Moving to Germany as an international student can be both exciting and overwhelming. From finding accommodation to registering your residence and opening a bank account, numerous administrative tasks need to be completed. Here’s a list of essential websites that will help make your transition smoother:
1. General Information and Student Services
- DAAD (Deutscher Akademischer Austauschdienst) – www.daad.de
Provides scholarships, study programs, and general advice for international students. - Make It in Germany – www.make-it-in-germany.com
Offers guidance on visa processes, job opportunities, and living in Germany.
2. University-Related Services
- Your University’s Official Website
Every university has a portal with essential information on enrollment, semester dates, student services, and contacts. - Studentenwerk – www.studentenwerke.de
Provides affordable student accommodation, dining hall services, and counseling.
3. Residence Registration and Immigration
- Anmeldung (City Registration Office) – www.service.berlin.de (for Berlin, check your city’s official website)
Every new resident in Germany must register their address within 14 days of arrival. - Ausländerbehörde (Foreigners’ Office) – Varies by city
Handles residence permits for non-EU students. Check your city’s official website.
4. Health Insurance and Medical Services
- TK (Techniker Krankenkasse) – www.tk.de
A popular public health insurance provider for students. - AOK (Allgemeine Ortskrankenkasse) – www.aok.de
Another well-known public health insurance provider.
5. Banking and Finance
- Deutsche Bank (Blocked Account for Visa) – www.deutsche-bank.de
Many students use this for visa-related financial proof. - N26 (Online Banking) – www.n26.com
A fully digital bank with an English interface, useful for students.
6. Accommodation and Housing
- WG-Gesucht – www.wg-gesucht.de
The most popular site for finding shared apartments (WGs) and private rooms. - ImmobilienScout24 – www.immobilienscout24.de
A reliable website for renting apartments.
7. Public Transport and Travel
- Deutsche Bahn (DB) – www.bahn.com
Germany’s national railway provider for long-distance travel. - Local Public Transport (BVG for Berlin, MVV for Munich, etc.)
Every city has a public transport website where you can check ticket prices and timetables.
8. Part-Time Jobs and Career Services
- StudentJob Germany – www.studentjob.de
A platform for student-friendly jobs and internships. - Jobbörse (Federal Employment Agency) – www.jobboerse.arbeitsagentur.de
Government job listings including part-time work for students.
9. Language Learning and Integration
- Deutsche Welle (DW Learn German) – www.dw.com/learn-german
Free online German courses and learning materials.
These websites will be invaluable as you navigate your new life in Germany. Take time to explore them and ensure that you fulfill all necessary requirements smoothly. Willkommen in Deutschland! 🇩🇪
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