Study visits as a freemover

Regardless of KIT programs and partnerships, it is also possible to independently organize a study abroad program for one semester or one academic year at a foreign university. Advantage: You are independent of existing programs or exchange programs at KIT and can apply to a university of your choice worldwide. In addition, the application deadlines for “freemovers” at universities are usually later. However, you will have to organize and apply on your own, without the assistance of KIT. In addition, depending on the university, the usual tuition fees will apply.

Country information

The DAAD offers country-specific information on scholarship programs for study, teaching, and research stays, university projects, and scientific cooperation. It also provides background information on the country, higher education and education systems, and research. The information ranges from types of universities, study programs, and study organization to admission requirements, tuition fees, and language skills to visas, finding accommodation, and living costs. In addition, the service area contains numerous experience reports, addresses of important organizations, and useful links.

The EU-sponsored website StudyPortals offers a good overview of study programs abroad.

Application process

In this case, you should apply directly to the foreign university. Please note the respective application procedures and deadlines of the universities. The deadlines for independent applications from international students are often a few months/half a year before the start of the semester. Please note that there are usually different application procedures for different groups of applicants. You should not choose the application procedure for “exchange students.” The terms used for self-organized study visits vary from university to university (freemover / study abroad / international visiting student / non-degree, etc.).

There are agencies that offer assistance with organization and application, some of which charge a fee.

Financing

In addition to travel, insurance, living expenses, etc., you will also have to pay the corresponding tuition fees at the foreign university. Here you can get an idea of the approximate tuition fees in selected countries in Europe and outside Europe (as of November 2014).
If you would like to apply for a scholarship to help finance your studies, you can find initial information and common scholarships under Scholarships/Financing.
Under certain conditions, the costs of a semester or year abroad can be deducted from your taxes.