FAQ

Frequently Asked Questions!

Q1. How do I apply to study?

Ans: The application process is streamlined and all details can be found on the university website at the following link: http://www.uni-kl.de/isgs/graduates/apply/procedure/
Furthermore, ISGS (International School of Graduate Studies) is really helpful throughout the application process: http://www.uni-kl.de/isgs/home/

Q2. How important is it to know German while studying in an English program?

Ans: Most M. Sc. courses are designed completely in English language, hence German language during studies would not cause you any problem for achieving academic excellence.

Having said that, German language is of great importance for students trying to find a part-time job here. Moreover, it increases your chances of social integration and helps you in making new friends.

Q3. How much German should I know before coming here?

Ans: We would recommend that you atleast have A1 certificate. This will help you in introducing yourself and remove the feeling of alienation that one feels when s/he reaches a foreign country.

Having a A2 from Pakistan will be ideal for you. At the university you can enhance your German skills. Each level costs here 150 Euros.

Q4: How to search for a room before arriving?

Ans: Finding a room in Kaiserslautern is becoming an issue as students keep on increasing every year. Still, there are plenty of rooms available!

The best place to live (in our consideration) are Student Wohnheim. The cost is cheap, and they are located either near to the university and/or have excellent bus connections to the university.

Start your room search one month before coming to Germany. Here are some excellent resources that would help you in your search:

http://www.wg-gesucht.de/wg-zimmer-in-Kaiserslautern.67.0.0.0.html
http://www.studenten-wg.de/Kaiserslautern,immobilien.html
https://www.facebook.com/groups/280785635463819/ (post a room request here)

Room rents here cost between 240 to 280 Euros.

Q5: Can a student work for part-time during studies?

Ans: Sure! German laws allow a student to work 20 hours/week (part-time) and 40 hours/week (full-time).

Students who work for some research institute or for the university. It is called HiWi (Hilfswilliger). We have generally noticed that students with a strong programming background are more likely to be accepted for these positions.

You can find HiWi advertisement at the university notice boards, and also on the website. Apart from this, odd-jobs are also available.

Q6: What would be the estimated cost of living in Kaiserslautern?

Ans: Our estimate is as follows (in Euros):

Rent: 240 – 280
Insurance: 78.00
Food: 80 – 100
Mobile: 10
Internet (if you are not living in a Student Wohnheim) : 10 – 15
Fun and other stuff: 30 – 50

So the total is between 450 to 540 Euros. Furthermore, the university charges 210 Euros/semester for the university ticket.

Q7: How do I arrive from Frankfurt to Kaiserslautern.

Ans: Kaiserslautern is a small and beautiful town in southern Germany. Mostly, students land in Frankfurt and either take a train or a bus to reach here.

The bus from Frankfurt costs 7 Euros; you can book it once you reach Frankfurt. Here are some popular bus services you can use:

http://meinfernbus.de/

You can also choose the Train. ICE (German high speed train) costs between 30 to 40 euros.

We would suggest that you take an ICE ticket to save yourself from all the hassle!

Q8: What should I bring with me?

Ans: There are long lists available for what students can bring with themselves (http://goo.gl/K9yIUl). We would suggest you to bring good shoes and a leather jacket.

Q9: Do I have to attend orientation?

Ans: Orientation is not compulsory for students, but you will find out important information about your stay and studies. Furthermore, you will have a chance to roam around the city before you start your formal education at the university.

Q10: What activities are available at TU Kaiserslautern.

Ans: There are a range of activities you can do here:

Sports: https://www.hochschulsport.uni-kl.de/
The Uni Card would allow you to visit almost the whole province for free.
There are number of clubs for party. You will get to know them all, once you arrive here.

Q11: Can you give me some tips for the first semester?

Ans: We would highly suggest that you read the the following link. Please use google translate for the English version:

http://www.studentenseite.de/pages/erstsemester_tipps/

Q12: Where can I look for more information?

Ans: ISGS should be your prime source of correspondence. PSA (Pakistan Student Association) would always be available in helping you during the arrival process and afterwards.

Here are some links:

We wish you best of luck and hope to see you soon at our university

FAQ