Welcome, dear international students

In the summer semester of 2026, numerous international students began their studies at the University of Stuttgart. They will spend one or more semesters here as part of exchange programs with partner universities, or may even be planning to complete their degree at the University of Stuttgart.

The annual highlight of the arrival phase was Welcome Day on April 1, 2026, held at the International Center on Campus Vaihingen. 220 newly arrived international students took the opportunity to prepare for their studies and ask questions in person in the lobby of the International Center. In the “Welcome Lounge,” they got to know the staff from the International Office and their fellow students over refreshments and snacks.

The Student Council of the University of Stuttgart (STUVUS), the Transfer Center TRACES, the Language Center and the Student Counseling Center (ZSB) were on hand to answer questions, for example, about networking events, study groups, academic planning, and career-related issues. A raffle offering sustainable everyday items – such as produce bags and gift cards for zero-waste stores – was a big hit.

The sharing event was also a huge hit: Newcomers were able to stock up on household and everyday items in excellent condition - all donated by students and staff at the university. The sharing initiative was awarded the Sustainability Prize last year.

During guided tours of the Vaihingen and City Center campuses, the newly arrived international students had the opportunity to get to know their new surroundings.

As part of the orientation program, many international students attended online events in advance to learn about studying, living, and housing in Stuttgart, as well as the necessary formalities upon arrival. In addition, many students took advantage of the opportunity for individual counseling.

More than 110 students took advantage of the ready.study.stuttgart buddy program, a partnership with the Studierendenwerk (student services organization) that has been in place since 2015. Experienced students help international newcomers get settled in Stuttgart. For example, they pick them up at the airport or train station, help them move into their new shared apartment, or assist with visits to government offices. 

International students who are pursuing a degree at the University of Stuttgart are assigned a mentor as part of the “Intercultural Mentoring Program”. Each semester, 50 to 100 new international students receive one-on-one mentoring from experienced students as part of carefully selected pairs. This way, you will receive support with organizing your studies, getting settled, and learning German. The program is now in its thirteenth year and is a nationally recognized best-practice model.

A large number of exchange students traveled to Stuttgart in early March for a five-week intensive German course. Among other things, student buddies organized city tours for them, as well as visits to the Mercedes-Benz and Porsche museums and to the Wilhelma zoo. Throughout the semester, international students can look forward to additional activities and field trips.

International Office
At the International Office, international students receive advice and support on all matters related to life in Germany. Students can book appointments with advisors from the International Office and also receive support during open office hours (in person: Mon & Wed, 2–4 p.m.; Tue & Thu, 10 a.m.–12 p.m.; online: Mon & Wed, 10 a.m.–12 p.m.). For support or suggestions, please contact via email.