Buddy Programme in German Universities: Experience a Smooth Student Life Abroad

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Sep 6, 2024 04:39 AM

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Buddy Programme

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Shivani

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Pavitthira

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Buddy Programme in German Universities, Buddy Programme in Germany, Buddy Programme for International Students

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Sep 4, 2024

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Pavitthira - Remarks

Studying in Germany is an exciting opportunity, filled with the promise of new experiences, friendships, and personal growth. However, it comes with its own set of challenges, especially for international students navigating a new culture, language, and environment and managing administrative tasks. Fortunately, many German universities offer Buddy Programmes designed to make this transition smoother and more enjoyable. These programmes connect new international students with experienced local or international students (buddies) who can provide invaluable support, guidance, and companionship throughout their initial months in Germany.

In this blog, we’ll explore everything you need to know about Buddy Programme in German Universities, including what they cover, how they work, and how MS in Germany can assist you in enrolling in these programmes. We’ll also provide a detailed overview of various Buddy Programmes for international students offered by different German universities to help you make an informed decision.

What Are Buddy Programmes?

Buddy Programmes are student-led initiatives where experienced students (usually in higher semesters) volunteer to help new international students settle into their new environment. The goal is to provide a welcoming and supportive experience, helping newcomers adjust to their new surroundings, understand local customs, and integrate into the university community. These programmes are available at almost all German universities, run by the university's International Office or Student Services in cooperation with various academic departments. They are typically free of charge.

But what exactly do these buddies do?

Think of them as your personal guide and friend. They will help you navigate everything from getting around the city, opening a bank account, registering with local authorities, finding accommodation, and understanding the university's academic structure. More importantly, they provide a friendly face in a new place, helping you make friends, understand German culture, and feel at home.

Benefits for Buddies: Why Do They Volunteer?

Buddies volunteer for many reasons:

Personal Satisfaction: Helping others is rewarding and offers a sense of fulfilment.

Skill Development: Gain experience in leadership, communication, and intercultural skills.

Certificates and Credits: Some programs offer volunteer certificates, recognition, or even credits toward their study program.

Cultural Insight: Learn about new cultures and see their own country through fresh eyes.

What Does Buddy Programme in German Universities Cover?

Buddy Programmes offer a wide range of services to help international students get started:

Arrival Assistance: Buddies can pick you up from the airport or train station and help you find your way to your accommodation.

Accommodation Help: Support in finding temporary or long-term accommodation, including navigating dormitory procedures or finding private housing.

Setting Up Essentials: Assistance with setting up blocked account, current account, getting health insurance, and registering your residence.

Campus Orientation: Campus tours to familiarise you with your new university environment, including academic departments, libraries, and other facilities.

Bureaucratic Support: Help with official documents such as rental contracts, university enrolment, city registration, and other administrative processes.

Cultural and Social Integration: Participation in social activities, city tours, shopping trips, and cultural events to help you adjust to life in Germany and meet new people.

Academic Support: Guidance on course selection, university procedures, study tips, and more.

How Does the Buddy Programme Work?

Application: When you apply to a German university, you will often have the option to sign up for a Buddy Program, if the university offers it.

Matching Process: Once you apply, the university assigns a buddy who matches your needs and preferences, often someone from your home country to eliminate language barriers.

Welcome and Orientation: Your buddy will contact you before your arrival, provide their contact information, and coordinate a pick-up or meeting point.

Ongoing Support: Throughout the semester, buddies assist with all the aspects mentioned above, offering continuous support and helping you integrate smoothly into German society and university life.

When to Apply?

It’s best to apply for a Buddy Programme 30-45 days before your travel date to ensure you have ample time to communicate with your buddy and arrange your arrival details.

Now, let's take a closer look at how these programs are organised at some of the leading universities in Germany!

Buddy Programme in Germany: Overview by University

To help you make an informed decision, here’s a detailed overview of various Buddy Programmes offered by some of the popular German universities:

University Name	Buddy Programme	Buddy Programme Services	Application Timeline	Programme Cost	Additional Benefits
TU Berlin	Welcome Buddy Programme	Arrival assistance, campus tours, academic support, and city tours.	30-45 days before arrival	Free	Language practice, intercultural events, meet-ups.
FAU Erlangen-Nürnberg	Buddy Erlangen/Nürnberg	Pick-up, assistance with bureaucracy, bank account setup, city tour, international student network.	At least 4 weeks before arrival	Free	Social networking, cultural activities.
Technical University of Ingolstadt	Buddy Programme Ingolstadt	Campus tours, help with formalities, orientation events, and social activities.	1 month prior to semester start	Free	City sightseeing, German language practice.
University of Potsdam	International Buddy Programme	Integration support, cultural and linguistic exchange, local buddy assignments.	1-2 months before semester	Free	Workshops, intercultural training, excursions.
Goethe University Frankfurt	Goethe Welcome Buddy Programme	Orientation, cultural exchange, pick-up services, city and campus tours.	Before semester start	Free	Opportunity to meet local and other international students.
SRH University Heidelberg	SRH Buddy Programme	Orientation, meet-ups, language practice, and assistance with administrative processes.	Minimum 3 weeks before arrival	Free	Volunteering experience, certificate of participation.
TH Köln	Kölner Buddy Programme	Buddy group activities, workshops, campus orientation, and social gatherings.	4-6 weeks before semester	Free	Buddy training, intercultural competence workshop.
University of Stuttgart	ready.study.stuttgart	Airport pickup, public transportation assistance, accommodation guidance, and city registration support.	Minimum 3 weeks prior to arrival	Free	Weekly meet-ups, German language classes, and cultural excursions.
University of Göttingen	Göttingen Buddy Programme	Campus orientation, academic support, help with city registration, and cultural activities.	1-2 months before start of semester	Free	Social integration, local excursions, language exchange.
University of Konstanz	Konstanz Buddy Network	Pick-up service, initial accommodation support, assistance with formalities, and city orientation tours.	30-45 days before arrival	Free	Access to university events, cultural programs, and language groups.
TU Braunschweig	Braunschweig Buddy Programme	Arrival support, buddy match from home country, assistance with settling in and academic orientation.	At least 1 month before arrival	Free	Workshops, cultural exchange, and group activities.
University of Tübingen	Tübingen Buddy Programme	Buddy support during exchange, integration activities, local orientation, German culture introduction.	Before semester start	Free	German breakfast events, international networking.
Frankfurt University of Applied Sciences	International Buddy Programme Frankfurt	Pickup, campus tour, class introductions, cultural exchange events, and city tours.	4-6 weeks prior to arrival	Free	Welcome parties, social meet-ups, city sightseeing.
University of Passau	Passau Buddy Programme	Buddy assignment, pick-up, city tour, document assistance, and social activities.	Minimum 1 month before semester start	Free	Excursions, social events, and language practice opportunities.
Paderborn University	Paderborn Buddy Programme	Pickup, accommodation assistance, campus orientation, matriculation help, and guidance with city and university formalities.	4-6 weeks prior to arrival	Free	Social activities, city tours, meet-ups with local students.
Free University of Berlin (FU Berlin)	FU Berlin Welcome Buddy Programme	Airport pick-up, housing support, academic guidance, cultural exchange, and participation in university events.	At least 1 month before the semester starts	Free	Networking opportunities, intercultural workshops, excursions.
Anhalt University of Applied Sciences	Anhalt Buddy Programme	Assistance with accommodation, academic mentoring, local guidance, public authority visits, and social integration.	30-45 days before arrival	Free	Language practice, participation in university events, local excursions.
Heidelberg University	Heidelberg Welcome Buddy Programme	Pre-arrival support, meet-up on arrival, help with accommodation, city orientation, public authority visits, and social activities.	Prior to the semester's start	Free	Cultural exchange events, local excursions, language exchange.

Some programmes might offers monthly activities, check-ins, and opportunities to build lasting friendships. For "veteran" buddies, it’s an enriching experience to see their country through new eyes and develop valuable skills like intercultural communication and leadership.

How Can MS in Germany Help You?

At MS in Germany, we understand how overwhelming it can be to transition to a new country. As part of our scholar package services, we offer to apply for Buddy Programmes on behalf of students, ensuring you have a smooth start. We handle the entire process, from filling out the forms to connecting you with your assigned buddy. We’ll ensure you receive the best support right from the moment you step foot in Germany. You can find out more details about our various packages here:

Why Should You Get Buddy Programme in German Universities?

Smooth Transition: The Buddy Programme offers personalised guidance, helping you settle in quickly and efficiently.

Cultural Exchange: Enjoy the opportunity to experience local culture firsthand while sharing your own.

Social Connections: Meet people, make friends, and build a network from day one.

Practical Help: Save time and stress by getting help with bureaucratic procedures, accommodation, and campus life.

Academic Support: Get assistance with course registration, understanding university procedures, and study techniques.

How Can You Become a Buddy?

If you’re already studying in Germany, consider becoming a buddy! You can volunteer through your university’s international office or Buddy Programme page. You’ll receive training and support to help you succeed in this role, and you’ll get a chance to make a real difference in someone’s life.

Final Thoughts: Make the Most of Your Buddy Programme Experience!

The Buddy Programme in German Universities is a fantastic opportunity for international students to receive personalised support and make their transition smoother. With the help of a friendly and experienced buddy, you can navigate the complexities of moving to a new country and quickly feel at home in Germany. At MS in Germany, we are here to help you apply for these programs and ensure you have a seamless start to your academic journey. Don't miss out on this chance to make friends, learn the culture, and start your studies on the right foot!

Ready to get started? Contact MS in Germany today, and let us guide you through the process of enrolling in a Buddy Programme!

FAQs about the Buddy Services in Germany

What is the Buddy Programme in German Universities? The Buddy Programme in German Universities pairs international students with local students (buddies) to provide support and guidance during their transition to university life, helping them navigate academic, social, and cultural aspects of living in Germany.

What is the Buddy System for International Students? The Buddy System for international students matches newcomers with experienced local or international students to assist with settling in, from airport pick-ups to city tours and navigating university procedures.

What is the Expectation of the Buddy Programme? The expectation of the Buddy Programme is to create a welcoming and supportive environment where international students feel integrated into both university life and the local community, fostering cultural exchange and friendship.

What is the Role of a Student Buddy? A student buddy helps new international students by offering practical assistance, such as navigating campus, understanding university processes, and providing social and cultural guidance to make their transition smoother.

What are the Benefits of the Buddy Programme for the Buddy? Benefits for buddies include gaining intercultural experience, improving language skills, earning volunteer certificates, enhancing their resumes, and building meaningful friendships with students from around the world.

What is the Buddy Scheme? The Buddy Scheme is a programme where local students volunteer to mentor and support new international students, helping them adapt to the new academic environment and local culture.

Can a Male and Female Do the Buddy Programme? Yes, the Buddy Programme is open to all genders. Buddies are typically matched based on common interests or languages, regardless of gender, to ensure a comfortable and supportive experience for both parties.

Buddy Programme in German Universities for International Students