We need they can all be stressful, too – so we’ve compiled some useful advice here for you, to help make your life easier.
How do I find a flat?
Whether it's a shared flat, student dorms, or a room for subletting: You have many options. The best time to start looking is 2-3 months before the end of the current semester, when many graduates leave the city.
If you're looking for a flat, it's worth looking into shared flats: the prices are usually a little lower compared to a flat of your own – And it’s a great way to meet new people.
Finding housing can be challenging — but we’ve got you covered. Explore our guide and discover accommodation options that make settling in easy.
How do I find a job?
Gain practical work experience through internships, which are either mandatory or voluntary as electives depending on the programme, or through part-time student jobs (maximum 20 hours per week).
Take advantage of the wide range of services offered by our Career Office to prepare yourself as well as possible for entering the German job market.
To learn more about the German job market, don’t forget to visit our complete guide.
How do I learn on campus?
IU's campus offers you you optimal opportunities to study, exchange ideas with others and relax.
Our modern facilities give you plenty of opportunities to study in peace, eat and take breaks.
In addition, you can look forward to the following advantages to studying on campus:
You‘ll have face-to-face lectures that allow you to discuss current industry trends from experienced professors and lecturers
You can study in a relaxed atmosphere in our designated learning areas
You‘ll benefit from our innovative infrastructure and central location
You‘ll have the opportunity to spend time with your fellow students – grab lunch or a coffee, and get to know the people you study with
Experience lectures on campus and access your learning materials and AI learning assistant 24/7 via our MyCampus platform. Study in the lively student city of Cologne, and choose from 10 career-focused degrees with more than 15 specialisations.
Cologne CampusThe benefits of on-campus studies in Germany
Build the skills for your future career on campus in Germany – In a nurturing and supportive Education environment. Learn about the benefits of studying on campus in the next section.
Accessibility: Helping you get started as a student
No need to wait a year or compete with others – our on-campus study options are available to any student who meets the admission requirements, with 2 intake a year.
Only meet some of the admission requirements? Thanks to our unique pathway programme, you can still come to Germany and start working towards your goals – we’ll give you all the support you need.
INNOVATION: STUDY SMARTER WITH A MODERN LEARNING EXPERIENCE
Take advantage of valuable exchanges with your professors, lecturers, and fellow students during your lectures on campus to gain new knowledge and develop it using practical examples and projects.
Deepen and practice what you have learned through self-study, all learning materials and your AI learning assistant Synthea are available via MyCampus, our digital learning platform. This gives you 24/7 access to all your learning resources and support services, ensuring you always stay up to date!
Employability: Start your professional life in Germany
What better place to build your skills and kick off your career than Europe’s biggest economy? From traditional industry to engineering and all the way to start-ups and digital media agencies:
Germany offers countless opportunities for young professionals. With the help of our career experts, and thanks to the option of getting an 18-month post-study visa to find work, it’s the perfect graduate launchpad.
Read more about why you should study in Germany.
Intimate, Supportive, and Valuable: Your on-campus studies
Face-to-face lectures
Accessible, quality education means having enough space to express yourself. Forget about crowded study halls and impersonal events – at IU, you’ll study in easygoing groups, and work closely with your experienced professors and lecturers.
Personal support throughout your studies
You’ll have constant support - whenever you need it – from your study guides, study coaches, career experts, tutors, and fellow students. Plus, the student office is available for any questions about life in Germany.
Studying on campus pays off
Be part of a wide range of campus-related activities, network with students from all over the world, and benefit from free-of-charge access to MSOFFICE365 – plus a ton of student discounts on various services and products.
Award-winning education at IU
Do you have any questions?
Visit our FAQ page or get in touch with our Study Advisors.
