Starting your degree programme in Germany at IU International University of Applied Sciences is bound to be an exciting new chapter in your personal and academic journey. The first six months will give you a lot of opportunities to meet new people, build your routine and thrive in your life abroad. Here’s what to expect as you arrive and settle into your on-campus student life.
Before you arrive in Germany
Before you get on a flight to Germany, there are a few key tasks to complete. Here’s a quick checklist that would help you plan for a smooth transition to your new life as an international student.
Your pre-arrival checklist:
Apply for your student visa in your home country and schedule your appointment. Make sure you have all the relevant documents ready.
Arrange accommodation. Should you decide to study in Berlin, read our guide on finding accommodation in the city.
Open your blocked account with a trusted service provider and confirm health insurance for your study period. This insurance is not travel insurance; it is mandatory for all students coming to Germany to have valid health insurance.
Book your travel and remember to keep copies of all the important documents with you.
Once you are ready, pack essentials like your passport, admission letter, insurance papers, and your laptop. Remember to pack for all the seasons, something fresh for summer and something warm for winter. Most of our students experience their first European winters and summers during their studies in Germany.
As you prepare for the move, check our campus-specific pages to get more information about what to expect when you are here. You can also chat with IU students to know more about their experience.
Your First few weeks in Germany
Your first academic week begins with Orientation Week. It introduces you to campus life, university processes, and IU support teams. You’ll also get to know myCampus, the digital platform from which you can access your study material. Mycampus is your go-to source for everything you would need for your studies and IU services. You can access your study material, learn with Syntea, explore library services and reach out to IU support teams. If you need help as an IU student, you will know how to contact Student Services, Study Coaches and the Careers Office. They can answer questions about enrollment, housing, or any administrative step.
During the first few weeks, you will also complete your essential local setup in Germany:
Every international student must register their address. This city registration process is called Anmeldung in German. This is a very important step to ensure that your mail and official documents reach you correctly, and in time.
You must finalise and activate your health insurance. It is mandatory and very important to have an appropriate health insurance as you study in Germany
Set up a German bank account. This bank account will become your primary bank account in Germany. The monthly disbursement from the blocked account will be paid into this account.
Get a SIM card and a local phone number
Make sure you plan and book your Anmeldung appointment as early as possible. Delaying this would have a domino effect on all the other processes that follow.
Month 1: Getting settled
Classes will now be in full swing. Expect interactive lectures, teamwork, and open discussions. Professors and classmates come from different backgrounds, making each class diverse and practical.
Take time to learn how your new city works. Use public transport apps, find nearby grocery stores, and keep a list of emergency numbers handy.
This is also a good time to join clubs or groups that match your interests. You can find options on our Study in Cologne and Study in Berlin pages.
Trying different food joints, cafes and clubs, going to interesting meet-ups and talking to your peers at IU are some great ways to make new friends and find like-minded people. This support system will help you feel less homesick as the days go by.
Months 2-3: Building your routine
After the first few weeks, you’ll start finding balance between classes, self-study, and possibly part-time work.
Make use of IU’s career services early. Attend career talks, join CV workshops, and explore different tools to enhance your chances of finding a job. These resources help you plan for internships or part-time roles.
Join on-campus events, guest lectures, and different student clubs to grow your network and improve your German.
Don’t forget to explore your surroundings. Make use of IU Blogs to get more ideas for local experiences and travel.
Get in touch with the study coaches if you feel you need support managing your studies or staying motivated. Being in a different country has its own challenges; IU study coaches are always there to help you navigate this transition better.
Months 4-6: Planning ahead
By now, you’ll feel more comfortable with your studies and daily life. The next step is to plan for the rest of your first year.
Check your examination schedule and start by preparing for exams. Review your housing situation and look for longer-term options if needed. If your programme includes an internship, this is the right time to start exploring different options and possibilities.
Build stronger relationships with classmates, professors, and career advisors. Attend networking events or career fairs to meet professionals in your field. Reach out to IU Career Services to get guidance regarding the German job market.
Set personal goals for the year like improving your language skills, travelling within Europe, or starting a personal or academic project.
Make a plan for your exam preparation and revise with your study group. It’s always better when you have friends to support you in your studies.
Your journey is just getting started
Your first six months at IU are about building confidence and creating a foundation for your studies and life in Germany. The last step of your programme would be a thesis. It is never too early to start thinking about it. Explore myCampus and learn more about the requirements of a thesis. Make sure you read the important sections in Info Centre, especially the Exams Office and Study Coaching, to get the support you deserve in your IU journey. Every new step from your first on-campus lecture to your first German phrase, will shape your international experience. Get ready, stay focused, and keep moving towards your goals.
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Do you have any questions?
Visit our FAQ page or get in touch with our Study Advisors.
