A Blog about Education Abroad

Tag: Germany

  • Frikkie at TU Munich

    Frikkie at TU Munich

    Pre-departure: 

    Whoever is reading this, “byt vas” (Hang in there)! All the pre-departure administration might seem like a nightmare, but it’s worth it in the end.

    The part that gave me the most sleepless nights was the Visa application and looking back, there is no reason to be afraid of it, millions of students visit Germany each year and they want you there, so relax. Start early, literally as early as possible, for example, as soon as you receive confirmation of your acceptance, IMMEDIATELY make an appointment with the German embassy.

    (more…)

  • Jannes at Humboldt University in Berlin

    Jannes at Humboldt University in Berlin

    Pre-departure:

    I would recommend that students participating in a winter/summer school programme start applying for their visas as soon as possible. This is especially relevant in cases where you hope to spend some time there before the programme commences (e.g. travelling around your destination). The other big must is to have your documentation correct down to the tee.

    (more…)

  • Katy at Humboldt University in Berlin

    Katy at Humboldt University in Berlin

    Pre-Departure:

    Once I had received the phone call from the Stellenbosch International Office to tell me that my application for the International Protection of Human Rights Course at Humboldt University was successful, I could hardly believe that setting off for a month in Berlin had become a reality. After attending a meeting with three of the other four candidates, the preparations were underway. The Visa process ran a lot smoother than expected – my Schengen Visa was available for collection at the German Embassy in Cape Town after only two days since my application was submitted. However, I suggest that you strictly follow the list of required documents, making copies if necessary, and apply for one as soon as you have your confirmation letter from the partner University. For me, this eliminated the last minute stress, particularly during exam time, and also meant that I didn’t have to go through to the embassy more than necessary. My only problem with the Visa application was that my photos were not the correct specifications, but I was allowed to retake them at a Kodak store around the corner from the embassy, and then continue the interview process.

    (more…)