FAQ - Your questions - our answers

FAQ

 

You are looking for information on pre-depature, onboarding or wrap-up for your stay at the KU? International Degree -Seeking and Exchange students will find information here!

Before Arrival ( Preparation Phase)

Preparation Phase

Do I need a visa to study in Germany?

That depends on your nationality. EU citizens do not need a visa. Non-EU citizens usually need to apply for a student visa before entering Germany. However, nationals of certain countries may enter Germany without a visa but must apply for one immediately after arrival.
You can find more detailed information on our webpage “Visa & residence permit”. 

When and how should I apply for a visa?

That depends on the processing times in your home country, which can vary greatly. As a general rule, we recommend applying for your student visa at least 3 months before your planned arrival in Germany – or better yet, 4 months in advance to be on the safe side. You should apply at the German embassy or consulate responsible for your place of residence. Please check their website for country-specific procedures and required documents.

Which documents are required for the visa application?

Although the exact requirements may vary by country, you will typically need the following documents when applying for a student visa:

  • A valid biometric passport
  • Proof of sufficient financial resources, e.g. a blocked account showing at least 992 EUR per month for the entire duration of your planned stay in Germany
    (Example: 992 EUR x 12 months = 11,904 EUR)
  • Proof of valid health insurance
  • In some cases: Proof of a German address (if already available)
  • Letter of admission from KU (Zulassungsbescheid) –
    Please note: This is not the same as the official enrollment confirmation

Always check the website of the German embassy or consulate in your country for the most accurate and up-to-date information.

How can I find housing in Eichstätt or Ingolstadt?

You can find helpful tips and resources for finding accommodation independently on our webpage “Housing”
Important: Start your housing search as early as possible – ideally at least 4 months before the semester begins, especially if you are not applying through KU Housing Support.

Can KU help me find accommodation?

Yes, you can apply for KU Housing Support. This service helps international students find suitable housing in Eichstätt or Ingolstadt. Please note that a housing deposit of 350 EUR is required to secure your spot. You can find more information about the application process and deadline on our webpage “Housing”. 

What is the cost of living in Germany / at KU?

That strongly depends on your monthly rent and personal lifestyle. If you need a visa to study in Germany, you must prove that you have at least 992 EUR per month available (usually via a blocked account). However, this amount is often not sufficient, as monthly rent alone can range from 500 to 700 EUR, depending on the city and type of accommodation. Additional monthly expenses include:

  • Student health insurance: approx. 145 EUR
  • Food, transportation, and leisure: varies depending on individual needs

We recommend planning for at least 1,000–1,200 EUR per month to cover your basic living expenses in Eichstätt or Ingolstadt.

Do I need health insurance – and which one?

Yes – health insurance is mandatory for studying in Germany. What kind you need depends on your personal situation:

  • If you have a valid European Health Insurance Card (EHIC), you can be exempted from German public health insurance. (Exchange students can easily upload their EHIC for exemption via their Mobility Online workflow.)
  • If you do not have an EHIC, you will need to purchase German health insurance before enrolling at KU. If you are under 30, we strongly recommend taking out public (statutory) health insurance, for example with AOK Bayern.

You can find more details on our webpage “Health Insurance”.

What is the difference between public and private health insurance?

The main difference lies in how the billing process works:

  • With private health insurance, you usually have to pay upfront for all medical treatments and services. Afterward, you submit the receipts to your insurance provider to get reimbursed.
  • With public (statutory) health insurance, one major advantage is that you don’t have to handle the billing yourself. The doctor or clinic bills your insurance provider directly, so you don’t need to pay anything out of pocket for covered services at the time of treatment. 

Can I work during my studies in Germany?

Your ability to work in Germany depends on your nationality and the stage of your studies:

  • EU/EEA/Swiss students:
    You are treated like German students and may work up to 20 hours per week during the lecture period. During the semester break, you may work full time without hourly limitations.
  • Non‑EU students (third‑country nationals):
    You may either work up to 20 hours per week during lecture periods, or conform to the annual limit of 140 full days or 280 half days per calendar year.

A full day is counted as more than 4 hours of work. A half day is up to 4 hours. Required or mandatory internships tied to your curriculum do not count toward this limit. Academic jobs—like student or research assistant roles—are exempt and do not count toward the 140 full-day quota. 
Tip: During semester breaks, you're generally not restricted by weekly hours, but must still observe the annual day limit. 
NB: once you have a job, even if it’s only a Hiwi-job with 5 hrs per month, your EHIC is not valid anymore and you need a German health insurance. In any case, please urgently contact your health insurance company in Germany once you are planning to work. 

Where can I find the academic calendar of KU?

You can find the KU academic calendar on our webpage “Academic calendar”. It includes important dates such as semester start and end, lecture periods, exam phases, and public holidays.

When should I arrive in Germany?

If you are taking part in the German Intensive Course, you will find the schedule and official arrival date on the course website – usually October 1 or April 1, unless that day falls on a weekend or public holiday.
If you are a degree-seeking student, we strongly recommend arriving in time for the Orientation Weeks in early October (or early April), even if you are not attending the language course.
In any case, you must arrive no later than the official start of lectures. You can find the exact dates in the academic calendar.

Are there orientation sessions at the KU?

Yes, please see website.

How do I register for the KU German Intensive Course?

Click here to register. Further information about the fee-based program can be found on the website “German language courses”. 

Exchange Students Only

How and when do I apply at KU after nomination by my home university?

Which courses are offered in English at KU?

Please see website “Courses in English”

How many ECTS credits can/should I take?

We recommend taking no more than 5 to 6 modules per semester, each worth 5 ECTS credits, for a total of approximately 30 ECTS credits.
Please note: If you participate in the German Intensive Course (Vorkurs), it also counts as one module worth 5 ECTS credits.

What documents are needed for the online application?

You will need the following documents to complete your application via Mobility Online:

  • A valid passport
  • Transcript of Records from your current university
  • Bachelor’s degree certificate and Diploma Supplement (if you are applying as a Master’s student)
  • A passport photo (preferably biometric)
  • A Course Request List – an overview of the modules you plan to take at KU.
    Please make sure to read the detailed instructions on our website “Courses in English”

Onboarding Phase

What documents do I need for enrollment at the KU?

Exchange Students:
You will receive your KU ID via Mobility Online. Your physical KU Card will be issued at the International Office once you arrive on campus.

Degree-Seeking Students:
Your letter of admission lists all enrollment requirements—please check this carefully. The most important documents are:

  • a valid student visa (if applicable),
  • an electronic notification from your German health insurance provider sent directly to the KU, and
  • proof of payment of the semester contribution.

If you are privately insured, you must contact a statutory health insurance provider (e.g., AOK Bayern, TK) to have your insurance status approved. The statutory provider must then submit the so-called Meldung 10 (electronic notification) to the KU. The KU’s sender number is H0000834.

How do I get my KU student ID card and login credentials?

Exchange Students:
Your login credentials for KU Campus are provided in Mobility Online. You will receive your physical KU Card in person at the International Office after your arrival.

Degree-Seeking Students:
Your KU Campus login credentials will be sent by e-mail to the address you used in your application. After enrollment, your KU student ID card (KU Card) will be mailed to your semester address. Please make sure your address in your student portal HIS is correct to avoid delivery delays.

What is the best way to travel to Eichstätt-Ingolstadt?

The nearest international airports are Munich, Frankfurt/Main, and Nuremberg. From there, you can take a train with Deutsche Bahn (DB) to Ingolstadt or Eichstätt. Tickets are usually cheaper when purchased online at www.bahn.com rather than at ticket counters or from the driver.

  • If you live in Eichstätt:
    From Nuremberg, make sure to get off at Eichstätt Bahnhof and change to the local train to Eichstätt Stadt, which is the final station in town. ⚠️ Note: Eichstätt Bahnhof is in the middle of nowhere—no toilets, no kiosk, and poor mobile reception. Always enter Eichstätt Stadt as your destination when searching for connections to avoid getting stranded.
  • If you arrive from Munich:
    You can either take the train directly to Eichstätt Stadt or use the Airport Express Bus from Munich Airport to Ingolstadt ZOB (central bus station). From there, take the express bus X80 to Eichstätt. Please note that this bus only operates on weekdays (not on Sundays or public holidays).

Where and how do I register my residence in Germany?

You must register your residence at the local citizens’ office (Bürgeramt) within 2 weeks after moving in. A valid address must include street, house number, postal code, and city. Please bring your passport, rental contract, and confirmation from your landlord (Wohnungsgeberbestätigung). 

Do I need a German bank account and how can I open one?

Yes, a German bank account is strongly recommended, especially for paying rent, receiving refunds, or handling university-related payments. You can open an account at most local banks or online banks. Make sure to bring your passport, residence registration, tax ID and proof of enrollment.

What is a tax ID (Steuer-ID), and when will I receive it?

The tax ID (Steuer-ID) is a personal identification number required for financial matters in Germany. It is created automatically once you register your residence at the citizens’ office (Bürgeramt). Within about two weeks, you will receive it by mail at your semester address.

Please note: You cannot open a German bank account without a tax ID, so plan accordingly. The tax ID is also important for student jobs and scholarship payments. In urgent cases, you can request your tax ID directly at the local tax office (Finanzamt).

Does KU offer a semester ticket?

No, KU does not provide a traditional semester ticket. However, once you are enrolled, you can easily purchase the Deutschlandticket for Students at a reduced rate. Subscription is available through the KU website.

Is there an orientation or welcome session I should attend?

Exchange students: Please do not miss the mandatory online tutorials offered by the International Office. 

Degree-Seeking students: Yes, the KU organizes orientation weeks for new students at the beginning of each semester. Attendance is strongly recommended, as you will receive important information about studies, campus services, and student life.

Where can I get academic advising or counseling services?

For academic advising, please contact your departmental student advisor (Studienberater). For personal or intercultural questions, you can contact the KU International Office or KU’s Counseling Services. Further details are available on the KU website.

How can I access Wi-Fi and KU systems?

Once your enrollment is completed and your KU account is activated, you have immediate access to all IT services provided by the University Computer Center (URZ), including Wi-Fi. To connect, you first need to install the KU VPN client. Detailed instructions are available on the URZ website.

Where can I find my class schedule?

In Germany, there is no fixed class schedule provided by the university. Instead, students create their own schedule each semester by choosing courses from the course catalog and following the study plan and examination regulations of their program.

Don’t worry if this feels overwhelming at first—it is the same for everyone! During Orientation Week, your department will explain study plans and give advice on which courses are important in the first semesters. Study plans (Studienverlaufspläne) and examination regulations are usually available on your program’s website.

Think of it as an opportunity: you have the freedom to select courses based on your interests and priorities. If courses overlap, that’s part of the system—you decide which one to attend and how to organize your studies.

How do I register for courses?

You must register for each course in KU Campus. You can search for courses, times, and locations in KU Campus even without a login.

Course registration usually opens in mid-September for the winter semester and mid-March for the summer semester. Please note: registration works on a first come, first served basis. Popular courses may fill up quickly; in that case, you might only be placed on a waiting list or have to wait until the next semester or year to take the course.

Important: You must register not only for the course but also separately for the exam at the end of the semester. As soon as exam registration opens, you will receive an e-mail from the Registrar’s Office sent to your KU e-mail account. Remember: all official KU communication is sent exclusively to your KU e-mail address.

What’s the difference between a course and a module?

A module is an academic unit within your study program. It may consist of several individual courses (e.g., a lecture plus a seminar) or just one course. A course is the actual class you attend in a given semester.

Important: You only earn credits once the entire module is completed. For example, if a module in Modern German Literature requires both a lecture and a seminar, completing only the seminar will not count. You must attend and pass all required parts of the module.

Please also note: A module can only be counted once in your transcript, even if you take it multiple times. The key is the module number, not the course title or content (these may vary).

What is the broadcasting fee?

Everyone registered as a resident in Germany must pay the public broadcasting fee (Rundfunkbeitrag) of 18.36 EUR per month, regardless of whether you own or use a TV or radio.

The fee is charged per household, not per person. This means that in shared apartments or student residences, only one person per household needs to pay, while the others can be registered under the same account.

If you receive student financial aid (BAföG) in Germany or similar social benefits, you may apply for an exemption.

Click here for more information.

During Your Studies

What functions does my KU Card have?

Your KU Card serves as your student ID, library card, and cafeteria card. You must validate it at the beginning of each semester. The card can be topped up with cash and used to pay in the cafeterias in Eichstätt and Ingolstadt (including the Mensa Canisiuskonvikt).

The card is issued free of charge once. If you lose it, both the card and any remaining balance are lost, and you must request a replacement from the Registrar’s Office for a fee.

Further practical information is available on the KU website.

How can I use the library?

The University Library (UB) is at the heart of KU. It is not only the place to search for and access academic literature, but also an important study space that offers a wide range of services.

Your KU Card also functions as your library card, giving you access to borrowing and other services. We recommend exploring the UB website to get an overview of all available resources. At the beginning of each semester, the library also offers regular training sessions—these are highly recommended, as they help you make the most of the library’s services.

What is ILIAS?

ILIAS is KU’s online learning platform, which you can access with your KU account. Many instructors use ILIAS to share course materials, assignments, and reading lists. Further information is available on the KU website.

What are VHB courses?

VHB (Virtuelle Hochschule Bayern or Virtual University of Bavaria) is a network of Bavarian universities that offers a wide variety of online courses. Many of these courses can be credited toward your study program.

In particular, the foreign language courses are very popular, including German language courses at the A2 level. If you are enrolled in an English-taught degree program, this may be especially relevant: you must prove German skills at the A2 level within your first year of studies—otherwise, you cannot continue your program.

You register directly via the VHB platform, but in order to have the course credited at KU, you must inform the Examinations Office (Prüfungsamt) in time.

Where can I find tutoring or academic writing support?

If you study in German, we highly recommend the course “Wissenschaftliches Schreiben und Arbeiten” (Academic Writing and Research). It introduces you to German academic standards, which differ significantly from those in other countries.

In most bachelor’s programs, you will also have introductory courses in the first semester that cover academic methods. If you are unsure, contact your program coordinator for advice and resources.

The only mistake you can make is not asking—so don’t hesitate to reach out.

Who can help me if I have problems with my studies?

Your academic advisor (Fachstudienberatung) is your main contact person if you experience difficulties with your studies.

Depending on your situation, you can also reach out to the International Office for general guidance or to KU’s counseling services for personal or psychological support.

What sports and cultural activities are offered for students?

If you enjoy sports, you can take part in the University Sports Program, which offers a wide variety of courses every semester for students of all study programs. You can also use the university’s fitness room.

If you are musically inclined, you might want to join the university choir or the university orchestra.

If you would like to get involved on campus, the Student Convention (Studentischer Konvent) offers many opportunities through its working groups.

If you are looking for spiritual activities, you are welcome to join the programs of the Catholic University Community (KHG).

 (NB: websites only in German). 

Who can I contact for counseling or psychological support?

If you face mental health challenges, you are welcome to contact our Psychological Counseling Service. The service is free of charge and strictly confidential.

You can also find an overview of all KU counseling services for different life situations on the KU website.

In urgent situations, please refer to KU’s emergency website for immediate support and contacts.

What should I do if I get sick during the semester?

If you do not yet have a general practitioner (Hausarzt) in Eichstätt or Ingolstadt, you should look for one as soon as possible. Please note that many practices no longer accept new patients, so you may need to contact several offices. Your health insurance provider can also help you find a doctor.

If you miss classes due to illness, please inform your instructor right away. You will also need a medical certificate (Attest) from your doctor. This certificate is especially important if you are unable to attend an exam, as it must be submitted to the Registrar’s Office.

How do I submit a doctor’s note for exams?

If you are unable to attend an exam due to illness, you must submit a medical certificate (Attest) to the Registrar’s Office without delay. Please make sure the certificate clearly states that you were unable to take the exam on the scheduled date.

Send the original certificate by post or hand it in directly at the Registrar’s Office. Digital copies (e.g., scans or photos) are usually not accepted.

Can I change or drop a course after registration?

Yes. If you realize that a course is not the right fit for you, please inform the instructor and deregister from the course in KU Campus.

How do I register for exams?

In the middle of the semester, the Examinations Office (Prüfungsamt) will announce the exam registration deadlines by e-mail and on the KU Campus homepage. For every course you attend, you must also register separately for the exam in KU Campus.

Please note: these deadlines are binding. If you miss the deadline, you cannot take the exam.

If you later decide not to take an exam, you must deregister in KU Campus. Otherwise, the exam will be marked as “failed”, and you will only have one more chance to repeat it.

Important: All official notifications from KU are sent only to your KU e-mail account. Please check it regularly.

What happens if I fail an exam?

If you fail an exam, you can register for the resit during the second examination period. Please remember: you must actively register in KU Campus for this second attempt as well—otherwise, you cannot take the exam.

Important: In most cases, you only have two attempts. If you fail the resit, the module is considered permanently failed.

How do I re-register (Rückmeldung) for the next semester?

The Registrar’s Office will remind you by e-mail to re-register for the next semester. Deadlines are also published on the Registrar’s Office website.

Re-registration is very simple: transfer the semester contribution of 78.00 EUR to the KU account, making sure to use your matriculation number (not your applicant number) as reference. A few days after the transfer, you can see your re-registration status in your HIS portal.

At the beginning of the new semester, don’t forget to validate your KU Card. Otherwise, it will automatically be deactivated at the end of the semester.

What happens if I miss the re-registration deadline?

If you do not re-register in time, you will be automatically de-registered (exmatriculated) at the end of the semester (March 31 or September 30).

Am I allowed to work while studying? (limits for international students)

  • EU/EEA citizens: You have the same rights as German students and can work without restrictions. Please note: if you are exempt from German health insurance due to your EHIC, this exemption ends as soon as you take up a job in Germany (including unpaid internships). In that case, you must obtain German health insurance.
  • Non-EU students (with a student visa): You may work up to 140 full days or 280 half days per year. Jobs as a student assistant (Hiwi jobs) do not count toward this limit, so you can take them in addition. During semester breaks, you are also allowed to work full-time.

    If you wish to work more than the allowed limit, you must obtain approval from the Foreigners’ Office (Ausländerbehörde).

How can I find a student job?

The best place to start is the KU Career Center, which provides advice and job postings. Make sure to register for JobTeaser, the KU job platform, so you receive all updates on student job offers.

Student assistant positions (Hiwi jobs) are often advertised on KU’s website or through KU social media channels.

How do I extend my residence permit?

Depending on your place of residence, you must apply for the extension of your residence permit in Ingolstadt or Eichstätt, but the process can be started online. The International Office will support you in preparing the required documents.

The most important documents are:

  • proof of sufficient financial resources for the new period (up to 24 months, if you can show funding for two full years),
  • proof of accommodation,
  • valid health insurance, and
  • confirmation of enrollment for the next semester.

Processing times can take several months. After submitting your application, you will receive an appointment date by post from the Foreigners’ Office. If you plan to travel abroad or go on an exchange semester, make sure to apply well in advance—at least 3 months before your current permit expires.

Wrap-up Phase

How do I move out of the dormitory?

Contact your landlord or the dormitory administration at least three weeks before your planned move-out date to arrange an appointment for the room inspection. Usually, you will receive a checklist that explains what needs to be done when cleaning and clearing out your room.

If you hand over the room properly, your security deposit will be refunded. Be sure to carefully document the condition of the room at the time of the inspection—take photos and request a written inspection report. You may use the sample handover protocol. 

Please arrange an appointment for the room inspection well in advance. Your room must be thoroughly cleaned and completely cleared out before you hand over the keys.

When will I get my housing deposit back?

If you used the KU Housing Support and paid the additional KU deposit of 350.00 EUR, you must request the refund through the workflow in Mobility Online. Once the International Office receives confirmation from your landlord that the room was handed over properly, we will refund 300.00 EUR to your indicated bank account or via PayPal.

The security deposit you paid directly to your landlord will be refunded by the landlord, provided that your room inspection was successful and there are no outstanding charges.

What do I need to do before leaving Germany?

  • Exchange Students:
    Please make sure your Mobility Online workflow is up to date. You will only receive the required documents and your Transcript of Records if all necessary steps have been completed.
  • Housing:
    If necessary, terminate your rental contract on time if it is not limited to a fixed end date. For example, at St. Gundekarwerk the termination deadlines are December 31 (end of the winter semester) and June 30 (end of the summer semester). Notice must always be submitted in writing.
    Also, arrange an appointment for the key handover with your landlord or dormitory administration.
  • Contracts & Subscriptions:
    Cancel any subscriptions, including your Deutschlandticket.
  • De-registration (Abmeldung):
    You must de-register at the citizens’ office. In Ingolstadt this can be done online, in Eichstätt you must go to the town hall in person (no appointment required). With this de-registration, you can also cancel your broadcasting fee account (GEZ) if you have one.
  • Health Insurance:
    If you are insured with a statutory German health insurance provider, send your certificate of de-registration from KU (Exmatrikulationsbescheinigung) to your insurance company to stop further payments. This applies only if you are leaving Germany permanently. The “Exma” is issued by the Registrar’s Office upon individual request. 

How do I de-register my residence (Abmeldung) at the Bürgeramt?

  • Ingolstadt: You can complete the de-registration online if you leave Germany permanently. If you move within Germany, you have to arrange an appointment with the Residents’ Office in your new hometown.  
  • Eichstätt: Please check the office hours of the Residents’ Office and de-register in person at the town hall. No appointment is required.

After de-registration, you will receive an official confirmation document (Abmeldebescheinigung). This certificate is often required to cancel contracts such as health insurance, broadcasting fee (GEZ), or rental agreements.

Do I need to cancel my health insurance?

It depends:

  • If you stay in Germany and start working: Your employer will automatically register you with the statutory health insurance provider of your choice. Your student health insurance ends automatically with your de-registration from KU.
  • If you leave Germany: If you are insured with a statutory German health insurance provider, you must actively cancel your insurance. To do this, send your certificate of de-registration from KU (Exmatrikulationsbescheinigung) and your residence de-registration certificate (Abmeldebescheinigung) to your insurance company.

If you are privately insured, please contact your private provider directly to clarify the cancellation process.

What happens with my German bank account?

If you leave Germany, you should close your German bank account. However, do not close it too early, as you may still need it for outstanding payments or for receiving your housing deposit refund.