Gain practical experience in Germany
Career Service International mainly caters for international students who complete their entire degree program at the Augsburg University of Applied Sciences (= degree students).
You will learn here...
How the application process in Germany works
1)
The most common method of application in Germany is online application via the career portal of the respective company. Suitable job advertisements are mainly found on job portals on the internet.
2)
Large companies, in particular, receive a very large number of applications (>200). Therefore, your application should be formulated in a manner relevant to the job advertisementand the document check/response can take a few weeks. Be patient – wait until at least two weeks after submission to inquire about the current status of your application.
You can learn HERE how the application process works from the perspective of an HR employee.
3)
Although the application process in Germany varies depending on the company size, company form/structure and position to be filled, many steps are similar, so you can prepare yourself well for the application process:
- Useful information on application documents
- Helpful tips on interviews
- Individual coaching in the Career Service International
In addition, we recommend further websites/literature on the topic:
- Application process explained (in German): https://karrierebibel.de/bewerbungsprozess/
- Becoming a specialist in Germany
The "Make it in Germany" initiative offers comprehensive advice on living in Germany, visas, finding a job and much more. - WelKMU: The path to a successful career start. You can borrow a brochure (in German) with tips on application documents, interviews, legal basics (Immigration Office) and career planning from us in office B2.06.
- Literature tip (in German): Claus Peter Müller-Thurau, Bewerben in Deutschland (ISBN: 978-3-648-08645-2) Available to borrow from the library.
What level of German you should have
Good German language skills will make it easier for you in your studies and when entering the labor market!
On the German labor market, a German language level of at least B2 is required for academic professions (as of 2022).
The "I've got this"/"It'll be fine" trap
- Most international applicants estimate their German language skills to be better than they actually are.
- The language level has decreased, especially due to the pandemic and the associated lack of possibilities to practice the German language.
At the Augsburg University of Applied Sciences, you have the possibility to take German language courses alongside your studies at the Center for Languages and Intercultural Communication (ZSI) (level B2/C1 at the very bottom on the linked page).
Additional advantages at the Augsburg University of Applied Sciences as compared to other language courses:
- Free as AWP (allgemeines Wahlpflichtfach, general required elective)
- You receive ECTS for your studies
- You improve your German and thus also your career opportunities
Contact partner for questions relating to German as a foreign language:
from the institution Center for Languages and Intercultural Communication (ZSI)
Useful information about the German culture
Every culture is different
Here is some information on (communication) behavior in Germany:
- Most Germans keep to predetermined rules or arrangements, so:
- Arrive punctually (= at the agreed time) for the appointment.
- If something comes up, letthe affected persons know as early as possible (by email or phone).
- You usually use formal language ("Sie" form) with staff and professors.
- Start emails with "Sehr geehrte/r Herr/Frau..." (Dear Sir/Madam) and end them with "Beste Grüße/Freundliche Grüße" (Best regards) and your name.
- You may ask questions. We are happy to answer them.
- You may express your opinion.
- Speak to us in good time if you have difficulties with applying for jobs or have already received some rejections - we would be pleased to help you!
