A semester abroad: planning

In short: A semester abroad allows spending part of one’s studies at a foreign university. Good planning often starts a year before the intended stay.

In more detail: Programmes such as Erasmus+ make exchange within Europe easier both financially and organisationally.

In detail

• Erasmus+: EU funding programme with grants and simplified recognition of academic credits.
• University partnerships: Many universities have partner institutions with fixed exchange places.
• Applying: Usually through the home university’s international office, often with a motivation letter.
• Learning agreement: Sets out in advance which courses abroad will be credited.
• Funding: Erasmus grant, BAföG for study abroad and scholarships can be combined.
• Language skills: A language test or proof is often required.
• Preparation: Clarify visa, insurance and accommodation early (visum-und-einreisegenehmigung, reiseversicherungen-ueberblick).