Checklist for Students Going to Germany
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Checklist for Students Going to Germany

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Aishwarya
Aishwarya Bhatnagar
Study Abroad Expert
Updated on Aug 8, 2024 15:00 IST
Germany is one of the top study abroad destination among international students. Once you have secured an admission in your dream German university, it is very important to beware of what to take along and be ready for the challenges. For your benefit, we have crafted a checklist for students going to Germany, so that you don't miss out on anything you may need further.
Checklist to Study in Germany

Relocating to a new country, amidst new faces and socio-cultural atmosphere may turn out to be a daunting task at times, if not done smartly and in a planned manner. One not only has to adjust to the new academic environment but also needs to get acclimatised to the new place’s climate, norms, culture, etc. It is always advisable to do your homework well in advance before your departure date starts knocking rapidly. As per the data released by the Indian government, over 50,000 students from India opt to pursue their education in European countries, with Germany being the most sought-after destination. At present, 35,000 Indian students are enrolled in distinct courses in Germany. The numbers are expected to rise in the next two years. Programs such as Natural Sciences, Engineering, Law, and Mathematics have gained huge popularity among the Indian lot.

Check: Student Guide to Germany

Also, recently, Annalena Baerbock, German Foreign Minister, announced that both India and Germany will collaborate through a ‘mobility agreement’ for letting their citizens study and work in each other’s nation easily. This will be beneficial, especially for those students who have had a hard time moving to the country for the purpose of higher education or further studies.

Therefore, in order to plan a comfortable and hassle-free stay in Germany, Shiksha.com would be assisting you in registering all the key points that you need to bookmark before shifting to a new place, not missing out on anything major.

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Documents

Clothing

Washroom Articles

Valid Passport

Undergarments

Shampoo and Conditioner (if required)

ID Card

Socks

Soaps/Shower Gel

Visa

Night Suit Sets

Dettol

Birth Certificate

Belts

Sanitizer

University/College Offer Letter

Pairs of formal and casual footwear

Toothbrush and Toothpaste

15-20 Passport-Size Photograph

Rain Boots

Deodrant/Perfume

Degree Certificates

Face Masks

Nail Cutter, Scissor

Language Proficiency Proof

Shirts/T-Shirts

Towels

Scores/Results of Exams

Jeans/Pants

Moisturizer/Face Lotion

Transcripts (originals and copies)

Sweaters/Jackets

Shaving Kit

Flight Ticket

Skirts/Dresses

Hair Oil/Gel

Travel Insurance

Hat/Cap and Gloves

Make-Up

Contact Details of Family and Friends

Any 1 or 2 Traditional Outfits

Lip Balm

Check: Study German language in Germany for International Students

_DL_GUIDE_WIDGET_

Other Miscellaneous Items

Health-Related: Irrespective of how great your health condition is, carrying the first-aid box is mandatory for all those moving to Germany for studies. There may be times when uncalled situations need you to get medical aid. As such help may not be immediately available, you should make sure you’re carrying the basic medical kit required to heal a condition or an injury. This may include a thermometer, sunburn ointments, antiseptic pills, gauze, insect repellent, sanitizer, cotton balls, multi-vitamins (if required), band-aids, medical tape, pain killers, muscle pain sprays, eye drops, tweezers, etc.








Electronic: Gadgets such as cell phones and laptops are an essential part of a student’s life nowadays, especially for those who are living far off from their home country. They have to stay in touch with their family back home, stating their well-being. Also, even though almost all educational institutions provide computer facilities, it is not possible for one to sit in the computer lab all the time and complete their assignments and projects. In order to work conveniently from the comfort of your own room, it is important to carry your own PC. Other useful devices include pen drives, cameras, cell phone and laptop chargers, USB cables, outlet adaptors, speakers, earphones, and the like.







Health Insurance

Health Insurance from private providers in India may be recognised in Germany. You will have to inquire with your health insurance provider and get a confirmation that you are exempt from compulsory public health insurance coverage. This letter of confirmation will be essential in your application process, as only with it will you be permitted to enroll at a university. 

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Is this recommendation relevant?

You will not be able to switch to a German public health insurance provider once your studies begin. If your Indian insurance policy is insufficient, you will have to purchase a policy in Germany itself. Many universities offer service packages for international students which include accommodation, meal plans, and a health insurance policy. You will have to check with institutes for such packages. 

Luggage To-Do List

  • Documents: Make sure you have all the relevant original documents as well as their photocopies. Photocopies are important as anytime a situation can arise where you might be required to present or submit them. Make sure the photocopies are clear, in visible font size and spotless. It is always a good idea to put all your documents in a file folder so that you don’t have to search for them in other places. Stay organized and you will never lose any document. Also, don’t forget to verify that you’re carrying the right documents and papers.
  • Clothing: Keep in mind that a specified weight limit has been set for the luggage on the flights. You won’t be able to carry beyond that set number. Therefore, while packing your clothes keep only the very essential items which you would require for the first semester. For example, if your academic session commences in winter, carry all the woollen and warm clothes. Do not unnecessarily carry your favourite summer t-shirt or dress, which won’t be of any use immediately. Do not pile up creating a mess inside your suitcase or luggage bag.
  • Washroom Items: Carry a toiletry bag when packing your stuff for studying abroad so that you don’t scatter the washroom essential items inside your bags. Smart packing would include carrying 1 or 2 pieces of all the basic items. Once a month or two has passed at the new location, you can always visit a departmental store or supermarket and purchase the finished products. Doing this will maintain a cap on the number of items which are mandatory for your stay. Your bag should contain only those things without which you cannot move ahead with your day.

Read More: Cover Letter for German Student Visa: Writing Tips and Why is So Important?

Checklist for students going to Germany FAQs

Q. What should I pack for Germany?

A. Your packing list for Germany should include all the essentials that you need to live in the country. You must take along all your essential documents, clothing, toiletries, all the necessary electronics and gadgets, as well as medicines and a first-aid kit. While packing, keep in mind the weight of your total luggage.

Q. How much luggage can a student carry to Germany?

As an Indian student who is travelling to Germany for higher studies, you are permitted to carry 2 pieces of check-in baggage, which weigh up to 23kg each on a usual basis. Given below is the complete list:

Particulars Details
Economy Class  1 bag up to 23 kg
Business Class  2 bags up to 32 kg each
First Class 3 bags up to 32 kg each

Q. How much bank balance is required for a Germany student visa?

A. In order to study in Germany and apply for a German student visa, you must show the proof of sufficient funds for your higher studies. All Indian students are required to show the German embassy that they have a minimum of EUR 11,904 (INR 11 L) per year for a student visa in Germany. Note that it is a mandate to transfer the above listed amount to a blocked account in Germany. Other ways to show the proof of finances are scholarships (if applicable).

Q. What food items are allowed in Germany from India?

A. You can carry food items such as bread, cakes, biscuits, chocolate, and more while travelling to Germany from India. Note that students prohibited to bring meat, milk and products derived therefrom into the European Union from non-EU countries. However, infant food and special foods required for medical reasons, special pet feed required for medical reasons, other animal products (such as honey) up to 2 kg per person, fish/fish products up to 20 kg or the weight of one fish (whichever weight is the highest) per person are allowed.

Q. How early can I go to Germany before my course starts?

A. Your student application visa allows you to travel to Germany as an international up to nine-months prior the start date of your degree course. This will help you apply to German universities for admissions. You can also travel to Germany in order to prepare for your higher education course.

Q:   Is BSBI degree valid in Germany?

A:

BSBI does not hold degree-awarding powers in Germany and its programmes are validated by private Italian distance learning institution UniNettuno International Telematic University. BSBI has also partnered with Concordia University Chicago to deliver programmes at its Berlin campus.

Q:   What is the cost of a student visa in Germany?

A:

International students going to pursue higher education in Germany are required to apply for a German study visa. The cost of  study visa for Germany is EUR 75 per applicant. Below we have provided a check list for German student visa:

  • Valid passport
  • Application form
  • Declaration for additional contact and legal representation information
  • Copy of passport
  • Proof of admittance to the study course
  • Curriculum Vitae
  • Proof of Financial Means

Q:   Why study at IU International University of Applied Sciences Germany?

A:

IU International University of Applied Sciences courses are state accredited and recognized internationally. The university is known as Germany’s largest private state-accredited university. Students can learn a mix of online self-study and classroom learning (2-3 days per week) alongside their peers. IU University Germany is the 1st German university to be a member of the Association of Indian Universities (AIU). Hence, it is one of the best study abroad universities for international students.

Q:   Is Hof University Germany a good university?

A:

Hof University is voted the most popular university in Germany for 2024. It continues to receive the highest marks for teaching. These rankings are as per the ranking published by the renowned portal Studycheck.de. More than 40 bachelor’s and master’s programs in Computer Science, Business, Engineering as well as Interdisciplinary and Innovative Science are offered by the university. Also, the teaching at this university is based on innovative methods to convey application-oriented knowledge.

Q:   Why study at UE Germany?

A:

Some of the reasons to study at the University of Europe for Applied Sciences are:

  • UE Germany is one of the most diverse student bodies in Europe with students from more than 100 nationalities represented on campus
  • Students at the university are globally connected through international projects, innovative digital learning projects or by directly interacting with international fellow students
  • The university also provides a practice-oriented environment. In other words, the consistent combination of international theoretical requirements and practical implementation promoted professional curiosity and provides orientation in the development of a unique profile
  • UE Germany offers a practice-oriented degree that supports the individual development
  • 4 out of 5 stars has been given to the university by students for overall satisfaction

Q:   What are the requirements for Delft University of Technology?

A:

TU Delft has its own criteria that vary as per the programs for international students. We have mentioned below the Delft University of Technology requirements for international students:

For Undergraduate Admission

·      Must have a secondary school Diploma equivalent to the Dutch pre-university

·      Required examination subjects as per the program

·      English Language Proficiency test score

For Graduate Admission

·      A bachelor’s degree

·      Must achieve a cumulative GPA of at least 75% in bachelor’s degree

·      English Language Proficiency test score

·      Additional test score of GMAT/GRE (if applicable)

Q:   Is KIT Germany free for international students?

A:

As per Article 3 LHGebG (Baden-Württemberg Act on State University Fees), international students from third-countries / Non-EU countries attending bachelor’s, teacher’s, and consecutive master’s programs and free movers will have to pay the tuition fee of amount EUR 1,500 per semester. Students can check the cost of living in Germany for International Students from here.

Q:   How good is Hof University of Applied Sciences, Germany for an MBA?

A:

Hof University is a reputed University in Germany and famous for its excellent education system and job opportunities. Pursuing an MBA at Hof University must depend on personal circumstances, career aspirations, and the university's particular offerings. International students can complete thier MBA from Hof University at no tuition fees. 

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Aishwarya Bhatnagar
Study Abroad Expert

Aishwarya is a professional Writer currently working as a Study Abroad Expert in the Editorial Team at Shiksha. She has over 5 years of experience and is skilled at creating Online Content with leveraged knowledge i... Read Full Bio

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