[Must-see for international students!] What to prepare in advance for studying in Germany, a popular study abroad destination

Hello to everyone considering studying abroad in Germany. 

Germany is a country with many cities with high educational standards and cultural appeal, such as the capital Berlin, Munich, and Heidelberg. Germany actively accepts international students, and many international students from all over the world gather at its universities. This allows you to make international friends and study in a multicultural environment. In addition, there are many programs offered in English, so even those who cannot speak German can start their study abroad life with confidence.

Here we will introduce you to some preparations you should make in advance before studying abroad in Germany! 

1. Obtaining a passport

When planning to study abroad, the first thing you need to do is get a passport. Make sure it has enough validity. If your passport expires during your stay in Germany , your visa application may not go smoothly. Generally, you need a validity period of at least six months from the date of your intended return. Applying for or renewing a passport can take time, so we recommend starting the process early!  

2. Applying for a student visa

A visa is required to study at a university or language school in Germany, but in fact people with nationality from Japan, Australia, Canada, Israel, New Zealand, South Korea, Switzerland, the United States, the United Kingdom of Great Britain and Northern Ireland, and EU member states can apply for a residence permit after entering Germany without a visa .  

3. Consider getting a health check and purchasing overseas insurance

Proof of health insurance is required for admission to a German university. 

Travellers must have adequate health insurance provided by a German public or private health insurance provider ( gesetzliche oder private Krankenversicherung ). 

Travel insurance taken out in Germany or abroad is not accepted as a condition for admission. Please check with your health insurance provider well in advance about the insurance coverage. Some health insurance providers may have special premiums for students. Make sure that the health insurance you take out is valid from the time of your entry into Germany. It is recommended to take out a so-called Incoming Health Insurance Package (public or private), which provides uninterrupted disease coverage from the time of your entry into Germany and with student premiums. 

4. Money management

First, calculate the total cost of tuition and living expenses. Tuition includes not only tuition fees, but also textbook fees and facility usage fees. Living expenses include housing, food, transportation, insurance, daily necessities, etc. Check the university's website and study abroad information sites to find out the approximate costs and create a budget. It is important to calculate living expenses and create a budget in advance, especially in big cities such as Madrid and Barcelona, ​​where rent and transportation costs can be expensive. 

Next, think about how you will prepare your funds. If you have savings, you can base your plan on that, but if necessary, you should also consider applying for scholarships and grants. Many universities and organizations offer scholarship programs for international students. Scholarship information can be found at your university's international student office or scholarship information website. It is important to check the application deadline and application requirements, prepare the necessary documents, and apply early. 

5. Housing arrangements

Choosing where to live in Germany is also important. You have the option of university dormitories, homestays, apartments, and more. Dormitories are located within the university facilities, making it easy to commute to school and allowing you to interact with other students. Homestays have the advantage of allowing you to practice the language and experience the culture by staying with a local family. If you rent an apartment, you can choose one that suits your lifestyle. Be sure to also take safety and convenience for commuting to school into consideration when making your selection. 

6. Transportation

We will introduce you to the best ways to get around while studying in Germany! 

By train Germany's nationwide train network is convenient and comfortable. Student discounts are available, so it's a good idea to get a student ID card in advance. Many universities also offer semestertickets, which can be used each semester . 

Buses Long-distance buses are a popular, cheaper option than trains, and services such as FlixBus are easy to book and can take you all over Europe. 

Bicycles : Germany has many bicycle lanes in its cities, making it a very convenient way to commute to school or for daily transport. You can also buy cheap second-hand bicycles locally. 

7. Means of communication

When studying in Germany, securing a means of communication is an important item that you must prepare. There are ways to use your existing smartphone in Germany as is, such as a Wi-Fi router, SIM card, and eSIM (embedded SIM). In particular, eSIM is a digital SIM that is built directly into your smartphone, unlike conventional physical SIM cards , and does not require the replacement of a physical card. You can start communicating immediately by simply configuring simple settings online. There is no need to rent, carry, or charge a Wi-Fi router, which significantly reduces the hassle. 

If you're going to Germany! " eSIM " is definitely recommended! 

■ Benefits of using " eSIM " in Germany 

We strongly recommend an " eSIM " (embedded SIM) for traveling to Germany . Unlike conventional physical SIM cards, an " eSIM " is a digital SIM built into your smartphone. This new technology eliminates the need to physically replace SIM cards and allows you to easily start communication services online. It also eliminates the hassle of renting, carrying, and charging a Wi-Fi router, as well as the hassle of returning it. It 's sure to make your stay in Germany even more comfortable. Use an " eSIM " and experience the next generation of convenient and comfortable travel.  

 

■ VOYAGE eSIM is recommended for traveling to Germany

VOYAGEESIM FOR EUROPE
Supported countries are here

Click here for a list of products

You can choose from the following plans: 5G for 10 days, 10GB for 15 days, 20GB for 30 days, and 50GB for 60 days.

There is no need to replace the SIM card you use in Japan. By simply installing and setting up the eSIM, you can use data communications in 42 European countries and regions, including Germany, on your smartphone.

The communications services provided by this product are provided by Vodafone Roaming Services S.à rl.

summary

When studying abroad, it is important to think in advance about what you want to learn and what skills you want to acquire. For example, choose a field that is directly related to your interests and career, such as deepening your business knowledge, dramatically improving your language skills, or acquiring specialized skills. 

By making these preparations thoroughly, you will be able to enjoy your study abroad experience in Germany with peace of mind. A life abroad filled with new experiences and learning awaits you. Get ready and start your wonderful life abroad! We hope you have a wonderful time studying abroad in Germany! 

 

The contents of this blog post are provided based on information available at the time of writing. Therefore, we would appreciate it if you would always check the latest information for yourself.