FOR INTERNATIONAL STUDENTS - FIRST EDITION
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CAREER
RESOURCE
GUIDE
FOR INTERNATIONAL STUDENTS
FOR INTERNATIONAL STUDENTS
FIRST EDITION
Career Resource Guide for International International Students Career Service Table of Contents Welcome 3 To the University and City of Augsburg Career Services and You 4 Our Support in Your Career Development Steps to Improved Employability 5 Learn German, gain experience, develop skills The German Labor Market 13 For University Graduates Applying in Germany 17 CVs and Cover Letters Job Search Strategies 24 For the German Labor Market Marketing Yourself 26 Use Your International Advantage Legal and Visa Matters 27 During and after your studies Further Academic Studies 29 Graduate studies and dorctorial studies Graduation and Departure 30 Alumni opportunities
Career Resource Guide for International
International Students Career Service
Welcome to the
University of
Augsburg!
We're glad you're here.
We are delighted to welcome all However, even with a strong economy
international students to the and low unemployment rate, applying
University of Augsburg and we are for jobs in Germany is still a competitive
happy that you have chosen to study process. This guide is meant to provide
here. We wish you much success as you with information about the German
you fulfill your academic goals and we labor market, job application process,
look forward to assisting you with your and tips for maximizing your time at
career development. the University of Augsburg to increase
your chances of future employment in
For many international students in Germany.
Germany, the ultimate goal is to stay
in Germany after graduation and
begin a career here. Working in
Germany has many benefits for your
career development, enabling you to
gain overseas experience and cultural
knowledge that will set you apart in
the global job market.
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Career Resource Guide for International
International Students Career Service
Career Services and You
Our Support in Your Career Development
The Career Service offers support to
all students during and after their
studies. However, it is important
that your expectations of what we
can offer match the reality of what
we can deliver. Career Services exist
in many countries around the world
– and the extent of service can vary
greatly. Students often carry
expectations from one country to
another, which can lead either to
pleasant surprises or to
disappointments. Therefore it is
important that we are clear about
what you can expect from us and
what you cannot.
For example, some students may
think that the Career Service will act
on their behalf with employers and
organize jobs for them. But we are
not an employment agency. What we
do offer you is high quality
individualized information, advice
and support to help you figure out
what you want to do, find it and
apply for it.
So, if you want to discuss your career
plans or want us to check your
application documents, please don’t
hesitate to contact us!
International Career Service
ics@aaa.uni-augsburg.de
Tel.: 0821 598 5952
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Career Resource Guide for International
International Students Career Service
Steps to Improved
Employability
Your Career Development Begins Now
Simply studying in Germany is often not enough to land a job in the country upon
graduation. In addition to your degree program, you should also concentrate
heavily on learning German, gaining relevant work experience, and building skills.
Relevant
Work Experience
Improved
Develop
Employability
Skills
in Germany
German Hard and Soft
language abilities Skills
Together, your academics, knowledge of German, relevant work experience, and skillset
will help you create a convincing application for German employers. In the following
sections we will explain how you can work on each area during your studies so that you
are well prepared for the German labor market upon graduation.
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Career Resource Guide for International
International Students Career Service
Learn German
Your key to the German labor market
Learning German should be your In order to do this, we highly
number one priority! It will be so recommend taking advantage of the
much easier to find a job in German courses offered by the
Germany if you can speak the language center (Sprachenzentrum) at
language. In most cases, German the University of Augsburg. The
companies and organizations University of Augsburg offers German
require a strong command of the as a Foreign Language courses to all
German language. Furthermore, enrolled students, from beginner
you want to be able to courses to academic German courses
communicate with co-workers, for writing scientific papers.
office staff, people on the street
etc. Although there are a few Link to the University Language Center
hundred companies in Germany
that utilize English as their In addition to enrolling in a university
company work language, this is German course, you also have the
much more of an exception that opportunity to participate in the language
the rule. Even if the position is tandem program organized by the
advertised in English, employers International Office. Apart from German
often still expect a good classes, improve and practice your
command of the German German language and communication
language for communication on a skills as much as you can. Use self-
daily basis. This is not to say that learning resources, start reading the news
English-only positions don’t exist in German, go to the movies, but most of
in Germany—they do—but they are all: talk to Germans!
highly coveted and few and far
Link to the Language Tandem Program
between. Therefore, increase your
chances by becoming at least
conversational in the German
language.
You can take German classes at
the Uni for free, and you should!
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Career Resource Guide for International
International Students Career Service
Learn German
Your key to the German labor market
Sometimes the university’s language courses just do not fit into your semester
plan or you simply do not get into them. In this case, there are several private
language learning options available. These two are the most commonly used:
Goethe Institut Adult Education Center (VHS)
The Goethe Institute is a cultural Adult Education Centers are located
institute with locations all all throughout Germany and focus
around the world, serving as the on lifelong learning for the young
premier, government-sponsored and the old. They always offer
German language learning German as a Foreign Language
institute. The nearest one is courses as well as many others for
located in Munich. affordable prices.
Other private language schools in Augsburg:
Augsburger Deutschkurse
Berlitz Sprachschule Augsburg
Practice Your German!
Inlingua Sprachschule Augsburg
Sprachforum Augsburg The International Office hosts
country evenings throughout
the semester in which
There are also a few ways to learn students have the
German online from the comfort of your opportunity to present their
student dorm. Here are several free and home country’s culture,
paid options. Please note that this list is politics, and society. It is a
not comphrehensive. great opportunity to meet
other German students who
are interested in international
Free Options Paid Options topics.
IWDL Babbel
Duolingo Busuu Link to the events calendar
Deutsche Welle German Lessons Online
Memrise Goethe Institut Online
Hinative
Mondly
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Career Resource Guide for International
International Students Career Service
Gain Related
Experience
Get comfortable with German
work culture and expectations
Work experience is highly valued by However, to start, any type of work
German graduate employers. experience in Germany will still be
Although your degree and your extra- useful in developing transferrable skills,
curricular activities give you lots of getting acquainted to German work
skills, it is very important to German culture and for obtaining a reference or
employers that you have proven recommendation from a German
ability in the workplace. Graduates employer. Many employers recruit
with no work experience have little or graduates into permanent roles who
no chance of receiving a job offer. have already worked for them as
Relevant work experience can come students on summer internships or
in many forms, such as part-time jobs, other periods of work experience. In
volunteer work, summer internships, fact, completing an internship is
or one-year practical placements. integral to career start success in
Ideally try to find work experience Germany – make it a priority! The next
relevant to your career goals. section will help you get started with
the internship search process.
To get started, check out the internship
search engine listing on the International
Career Service homepage.
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Career Resource Guide for International
International Students Career Service
Spotlight On
Internships in Germany
Get comfortable with German work culture and expectations
In Germany, students complete on Next, explore different methods for
average two to three internships finding a suitable internship:
during their course of study. Company websites (Guide available
Internships, which are offered in some from the ICS)
occupational areas, are periods of Online employment sites (Guide
work, typically undertaken during available from the ICS)
summer vacation. Internships Print Media (Newspapers, Magazines)
normally last between six weeks and Social Media (LinkedIn, Xing)
six months. Job boards at the university
Expat portals
Some degree programs include Career Events (Job fairs, Job Talks)
obligatory internships, but even if it is Professional associations and
not compulsory for your degree, it still foundations
makes sense to do a few, because
without previous job experience it is Lastly, apply!
difficult to get your foot in the door at Once you have found a few internship
German organizations and companies. offerings that you are interested in, it is
time to get your application portfolio
Obtaining an internship does not prepared to be mailed. Applying to
happen overnight. Therefore, doing internships is basically the same as
your research, planning in advance applying to jobs in Germany. Turn to
and always having perfect, up-to-date page 17 for detailed information about
application materials ready is crucial! preparing a German job application.
Additionally, more information on this
To start, you should think about and topic can be found on the Career
research the following questions: Service website.
• What sectors or professional fields do
you want to get to know?
• Which companies operate in these
areas?
• What skills, knowledge and abilities do
you wish to acquire or improve?
• How long should the internship be?
Attention Science Students!
Introduction to Internship Programs for English-speaking
Material Science and other Science Students
Every semester this informative presentation is offered by the International
Office for science students, especially those studying material science, who
are interested in doing an internship outside of Germany. Check the IO
website for specific time and location information.
9
Tips for finding an
Internship in Germany
Utilize Your Network! Start with smaller
Don’t forget to utilize the social capital companies
that you already have: personal Smaller companies often get less
contacts, professors and lecturers, applications than large, often
fellow students. Which personal international, companies. For this
contacts within companies have you reason you may have higher chances
made during your studies? For to get the internship when you first
example, did anyone from a company start applying for interships at smaller
do a speech during your lectures that companies. Often you also get more
you could reach out to? Reach out to responsibilites at these companies.
your professors and lecturers. They
may also have contacts in companies
Ask directly
which offer internships. Lastly, fellow
students can also be a wealth of Another opportunity to find an
information—perhaps they have internship in Germany is to ask
already done an internship, or are in directly. You can either find out who is
the same boat as you and searching responsible for internships in a certain
for one. Pool your resources, and help company and call this person or you
each other. can ask at special career events or
career fairs if a company offers
internships and where you have to
apply.
Use internship search
engines Go to career fairs
Besides classic job search engines Career fairs are a vital resource for
there are special search engines for meeting recruiting representatives
internships where you can find from companies that are looking for
internships in different companies in interns and young professionals. The
Germany. Often, you can also filter for key is to prepare well for the career
special companies or industry sectors. fair: practice your elevator pitch, make
The International Career Service can several copies of your resume and
provide a list of all common internship plan out your business attire for the
search engines. Please contact the day. Don’t forget to follow up with
International Career Service to get the contacts as well.
list.
Are internships paid in Germany?
Since 2015, there is a law regulating minimum wages – and this law is also
valid for internships. For voluntary internships that last longer than three
months, companies have to pay the minimum wage. If the internship is
voluntary and lasts less than three months or is mandatory, companies are
not obliged to pay minimum wage.
10Career Resource Guide for International
International Students Career Service
Skills Development
Going beyond academics
During your time as a student you have
great opportunities to gain new skills
Hard Skills
and competencies that you can use in
your career after graduation. Make the
most of your time at the University of
Augsburg by taking advantage of these Concrete abilities that can
offerings. be proven with certificates,
excellent grades, or even a
Regardless of your desired career path, reference letter from your
it is advisable to gain additional skills previous supervisor
and competencies beyond the
academic material covered in a degree
program.
Researching employers is a good way to
discover which qualifications are in
demand in your desired field. What
types of job openings do they advertise,
Soft Skills
and what skillset is expected? What is
Abilities that are not always
the minimum education and
tangible, such as creativity,
knowledge base for entry-level
clear communication skills,
employees? This will give you a decent
empathy, team work, or
idea of the skills that you should be
intercultural competence
honing in on aside your studies so that
you leave the university not only with a
degree but also with the skills and
experience employers are expecting in
your field.
Skill building opportunities outside of the university:
Adult Education Centers (VHS) Federal Employment Agency
Coursera iversity
edX Further education counseling
11Career Resource Guide for International
International Students Career Service
Skills Development
Opportunities at the University of Augsburg
Soft Skills Courses
The Career Service offers many soft skills courses every semester, which they advertise on their
website. If you are studying in the Faculty of Natural Sciences and Mathematics, then there are
special soft skill courses in subjects such as CATIA and project management available to you.
Technology Trainings
The computer center offers technology courses for students both during the semester and
breaks. Topics include everything from Excel VBA to scientific writing programs such as LaTeX.
Faculty-specific Offerings
Check with the advisors of your particular program. Oftentimes, there are extra workshops,
seminars, or lecturers provided that relate specifically to your degree program.
Do-It Program
Through the Do-It Program offered by the Career Service of the University of Augsburg you
spend 40 hours in one semester working on a project for a community organization. Projects
range from designing a facebook campaign to working with senior citizens. It's a great way to
gain related experience.
ZIS Certificate
The ZIS Program is a certificate for intercultural qualifications which you can acquire from the
International Office if you achieve at least 20 points in each of the four modules: language &
communication, experience abroad, university engagement and international continuing
education.
12Career Resource Guide for International
International Students Career Service
The German
Labor Market
A diverse landscape
As the fourth-largest economy in the world and the largest in Europe, the German
labor market is diverse both in employer types and employment opportunities
provided. Due to changing demography and an overall stable economic situation,
Germany currently has low unemployment and excellent job prospects. Here is a rough
overview of the sectors in the German labor market.
Private Sector
The private sector is vibrant and expansive. It is comprised of international
corporations, small to large companies, family businesses and start-ups. Over 90% of all
German companies make up the ‘Mittelstand’, or small and medium-sized enterprises
(SMEs), and therefore not only account for two-thirds of all jobs but also produce more
than half of Germany’s economic output. The Mittelstand is the backbone of the
German economy, so make sure not to overlook the ‘hidden champions’ by only
concentrating on big name companies.
International Corporations and Large Companies (10,000+ employees)
Offer lucrative positions in an international environment. Positions in such companies
are highly coveted and therefore highly competitive. Among the main industries
represented are automobile companies, pharmaceutical companies and chemical
companies. Examples include Audi, BASF, Bayer, BMW, Daimler, SAP, Siemens, and VW.
Large medium-sized companies (100-10,000 employees)
Example industries include: Engineering, Technology, Chemistry, Automotive, Fashion
They are often less well-known, but often just as professioal and internationally-
situated as large companies.
Small and medium-sized enterprises (SMEs, 1-250 employees)
Since the majority of companies in Germany are SMEs, depending on your career goals
and qualifications, it may make sense to focus on this sub-sector than on the large
companies.
Family Businesses (100-1000 employees)
Most family businesses are SMEs or large medium-sized companies and tend to have a
tight-knit company culture and a high degree of loyalty between employees and the
managers/owners.
Start-Ups
Startups provide a highly flexible environment in which employees are able to
integrate new ideas but at the same time are expected to wear multiples hats and take
risks.
13Career Resource Guide for International
International Students Career Service
The German
Labor Market
A diverse landscape
Public Service Sector
In Germany, public employees, civil servants, judges, and teachers, for example, are
employed to perform state tasks. Some positions in public service are limited to
German nationals, but many positions are open to all nationalities assuming that the
set requirements are met. The public sector is lacking in immigrants and campaigning
to employ more workers with a migration background particularly in schools, law
enforcement and municipal government.
Examples include:
German Public Service
International Organizations
The European Union
The United Nations
Academia and Research
Non-Profit Sector
There is a wide range of career paths available within the non-profit sector, with non-
profit organizations and non-governmental organizations (NGOs), for example. Non-
profit organizations provide public, community and social services to promote a wide
range of causes. NGOs are normally private international aid organizations that raise
money and provide assistance for a particular cause.
Spend some time researching SMEs in
your desired branch.
14Career Resource Guide for International
International Students Career Service
The German
Labor Market
Avenues for entry
Depending on degree program and career goals, there are several points of entry
into the German labor market for university graduates. Here are some of the main
avenues, which demonstrate both pre- and post-graduation opportunities.
Direct entry position (Einstiegstelle)
These are jobs that can be offered by any type of employer and are advertised at any
time of the year, whenever a position becomes available. You may be offered training
towards a professional qualification, depending on the type of work you are doing.
Some of these jobs may require prior experience. Direct entry positions include a
small introductory phase to the tasks and require a strong sense of responsibility.
Such a position is limited to certain duties and projects.
Internship (Praktikum)
It is very difficult to find a entry-level job if you do not have any or very little relevant
work experience. Due to the tight job market in certain fields for university graduates
it is becoming more common that graduates complete internships even after their
studies are finished. Oftentimes, these internships last longer, sometimes up to a year.
An internship is highly valued in Germany and oftentimes companies hire their
interns on full-time. View an internship as a chance to get to know the ins and outs of
a German company, gain work experience, and build your network. As discussed, its
best to do a few internships while you are studying.
Part-time job (Teilzeitstelle)
Sometimes the best career start opportunity is a part-time job. It gives you the
opportunity to master your tasks and get used to your responsibilities. Especially since
working in a foreign language is mentally taxing, a part-time job can help ease the
college to career transition.
Working Student (Werkstudent)
Being a Werkstudent provides you with the opportunity to gain work experience in
your field, learn about a company you are interested in working for, and build your
industry network. Consider applying for such positions before you graduate.
Oftentimes companies hire working students to write their thesis about certain
company-relevant topics and provide compensation for their actual work at the
company and for their time spent working on the masters thesis.
The International Career Service has a list
of company databases in which you can
search for interesting firms.
15Career Resource Guide for International
International Students Career Service
The German
Labor Market
Avenues for entry, continued
Graduate training programs (Traineeprogramme)
These are usually offered by larger employers and provide highly qualified university
graduates with structured training over one to two years. You may work towards
relevant professional qualifications (for example, in accounting, surveying, marketing,
or human resources). Normally trainees spend a few months in each of the
departments so that they receive a well-rounded view of the company. Sometimes
trainees are offered a position after they have successfully completed the program.
Volunteer Program (Volontariat)
In Germany, special volunteer programs for graduates offer a route into highly
competitive branches such as public relations, journalism, human resources, TV, print,
radio, online media or non-profit work. Volunteer programs function similar to trainee
programs. A volunteer program provides you with on the job training and you hold a
specific position with certain responsibilities for on average one full year. However,
contrary to the name, you are paid, albeit normally not enough to support a more
than modest lifestyle, if that at all. Volunteer programs are especially lucrative for
humanities and social sciences graduates.
Professional Training Program (Referendariat)
A referendariat or “ref” for short is a preparation program for jobs in public service. The
most common examples are education (student teaching) and law (clerkship). A
referendariat normally lasts two years and has to be successfully completed in order
to teach at government-funded schools or to be eligible for positions within the legal
system. In order to qualify for a referendariat, certain subject-specific requirements
and exams have to be completed.
Self-Employment
Another route into the German labor market is to pave your way by setting up your
own business. This process is quite intricate, requiring specific plans for the business
structure, financing, and legal set-up. However, there is increasing support for
international students interested in establishing a start-up or company in Germany. In
addition, the University of Augsburg recently established the Center for
Entrepreneurship which provides students with support in starting businesses.
Link to the Augsburg Center for
Entrepreneurship (ACE) PLAN AHEAD!
Application deadlines may be some
time in advance, usually opening in
August or September of the year
before you would start the program.
16Career Resource Guide for International
International Students Career Service
Applying in Germany
Preparing Your Application Materials for German
Employers
Application Requirements in Germany
Writing and putting together job applications for the German labor market can
sometimes be very different from the experience you had in your home country. It is
important that you become familiar with the German style of writing CVs and
applications, as you will face the same criteria as German graduates when applying
for jobs. Additionally, there are certain submission standards that you will need to
keep in mind. But first, let’s take a look at what a German application includes.
Application Portfolio (die Bewerbungsmappe)
An application portfolio is a special folder in which you organize your
application documents in a neat and orderly fashion. This is a very
common practice in Germany. There are many different styles, formats,
and colors that can be purchased at paper goods stores or even at drug
stores. It is important to use a portfolio if you are handing in your
application in person or sending it in the mail.
Professional Application Photo (das Bewerbungsfoto)
Although many countries have laws or regulations regarding application
pictures due to discrimination issues, it is still relatively common in
Germany to include a professional picture of oneself in an application
portfolio. You are not required by law to include it, but many employers
and human resources managers will expect it. To obtain a professional
picture for your application, the best option is to go to a professional
photographer, the majority of which offer photo packages just for this
purpose. Depending on where you go and how many different poses you
want, it costs between 20-100€. Please make sure not to use passport
pictures for your application photo and dress accordingly (business
attire, no revealing clothing, etc.). Smiling is very important as it helps
you come across much friendlier and more sympathetic than if you were
to not smile. The photo is to be adhered to the right-hand side of your
resume.
Must-Haves Application Photo Example
Portrait-style (not full
body!)
Clothing should be
consistent with your field
of work
Neutral background
Smile
Format 6x4 or 9x6
17Career Resource Guide for International
International Students Career Service
Applying in Germany
Preparing Your Application Materials for German
Employers, continued
Cover Page (das Deckblatt)
A cover page includes a professional picture of yourself, your name, your
contact information, the name of the position and company you are
applying at, and perhaps even a bullet-point list of the attachments in
your application portfolio. It is not a must-have, but does increase the
professionalism of your entire application portfolio. If you choose to use a
cover page, then leave the professional picture of yourself off of your
resume. Alternatively, you can also have a cover page without a picture of
yourself.
Cover Letter (das Anschreiben)
Your cover letter should be no longer than one page and should
demonstrate how your previous experience and skills transfer to the
position you are applying for. It is the most difficult part of the
application portfolio in Germany but arguably the most important! It is
absolutely necessary that you indicate to the reader (potentially your
future boss!) why you are the best fit for the position. It is NOT a
reverberation of your resume and therefore shouldn’t just list what you
have done. Moreover, it is not an opportunity to explain why you will
benefit from a certain position or company.
Resume/CV (der Lebenslauf)
Resumes are used to concisely market your experiences and education
in relation to the requirements of a specific position. It’s important to be
selective about what is included and not just list everything you have
ever done. It is a strategically condensed version of the CV, normally no
more than two pages, listing your relevant work experiences,
qualifications, skills, and knowledge tailored to a certain position. An
example can be found on page 22.
Curriculum Vitaes or CVs for short, on the other hand, are used primarily
in academic environments where it is appropriate to list everything that
you have ever done professionally in your life, what you have published,
schools attended, presentations given, etc. It basically leaves out no
details. Depending on where you are from, you may be used to one
format or the other. Unless stated otherwise, a resume will suffice when
applying for a job or internship in Germany.
Make sure to visit the ICS for a resume/CV
check before you submit your application!
18Career Resource Guide for International
International Students Career Service
Applying in Germany
Preparing Your Application Materials for German
Employers, continued
Certificates and confirmation statements (die Zeugnisse)
In Germany it is common practice – and in many cases required – to
submit school diplomas, college degrees, work certificates, language test
results, etc., with a job application. These documents are used to prove
what you have written about in your resume and cover letter. Only ever
include copies of your documents because application portfolios,
including their contents, are often not returned. Lastly, please make sure
that the copies are legible.
Here is a list of the documents you should include if you have them,
unless stated otherwise in the job advertisement:
High School Diploma / A-Levels Certificate
Transcript of Records from previous and current degrees
Work and internship certificates
Participation certificates, for example for events, volunteer activities, etc.
Language tests or course certificates indicating level
Confirmation of further education, for example for workshops, seminars,
online courses
Translation from documents, if available
Work samples, if applicable
Reference letters, if applicable (not necessary common practice in
Germany)
Confirmation statements for scholarships, awards, or other distinctions
Applying online
If you must submit your application online, it is common practice to comprise all of
your documents into one PDF (not all in separate documents!) in the same order as
you would your hard copy application (cover page, cover letter, CV/resume,
certificates).
Submitting the application online
If you are submitting the application online, all documents need to be in the order
listed above and in one single PDF document.
Submitting the application in-person or via mail
If you are submitting the application in the mail or in person, it is recommended to
put all of the documents into an application portfolio (Bewerbungsmappe).
Should I get creative with the application?
Application design is a matter of your personal taste and the way in which you want
to present yourself. However, it is not advisable to use bright colors, abstract fonts, or
graphics of any kind. It is best to stick to neutral colors and a clean, sleek document
design. 19Career Resource Guide for International
International Students Career Service
Applying in Germany
Particularities of German job applications
Germany Other countries
Chronological CV, max two pages, No need to sign the CV (for
CV date and signature at the end of example, in France)
the document
one DIN A4 page; used to Similar to the American cover
demonstrate motivation, letter
Cover Letter
knowledge and skills in regards to
the position
Professional application photo is Anonymous applications without
Photo placed in the upper right-hand a picture (e.g. U.S.A.) or a normal
corner of the CV or on the cover passport picture (e.g. France)
sheet
References from former employers
References unusual are listed instead of including
work certificates (e.g. U.S.A.)
Includes copies of important References are often used instead
Attachments certificates (high school diploma, of attachments (e.g. France)
college degree, work certificates)
Either online or via E-Mail in Send via the mail without an
Dispatch PDF-Format as one document, or application portfolio (e.g. France)
via mail in a DIN A4 application or via E-Mail
portfolio
The outward appearance of the application portfolio is very important in Germany.
Your application portfolio and documents should be put together in a consistent and
careful manner.
Take your time preparing your application
materials - details are key!
20Career Resource Guide for International
International Students Career Service
Applying in Germany
Particularities of German job applications, continued
The most common way to obtain a position in Germany is to apply to advertised job
openings, which are listed online, in newspapers, or sometimes even on job boards. Of
course, you can also send a blind application (also referred to as an unsolicited or
self-initiative application) to the company or institution of your choice. For more
information about this type of application, please see page 25.
Tips:
All application documents need to be typed up on DIN A4 paper with conventional
font styles (Times New Roman, Arial, Calibri, etc.) which should not ever be smaller
than 10pt.
There is special application paper that is a bit thicker and much sleeker looking
than normal printer paper. It is called “Bewerbungspapier” in German and can be
purchased at most paper goods stores. It is normally located right next to the
application portfolios.
If you use accent colors, for example on your cover page, make sure they coordinate
with the color of your application portfolio.
Regardless of whether you are writing your application in English or German, make
sure to double for spelling and punctuation errors. In addition, have at least one
other person read over your entire application before your submit it!
Only write the application in German if you can interview in German
Always write the job application in the language that was used in the job posting
Assessment Center
After your application for a job you may be invited to a job interview or Assessment Center.
Besides the typical job interview, Assessment Centers get more popular, especially among
large companies that have many applicants. Performing different tasks you have to show
your soft skills and how you react in different situations.
Typical tasks at Assessment Centers could be:
Group discussion
Case studies
Presentations
Aptitude and psychometric tests
Role play and simulation exercises
Interview
21Career Resource Guide for International
International Students Career Service
CV Example
22Career Resource Guide for International
International Students Career Service
CV Example, continued
23Career Resource Guide for International
International Students Career Service
Job Search Strategies
For the German Labor Market
Searching for an internship or a job takes time, so be persistent and patient.
Even though the German economy is strong and the unemployment rate
low, applying for jobs is still a competitive process. Opportunities won’t just
come to you; you have to actively seek them out, for example by attending
networking events in addition to submitting applications.
Using Print Media
If you already have knowledge of German, make sure to include print job
advertisements in your search. Most newspapers, even regional ones, include a job
advertisement section in print and online. In addition to newspapers for the general
public, it is worthwhile to look into industry-specific journals, publications and
professional organization websites.
Using Social Media
Portals such as LinkedIn and Xing are not just electronic CV databases that provide an
online network. Rather, they also host a variety of industry thought leaders, career
information, and job advertisements. Additionally, these networks are used extensively
by head hunters who contact desirable applicants directly through the portals.
It is advisable to create profiles on both LinkedIn and Xing. Under the section “I am
searching for/I offer” you can fill in which type of work or positions you are interested in,
which is helpful to headhunters viewing your profile. Furthermore, you can follow
interest groups, leaders in the field, and companies you are interested in working for.
Lastly, don’t forget about the UoA Alumni LinkedIn page!
University Career Events
The University of Augsburg offers a variety of career events, seminars and workshops
that aim to provide you with information about career routes in specific fields, sharpen
your applicant profile through soft skills development, or get you in touch with alumni.
Company Career Events
Companies and organizations may host career events as well. Oftentimes they present
their company profile and provide information about open positions at an information
session, for example. To find out about such events, please visit company websites
directly. Always take with a polished application portfolio, or at the very least, your CV, to
company events.
If you need help setting up a LinkedIn or
Xing account, feel free to contact the ICS.
24Career Resource Guide for International
International Students Career Service
Job Search Strategies
For the German Labor Market, continued
Personal Websites
It is becoming more common in the German-speaking world to have a personal
website, which basically outlines your academic and professional experiences in a
modern, effective format. This is a nice-to-have but not a must. There are many
personal website builders that make putting together such a site easy. However,
before you create the website, please do some research to figure out if it is necessary
in your field of work. For many industries, LinkedIn or Xing will be enough.
Unsolicited Application (Initiativbewerbung)
Instead of waiting for a suitable job advertisement or for being found by employers
on Social Media platforms you can also take the initiative and write an unsolicited
application. With this special form of application you apply for a job without a certain
job advert. Some companies even have special application websites for specualtive
applications.
Who employs international students and is there a list of
international-friendly German employers in my field or
preferred location?
There is no definitive list of companies who recruit international
students, but with a little research you can start to identify likely
employers. We do not have a ready-made list of such employers, but
we can offer some advice on possible strategies and resources to
identify companies interested in employing international candidates.
25Career Resource Guide for International
International Students Career Service
Marketing Yourself
Use Your International Advantage
Consider the aspects that make you unique amongst other candidates while
applying to positions and make those attributes shine in your application materials!
As an international student, you have skills, qualities and experiences that not all
students are able to offer, so it is enormously important that you “sell” these to
employers. These include:
Maturity and independence
Comfortability with mobility and willingness to relocate
Ability to work within two or multiple cultural environments
Familiarity with your home country’s economy and business culture
Specific country or regional knowledge
Global perspective and cultural awareness
Intercultural competence
Multilingual and multicultural
Connections to businesses and people abroad
International work, volunteer, or other study experience
Adaptability, openness
Your language skills, previous work experience in your home country as well as your
knowledge of a non-German market can prove very interesting to German
employers. It is very important that you can talk about the skills you gained during
your work experience, focusing on the needs of the company you are applying to.
Networking in Germany -- Vitamin "B" is important!
Germans refer to networking as ‘Vitamin B’, the ‘B’ standing for ‘Beziehungen’, in English
‘relationships.’ That is because networking, both in-person and online, are vital to equally
career entry and progression in the country. Use your personal network to identify contacts,
but don’t forget about reaching out to university alumni in your field. Make sure your Xing
and LinkedIn profiles are always up-to-date and presented in a professional matter.
26Career Resource Guide for International
International Students Career Service
Legal and Visa Matters
During and After Your Studies
Working in Germany while studying
As already mentioned above, gaining work experience during your studies is very
important to improve your chances for obtaining employment in Germany after
graduation. On the other hand, you might have to earn money during your studies to
cover your living expenses.
Whatever your reasons for working are, it is vitally important that you look into your
entitlement to work in Germany during your studies. Here are some general
guidelines:
International students from outside the European Economic Area are only
permitted to work 120 full or 240 half days per year (voluntary internships
included).
Jobs as a student assistant or research assistant at the university normally don’t
count for the 120-day limit. However, you are obliged to inform the Foreigners
Registration Office if you have such a position.
During term time, all students (both German and international students) are
allowed to work a maximum of 20 hours a week.
In addition, international students from outside the EU or EEA are not permitted
to work in a self-employed or freelance capacity.
Working in Germany upon graduation
Labor and migration laws for graduates of German higher education instiutions have
become very accommodating in recent years and allow international students a fair
chance at starting a career in Germany upon graduation.
International graduates from countries outside of the EU
The 18 months start as soon
can extend their residence permit for up to 18 months
as the final exam result has
after completing their studies for the purpose of looking
for employment. You have these 18 months to find a job been issued in writing. Thus:
that matches your education and qualification. In order If you want to work in
to extend your residence permit for the purpose of Germany after completing
seeking a job you must prove that your livelihood is your studies, you should
secured. During the job-seeking period, you are allowed already start looking for a job
to work without restriction, including in your final semester!
positions unrelated to your degree that help you cover
your living costs.
27Career Resource Guide for International
International Students Career Service
Legal and Visa Matters
During and After Your Studies, continued
Once a university graduate finds a suitable position, their previous residence permit can
be converted to a temporary residence permit for the purpose of employment. After
two years of continuous employment you can receive a permanent residence permit.
Additionally, university graduates from outside the EU working in specific fields and
with an employment contract with a certain salary may qualify for the EU Blue Card.
This pertains to engineers, qualified communications and technology experts, medical
doctors and other specific professions. For current information about requirements for
obtaining the Blue Card, please visit www.bamf.de/bluecard.
For more general information about employment rules and regulations:
Arbeitsagentur
Auswärtiges Amt (information available in six languages)
Make it in Germany
Hotline Working and Living in Germany
Please note that the Career Service is not authorized to give personal advice about
work permits or your eligibility to stay in Germany. For information about your specific
situation, please contact the Immigration Office and Service Centre for legal advice.
Foreigners’ Registration Office
Ramona Krünes
An der Blauen Kappe 18, Room 172
86152 Augsburg
Tel: +49 821 598 5448
ramona.kruenes@aaa.uni-augsburg.de
More information and current opening hours
28Career Resource Guide for International
International Students Career Service
Further Academic Studies
Graduate and Doctorial Studies
If you are interested in continuing your education in Germany, there are several options
available depending on your most recently earned academic degree.
Graduate Studies
It is important that you take time to consider your decision to continue studying.
Depending on your field, another degree may not enhance your employment chances,
and in some cases, it may actually decrease your chances because you will be
over-qualified for your ideal position.
Types of master degrees:
Consecutive master programs: build on the knowledge gained in the first academic
degree.
Non-consecutive master programs: do not assume knowledge in the field at hand
and instead provide an in-depth overview.
Database of all study programs in Germany
Database of all study programs in English in Germany
Part-time master degrees
For those wanting to start their career in Germany but still interested in furthering their
knowledge and education, part-time master degrees may be a good option. These
programs are called “berufsbegleitend” in German and are mostly only offed in German,
although there are some exceptions. Of course, taking on a degree program while
starting a new job in a foreign country is nothing to take lightly and should be well
researched and planned.
Doctorial Studies
PhDs are necessary for an academic or research career in Germany. At the same time, a
doctorate degree does not guarantee employment in academia. If you want to become
a professor in Germany, you have to fulfill many requirements beyond a PhD including
a post-doctorate and Habilitation (second doctorate degree). If you are considering a
PhD, it is especially important that you seek advice and guidance from multiple sources
in order to make an informed decision: faculty advisors, study program managers,
academic advisors, and career counselors. Lastly, there are many international
differences in doctorate education. Therefore, it is of utmost importance that you do
some research into program structure and PhD education in Germany before you jump
into a doctorate degree!
Database of all PhD opportunities in Germany
29Career Resource Guide for International
International Students Career Service
Graduation and Departure
Alumni Opportunities
Job Talks and
Alumni Events
Job Talk is an event series of the University of Augsburg. In Job Talks alumni of
different fields of study inform abour their job experiences and current job. You
can also ask them questions if you would like to know more about their
experiences finding a job and you can build an important network.
Additionally, the University of Augsburg organizes different Alumni Events where
you can participate after your graduation. You can find the dates in the event
calender.
Augsburg Alumni
International
The University of Augsburg has created a network of international alumni which
includes more than 550 people from 85 countries. On the website of the
international alumni network you can find more information about their services
such as alumni profiles or the network magazine.
Link to the website of Augsburg Alumni International
30Career Resource Guide for International
International Students Career Service
Further helpful links and information can be found by clicking here.
Looking for more individualized support?
Feel free to set up an individual appointment or come to our open
office hours -- we are happy to help!
ics@aaa.uni-augsburg.de
Jessica Schüller
Büro-Center-Messe (BCM)
Room 7005
Alter Postweg 101
86159 Augsburg
0821/598 5952You can also read
