Gap Year in Germany: Willkommen!

Interning and Studying:

Many programs offer a combination of studying and interning in German cities. These are often for students who want to pursue business, but they are usually not limited to this. Many programs offer internships with German car companies, such as Volkswagen or Mercedes, and students can study at a German school for a semester before interning at a German company for the next semester.

Planning Your Gap Year in Germany

Cost of Living in Germany:

Compared to other European countries, Germany is not overly expensive. However, prices differ from city to city. While Munich and Hamburg are some of the more expensive cities in Germany, smaller cities such as Leipzig are much cheaper. In general, a student can expect to spend between 200-300 Euros per month on food, board, and daily living. However, this can range depending on what each gap year program includes. To save money, avoid tourist traps for your everyday needs, such as overly priced restaurants, grocery stores, and means of transportation.

Culture and Etiquette in Germany:

Life in Germany is not difficult to adjust to, but there are several customs that may seem strange at first. For example, most Germans kiss on the cheek when greeting someone they know, but shake hands with someone they don't know. Punctuality is highly valued, and even public transportation is rarely late. While being "fashionably late" is acceptable in many cultures, it is rude in Germany. Things that are often free in other countries, such as using a public restroom or ordering water in a restaurant, can cost up to 2 Euros. Germans do not wear shorts or sandals after September begins, no matter how warm it is outside. If you want to look like a native, buy a light jacket and a pair of jeans from H&M (the favorite store of Germans), and wear them even in the 70 degree weather. Teachers expect students to be self-sufficient, and procrastination is usually not an option. Despite the stereotypical tense attitude of Germans, most Germans are very welcoming and warm-hearted.

The Rhine

Health and Safety in Germany:

Germans take health and safety very seriously. Healthcare in Germany is one of the best in Europe, with hundreds of major medical centers throughout the country. 9 out of 10 doctors speak fluent English and most pharmacies have someone available who speaks English. Most Germans are members of a local gym or club and have fitness as a part of their daily schedule. However, in Germany, exercise is something that is typically done indoors, so going for a run outside is not advised unless you want to be stared at. Germany is not a country of wide-spread disease and the water is safe to drink, but be careful of "strange" types of meat, as they can sometimes lead to food poisoning.

Violent crime is something that is rare in Germany; however, non-violent robberies occur frequently. Most incidents related to street crime involve pick-pocketing. Be careful with your belongings and do not put yourself in a situation that could be risky. Pick-pocketers in Germany often use someone to distract a tourist/foreigner, so it is easy to rob him/her while not paying attention. Foreigners are not advised to wear flashy clothes or accessories, such as expensive jewelry, as it makes them easy targets. However, police forces are strong, making Germany cities very safe.

Why Take a Gap Year in Germany?

In recent years, Germany has become one of the most popular countries to study in and visit. Millions of people flock to Germany every year to experience the centuries of rich history and modern and bustling cities. From Berlin, the capitol of "cool", to scenic Bavaria and charming villages along the Rhine River, there is no way that you won't fall in love with the German culture, people, and country. If you want to live in the heart of history and in a vibrant, colorful society, Germany is the country for you. Take a gap year in Germany!