A Blog about Education Abroad

Category: Semester Exchange Postings

Blog Postings by Returning Stellenbosch University Students

  • 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…)

  • Scott at Montana State University

    Scott at Montana State University

    Pre-departure:

    I did quite a bit of research leading up to choosing from the long list of great places to visit in the world. So once my application had been approved by the PGIO at Stellenbosch, I sent an application off to Montana State University (MSU) which was my first choice option. The application was all done online.

    (more…)

  • Olivia at Leipzig University

    Olivia at Leipzig University

    Updated: 16 June 2016

    Pre-departure:

    I’ve always wanted to do a semester abroad. After the success of my summer school experience in Berlin in 2013 (also through the PGIO), the next step was a semester of study in a new city. Leipzig was a great choice for me.

    Leipzig University
    Leipzig University

    Pre-departure is definitely the most important part of any trip. One can never be too prepared when it comes to travel. When working with the DE Consulate, I highly recommend booking your visa appointment as early as possible. The Consulate’s website also has a page where they explain exactly which documents to prepare in preparation for your appointment. Unfortunately for me, proof of acceptance was not enough. This is both curious and frustrating as the Consulate seems to treat different students differently. Hence, I offer one significant tip: make sure you are in contact with your coordinator – both at Stellenbosch AND at your institution abroad. The assistance of Jane Moros (my coordinator at Leipzig University) was essential to receiving my visa on time as the Alien Office was inundated with paperwork thanks to the influx of migrants into Germany in September. Another tip: keep abreast of all of the headlines in the country you’re about to enter so that you can take time delays (with regard to receiving important documents) into account.

    (more…)