Before arrival
What to do (prepare) before arriving in Germany?
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Accommodation:
Arrange temporary accommodation for your arrival in Germany. Decide where do you want to live in the beginning and get a confirmation from the landlord or the administration of the Campus
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Health issues:
In case you have insurance at home, our advice is to take a thorough and big check-up in your hometown clinic with the familiar doctors in your native language. If you already know you have an ongoing health issue make sure you know where and how to address it.
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Language Skills:
Familiarize yourself with the German language, especially basic phrases and vocabulary. This will help a lot with day-to-day communication. To become more fluent will take about 2-4 months. There is no better and faster way to learn a language than to live in a country where it is spoken. And it'll help you to answer the questions at the customs office, in case the officer will not talk to you in English.
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Research Local Laws and Customs:
Familiarize yourself with the local laws and customs of Germany to avoid any cultural misunderstandings or unexpected legal issues.
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Packing:
Make sure you pack appropriate clothing for the German climate and any necessary documents or items you may need during your stay. Our personal advice is to have the original copies of important documents (printed out or digital) and for the beginning of your stay, take with you cosmetic products your skin is used to and even 1 or 2 items that remind you about home to make you feel more comfortable in a new place.
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Prepare for a culture shock:
A lot of things will be very new. Go open minded and expect things to be different! Things are neither better nor worse – they are different. If you get homesick, call your family or friends …