During a semester abroad, students spend one semester of their degree in another country. While the cost of studying abroad for a semester is often relatively high, it is often the experiences that clearly help you move forward in life.

Study abroad semester

Experiences for life:

  • Important cross-cultural experience
  • Personal development
  • A worldwide choice of universities
  • Broaden your language skills
  • Build a social network

Choosing the Right University

German universities often offer a wide choice for a semester abroad. The partner universities are often located all over the world, so you have to find the right one out of several hundred. First of all, when choosing the right university for a semester abroad, the language spoken in the country matters. One of the goals of a semester abroad is to learn or improve a foreign language. So you can improve your English, French or Spanish during your time abroad.

In many cases the courses at the university abroad can be chosen freely, which gives you flexibility. That way you can pick the subjects you find interesting. It is often worthwhile to choose courses that teach about the culture of the country in question. That way you can learn more about the culture of the country.

Social Contacts and Personal Development

Study abroad semester

During a semester abroad it is important to make friends quickly so you aren't alone during the difficult early period. Locals can help you settle in and make the start easier and more pleasant. You can also meet students from other countries around the world during your semester abroad. They are often in the same situation and also need time to settle in. Together with them, adjusting to the new country may be easier.
Beyond that, your own personality also develops significantly during the semester abroad.

For the first time you are often standing on your own two feet, without the help of friends or family when problems come up. Still, during your time abroad you learn to stand on your own and cope with it. For many people the semester abroad is a big help in developing character. It also helps your résumé to have spent some time abroad. It stands out positively in job applications and may help you land the position you're aiming for.

Costs for University, Housing and Exploring the Country

Still, a semester abroad often comes with high costs. The tuition fees alone at a university in another country are often high. On top of that come the costs for flights, housing and daily life on the ground. In addition, during your time abroad you may want to discover the country, which costs money too. However, you may get support from your university in Germany. A scholarship can help cover the costs.