Study Abroad in Berlin: Willkommen!

Academic Life in Berlin

The vast majority of foreign students coming to Berlin receive an Erasmus scholarship. As there are numerous international cooperations between German and foreign universities, there is a large population of foreign students there. Berlin's higher education system is diverse. There are four major universities: the Free University, the Humboldt University, the Technical University and the University of Arts. In addition, Berlin offers a huge number of technical colleges (German 'Hochschule'). Consider this type of Humboldt University, as it is rather central and maintains a rather grand prestige. The Free University, also having a high reputation, was recently awarded for scientific excellence, and attracts prestigious students of varying academic interests. The Technical University offers numerous amounts of natural sciences studies. The Berlin universities' infrastructures lend themselves to a unique studying environment. Be sure to check out the numerous tutoring programs and non-university activities to make the most of your German experience.

The Spirit of Berlin

What is most valued in Berlin is a certain kind of understatement and tolerance. It is a magnet for all kinds of people varying in nationality, style and way of life; everyone is welcomed to express themselves the way they like. This certain kind of relaxed attitude is visible in everything: clothing, night life, arts, etc. Nobody will look at you strangely, even if you were walking down the street in a pink bunny costume! Berliners will think 'What a nice bunny costume, I like to get one myself.' On the other hand, there is a huge tradition of fashionable street wear in Berlin. Hip Hop and athletic-inspired styles are highly regarded in the German capital. Night clubs are numerous and diverse as well, and there surely is a location suiting every taste. If you're an art lover, you're in luck - galleries, Museums and street art shape the hearty cultural and artistic environment in Berlin.

Porte de Brandebourg

Affordability:

Living: First of all - Berlin is rather cheap compared to most European major cities. Beginning with living expenses, try to rent a room in a shared flat (German 'WG') and you won't spend more than 300 Euros a month, including utilities. Depending on the area you choose for living, you cab even spend much less than this. East Berlin is a good spot for stylish living and stylish roommates.

Compared to Munich (where you get a room less than half the size for the same price), in Berlin you'll find yourself renting a rather big room in a beautiful old fashioned building surrounded by cafes, funky little shops and nice roommates. Be sure to skim through vacant-room-offers works best on this super frequented website by the locals.

Food: In addition to general living costs, eating out is also rather cheap. Like every major city, there are a lot of possibilities, both cheap and expensive. Based on the large Turkish community in Berlin, you can easily find various Turkish dishes on every street corner. The infamous Turkish Kebab is one of them - there's nothing better than eating a Kebab and cooling down after an exciting night out. You'll always find nice company in these little Turkish food stalls.

Public transport: Expenses for public transport are not a huge financial deterrent if you are a student. The major universities, such as Free University and Humboldt University, offer a semester-long public transit ticket as a perk for attending. This ticket gets you everywhere in Berlin and some peripheral areas (even during semester breaks!). The public transport system is well developed; you can get to every corner of the city between the subway, bus or S-Bahn within a reasonable time. If you prefer, purchase a bike while you are in Germany (a great idea for staying in shape!). Cycling in the city is very safe as German driving is rather regulated within city limits.

Shopping & Nightlife: Shopping is as diverse as living in Berlin; you will find high fashion and second hand, as well as individual not yet known designer pieces. Prices reflect just that. A highly recommended spot for a fashion shopping spree is the 'Torstrasse' in central Berlin. Along this rather stylish road, you'll find small but innovative shops with fashion from Scandinavia, England or the US and most of all off the beaten track. Looking for popular clothing brands like ZARA, H&M or Bershka, be sure to check out the 'Kurfurstendamm,' where numerous brands and shopaholics tend to gravitate. Nightlife is at its best around 'Warschauerstrasse': East Berlin, in general, is a safe guess for some action whatever day of the week or daytime!