Moving to Germany: Is studying here worth it? Is German too hard?
Moving to a new country is always a mix of excitement and anxiety. It was the same for me when I decided to move and study in Germany. I was looking forward to learning a new language, meeting new people, and understanding a new culture, but I was also wondering if I would be able to make the country my home, adjust to the culture, and even learn the language. Now, after several months here, I can think back on how my fears compared to my actual experience.
Why Study in Germany
Germany is one of the most popular destinations for international students, and for good reason. The country offers world-class education, affordable tuition fees, and a vibrant international student community. Here are a few reasons why Germany stood out to me:
- High-Quality Education – German universities are known for their strong academic programs and research opportunities.
- Low or No Tuition Fees – Unlike many other countries, public universities in Germany charge little to no tuition, making it an affordable choice.
- Opportunities for Career Growth – Germany has a strong economy with plenty of job prospects, even for international students.
- Cultural and Travel Opportunities – Being in the heart of Europe, Germany allows for easy travel and cultural exploration.
Despite these advantages, I had doubts. Would I manage studying in a non-English-speaking country? Would I make friends? Was moving across the world the right choice? Looking back, I know it was.
First Impressions and the Now
I have to admit that arriving in Germany without any prior German knowledge for the first time was an overwhelming experience. While there were some English signs here and there, it felt as though no one around me spoke it, and I quickly faced the reality that life in Deutschland gets pretty tough without a grasp of the local language. Like sure, you can start out every conversation you have with the “Konnen wir Englisch sprechen? Ich verstehe kein Deutsch” but that does not give you the authentic experience of studying in a new country and mixing with the local communities.
I had to get used to and develop new habits:
- Lüften - opening all house windows regardless of season to ventilate
- Grocery shopping earlier so that I don’t need to starve on Sundays (Sonntag) BECAUSE, Sundays are considered a rest day in Deutschland (Germany) and most businesses are closed.
- Carrying Bargeld (cash) in my wallet, because many stores here only accept cash.
Outside of these things though, I quickly became fascinated with German architecture, cafe culture, unique nature sites, and markets! I love how you can walk to the center of a city and just sit down at a cafe (to order ein Stück Käsekuchen und einen Vanilla Latte mit Hafermilch - a slice of cheesecake and vanilla latte with oat milk), or window shop, or stroll around. I appreciated how no matter which town you may be in, you can find out some very interesting local history and get to know the country more. These are the things that make Germany feel like home for me. I learned to navigate the system, and the train delays (Deutsche Bahn!!!), found my favorite local spots in different cities, and made friends from different parts of the world. I am still in the early stages of learning German, but I push myself every day to learn at least something new, and seeing small progress feels incredibly rewarding!
Germany’s Hospitality Towards Internationals
After hearing the stereotypes before I got here, I was surprised about how welcoming Germany is towards international students. There are many resources available - such as student support centers - that want to help you! Universities often have international offices to assist students, and many locals are patient and understanding when it comes to language struggles. Beyond university support, Germany has a diverse and inclusive culture. Many cities are filled with international communities, and it is easy to find a sense of belonging. Whether it is through student organizations, language exchange programs, or cultural events, there are many ways to connect with people and feel at home.
Bringing It Together
Looking back, my decision to study in Germany was one of the best choices I have ever made. It has challenged me, helped me grow, and given me opportunities that I never imagined. If you are considering studying abroad, maybe in Germany, I encourage you to do it. Yes, it can be difficult at first, but the rewards far outweigh the challenges.
Beyond academics, studying in Germany has allowed me to experience a new culture, meet people from all over the world, and develop a new sense of independence. From navigating a new language to embracing different ways of thinking, every challenge has been a stepping stone toward personal and professional growth. The education system here is world-class, and the opportunities are unparalleled.
If you’re on the fence about studying abroad, take the leap. It’s not just about earning a degree—it’s about expanding your worldview, stepping outside your comfort zone, and discovering who you truly are. Germany, with its welcoming atmosphere and strong academic reputation, is an excellent place to start this journey.
Liked this post? Look out for my next blog post on why I love my home city in Germany!!
About me:
Hello! I’m Sai, an international student here in Germany, currently navigating my own language learning journey. I’m thrilled to be a part of LerneDeutsch, where I’ll be sharing my experiences and thoughts with you all. Come along on this adventure with me! Outside of language learning, I enjoy exploring new places, cycling, trying new coffee, and diving into a good book.
From personal experience, I can say that learning a new language and adapting to a new place can be both challenging and rewarding. I’m excited to share the ups and downs of my journey and any helpful tips I pick up along the way. Whether you're just starting out or further along in your learning, I hope you’ll find some useful insights in my posts. Tag along as I continue to explore the German language and culture!
