Experience in Dortmund, Germany by Mohammad

Why did you choose to go to Dortmund, Germany?

I chose Germany because I study mechanical engineering and this country is one of the best in my major. There are lots of industrial companies employing the last technologies for manufacturing.

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How long is the scholarship? How much money do you receive to help you with living costs?

I don't have scholarship. Actually I am not an Erasmus student, but I thought it would be helpful to write a bit about the necessary things before coming to Dortmund.

What is the student lifestyle like in Dortmund?

TU Dortmund has a wide range of students from different countries especially from Asia. And if you are open to learn you can learn so much about different cultures here. About the student activities I'm not that much into these things and my answer to the question would be of no value.

Would you recommend the city and the University of Dortmund to other students?

It depends of the purpose and the type of personality you have. In my major it's great. There are a plenty of instruments along with experienced and professional teachers that I can benefit from.

The only problem I faced is the accommodation. That's a real issue which you will face. If you decide to come to Dortmund then think of a room before coming here.

What is the food like?

Actually I am a good cook and always cook for myself. Because of the similarities between my culture and the Turkish people I can buy every ingredient I want.

For the University's food I can say it's fair. The prices of the food in the university are from 1. 8 to about 5 Euros I think.

Did it cost you to find your accommodation in Dortmund?

The cost of the accommodation in Dortmund also depends on the place you choose. If you want to live in a shared flat it would be about 200-300 Euros. If you want to have a 1-room flat it would be more than 290. The main point for the accommodation is that it's hard to find a place no matter what price it has, especially if you can not speak German. The best way to find a room is finding your country mates in the university and ask them to introduce you the groups of the students of your country. Besides there are a couple of websites you can use.

How much does it cost to live in Dortmund?

It totally depends on you. I think you can live with 500 Euros. Maybe you could make it less, something like 400. The main part of the cost is accommodation. The food is cheap. For the transportation you pay 250 Euros for every semester and get a semester ticket which you can go every where in North Rhine Westphalia state by train or bus.

Is the language easy to get to grips with? Are there language courses available at the University?

The German language is hard. At least it's hard to me. But there are language courses you can take and learn. For TU Dortmund students it's free.

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What's the easiest or most economical way to travel to Dortmund from your city?

Dortmund has an airport but since from my country there was not any direct flight to Dortmund I took a flight to Dusseldorf and then took a train to Dortmund. The railway system is efficient. It takes you every where.

Is there any other advice that you could give to students going to Dortmund in the future?

Think of your accommodation before coming here. I warn you to think of it in order not to waste your time looking days and days for accommodation.

Learn at least some basics of German language. If you want to stay longer in Germany it's a necessity.