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Welcome to Germany — Your new home away from home!

Living in Germany as an international student is an exciting journey filled with new experiences, challenges, and opportunities. From navigating public transport and healthcare to understanding local customs and managing your finances, this section covers everything you need for a smooth transition. Discover practical tips, essential resources, and cultural insights to help you settle in and make the most of your time here.

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Public Transport & Getting Around

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Supermarkets & Shopping Essentials

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Student Communities & Social Life

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German Language Courses

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Cultural Differences & Adjusting to Life in Germany

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Public Transport & Getting Around in Germany

Public transport in Germany is fast, reliable, and well-connected, making it the best option for students who need to travel daily to university, explore the city, or even take weekend trips. Whether you’re using buses, trams, U-Bahn (subway), S-Bahn (suburban trains), or bicycles, Germany offers a seamless travel experience.

1. Types of Public Transport: In-Depth Guide

a) U-Bahn (Underground Metro)

  • Primarily for inner-city travel.
  • Operates every 3–5 minutes during peak hours.
  • Some lines run 24/7 on weekends in cities like Berlin.
  • Tickets are integrated with other transport (valid on trams, buses, S-Bahn).

🔗 U-Bahn Maps:

💬 Pro Tip: The first and last carriages are less crowded during rush hour!

b) S-Bahn (Suburban Railway)

  • Connects suburbs and satellite towns with city centers.
  • Ideal for students living in cheaper areas outside big cities.
  • Runs less frequently (10–30 min intervals).

🔗 Nationwide S-Bahn Info:

💬 Pro Tip: Use the S-Bahn for weekend trips to nearby cities!

c) Trams (Straßenbahn)

  • Common in smaller university towns.
  • Typically run from early morning to midnight.
  • Often faster than buses during peak traffic.

🔗 Tram Info for Top Student Cities:

d) Buses

  • Found everywhere, including rural areas.
  • Night buses operate after midnight.
  • For long-distance trips, FlixBus offers fares as low as €5!

🔗 Bus Booking:

💬 Pro Tip: Book FlixBus early for cheap weekend getaways!

e) Cycling – Student’s Best Friend

  • Cities like Münster have more bikes than cars.
  • Students can rent bikes from Nextbike or Swapfiets at discounted rates.

🔗 Bike Rentals:

💬 Pro Tip: Some universities have free bike workshops for repairs!

2. How to Buy Public Transport Tickets

There are 4 ways to buy tickets in Germany:

🔹 Transport Apps (Best for Students!)

🔹 Ticket Machines (at train stations, bus stops, and inside trams).

🔹 Kiosks & Convenience Stores (Look for “Fahrkarten” or “DB Reisezentrum” signs).

🔹Buying on Buses (Available in some cities).

💡 IMPORTANT: Always validate your ticket before traveling. There are random ticket checks, and fines are €60 if caught without a valid ticket!

3. Student Discounts & Travel Passes

Semester Ticket – Best for University Students!

 

  • Included in the semester fee at many universities.
  • Allows unlimited travel within a specific region.
  • Not all universities provide it—check with your student office.

🔗 Check Your University’s Semester Ticket Policy:

Deutschlandticket (€49 Ticket) – Unlimited Monthly Travel!

  • Costs €49/month.
  • Allows unlimited travel across Germany on all regional and local transport.
  • Does NOT cover long-distance trains (IC, ICE).

🔗 Get the €49 Ticket:

4. Best Apps for Navigation in Germany

🔹Public Transport & Navigation:

  • Google Maps – Best for directions.
  • Citymapper – Detailed public transport guidance (available in Berlin, Hamburg, and Munich).

🔹Train & Bus Travel:

  • DB Navigator – National train info & ticket booking.
  • FlixBus App – Cheapest long-distance bus tickets.

🔹Bike Rentals:

  • Nextbike – Best for city bike rentals.
  • Lime – E-bikes & scooters for short trips.

Supermarkets & Shopping Essentials in Germany

Navigating the shopping landscape in Germany is crucial for international students aiming to manage their budgets effectively while ensuring access to quality products. This guide provides an overview of prominent supermarkets, essential shopping tips, and additional resources to enhance your shopping experience.

Major Supermarket Chains in Germany :

Edeka

🔹Overview: As Germany’s largest supermarket chain, Edeka offers a comprehensive shopping experience with a wide array of products.

🔹Product Range: Focuses on branded products alongside its own “Gut & Günstig” value line, encompassing:

    • Groceries: Extensive selection of fresh produce, meats, dairy, and international foods.
    • Organic Products: A variety of bio (organic) items catering to health-conscious consumers.
    • Beverages: Wide range of alcoholic and non-alcoholic drinks.

🔹Price Range: Generally higher than discount chains, reflecting the broader product selection and brand offerings.

🔹Website: Edeka

Rewe

🔹Overview: A prominent supermarket chain known for its quality products and customer service.

🔹Product Range: Offers both branded items and its own “Ja!” budget line, including:

    • Groceries: Fresh produce, meats, dairy, and a selection of international cuisines.
    • Organic and Vegan Options: Dedicated sections for organic and plant-based products.
    • Convenience Foods: Ready-to-eat meals and quick-prep food items.

🔹Price Range: Comparable to Edeka, with a mix of mid-range and premium products.

🔹Website: REWE

Kaufland

🔹Overview: A hypermarket chain offering a vast selection of products under one roof.

🔹Product Range: Combines food and non-food items, such as:

    • Groceries: Comprehensive range including fresh produce, meats, and international foods.
    • Household Goods: Appliances, kitchenware, and home decor.
    • Clothing and Electronics: Affordable apparel and basic electronic items.

🔹Price Range: Competitive, with regular promotions and discounts.

🔹Website: Kaufland

Aldi

🔹Overview: Aldi is renowned for its discount retail model, offering a no-frills shopping experience with a focus on affordability.

🔹Product Range: Primarily features own-brand products, ensuring lower prices. The selection includes:

    • Groceries: Staple foods, fresh produce, dairy, and baked goods.
    • Household Items: Cleaning supplies, kitchenware, and occasional special buys.
    • Specialty Items: Weekly rotating offers on non-food items, from electronics to clothing.

🔹Price Range: Aldi is among the most economical options, with prices often lower than competitors.

🔹Website: Aldi Süd

Lidl

🔹Overview: Similar to Aldi, Lidl operates as a discount retailer, emphasizing competitive pricing and efficiency.

🔹Product Range: Offers a mix of own-brand and selected branded products, including:

    • Groceries: Fresh produce, meats, dairy, and pantry staples.
    • Bakery: In-store baked goods ranging from bread to pastries.
    • Non-Food Items: Weekly specials featuring clothing, tools, and household gadgets.

🔹Price Range: Competitive pricing, often matching or slightly above Aldi.

🔹Website: Lidl Germany

Penny.

🔹Overview: A discount supermarket under the REWE Group, focusing on budget-friendly shopping.

🔹Product Range: Emphasizes own-brand products, including:

    • Groceries: Essential food items, fresh produce, and dairy.
    • Snacks and Beverages: Affordable options for quick bites and drinks.
    • Household Basics: Cleaning supplies and personal care items.

🔹Price Range: On par with Aldi and Lidl, appealing to cost-conscious consumers.

🔹Website: Penny

Netto Marken-Discount

🔹Overview: A discount chain offering a wide range of products at low prices.

🔹Product Range: Features own-brand and select branded items, such as:

    • Groceries: Staple foods, fresh produce, and dairy products.
    • Beverages: Affordable selections of drinks, including alcoholic options.
    • Weekly Specials: Rotating non-food items like kitchen gadgets and seasonal products.

🔹Price Range: Competitive with other discount retailers, focusing on budget-friendly options.

🔹Website: Netto Marken-Discount

Tips to Reduce Grocery Expenses

1. Shop at Discount Supermarkets

  • Best Options: Aldi, Lidl, Penny, Netto – known for low prices and quality own-brand products.
  • Tip: Buy in bulk from Kaufland or Metro for shared living situations.

2. Visit Weekly Farmers' Markets

  • Local markets often reduce prices near closing time. Fresh produce can be cheaper and better quality than supermarkets.

3. Meal Planning & Bulk Cooking

  • Plan meals for the week to avoid impulse purchases.
  • Prepare meals in batches (e.g., curries, pasta sauces) and freeze portions.

4. Student Discounts & Loyalty Programs

  • REWE and Edeka sometimes offer student discounts.
  • Use loyalty cards (Payback at REWE) for cashback and discounts.

5. Shop Smart at Specific Stores

  • Turkish/Asian stores: Affordable spices, rice, lentils, and vegetables.
  • Drugstores (dm, Rossmann): Cheaper toiletries and household cleaning products

6. Minimize Convenience Foods

  • Ready-made meals can double your grocery bill. Cooking from scratch saves money and is healthier.

7. Time Your Shopping Trips

  • Some supermarkets discount fresh items (like bakery goods) in the evenings.
  • Look out for reduced-price shelves for products nearing expiry (but still safe).

8. Opt for Generic Brands

  • Supermarkets like Aldi and Lidl provide affordable store brands that match big-brand quality.
  • Examples: REWE’s “ja!”, Edeka’s “Gut & Günstig” for cheaper alternatives.

9. Use Food Sharing Platforms

  • Too Good To Go: Get discounted meals from bakeries and restaurants at closing time.
  • Foodsharing.de: Join local communities to pick up surplus food for free.

9. Use ♻️ Pfand System: Bottle Deposit Refund

Germany has a bottle deposit system called Pfand, which encourages recycling.

What is Pfand?

  • A small deposit is added to the price of many plastic bottles, glass bottles, and cans (usually €0.25 per item).

  • You get this money back when you return the empty bottle to a Pfandautomat (recycling machine) at supermarkets like Rewe, Edeka, Lidl, Aldi, Kaufland.

How to Return Bottles:

  1. Collect your empty bottles or cans with the Pfand logo (a small symbol that looks like a bottle with arrows).

  2. Find a Pfandautomat (recycling machine) at the supermarket entrance.

  3. Insert bottles one by one (barcode side first).

  4. Machine prints a voucher.

  5. Take the voucher to the cashier—it’ll be deducted from your bill or given as cash.

🔁 Pfand Items Example:

  • 1.5L plastic water bottle – €0.25 deposit

  • Beer bottle – €0.08 deposit

  • Can – €0.25 deposit

💡 Pro Tip: Always check for the Pfand symbol before recycling. Not all bottles qualify (e.g. some juice bottles or wine bottles may not have Pfand).

Additional Student Resources

Download sample shopping list for students:

Download

Grocery budget plan for students under 200€

Category Item Examples Estimated Monthly Cost (€)
Fruits & Vegetables
Apples, bananas, carrots, onions, potatoes, frozen veggies
€30–35
Grains & Starches
Rice, pasta, bread, oats, flour
€15–20
Protein Sources
Eggs, lentils, canned beans, frozen chicken, tuna
€25–30
Dairy & Alternatives
Milk, yogurt, cheese, margarine
€15–20
Breakfast Staples
Cereal, oats, peanut butter, jam
€10–15
Condiments & Spices
Oil, salt, pepper, curry powder, ketchup, mustard
€5–10 (restocked monthly)
Snacks & Treats
Biscuits, nuts, chocolate (optional)
€5–10
Beverages
Tea, instant coffee, juice (occasionally)
€5–10
Frozen Items
Mixed vegetables, frozen berries, pizza (for convenience meals)
€10–15
Cleaning & Hygiene
Dish soap, detergent, toilet paper, soap, shampoo
€10–15

Total Estimated Budget: €140–180/month

Student Communities & Social Life

Building a social network isn’t just about making friends—it helps students:

  • Integrate into the culture

  • Reduce homesickness

  • Find part-time jobs, housing, or study help

  • Share tips, travel plans, and local hacks

1. University Student Groups & Clubs

🧑‍🎓 Join Your Campus Community

Almost every university in Germany has a variety of clubs — ranging from academic and cultural groups to sports, music, and activism. These are perfect for meeting fellow students and exploring your interests.

What You Can Join:

  • 🧪 Faculty-specific clubs (e.g., Engineering Students’ Association)

  • 🌍 International student networks like ESN and AStA

  • 🎨 Music, art, film, and photography clubs

  • 💬 Debate, politics, and entrepreneurship societies

When to Join:

Orientation Week (Ersti-Woche) is the best time to explore clubs. Look for booths or events on campus.

University Club Pages:

📝 Tip: Even if you’re not fluent in German, many clubs are very welcoming to international students.

2. Online Communities & Forums

💬 Connect Beyond Campus

Online student communities are a great way to find roommates, events, jobs, and even second-hand furniture.

Recommended Platforms:

📌 Always verify posts and avoid sharing private info with strangers online.

 

3. Events, Meetups & Social Programs

🎉 Join Events and Make Friends

Attending local events is one of the fastest ways to meet people, especially during your first semester.

What to Look For:

  • 🎓 University-hosted events: game nights, campus tours, cultural nights

  • 📅 City events: flea markets, concerts, art walks

  • 🧠 Themed Meetups: tech talks, board games, startups

Where to Find Events:

🗓️ Coming Soon: Download our “Student Social Calendar” (PDF)

📌 Don’t be afraid to go solo — most people are in the same boat and open to chatting!

4. Language Exchange & Tandem Partners

🗣️ Learn German, Make Friends

Tandem partners are locals or other students who want to exchange languages casually — it’s free and fun!

Top Platforms:

Why Tandem Helps:

  • Practice real-world German

  • Learn local slang and dialects

  • Understand cultural context

  • Build friendships beyond the classroom

Extra Resources:

📄 Download our “Tandem Starter Kit”: Sample topics, questions, & apps

5. Volunteering & Community Work

 Give Back While Building Community

Volunteering can help you integrate, learn German faster, and build your resume.

Where You Can Help:

  • 🏠 Refugee aid or community kitchens

  • 🌱 Environmental cleanups or gardening groups

  • 🧓 Senior care & companionship programs

  • 🗣️ Language support for local schools

Volunteer Platforms:

🎓 Some volunteering experiences can even be added to your visa extensions or job applications.

📄 Coming Soon: Download our “Volunteer in Germany Guide” (PDF)

🧠 Extra Tips

✅ Start early – join clubs during your first few weeks
✅ Be open to diversity – you’ll meet people from all over the world
✅ Attend events solo – most students are in the same boat, looking for friends
✅ Host small gatherings – potlucks, game nights, or study sessions
✅ Look for city-specific Telegram groups – many active student communities post opportunities there

German Language Courses

Mastering German opens doors—not just to academic success, but also to better job prospects and everyday integration. Whether you’re a beginner or looking to level up, there’s a course or resource tailored to your needs.

For enrolled students or staff — Affordable courses designed to support academic and everyday German.

🟢 Pros: Low cost, convenient schedules, tailored to students
🔴 Cons: Usually only available to enrolled students

Resources:

💡 Pro Tip: Ask if they offer intensive summer courses or tandem partner programs!

Professional language institutes offering fast-track, flexible courses often taught by native speakers.

🟢 Pros: Intensive classes, small groups, great for fast progress
🔴 Cons: Higher costs (typically €250–€500 per course)

Popular Providers:

💡 Pro Tip: Ask about student discounts or trial classes!

Public adult education centers that offer inexpensive, well-structured German language classes across Germany.

🟢 Pros: Very affordable (~€100–150 per level), widely available
🔴 Cons: Slower pace, sometimes large class sizes

Resource:

💡 Pro Tip: Great choice for students on a budget or those seeking a part-time course.

Ideal for students who prefer flexibility or want to start learning before arriving in Germany.

🟢 Pros: Learn anytime, anywhere; lots of free options
🔴 Cons: Requires self-discipline, limited speaking practice unless paired with live sessions

Top Platforms:

💡 Pro Tip: Combine with YouTube channels like Easy German for real-world exposure.

Available for students with long-term visas, refugees, or new residents aiming for permanent settlement.

🟢 Pros: Heavily subsidized or free; includes cultural orientation
🔴 Cons: Limited seats; may require eligibility check

Resources:

💡 Pro Tip: Great if you plan to stay long-term or apply for PR/citizenship.

Our recommended youtube playlists:

Language Certification & Proficiency Levels

1. Understanding the CEFR Levels (A1 to C2)

Germany uses the Common European Framework of Reference for Languages (CEFR) to measure language proficiency. Here’s a quick breakdown:

Level Description
A1
Beginner – Can introduce themselves and ask simple questions.
A2
Elementary – Can handle basic communication in everyday situations.
B1
Intermediate – Can deal with most situations while traveling. Required for many universities & visa extensions.
B2
Upper Intermediate – Required for studying in German-taught university programs.
C1
Advanced – Required for professional work or academic writing in German.
C2
Proficient – Near-native fluency.

📝 Tip: Most students need at least B1 for university survival and B2 or higher for German-taught programs.

2. Recognized Language Certificates in Germany

Certificate Issued By Suitable For Website
Goethe-Zertifikat
Goethe-Institut
A1 to C2, widely recognized
goethe.de
telc Deutsch
telc gGmbH
General + specialized (B1-B2 for university)
telc.net
TestDaF
TestDaF Institute
For B2-C1 university admission
testdaf.de
DSH
German universities
C1 level, for uni admission
More Info
ÖSD
Austria-based, accepted in Germany
General purpose, A1-C2
oesd.at

💡 Not all universities accept all certificates. Always check the university’s admission page!

3. How to Choose the Right Certificate

         ✅ University Pathway?

  • Go for TestDaF, DSH, or telc C1 Hochschule.
    ✅ For visa/PR purposes?

  • Goethe A1-B1, telc, or ÖSD are most common.
    ✅ Learning for work or fun?

  • telc and Goethe are flexible and widely offered.

4. Where to Take the Exam

  • Goethe-Institut Locations (Worldwide)

  • TestDaF Centers (Usually at unis)

  • telc Test Centers

📅 Exams are held monthly or every 2–3 months.
🎯 Booking early is essential, especially around visa or university deadlines.

Cultural differences and adjusting to life in Germany

Adjusting to life in Germany can feel both exciting and challenging for new international students. German culture values punctuality, direct communication, privacy, and a strong sense of community responsibility. From understanding the importance of recycling to navigating social etiquette like greeting with a handshake and using formal address (“Sie”) with strangers, adapting to these cultural norms helps students feel more integrated. Experiencing culture shock is completely normal — but with time, openness, and curiosity, you’ll move through the stages of adjustment and find your second home here. Explore the resources, tips, and real-world examples provided to make your transition smoother and your life in Germany more enriching.

1. Communication Style

   

  • Germans value directness. Being straightforward is appreciated — not rude!

  • Expect conversations to be honest, clear, and sometimes blunt.

  • Small talk is less common. People prefer getting to the point.

2. Punctuality

  • Punctuality is a must! Being even 5 minutes late can be seen as disrespectful.

  • Always arrive a little early for appointments, classes, and even casual meetups.

3. Privacy & Personal Space

 

  • Germans are private.

  • Avoid asking personal questions too early (income, relationships, religion).

  • Physical distance during conversations is also slightly larger than in many cultures.

4. Formalities

   

  • Use Sie (formal “you”) with strangers, professors, and service workers.

  • First names are used only after a relationship becomes friendly.

  • Handshakes are common when greeting new people.

5. Work-Life Balance

 

  • Germans separate work and private life clearly.

  • Most stores close on Sundays to prioritize rest/family time.

  • After-work hours are usually respected — don’t expect work emails at night!

6. Cash Usage

   

  • Germans prefer cash (Bargeld) over card, especially at smaller stores and bakeries.

  • Always carry some euros with you — cards aren’t accepted everywhere.

💳 Tip: Apps like Payback, Vivid, and N26 are popular among students for smart payments

7. Social Norms

   

  • Recycling is very important.

  • Quiet hours (“Ruhezeiten”) apply between 10 PM – 6 AM and all day on Sundays.

  • Always separate your trash (organic, paper, plastic, residual waste).

8. Culture Shock and How to Cope

  • It’s normal to feel overwhelmed at first (culture shock stages: honeymoon, frustration, adaptation, acceptance).

  • Ways to adapt faster:

    • Join student clubs

    • Take cultural workshops

    • Attend local events

    • Learn basic German phrases quickly