Pre-Departure Briefing for

GERMANYMonday, 19 November 2018

Agenda1. Highlights of SEP2. Preparing for SEP3. What to expect at your destination4. Settling in5. Homecoming6. Sharing by returning NUS exchange students7. Networking

SEP is an opportunity for students to:

Spend one or two semesters studying at a partner university

1

Earn modular credits toward their major in a new academic setting

2

Immerse themselves in a new place and culture

3

4 Enjoy tuition-fee waiver from the partner institution, and pay NUS tuition fees for the exchange semester(s)

What is SEP?

PRE-DEPARTURE VIDEOhttps://share.nus.edu.sg/goabroad/Video/Pre-Departure_Video.wmv

ROAD MAPPreparing for SEP

• Set personal goals

• Find out about host destinations

• Plan itinerary

• Work out budget

After applying with your host university

• Read pre-departure guide

• Attend country briefing

While waiting for your acceptance

package

• Follow instructions in acceptance package (read carefully & meet deadlines)

• Apply for visa

• Book accommodation

• Make travel arrangements

Upon receiving your acceptance package

STUDY PLAN

• Complete the module mapping process via the “Education Records System” (EduRec)

• Include some spare modules in your study list in case you are unable to secure your preferred modules or when your enrolled module(s) has been cancelled.

• Should there be any changes to your study plan, seek approval from your home faculty immediately.

Preparing for SEP

If You Fail to Plan, You Plan to Fail - Benjamin Franklin

PASSPORT & FLIGHT

• Ensure that passport is valid for 6 months after return date.

• Do NOT confirm flight booking until you have received:

1. the acceptance from the host university and;

2. gotten your visa

• Arrive at least 2 weeks before study period and attend orientation programme.

Preparing for SEP

VISA – GERMANY

Information for application of National Visa: https://singapur.diplo.de/sg-en/service/05-VisaEinreise/-/1349502

Documents require for application of National Visa – Student Applicant’s Visa/Student Visa: https://singapur.diplo.de/blob/1257976/fba8b03c23be24c8d54313c794ea5038/download-visa-study-applicants-data.pdf

Information correct as of 19 Nov 2018.

Preparing for SEP

To check with embassy for more information/updates.

VISA – GERMANY • Apply for a long-term National Visa in Singapore and convert it to Resident Permit in

Germany

• Long processing time – could be more than 2 months!

• Must open a bank account early and provide it as proof for the visa application. Sufficient fund of at least €720 per month in the bank account

1. Late/Incomplete exchange application to host university leads to late issuance of offer letter

2. Student should apply for visa immediately after the receipt of the offer letter

3. Do not enter Germany with a tourist visa!

Preparing for SEP

VISA – SENIORS’ TIPS

• Recommend to follow the flowchart to maneuver the complicated German visa application process

• Login to VPN to access the flowchart (updated in August 2018) saved in SharePoint

• Alternative source of information from NUS SEP returnee: https://courseware.nus.edu.sg/e-daf/cir/la3203%20gr/Sequence%20to%20apply%20for%20VISA%20to%20Germany.pdf

• Very strict requirements on photo. Take photo at the big photo shop on the ground floor in the same building as the German Embassy

Preparing for SEP

VISA – GERMANY

There is a German Embassy based in Singapore:https://singapur.diplo.de/sg-en/botschaft/-/1225596

Visiting hours of the Visa Section:Monday - Friday: 08.30 am - 12.00 noonE: visa@sing.diplo.de

MFA Singapore: https://www1.mfa.gov.sg/Countries-Regions/G/Germany

Preparing for SEP

HEALTH & INSURANCE Preparing for SEP

Germany

Get mandatory health insurance recommended in the offer letter from host university

The health insurance valid in Germany is an essential document to support your visa application

HEALTH & INSURANCE Preparing for SEP

• Read through the coverage from the NUS Students Travel Insurance http://www.nus.edu.sg/finance/InsuranceCoverforOfficialNUSTrips.html.

• Have a comprehensive travel and health insurance coverage for the full duration of your stay abroad, including travelling

• You have to purchase mandatory health insurance from your host university in Germany

• Bring along the emergency hotline numbers and a copy of your insurance policy

• Report accident/loss at the earliest possible opportunity

• If you are taking any medication, please continue and bring along an adequate supply

Estimated Cost of LivingPreparing for SEP

• You should work out a budget covering accommodation, food, transport, clothing and entertainment

• Hidden cost: visa application cost, semester ticket, student club service fees, radio license, lost rental etc.

• Bring a month’s worth of cash for the first month of arrival.

Munich Berlin

Accommodation €300 – €900 €200 – €900

Food €200 – €400 €200 – €300

Transport (SemesterTicket)

€220 €200

Insurance (Compulsory) €95 €80

Others €200 €200

Monthly expenditure €1,015 – €1,815 €880 – €1,680

Estimated in SGD S$1,592 –S$2,964

S$1,380 –S$2,635

Tips on costs saving

• Cook!

• Potluck

• Enjoy student discounts (with your student card)

• The nearest grocery store might not be the cheapest

• Plan your trips in advance to save cost

• Source for alternative means of traveling (e.g. bus rides instead of flights, etc.)

• Use apps that will give you discounts

Preparing for SEP

CHECKLIST OF THINGS TO BRING – DOCUMENTS

Preparing for SEP

Valid passport and visa

Proof of acceptance by PU

Approved Study Plan

NUS transcripts (to facilitate module registration)

Proof of financial support

Letter confirming accommodation

Receipts of payments made (housing, admin fees, etc.)

Medical records (including vaccinations)

Insurance with necessary coverage

Forms of identification (ISIC youth card, driving license, etc.)

Bank draft/ credit card/ cash (1 month)

Confirmed flight ticket

List of emergency contacts

Please remember to make a copy of all important documents. Keep separate sets in different places. You might also like to leave a set at home, so that these documents can be easily sent to you in the event that you lose those with you.

CHECKLIST OF THINGS TO BRING – NECESSITIES

Preparing for SEP

Windproof and water-resistant jacket with a hood

Medication & First-aid kit

Multi-plug, Multi-USB port (and adapter)

Umbrella/ raincoat

Water resistant, non-slip shoes

Toiletries

Hairdryer

Digital camera

Photos and souvenirs of home/ Singapore

Foodstuff (pre-mix sealed in vacuum pack)

Passport photos

PACK IT RIGHT FOR YOUR FLIGHTPreparing for SEP

https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=LlbnnWyDalQ&feature=youtu.be

Preparing for SEP

• Singaporeans/PRs should register themselves with Singapore MFA at https://eregister.mfa.gov.sg/eregisterportal/common/preLoginEregisterView.action.

• NS men must notify MINDEF of their trip and apply for the Exit Permit if required at www.ns.sg.

• International students should contact their country’s diplomatic missions.

DON’T FORGET TO REGISTER WITH MFA!

USEFUL RESOURCES• Partner university specific information:

http://www.nus.edu.sg/gro/student-exchange.php

• Partner University application instructions and university information:https://share.nus.edu.sg/ng/Partner%20Univerisity%20SEP%20application%20material%20for%20s/Forms/AllItems.aspx

• Read seniors’ reports of host university:https://share.nus.edu.sg/ng/SEP%20Report/Forms/AllItems.aspx

Preparing for SEP

Self-directed Learning• It’s still possible to fail classes while on exchange

Course registration and attendance• Registration of modules will be mentioned during point of

offer or during orientation• Check how you can verify your enrollment to classes• Map extra modules as contingency plan• Attendance to classes are expected

ACADEMIC CULTUREWhat to Expect at Your Destination

EXAMINATIONWhat to Expect at Your Destination

Semester 1: FebruarySemester 2: Ranging from July to September depending on the individual academic at different

German Universities

• Approach the department coordinator at your host university at the start of the exchange to clarify the examination dates of your preferred modules

• Only consider modules which have examination by early August unless you are ready to miss a semester at NUS.

• Leave of Absence (LoA) is subject to approval from your home faculty at NUS• You are expected to turn up for the official examination during the specific date• If the academics at the host university is not able to provide you with an earlier assessment,

please respect their decision • Examination dates might only be made known half-way through the term• Examination registration could be done separately

LIFESTYLEWhat to Expect at Your Destination

• Punctuality is a norm and if you are late, you are supposed to have a better reason than just “I lost track of time”

• Locals are generally helpful but might not take the initiative to make small talk so be thick-skinned, smile and start a conversation

• Pace of life is slower, a weekend spent with a long brunch or just chilling out is not unusual

• Walking and cycling culture is very strong

• Partner universities usually have lots of sports activities from the beginner’s to advanced level so don’t miss the opportunity to exercise and make friends!

• Spend time making local friend but remember to stay in touch with family back home

• Safety should be the priority in all that you do.

• Assess the risk of what you are about to do and try to minimise and even avoid unnecessary risk.

• If confronted, give up your valuables and do not resist as your safety is the most important.

• Ask locals about any dangerous areas or locations that should be avoided.

• Check for nearest fire exit and ensure that your dormitory has valid fire extinguisher.

SAFETYWhat to Expect at Your Destination

In the event of an attack, adopt the following:

SAFETY: “RUN, HIDE, TELL”What to Expect at Your Destination

Adapted from “Advisory in the aftermath of Paris and London attacks”, circulated by the Singapore Police Force

RUN (if escape is possible)1. Consider the safest route2. Move quickly and quietly3. Stay out of view of the attackers4. Insist others leave with you5. Leave your belongings behind

1HIDE (if escape is not possible)

1. Find cover from gunfire and stay out of sight2. Lock yourself in, but do not get trapped3. If you are unable to lock the doors/entrances, place

objects such as tables or cupboards behind the doors or entrances to prevent access of attackers

4. Move away from doors5. Be very quiet and switch your phone to silent mode

2

TELL • Provide details about the attackers (Total number of attackers, Equipment or weapons being carried,

Look of the attackers, Location of attackers (where they are now and moving towards)• If it is safe to do so, stop others from going towards danger areas• Follow the police’s instructions and do not make any sudden movements

3

USEFUL CONTACTSMake your own list of emergency contacts

1. Embassies/ High Commissions: www.mfa.gov.sg

2. Local emergencies numbers

3. Host universities’ emergency numbers and counselling hotlines

4. Credit card and bank telephone numbers

5. Insurance hotlines

6. NUS Emergency contact: +65 6874 1616 (24 hours)

USEFUL CONTACTS – EMERGENCY CONTACTS

Settling In

Singapore Embassy in Germany

Address:Voßstraße 1710117 BerlinFederal Republic of GermanyPhone:(49)(30) 226 343 - 0Fax:(49)(30) 226 343 75Email:singemb_ber@sgmfa.gov.sgWebsite URL:http://www.mfa.gov.sg/berlin

https://www.mfa.gov.sg/content/mfa/overseasmission/berlin.html

The address of the Office of the Honorary Consul of the Republic of Singapore in Munich, Germany, is as follows:

Office of the Honorary Consul of the Republic of Singapore

Address : Maximilianstraße 32, 80539 Munich

Telephone : +49 89 215 454 23 0Fax : +49 89 215 454 23 1Email : honorarkonsul.singapur.muc@mfa.sg

N U S PA R T N E R U N I V E R S I T I E S

Germany1. Albert-Ludwig University of Freiburg2. Free University of Berlin3. Humboldt University of Berlin4. Karlsruhe Institute of Technology5. Ludwig-Maximilians-University of

Munich6. Rheinische Friedrich-Wilhelms-

Universitat Bonn7. Ruprecht Charles University of

Heidelberg

8. RWTH Aachen University9. Technical University of Darmstadt10. Technical University of Hamburg-

Harburg11. Technical University of Munich12. University of Hohenheim13. University of Konstanz14. University of Mannheim15. University of Stuttgart16. University of Tuebingen17. University of Ulm

28

N U S P A R T N E R U N I V E R S I T I E S ( U - w i d e )

STUDENT ACCOMMODATIONWhat to Expect at Your Destination

Country School From the host universities

Germany All universitiesArranged by Studierendenwerk or Studentenwerk with International Relations Office

1. Please take note that the rental options for Studentenwek could end in July, August or in September.

2. You have to choose the option most suitable for you depends:• on your confidence level of getting an early assessment• the availability of the options

3. On some occasions, you might have to pay for the non-refundable rental even if you are not staying the full term of your contract.

ACCOMMODATIONWhat to Expect at Your Destination

Humboldt University Berlin -Adlershof

ACCOMMODATIONWhat to Expect at Your Destination

University of Mannheim

ACCOMMODATIONWhat to Expect at Your Destination

Technical University of Munich, Olympiadorf

ACCOMMODATIONWhat to Expect at Your Destination

Technical University of Munich- Hausverwaltung

ACCOMMODATION – SENIORS’ TIPSWhat to Expect at Your Destination

Apply as soon as you receive email on school accommodationAccommodation (especially for city campuses) are in short supply and run out quickly before the accommodation application deadline.

Keep your room neat

• Not every hostel has a housekeeping service

• Some hostels conduct spot checks

• You might forfeit your deposit if you leave your room in a mess when you leave

Roommates

• You can request but you might be randomly assigned a roommate

• Beautiful bonding or horror story

ACCOMMODATION – SENIORS’ TIPSWhat to Expect at Your Destination

Source for off-campus accommodation if you really cannot stay at the university accommodationYour safety, sanity and well-being should be of utmost concern. If you are not able to stay in shared university accommodation, do consider renting private accommodation. Talk to host university to explore recommended and trusted options.

Check the location of your roomThere might be different campuses and hostels located across the city – make sure you know where you’re staying before signing on.

Read the terms and conditionsBefore you commit to any accommodation (private or university), please read and clarify your doubts about the terms and conditions before you sign on the rental agreement.

FIND OUT MORE ABOUT…What to Expect at Your Destination

Climate and time difference

Exchange rate and cost of living

Regional map and local transportation

Cultural similarities and differences

Health and safety

Meet and greet services

Living and studying at host university

Expectation and academic assessment at host university

Activities for exchange students at host university

Stay Connected

Settling In

• Call home immediately when you reach yourexchange destination

• Find out the economical and reliable telco whichyou can buy prepaid SIM card with data plan; orexplore data plan with Singapore telco beforeyou depart

• Update your local calling number in NUSEducation Records System

• Alert your family members when you are exitingor entering a country on tours!

GETTING TO KNOW YOUR HOST COUNTRY

Settling In

1. Create a travel manifesto outlining three goals and skills that you want to develop while you are away.

2. Become a “regular” (but not at a touristy spot). Have a coffee and read the paper at the same cafe or have an evening drink at the same bar at the same time every day for a week. Be open to speaking with other regulars.

3. Ask a local person to name what they think is the most beautiful building in the city/town. Ask them to describe it and explain why they find it so beautiful. Go to that building and experience its beauty for yourself.

4. What are some local games played in your host country? Ask the locals to teach/play these games with you. If you do not know the rules, ask for clarification.

Point 1 to 4: Adapted from University of Edinburgh’s Third Space

UNDERSTANDING CULTURAL DIFFERENCES

Settling In

Based on the app Culture Compass, with ref to www.Hofstede-insights.com

MITIGATING CULTURE SHOCKSettling In

• Recognise feelings of surprise, disorientation, confusion, etc. is normal and okay

1. Honeymoon phase

2. Negotiation phase

3. Adaption phase

• Talk to friends or a counselor

• Keep in regular contact with friends and family back home

• Join university and community activities

EXPECTED CONDUCTSettling In

• Respect others and behave respectably too.

• You are representing yourself, your school and your country.

• Obey laws and regulations of host country, host university, Singapore and NUS.

• Read rules and regulations at host university and ensure that you do not violate them. (e.g. rules on plagiarism and cheating)

• Do not be pressured into anything. Just because everyone is doing it, doesn’t make it right. Be comfortable being your own person.

• Usage of drugs overseas might be legal but not in Singapore!

Anti-drugs campaign by Singapore’s Central Narcotics Bureau (CNB)

Hotline for Central Narcotics Bureau: 1800-325-6666 | Website: www.cnb.gov.sg

MAKING THE MOST OF YOUR SEMESTER

Settling In

Learn the local languageA little bit of German is better than none

Be courageous and proactive• Don’t just stick to Singaporeans • Take part in ESN/school activities

Stay connected • Check both host university and NUS email frequently• Update your local contact in EduRec - GE• Always stay in touch with your family and friends back home

Understand the city and the country• Travel around the city on foot• Travel to different cities in the country• Before explore beyond the country

BEFORE LEAVING YOUR HOST UNIVERSITY

Homecoming

• Complete ex-matriculation process at host university

• Check procedures for closing bank accounts/moving out ahead of time to ensure that you are not inconvenienced/lose deposit upon departure

• Follow NUS’ deadlines for CORS module bidding and application for on-campus housing

• Prepare and submit your SEP report and do the SEP survey

THINGS TO WHEN YOU RETURNHomecoming

1. Submit your SEP report

2. Join the Welcome Back Session (to accumulate point for the Outstanding NUS Exchangers Award)

3. Complete the SEP Evaluation Survey

4. Join the Peer Advising Programme

Advising Programme seeks to build a community of Peer Advisors (PAs) consisting of students who have been on SEP and are keen to contribute.

Link up with our Peer Advising Leaders (PALs) to find out more:

peeradvising@nus.edu.sg http://tinyurl.com/peeradvisingNUS

www.nus.edu.sg/gro/student-exchange.php @NUSPeerAdvisors

5. Help out at SEP outreach activities and help your juniors prepare for their SEP journey ahead

TAKE PART IN THE

Be a SEP Ambassador for Singapore and NUS!

SESSION ONE

Date : 10 Dec 2018, Monday

Time : 2.30pm – 4pm

Venue : CLB Theatrette 1

SESSION TWO

Date : 12 Dec 2018, Wednesday

Time : 2.30pm – 4pm

Venue : CLB Theatrette 1

SEP – LMU Chua Khai Shing

Your next 10 minutes...

My experience

Administrative Stuff

Considerations

Social ties

Cultural differences

Experience and Expectations

Questions?

Why Germany?

“4 years in MOELC (German O Levels)

Took in NUS

2016: Goethe-Institut Scholarship

2017: Summer course scholarship from DAAD

2018: Exchange Semester at LMU

”

“

Administrative Stuff (pre): Online bank account (Fintiba, Deutsche Bank)

Passport photo (find a studio to take the photo! – you

may need it when you’re in Germany as well)

Visa (settle at least 1 month in advance)

Administrative Stuff (during):

Studentkonto (link to the online bank account:

Sparkasse, N26, Deutsche Bank)

Housing (check-in) and buy appliances

Kreisverwaltungsreferat (registration)

Compulsory health insurance from public provider

Matriculation (half a day)

Administrative Stuff (during):

Kreisverwaltungsreferat (registration)

Administrative Stuff (post):

Remove bank account

Kreisverwaltungsreferat (deregistration)

Deregister your health insurance

Ex-matriculation (half a day)

LMU:

Get an exchange buddy! (Join the buddy system)

Travel around!!! Don’t plan too far in advance

Get personal travel insurance as well

Get involved in the sports there

Compulsory radio fee (pay it)

Transport

Get student pass

- Almost 200 Euros

- Travel efficiently

10 stamp ticket (short rides)

- Single tickets – 2 Euros

- bicycle from flea market +

recycle

School modules

Do module planning!

- Check for module

mapping

- Check credits

Trips

Planned trips!

- To nearby cities, countries

(ESN) Erasmus Student

Network

- Munich – International

Friends

- Free tours/cheap tours

Cultural differences

Explore!

- Don’t compare

- Experience

Quality of life

- basic consumption

- luxury items

- save money

Experience and expectations

Set some expectations of

yourself to see how much

you’ve grown!

SEP Sharing 2018Life in Technische Universität München

Getting to TUM

• Letter of Acceptance

December

• Blocked Account

• Fintiba

• Deutsche Bank

3 Days to 1 Month

• Visa• Insurance

• Blocked Account

• NUS Letter

3 to 6 Weeks

• STA Travel

• International Student Card

• Additional baggage Allowance

Buy Air Ticket

Living in Munich

Accommodations

• AirBnB

• ~€500

• Usually among ~4 people

• Studentenwerk(Student Union)

• Organized activities

• Single Rooms in student dorms

• ~€300

Mobile

• AldiTalk

• LycaMobile (Not supported for Singaporean passport)

• ~€20 for 5GB

Banking

• Brick & Mortar

• Deutsche Bank

• Commerzbank

• Might cost money!

• Online

• N26

• Comdirect

Administrative Matters

• Arrive at your accommodations

Check-in

• Queue for 3 hours at the KVR

• Within 2 weeks of checking in

Registration• Get a mobile

number

Mobile

• Sign up for a bank account

• Link your blocked account to your bank account

Bank• Complete your

insurance

Insurance

Surviving Your First Week

• Bring Cash (~300 euros)

• Bring Card (Multi-Currency)

• Bring Router

• Bring Data Roaming

• Bring indomee

Cost

Breakfast (€2)

Lunch (€4)

Movie (€8)

Dinner Out (€15)

Beer (€0.80)

Cost

Monthly Activities Cost (Estimate) €

F&B €600

Rent €300

Insurance €90

Radio Tax €17

One-off Cost Cost (Estimate) €

Public Transport Semester Ticket €196

Rent Deposit €300

Living Stuff (Cooking utensils, seasoning, pillows) €100

Router €20

TUM

• Has 4 Campuses• Main Campus• Garching

• 30min north of main campus

• Olympiazentrum• 20min north of main campus

• Freising• 1 hour north of main campus

• Sign up for TUMi (their version of IRO) events• Fruhlingsfest• Trips to nearby cities

Education

• Modules are difficult• Failure is possible

• Failed modules do not appear on your transcript

• Professors are very willing to help

• No maximum number of modules

• Exam registration is separate from the module• You can take the module without taking the exam

• You can take the exam without taking the module

Getting Out of Munich

• Well connected• Plane

• Train

• Bus

• Car (No need for conversion for SG licenses)

• Data Roaming• Most plans have EU-roaming

Tips from Yong Jian

• Use TransferWise or a Multi-Currency Account to send money of different currencies

• Munich Airport is about 1 hour train ride away from the city centre

• Download Google Translate

• Public transport is 24/7 but they go on strike once in a while

• Bike-friendly city

• Amazon Prime is free for a year for students

• Take note that most shops are closed on Sunday!

Tips from Bryan SeeUseful Facebook groups for the students going exchange in Munich:

1. Free your stuff Munchen: https://www.facebook.com/groups/527327203973127/?ref=br_rs

2. Singaporeans in Bayern: https://www.facebook.com/groups/1026374884068768/

3. Verschenk's & Verkauf's StuSta: https://www.facebook.com/groups/520163004718300/?ref=group_header(Buying and Selling in Studentenstadt)

• Fortnightly flea market at Olympiazentrum which could be to pick up cheap second hand stuff and bicycles.

• For buying stuff when they first check in, the IKEA store is at Heisenbergstraße 14, 85386 Eching, Germany. Takes about 1h from Studentenstadt, advisable to buy the student concession pass before making this trip.

• For electronics applicances, you could consider shopping at SATURN located in central Munich at NeuhauserStr. 39, 80331 München, Germany. Advisable to buy a fan as the later half of summer exchange might get really warm.

• Very advisable to bring a power strip from Singapore with 1 or 2 adapters (1 for the strip, 1 for travelling), rather than to have to buy individual power adapters for their devices. Power strips in Germany are different from Singapore and are very expensive.

W E L C O M E T O Y O U R

B IG ADVENTURE!