It's important to apply for a student visa immediately after receiving the welcome email from us, as the process can take up to 3 months. More information about the visa can be found here.

The deadline for sending us proof of your health insurance is 15 January/15 July. To meet the deadline, we recommend taking care of your insurance in December/June. Essential information about health insurance in Germany for EU and non-EU citizens can be found here. Additionally you will receive more information via email from us in due time.

Even though only a few rooms may be listed this early, it's advisable to get an overview of the rental market in Karlsruhe now and check if your expectations regarding the budget are realistic.

Now is the time to apply for rooms in the student dormitories. We recommend submitting your applications by the end of December/June. For more information about the application process, tips for a successful application and the deadlines for each dormitory, you can find in the Application Guide for Student Dormitories, which you will receive with the welcome email.

If you haven't received an offer for a dorm room yet, now is a good time to start looking for shared flat rooms. Often, room offers are posted online 8 weeks before move-in. To write a successful application letter, read through our Application Guide for Shared Flats. Apartments in Karlsruhe are in high demand. Therefore, it's important to put extra effort into your messages and take our tips to heart. If you receive few responses, don't be discouraged. Shared flats receive numerous inquiries and may not respond to all of them. Review your message again to ensure it convincingly presents why you would be a good roommate. Don't only apply for the cheapest apartments and be open to making compromises.

To ensure you haven't overlooked anything, review all requirements and documents again.

• Is your visa application in process?
• Is your passport valid for at least 6 months after your travel to Germany?
• Do you have German health insurance (for non-EU citizens)?
• Have you sent all requested documents to the DHBW? (e.g. proof of health insurance, a picture for your student ID...)

If you indicated in your registration that you would like to participate in the Buddy Program, your buddy will receive your contact information and will reach out to you before your departure. They will answer all your important questions. If you haven't heard from your buddy up to three weeks before your departure, contact the international office to find out why.

By now, you should have found an accommodation. If not, intensify your search efforts. Ask your buddy for help; they might know of someone who could sublet a room. Also, look for budget-friendly hostels for your first days in Karlsruhe, in case you won't find an accomodation in time. Even though you may feel under significant pressure to find a room, be cautious of scams. For questions or doubts about offers, contact your buddy or the international office.