Indian students need to apply for a student visa (national visa) before arriving in Germany. Once in Germany, within the first few weeks, you'll need to register your address at the local registration office (Einwohnermeldeamt) and then apply for a residence permit for study purposes at the Foreigners' Office (Ausländerbehörde). It's crucial to ensure all required documents, such as proof of admission, health insurance, and financial means, are in order to avoid delays. later you can also apply for Auftnhaltstitel.

While many study programs in Germany are offered in English, knowing German is beneficial for daily life, social interactions, and job opportunities, also most of the of the Ausbildung courses are taught in German. I enrolled in a German language course offered back in India and studied till B2 and taught German for a year before coming to Germany and , which helped me improve my language skills significantly. Even basic knowledge of German can make a big difference in navigating everyday situations like grocery shopping, communicating with landlords, or understanding public transport announcements. Please try to learn till B2 level and watch native german series and shows before and after coming to Germany.

The cost of living in Germany varies depending on the city and lifestyle. On average, students should budget around €300 to €800 per month for expenses including rent, food, transportation, and leisure activities. For example, in Munich or Frankfurt, living expenses tend to be higher compared to smaller cities like Leipzig or Freiburg. To manage expenses, I personally avoided going out to eat food and instead prepared food at home this helped me reduce food expenses.

Health insurance is mandatory for all students in Germany. As an international student, you can either opt for public health insurance or private health insurance, depending on your preferences and circumstances. Public insurance schemes like TK, AOK, or Techniker Krankenkasse offer comprehensive coverage at affordable rates for students. I registered with DAK health insurance provider recommended by my employer, which coveres most of my medical expenses, doctor visits during my studies.

International students are allowed to work part-time (up to 40 hours per week) during the semester and full-time during semester breaks. Many students take up part-time jobs to support themselves financially and gain work experience. Jobs in cafes, restaurants, tutoring, or research assistant positions within the university are common among students. However ausbildung student have a limited part-time working hours and they must get permission from Arbeitgeber (employer) before they can start working.

Adjusting to the German culture involves understanding and respecting local customs, norms, and etiquette. Germans value punctuality, direct communication, and privacy. Integrating into student communities, participating in cultural events, and joining clubs or sports teams are excellent ways to meet locals and fellow international students. I joined a language exchange program and volunteered at local cultural festivals, which allowed me to immerse myself in the German culture and make friends from diverse backgrounds. One tip: please greet anyone you see with a smile and if you are leaving, try to say Tschuss. In public places try to adapt to the volume of the people around you, please don't shout or be inappropratly loud.

The academic environment in Germany emphasizes independent study, gaining practical work experiance, critical thinking, and active participation. Teachers encourage students to engage in discussions, research projects, and practical exercises. Time management and self-discipline are crucial for keeping up with coursework and deadlines. Utilizing resources like libraries, online information, and academic support services provided by the school or academical books / videos will help you excel academically and get gute Noten in exams.

Building a social network in Germany involves attending functions of the people you know, from your same state, university events, student parties, and networking meetups. Playing football or joining club which share your intrest will help you meet like minded people and that's the best way to make friends in germany.

Germany's central location in Europe offers excellent opportunities for travel to neighboring countries and regions. With efficient public transportation networks like Deutsche Bahn (but be ready for verspätungen Lol) and budget airlines, exploring cities like Berlin, Amsterdam, Paris, or Prague is convenient and affordable, even going to switzerland. Personally I have used the popular 49 EURO DEUTSCHLAND TICKET to travel to berlin which took 13 hours train journey and explored the city.