Q&A: Definite answers to frequently asked questions

For students who don’t speak German at all or only very little, we have introduced courses that are taught in English. However, our intensive language courses offered before the start of each semester provide students with all the German language skills they need for daily life. They will soon be able to communicate in German. Therefore, we encourage all international students to join our intensive language program, which is free of charge, by the way.

Yes, it is. With most universities and degrees this is no problem. Leuphana University applies the internationally accredited European Credit Transfer System (ECTS), which guarantees easy transfer of credits to your home university, even for students studying outside the EU. Once you are here, we will draft a formal document (Learning Agreement) ensuring that you won't be in for any unfortunate surprises when applying for transfer of credits back at home. Moreover, your academic performance will be documented in a transcript of records, which will be sent directly to your home university after your stay.

Living expenses will depend heavily on your lifestyle. Therefore, it is very difficult to calculate exactly how much money you will need for your stay abroad. However, the following figures will give you a general idea:
The rent for on-campus or off-campus housing usually amounts to 250 to 300 euros per month. In addition, you will need about 180 to 230 euros for food, 80 euros for health insurance coverage (except for students who have valid health insurance coverage in Germany), and 120 to 200 euros for books, clothing and leisure time activities. International exchange students and free movers needn't pay any tuition fee. However, we will charge them a fee of approx. 210 euros for services provided and the student ID card.

Leuphana University has entered into agreements with overseas partner universities regarding monthly scholarships. Please check with your International Office whether your university is taking part in this program. If you are from one of the countries participatiing in the ERASMUS program, you may be eligible for Erasmus funding. If you wish more information on the ERASMUS program, please contact your home university. Another option would be to apply for an individual scholarship, for example to the German Academic Exchange Service (DAAD). Please view the DAAD website at www.daad.de.

Students from the European Union are allowed to pursue any job they want. Students from outside the EU having a student visa are allowed to work either 120 full days or 240 half days per year. Jobs that are popular with international students are bartending, selling organic food on the weekly market, and translation jobs, depending on their German language skills.

German students are encouraged to do internships during the course of their studies, and most organizations, both profit and non-profit, also offer placements to foreign students. So yes, your chances of finding an internship placement giving you an insight into working in practice are good. However, your German language skills should be profound enough to apply for an internship.

The EU Higher Education Office of Hanover/Hildesheim at Leibniz University of Hanover helps students and graduates from foreign countries find an internship placement in the region of Lower Saxony and assists them in writing their application.