Munich
Munich is home to Germany’s 2nd and 3rd highest ranked universities, namely the Technische Universität München and Ludwig-Maximilians-Universität München. These universities have an excellent reputation around the world, and the city is home to a number of famous pioneers and inventors. Their global approach to education means that more and more courses are now being offered in English. An added advantage to their education system is that international students do not pay any more in tuition fees than local students, with the local government aiming to abolish tuition fees all together within the next year. When not studying, you can spend you free time exploring their many museums and churches, and for those students who enjoy beer – perhaps visiting the famous Oktober Fest.
What to Study There: Engineering, Art
What You Need to Know: Germany is one of the most welcoming places for international students. There are few barriers when it comes to studying abroad in Munich because of their goal of internationalising their education system. Still, some predominantly German speaking universities will still require a certified translation into German of school certificates, records and other important documents when applying. These can be obtained from a certified translations agency such as Romo Translations. Non EU citizens usually require a residence permit to study in Germany. This can take between four and six weeks to be approved and granted. Depending on your country, you may also need a German bank account before applying for a visa. As for the best way to make friends in this exciting city? Buy them a beer!
Greeting in German: “hallo, wie geht es dir?”
Cape Town
Cape Town is a city full of natural beauty and diverse cultures. While most people are able to speak English, being taught even a few phrases in another language is inevitable. South Africa has 11 official languages and everyone is proud of their own. In Cape Town, you have the opportunity to learn at a world-class level on some on the most beautiful university campuses in the world including UCT and Stellenbosch. Its turbulent past also promises to deliver a unique and historically focused education.
What to Study There: Politics, Environmental Studies, African Studies, Languages
What You Need to Know: Capetonians are a relaxed bunch of people who tend to run on African time. Patience is what is needed to survive in this city, but if you can learn to live like the locals you will reap the rewards with a once-in-a-lifetime experience. When entering South Africa, you will need at least three pages free in your passport book. While most universities and colleges operate in English, it would be an added benefit to learn greetings in the two other major languages of Afrikaans and Xhosa.
Greeting in Afrikaans: “Hallo, hoe gaan dit?”
Greeting in Xhosa: “Molo, unjani?”
Paris
With a population of 2.15 million, Paris is not only the city of love; it is also the city of culture and experience. It is home to some of the world’s best and most well known pieces of art and architecture. Imagine spending your afternoons roaming the streets of France’s capital, taking in all the sights and sounds. Besides the beauty and heritage of Paris, it also offers world-class education. With 17 World University Ranking institutions, Paris has more top places of learning than any other city on the planet except for London. While it has a reputation for being an expensive place to live, low tuition fees mean that the city is actually relatively affordable for students.
What to Study There: Art, History, Architecture
What You Need to Know: French culture often revolves heavily around food. If you have an appreciation for food, you will surely not be without a friend. The French also love to embrace one another, so don’t be surprised if you receive cheek kisses from your new friends. The norm in Paris is two kisses, which is standard when saying hello or goodbye. It is also customary to address strangers or people you don’t know well with the honorific title ‘Monsieur’ or ‘Madame’. If you want to study at a French speaking university you will need to get a certified French translation of you academic records and identity documents.
Greeting in French: “Bonjour, ça va?”
Shanghai
China’s largest city by population, Shanghai has been rated as the most expensive place to live in China. This being said, from an international perspective, it is still one of the most affordable cities for students to study. Shanghai is home to some of China’s top ranking universities including Fudan University and Shanghai Jiao Tong University. For the past two decades it has also been one of the fastest developing cities in the world, having the strongest economy in China. For a completely unique cultural experience full of vibrant art and innovation, this cosmopolitan city is the place to be.
What to Study There: Finance, Trade, Business
What You Need to Know: Before entering China you will need to get a student visa. Ensure that you have the correct one on going into the country as changing it while you’re there may prove difficult. Again, depending on the university, you may need to get your transcripts translated when applying for admission. People in Shanghai usually speak either Mandarin or a dialect called Wu. It is important to remember that the customs in China are generally very different from those in the Western world. Respect is of the utmost importance when it comes to visiting this beautiful nation.
Greeting in Mandarin: nǐ hǎo
Romo Translations loves students and we endeavour to help them wherever we can. For simple, fast, certified translations of any academic records or certificates, feel free to contact us for a free quote.