News

Excellent spirits among the international students as they explored Aalen during the orientation week organized by the International Center. Photo: © Aalen University | Rita Bergami

A significant number of international students recently took part in the orientation weeks held at the International Center of Aalen University of Applied Sciences. These individuals have enrolled in master's degree programs at the university, marking yet another milestone in the institution’s strategic efforts to contribute to the long-term availability of skilled professionals in the region. By offering an attractive and practice-oriented academic portfolio, coupled with strong global partnerships, Aalen University continues to draw a steadily increasing number of international students—whom it equips with the qualifications necessary for successful integration into the German labor market.

“I had a number of issues and questions regarding studying abroad in Germany that my home university was unfortunately unable to assist with,” says Nathan Turner from the United States, who is currently enrolled in the General Mechanical Engineering program at Aalen University of Applied Sciences. He continues with evident enthusiasm: “The International Center at Aalen University, however, was able to assist me with everything right from the start, and my transition here has gone exceptionally well.” The 21-year-old is one of approximately 100 international students who, in the current summer semester, are either undertaking a semester abroad at Aalen University or have commenced a full master’s degree as so-called degree-seeking students, intending to complete their graduate studies in Aalen.

Over the course of two weeks, students from more than 130 partner universities around the globe were thoroughly prepared for their academic studies in Aalen during the orientation period organized by the International Center of Aalen University of Applied Sciences. To ensure inclusive participation, the onboarding program was delivered in a hybrid format, enabling students who faced delays—such as those caused by visa processing issues—to engage with the sessions remotely until their arrival. In addition to comprehensive campus tours, welcome events, hikes, game nights, question-and-answer sessions, and a wide array of social and informative activities, staff members of the International Center provided dedicated support in navigating administrative and bureaucratic procedures. Simultaneously, the newly arrived students began attending daily intensive German language courses offered by the university.

Support for a Smooth Arrival and Successful Integration

Sharath Babu Lokesh, a senior student tutor at Aalen University, has been actively involved in supporting international students throughout their arrival and orientation process. “During our weekly peer-sharing sessions, we are able to address numerous questions related to integration—both on campus and within the broader community of Aalen,” explains Lokesh. He notes, “The sense of well-being is a key factor for our international students when it comes to deciding whether to pursue a career in the region after graduation.” A vibrant culture of welcome significantly enhances students’ chances of academic success. Programs such as the university’s Buddy Program and the Family Program play a vital role in this regard—offering international students personalized support from German peers and giving them the opportunity to engage with local families who help familiarize them with the region and its culture during their free time.

The successful integration of international students into the German labor market is supported not only by the services provided by Aalen University’s International Center, but also by a range of complementary initiatives. These include the International Society Aalen e.V., the Embrace Project—designed to accompany students through the final stages of their studies—and the Welcome Center Ostwürttemberg, likewise located on the university campus. The Welcome Center is a joint initiative supported by the Economic Development Corporation of East Württemberg (WiRO), the administrative districts of Aalen and Heidenheim, several municipalities, and the Ministry of Economic Affairs of the state of Baden-Württemberg.

“This is truly a win-win situation states University President Professor Dr. Harald Riegel. “International students gain access to promising career pathways, our campus community becomes more diverse, and the region as a whole benefits from enhanced innovation and strengthened economic competitiveness.”