Ways to Improve Your Experience as an International Student in Germany

Life as an international student in Germany

Navigating life as an international student in Germany can pose significant challenges in the absence of adequate support. From navigating bureaucratic complexities, such as liaising with landlords during apartment hunts, to navigating registration processes at the Ausländerbehörde, international students encounter various obstacles. Moreover, language barriers can exacerbate these difficulties and contribute to feelings of social isolation. Establishing a community for international students, where they can seek and receive assistance from both fellow international and German students on a wide range of topics, including personal, academic, and professional challenges, would significantly enhance the overall quality of life for international students in Germany.

DEGIS – The Premier Association for International Students in Germany

Germany sees a steady rise in its international student population each year. However, many face a myriad of challenges, both prior to and during their time in the country. These obstacles span from navigating bureaucratic processes and language barriers to grappling with social isolation and establishing themselves in the job market. While international offices typically address these issues at a local or regional level, there exists a pressing need for a nationwide community to enrich the experiences of international students in Germany.

Acknowledging this necessity, DEGIS was established in 2019 as an association dedicated to the welfare of international students across universities and cities in Germany. DEGIS offers a diverse array of informative and practical services tailored to assist international students before and during their tenure in Germany. As a non-profit organization, DEGIS also serves as a vocal advocate for international students, advocating their interests to academia, the economy, and the political sphere within Germany.

What are the services provided by DEGIS for international students?

City Chapters

DEGIS offers international students a supportive community and platform designed to facilitate their success in Germany. Across more than 50 City Chapters throughout Germany, international students can engage in various areas such as marketing, events & projects, business development, and human resources. Moreover, these City Chapters organize both online and in-person events aimed at networking with fellow international students in the city, covering topics related to personal and career development. Examples include dinner nights, running clubs, and company tours.

Buddy Program

Launched in the Wintersemester 2020/2021, the DEGIS Buddy Program aims to connect incoming international students – "incoming buddies" – with experienced senior international students in Germany – "local buddies." The primary objective is for local buddies, who possess a better understanding of the challenges faced by newly arriving international students in Germany, to assist incoming buddies in overcoming these obstacles and ensuring a smooth transition into life in Germany. While international offices offer similar programs for exchange students, they often overlook a broader spectrum of international students who could benefit from such initiatives. DEGIS, closely connected to degree-seeking international students, complements existing buddy programs offered by international offices.

Online Services

DEGIS provides a range of online resources accessible through its website and various social media platforms. The DEGIS website offers valuable information on living and studying in Germany, including guidance on setting up a blocked account and details about visas and health insurance. Additionally, DEGIS maintains active profiles on Instagram, LinkedIn, and Facebook, providing updates and fostering a sense of community among international students. The DEGIS Facebook Community serves as a platform for international students to seek advice and assistance on various topics related to studying and living in Germany, from navigating bureaucratic hurdles to language learning.

What sets DEGIS apart?

DEGIS stands out as a community created by international students for international students. Its core team comprises individuals who are current or former international students in Germany, representing diverse backgrounds from countries such as Brazil, Belarus, and India, among others. Members of DEGIS benefit from the peer-to-peer support offered by the community, recognizing that being an international student entails shared responsibilities and experiences. This sense of belonging is invaluable for international students adapting to life in a new country and culture.

What types of memberships does DEGIS offer?

DEGIS provides two membership options: active membership and community membership, available for international students to apply.

Active membership entails committing at least 2-3 hours per week to support DEGIS initiatives. Active members are assigned to a City Chapter and play a role in expanding the DEGIS network, aiming to create memorable experiences for international students in Germany. Currently, the DEGIS community comprises over 300 active members.

Community membership constitutes the majority of DEGIS, with over 15,000 members. While community members do not participate in City Chapters, they still have access to DEGIS's social media channels, newsletters, and various workshops.

Why consider joining DEGIS?

DEGIS stands out as a distinctive community for international students in Germany. By providing exclusive workshop opportunities, volunteering options across multiple City Chapters throughout Germany, and its own Buddy Program, DEGIS empowers international students to thrive in Germany.