Comparative European Governance Systems
General Information on Studying Abroad
Comparative European Governance Systems 

General Information on Studying Abroad

Preliminary Considerations

Timing for a Stay Abroad

When planning your studies abroad, consider the following aspects:

  • Choosing the right time in your academic journey: For undergraduate programs, transferring to a foreign university after four semesters is advisable. By this point, you will have gained sufficient orientation in your field of study to evaluate which additional content could complement your education effectively. This timing also facilitates easier placement at the foreign institution since grades and foundational knowledge are available. Additionally, you will have had the opportunity to learn the host country's language.
  • Starting with the academic year: It is generally recommended to begin your studies abroad at the regular start of the academic year since most programs are structured around annual schedules or consecutive modules.

Duration of Stay Abroad

The duration of your studies abroad largely depends on your goals for the experience. These goals may vary significantly, so consider the following questions:

  • Am I aiming for a degree abroad?
  • Do I solely want to improve my language skills?
  • Am I looking to deepen specific, subject-related knowledge?
  • Am I seeking practical experience in specific fields?

Typically, stays range from three to five months (one semester) to a full academic year (two semesters). If you are applying for a scholarship, the duration is often predetermined by the sponsor (e.g., foundations). Note that academic calendars in different countries may vary from the semester schedules commonly used in Germany (especially in Scandinavia). With proper long-term planning, you can ensure a seamless transition between studies at Chemnitz University of Technology and the host institution.For information on taking a leave of absence during your study abroad, visit the Student Services website.

 

Language Requirements

Success in studying abroad largely depends on whether you have sufficient proficiency in the host institution's language of instruction. You should be able to follow lectures, complete self-study tasks, and write assignments with reasonable effort and quality. Therefore, foreign universities and scholarship providers often require proof of language proficiency through test results (e.g., TOEFL, IELTS), which must meet a specified score threshold.When preparing for a study abroad, allocate enough time to refresh or acquire the necessary language skills.

Financing

Studying abroad generally incurs higher costs than studying in your home country due to additional expenses such as tuition fees (outside of Erasmus programs), travel costs (round trips, excursions, etc.), potentially higher living expenses, and health insurance for abroad.In addition to self-financing, the following options are available:

  • Scholarship programs
  • Mobility programs, e.g., ERASMUS
  • Educational loans
  • Foreign BAföG (German student financial aid program)

Even if you are not eligible for domestic BAföG, you should still apply for financial aid for your time abroad, as the income thresholds for parental contributions are calculated differently. You may receive tuition reimbursement of up to €4,600 per academic year as a full grant. Additionally, recipients receive an overseas allowance, travel subsidy, and health insurance subsidy, each 50% loan and 50% grant.Make sure to check with your health insurance provider well in advance regarding coverage abroad.

 

Recognition of Academic Achievements

As a general rule, the courses you complete abroad will be reviewed and assessed for recognition by the Institute for Political Science. To maximize the recognition of your academic achievements upon your return, you should consult with the Professorship of European Government Systems in Comparison and the respective module coordinators before your stay. This is particularly important for students outside the department. Discussing your plans with the module coordinators is especially beneficial if you have thoroughly reviewed the host university's course offerings and have an idea of the courses you wish to take.

  • Recognition form for achievements earned abroad

 

Programs

In addition to the ERASMUS program, students can also access the Free Mover Scholarship Program, which fills the gaps in the ERASMUS program, as well as the newly launched PROMOS program. This program facilitates study abroad opportunities for students who are not eligible for ERASMUS funding.