Are you dreaming of a semester abroad too? The opportunity to study in another country, discover new cultures and broaden your horizons sounds tempting, doesn't it?
But before you rush headlong into the adventure, you should bear in mind that good preparation is very important. That's why we want to show you how you can start planning a year in advance to make your semester abroad an unforgettable experience.
Important tip: Start planning 12 months before your planned semester abroad in order to meet all deadlines and have the best chances!
Timeline for planning your semester abroad
| Months before the semester abroad | Tasks |
|---|---|
| 12 months before | Select destination country and program |
| 10 months before | Select and apply for a university |
| 8 months before | Clarify financing |
| 6 months before | Refresh or learn language skills |
| 4 months before | Apply for a visa |
| 3 months before | Health preparations |
| 2 months before | House hunting and travel planning |
| 1 month before | Packing and saying goodbye |
The most important steps in detail
🌍 Select destination country and program
The first step on the way to your semester abroad is choosing your destination country and study program. Think about which countries and universities best suit your interests and your field of study.
📝 Select and apply to a university
Once you have decided on a destination country and a study program, it's time to choose the right university and apply. The application process can vary greatly depending on the country and university.
💰 Clarify financing
Studying abroad can be expensive, so it's important to sort out your finances. Research scholarships and other financial support options that may be available to you.
🗣️ Brush up on your language skills
Depending on the destination country and study program, it may be necessary to have certain language skills. If you do not speak the local language, it is advisable to take language courses at an early stage.
Applying for a visa: in good time and with all the necessary documents
The visa application process can be time-consuming, so you should tackle this step in good time. Make sure you have prepared all the necessary documents and submit the visa application early enough to avoid unnecessary stress.
Important note: Certified translations can be particularly helpful here, as they speed up the processing of your visa application and prevent potential delays. The authorities in the destination country may need to be able to understand all documents in their official language.
Documents required for the visa application
📄 Passport
Make sure that your passport is valid for at least six months after your planned return date.
📄 C ertificates
Some universities also require certified school-leaving certificates. Find out what requirements your university abroad has for you.
📄 Proof of enrollment
Proof of your admission to the foreign university.
📄 Financial statements
Bank statements or proof of funding for your stay.
📄 Proof of accommodation
Rental contract or confirmation of your accommodation in the destination country.
📄 Health certificates
Medical certificate or proof of vaccination depending on the country.
If you need to have other documents certified translated, you can find our document overview here.
Health preparations: Vaccinations and medical check-ups
Your health is of the utmost importance during your semester abroad. Find out about the required vaccinations and carry out all necessary medical check-ups to ensure that you are as well prepared as possible.
🔒 Data protection: In many countries, a certified translation of your medical documents and vaccination certificates may be required. As health regulations vary worldwide, it is important to ensure that all your documents are in the local language or in a language accepted by the destination country.
You can find more information in our Health insurance abroad guide and our Vaccination protection for students abroad guide.
House hunting and travel planning: finding accommodation and booking flights
Finding suitable accommodation and booking your flight should be done several months before your departure. Don't forget to start looking for accommodation in good time to find the best options.
💼 Tip for a part-time job during your semester abroad
In order to finance your life abroad and continue to pay for your apartment, you have the opportunity to work during your semester abroad. Good planning is essential - from work permits and tax regulations to the translation of important documents. Tips for working abroad and current vacancies can be found at auslandsjobs.de.
Pack and say goodbye: Pack everything you need and enjoy the anticipation
Just before you leave, it's time to pack everything you need and say goodbye to your friends and home. Enjoy the anticipation of your adventure abroad and be ready for an exciting time.
Packing list for a semester abroad:
📄 Documents
- Passport (with any visas)
- Student ID and certificate of enrollment
- Driving license and international driving license
- Flight tickets and travel documents
- Copies of all important documents
- Insurance cards
- Emergency contacts and addresses
👕 Clothing
- Clothing adapted to climatic conditions
- Comfortable travel clothing
- Underwear and socks
- Sleeping clothes
- Sportswear and shoes
- Formal wear for special occasions
- Various shoes
💻 Electronics
- Laptop/tablet and charger
- Smartphone and charger
- Adapter for sockets abroad
- Headphones or earplugs
- Camera and accessories, if applicable
🧴 Personal items
- First-aid kit (incl. personal medication)
- Hygiene articles (toothbrush, toothpaste, deodorant, shampoo)
- Quick-drying towel
- Sunglasses and sunscreen
- Glasses and/or contact lenses with care products
📚 Study materials
- Notebooks and stationery
- Textbooks and study materials
- Backpack or bag for university
🎁 Other & optional
- Travel guide and maps of the host country
- Small backpack for day trips
- Travel lock and luggage labels
- Reusable water bottle
- Flashlight or headlamp
- Gifts for new friends
- Travel diary
✈️ Packing tips for the semester abroad
- Check the baggage policy of your airline
- Pack lightly and efficiently, think about the possibility of buying things locally
- Label your luggage clearly with your name and address
- Find out about local conditions and cultural differences
- Download important apps (translator, maps, transportation)
Frequently asked questions (FAQ) about the semester abroad
When should I start planning?
Ideally, you should start planning 12 months before your planned semester abroad. This will give you enough time for all application, visa and financing processes.
Can I also receive BAföG abroad?
Yes, BAföG abroad is possible and is often higher than BAföG in Germany. You can find out more about this on your university's website.
Will my academic achievements be recognized?
Recognition depends on your university and the ECTS system. Check with your International Office in advance.
After the semester abroad: reintegration and career
Return to Germany
Returning home can be an emotional challenge. Plan your reintegration carefully.
Career boost
Make the most of your international experience for your professional career.
