Young Germans are increasingly drawn to studying abroad for their entire studies. According to the DAAD (German Academic Exchange Service), 134,500 Germans studied abroad in 2013 with the aim of obtaining their degree there. At the beginning of the millennium there were just half as many.
Most German students are drawn to other European countries, especially Austria, the Netherlands and Great Britain. But non-European countries are also enjoying increasing popularity among German students. Above all the USA. Almost one in ten people decided to study in the United States in 2013.
“We are very pleased about the positive trend that more Germans are daring to venture outside Europe. Due to globalization, it is becoming increasingly important to think politically and economically in global dimensions. Our societies need global citizens who understand international contexts, know intercultural differences and can take responsibility,” says DAAD President Prof. Margret Wintermantel.
In general, more and more German students are deciding to spend at least part of their studies abroad. The DAAD/DZHW mobility study from 2015 found that 37% of all German students had spent part of their studies abroad. If the federal government, the states and the DAAD have their way, this number is expected to rise to 50% by 2050.
If you are currently thinking about completing a course of study or a semester abroad, you will find a wealth of information about studying abroad on the DAAD website .
We have summarized the most important rules of etiquette for your semester abroad for you here.