Frequently Asked Questions for International Exchange Students

1. What courses can I take as an exchange student?

As an exchange student, you can generally take regular courses offered by the faculty or department in which you are enrolled. We recommend contacting the exchange or faculty coordinator of your host faculty for advice on suitable courses and academic requirements. Your faculty coordinator can help you understand which courses are available to exchange students and how to put together your study plan. You can also use the University’s online course catalogue and our overview of courses taught in English to explore your options.

2. What is the language of instruction at the University of Göttingen?

The main language of instruction is German, especially if you are a Bachelor student. However, many faculties and departments also offer courses taught in English. The number and selection of English-taught courses vary from semester to semester and depend on the subject area. We therefore recommend checking the online course catalogue for the semester of your exchange.

3. What German language skills do I need?

Language requirements depend on your exchange programme, exchange agreement and subject area. If you plan to take courses taught in German, we generally recommend having at least B2 German. This will make it considerably easier to follow lectures, participate in seminars and complete assignments. Some faculties or exchange programmes may have specific language requirements. Please check the requirements applicable to your programme before applying. If you mainly take courses taught in English, German may not be required for your academic work. Nevertheless, some knowledge of German will make everyday life in Göttingen much easier.

4. Can I take German language courses in Göttingen?

Yes. The University of Göttingen offers various opportunities to learn or improve your German both before and during the semester. Exchange students can participate in intensive German courses before the semester starts. Reduced participation fees may be available for exchange students. During the semester, German language courses are offered by institutions such as ZESS and the Lektorat Deutsch als Fremdsprache. Many regular semester courses are free of charge for enrolled students. We strongly encourage exchange students to take advantage of these opportunities – even a basic knowledge of German can be very helpful in everyday life.

5. Is there an orientation programme for international exchange students?

Yes. The University of Göttingen offers several orientation activities to help international students prepare for their stay and settle in after arrival. Before the semester begins, Göttingen International usually offers a Pre-Arrival Online Introductory Programme. The sessions cover important topics such as enrolment, accommodation, health insurance, residence formalities, studying in Göttingen and everyday life in Germany. At the beginning of the semester, there is also a central Welcome Event for international students on campus. In addition, many faculties and departments organise their own orientation sessions or introductory meetings for exchange students. These are particularly useful for questions concerning courses, examinations and your study programme. We strongly recommend taking part in both the central and faculty-specific orientation activities.

6. When should I arrive in Göttingen?

We recommend arriving in Göttingen before the orientation activities and before the lecture period begins. Arriving several days in advance gives you enough time to move into your accommodation and complete important formalities such as enrolment, city registration and – where applicable – residence permit procedures. Please check the dates for your specific semester before booking your travel.

7. Can I apply directly to the University of Göttingen as an exchange student (free mover)?

In most exchange programmes, you cannot apply directly without first being nominated by your home university. Your home university selects and nominates students according to the relevant exchange agreement. After nomination, you will receive information about the application procedure at the University of Göttingen. Application procedures, nomination deadlines and eligibility requirements vary depending on the exchange programme. Please contact the International Office or exchange coordinator at your home university first if you are interested in studying in Göttingen as an exchange student.

8. Does the University of Göttingen offer accommodation for exchange students?

The University of Göttingen does not have a traditional on-campus housing system, and accommodation cannot be guaranteed for every exchange student. However, accommodation support is available for international exchange students. Depending on availability, rooms may be offered in student residences or in private/shared accommodation. As affordable student housing in Göttingen is in high demand, we strongly recommend applying for accommodation as early as possible and within the relevant deadlines. You should also consider searching for accommodation independently as a backup option.

9. Do exchange students have to pay tuition fees?

Exchange students generally do not pay tuition fees at the University of Göttingen. However, all enrolled students are required to pay a semester contribution (Semesterbeitrag) for each semester. The semester contribution includes several mandatory student-related contributions and normally also includes the semester public transport ticket / Deutschlandsemesterticket. The exact amount may change from semester to semester. You will receive information about the amount and payment procedure as part of the enrolment process.

10. When does the semester start?

The academic year in Göttingen is divided into a winter semester and a summer semester.

Official semester period: Winter Semester 1 October – 31 March; Summer Semester 1 April – 30 September

Lecture period: Usually October – February and April – July

Lecture-free period: Usually February – April and July – October

Arrival and orientation: Usually before the start of lectures in October or April

Course registration: Mainly before and at the beginning of the lecture period

Examinations: Dates vary by faculty and course