01 AALEN HIER STEHT DAS THEMA DER SEITE INTERNATIONAL Program

INFORMATION FOR PARTNER UNIVERSITIES AND EXCHANGE STUDENTS

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06 12 26 30 Become Part of Our Program - Application Services for Aalen University Your Chance Process International Students

Become Part of Aalen University 06 Start Here, Go Anywhere 24 In the Heart of the South 08 From Cameroon to Aalen 25 The Economic Center of the South 10 Our Easy Application Process 26 Our Program - Your Chance 12 You Need More Help? 28 Teaching and Learning 14 From Portugal to Aalen 29 What you Need to Know 18 Service for International Students 30 Internships: A Golden Opportunity 20 Accomodation 32 From Costa Rica to Aalen 21 Campus Life 34 From India to Aalen 22 City Life 36 Hands on: Upgrade to Platinum 23 Facts & Figures 38

EDITION NOTE FOR FIFTH EDITION, FEB 2021 Publisher: Aalen University, Beethovenstraße 1, 73430 Aalen, Contact: hs-aalen.de, Email: [email protected] Edition: 1.000 pcs. Photos: Aalen University, City of Aalen, Stadtwerke Aalen (public utility companies), Christian Frumolt, Reiner Pfisterer, Jan Walford, Sandro Bretzger, Janine Soika, Thomas Klink, Peter Schlipf, Juana Röder (Freistil Design), International Center, Carolin Fischer, Jana Ling Design: Freistil Design GbR, frei-stil-design.de 04 05 HIER STEHT DAS THEMA DER SEITE HIER STEHT DAS THEMA DER SEITE Welcome to Aalen VARIETY IS THE SPICE OF LIFE - TOGETHER FOR INTERNATIONAL FRIENDSHIP 06 07 STUDYING IN AALEN STUDYING IN AALEN

one of the most research-intensive universities of Technology, Photonics, Casting Technology, Business applied sciences in Germany. Increasing student Studies, Health Management, but also in various numbers, successful knowledge transfer with the other fields. One out of four of our University’s staff business community and a continuously growing members are working in research, often while they campus also testify to its enormous development. obtain a graduate or doctoral degree in cooperation Aalen University of Applied Sciences is firmly roo- with partner universities. ted in the region and has a wide international net- work. In 2020, Aalen University inaugurated a new research Find friends for a area on its campus. Outstandingly, primarily publicly lifetime and build your network for future days: This is demonstrated by the numerous co-opera- funded research keeps Aalen University at the fore- all in one place - Aalen. tions in the region and the 133 partner universities front of technology. Knowledge transfer and collabo- all over the world. ration with the industry contribute significantly to the development of the University and the region.

BECOME PART OF SCORING IN RESEARCH FOR YEARS The procurement of third party funds has been well established in our applied research projects, especially in Material Sciences, Optics and Laser AALEN UNIVERSITY Aalen University - Well Connected THE GERMAN HIGHER EDUCATION ENVIRONMENT PROVIDES FOREIGN STUDENTS • Public State University of WITH EXCELLENT OPTIONS. AALEN UNIVERSITY OFFERS NOT ONLY ACADEMIC Baden-Württemberg EXCELLENCE, BUT ALSO ACCESS TO THE GERMAN WAY OF LIFE. WITH OUR FOCUS • Hochschulföderation ON RESEARCH AND MODERN LABORATORIES, AALEN UNIVERSITY AIMS TO PREPARE SüdWest (HfSW) ITS STUDENTS FOR THEIR CAREERS IN THE INDUSTRY. • Member of the HRK – German Rectors Conference, Bonn With 6,000 students from 60 different countries, ghts, you can easily take day trips to , • Member of the DAAD – Aalen University is one of the largest Universities of Munich, , and to explore German Academic Applied Sciences in Baden-Württemberg. You can and get to know the land you chose to study in a Exchange Service, Bonn • Member of the Associati design your own experience abroad by attending little better... There is a most friendly environment on of Friends & English or German taught lectures in the fields of for foreign students. Supporters of the engineering, business sciences and chemistry. Baden-Württemberg State Foundation • Member of the European Aalen University is located in a booming, cultural, AALEN UNIVERSITY OF APPLIED SCIENCES University Association vacation-oriented region. With 68,500 inhabitants, Innovative educational models, research strength, (EUA) Aalen is able to offer an array of opportunities, foresight, close links to industry, regional and • Experienced in state, national and international having the characteristics of a big city while main- international networks: We provide attractive projects such as LARS, taining the charm of a small town. Due to Aalen’s study programs on a sound foundation. For years, DFG, BMBF, GIZ, EU proximity to many of Germany’s most famous si- Aalen University of Applied Sciences has been Top spot in research and close links to industries with excellently equipped laboratories 08 09 IN THE HEART OF THE SOUTH IN THE HEART OF THE SOUTH

Studying in the Swabian Alb region surrounded by breath- IN THE HEART OF THE taking landscape SOUTH – THE SWABIAN ALB

AALEN IS LOCATED IN THE ECONOMIC CENTER OF THE SWABIAN ALB. THE REGION BOASTS A BOOMING INDUSTRY, LONG HISTORY AND BREATHTAKING LANDSCAPE.

The Swabian Alb is located in the region of East “The region of talents and patents” is what we call Württemberg and therefore in the center of Euro- East Württemberg. Pioneering spirit, creativity and pe and in the heart of Southern Germany - close to inventiveness are shaping the daily and professio- metropolises like Munich and Stuttgart, and vaca- nal lives of the area’s population. That is why many The „East Würrtemberg Ambassador“ certificate tion spots like Allgäu and Lake Constance. And the growth sectors and future technologies are de- fort north of the Alps in what would eventually Württemberg. In this broad and open valley, you will serves as proof of a alpine countries of Austria and Switzerland are also veloped here. Global players, successful medium-si- become Aalen. During the , the people find countless quarry lakes and reed fields to enjoy. successful time abroad. within reach. zed companies, and ambitious start-ups all call East built countless castles, palaces and residences as East Württemberg offers something for every taste. Württemberg home. Here, the amount of hidden well as medieval city-fortifications and impressive ec- champions is twice as high as in the rest of Germa- clesiastical buildings that continue to shape our regi- BECOME AN HONORARY AMBASSADOR ny. Moreover, East Württemberg is one of the lea- on’s appearance. OF EAST WÜRTTEMBERG ders in terms of registered patents and innovations To offer the international students of East Württem- within Germany. However, if you want to explore nature instead of berg an incentive to get to know our astonishing re- taking a trip to the past, East Württemberg will spo- gion, encourage them to learn German, give them EAST WÜRTTEMBERG – THE PLACE TO BE il you with beautiful und varied landscapes. The better access to the local economy, and the chance Although East Württemberg is the economical cen- densely wooded areas in the north of East Württem- to better integrate into German society, Aalen Uni- ter of the south, it has managed to keep its unique berg are perfect for hiking or exploring. The rolling versity created the “East Württemberg Ambassador fusion of lively urban flair and picturesque rural hills of the region around Aalen offer peaceful Program”. For participation in multiple events (in- scenery. Its rich history as well as its natural beauty orchards, meadows and fields. The Swabian Alb is an cluding a German language course), students recei- has always managed to attract people to it. Before escarpment running through the whole of East Würt- ve a certificate from the District Chief Officer which the Romans and settled here, humans from temberg with lots of forests fit for fairy tales. On the recognizes them as Honorary Ambassadors of East the Neolithic period left their artifacts for us to dis- plateau of the Swabian Alb, you will find light beech Württemberg. This certificate can be used as proof cover. The Romans built their famous frontier, the Li- forests as well as juniper heathland and dry valleys. of their successful time abroad for future academic mes, on the Swabian Alb and established the largest The wetland marks the southern end of East institutions or employers. 10 IN THE HEART OF THE SOUTH NUREMBERG

AALEN

STUTTGART

MUNICH ULM

THE ECONOMIC CENTER OF THE SOUTH BESIDES GLOBAL PLAYERS, WE HAVE TWICE THE AMOUNT OF HIDDEN CHAMPIONS AS THE REST OF GERMANY. THESE COMPANIES ARE LEADERS IN THEIR FIELDS IN EUROPE AND AT LEAST THIRD WORLDWIDE. THE CURIOUS THING ABOUT THEM: MOST PEOPLE DO NOT KNOW THEM – ONLY THEIR PEERS CONSIDER THEM HEROES. THEY SHARE SPACE WITH GLOBAL PLAYERS AND SUCCESSFUL MEDIUM-SIZED COMPANIES. 12 MARKETING & SALES 13 OUR PROGRAM – YOUR CHANCE AALEN INTERNATIONAL PROGRAM OPTOMETRY & AUDIOLOGY INDUSTRIAL & OUR PROGRAM – SUSTAINABLE HUMAN MANAGEMENT YOUR CHANCE RESOURCES WE AT AALEN UNIVERSITY DO NOT BELIEVE THAT ONE PROGRAM FITS THE NEEDS DIGITALIZATION & OF ALL STUDENTS. THAT IS WHY WE CREATED A THREE STAGE PROGRAM YOU AND CAN CHOOSE FROM INDIVIDUALLY. YOU CAN MAKE YOUR STAY WITH US SILVER, DATA SCIENCE GOLDEN OR PLATINUM. BUSINESS TRANSFORMATION Your basic semester exchange program in Aalen is Once you are a registered exchange student with FUTURE what we call the Silver Program. You will stay for one Aalen University, you are eligible to apply for an in- semester at Aalen University and study with our Ger- ternship/co-op at any of the regional technology OPTOELECTRONICS, MATERIALS man and international students in the courses you hotspots, including but not limited to Audi, Bosch, choose from our syllabus. If that is not enough for Daimler, Porsche, Voith, Zeiss, and ZF. That is what PHOTONICS & LASER you, you can aim a little higher with an upgrade to differentiates our Gold Program from Silver: You gold. We certainly encourage it. All you have to do is study at one of the top universities of applied TECHNOLOGY extend, upgrade, and make the most of your stay in sciences in Southern Germany and spend some FINANCE, Germany. As soon as you are here, we will support time working in one of the area’s companies. you in all your ventures. ACCOUNTING, If you prefer consulting, financial services or even LIGHTWEIGHT investment banking; no problem. We can help you in these fields as well. We will support you in your DESIGN & CONTROLLING pursuits and help with administrative issues and Silver work permits. MANUFACTURING & TAXATION Study Semester Gold If you liked going gold, why not stay for another Study Semester six months for a senior project or thesis, and add SCIENCE, TECHNOLOGY, Platinum Internship platinum to your exchange? STEM Study Semester ENGINEERING, MATHEMATICS Internship With our Platinum Program, we offer you the chan- Thesis ce to deepen your theoretical knowledge: hands- on research and projects, working in the excel- INDUSTRIAL DESIGN lently equipped laboratories of our university, and finishing your degree at Aalen University. ENGINEERING AND SIMULATION 14 15 HIER STEHT DAS THEMA DER SEITE TEACHING AND LEARNING TEACHING AND LEARNING AT AALEN UNIVERSITY WE WANT YOU TO STUDY SOMETHING THAT EVOKES YOUR ENTHUSIASM. OUR LABORATORIES ARE EXCELLENTLY EQUIPPED AND THE THEORETICAL PRINCIPLES WE TEACH HAVE STRONG TIES TO WORKING LIFE.

Aalen University wants you to ace your studies. electric sockets and free WIFI. The staff of our library That is why our lecturers teach you in exciting and will also help you in individual appointments, as well innovative ways. We offer a wide range of help for as courses and seminars with questions regarding your theoretical principles. During the lecture term, lending of books, researching an academic paper there are tutorials supplementing and deepening the content of lectures.

We live in an age highly influenced by digitalizati- on. As a University of applied science, we keep up with the pulse of our time and adapt our syllabus to technical innovations. The E-Learning Center at Aalen University emerged during this process. You can use an online platform that offers lecture con- tent, scripts, practice exercises and much more. The platform will, for example offer the chance to watch a lecture again if students need the revisi- on. By doing this, students can learn, revise and practice in an individual, digital way.

Our library offers a wide range of scientific publica- tions as ebooks or electronic resources accessible over various databases. Besides the online content, the library offers over 58,000 physical books or ma- gazines. On three floors, students can learn in a bright, quiet environment with tables supplied with Award winning teaching: Aalen University has top marks in various rankings 16 17 TEACHING AND LEARNING TEACHING AND LEARNING

or on how to use the online databases properly. difficult topics effortlessly and with a sense of humor, improve your soft skills. Our biggest student project because we know that laughing charges the brain. is the “E-Motion Racing Team”, an interdisciplinary We at Aalen University know that students of To break up the relatively strict structure of lectu- team of students developing, constructing and tes- today are developers and decision-makers of res and seminars, some subjects at Aalen University ting an electric racecar. During the process, more tomorrow. Our goal is to enable you to develop pro- offer so-called “Makeathons”. Each semester,- stu than twenty subjects from all five faculties at Aalen ducts and processes that match the demands of the dents form groups to mill over problems and in University are involved in the building of the car. industry. Therefore, our lecturers aim for lectures that the end construct and program prototypes to solve While the team is big, each member is able to con- discuss current events. Our syllabus is closely adap- said problems within three days. Such projects and tribute their ideas and work on projects within the ted to the demands of the industry. Learning happens tasks help students grow. race team that interest them. The finished product in small, individualized and interactive groups lead by is an electric racecar that is participating in races on lecturers with long-time experience in the industry. Outside our lecture halls, you will find projects and racetracks all over Europe. During the assembly of While teaching, our professors aim to pass on even activities to get to know your fellow students and the car, students use what they have learned in lec- tures, along with soft skills, which are necessary for working in any team. Dedication, passion and lots of emotion: the university‘s racing team

To improve those soft skills further, Aalen Universi- ty offers a program called “Studium Generale”. Each semester, the program runs under a different topic, which have included industry 4.0, philosophy, and migration and integration. Students can work on their soft skills in small groups or listen to lectures held by international experts on their respective fields. In addition, students can develop their perso- nality through courses held by coaches as varied as SPEEXX actors, rhetoric coaches, cyber security specialists or anthropologists. PERSONALIZED AND FLEXIBLE GERMAN COURSES FOR YOU! During your time in Germany, we strongly encourage THE LANGUAGE LEARNING you to learn the German. In addition to the offers of SOFTWARE IS AVAILABLE Please write to the Language Center, you can also use the Speexx TO ALL STUDENTS. rosemarie.francis-binder @hs-aalen.de Online Language Learning software to master the German language. This world-renouned program is if you would like to use flexible, results oriented and available at your finger- this software before tips! Especially if you would like to work in Germany, your arrival in Aalen. the language is a must! 19 18 WHAT YOU NEED TO KNOW WHAT YOU NEED TO KNOW

Set up your learning agreement easily based on the Aalen International Program course catalogue in our WHAT YOU NEED Online Application Portal. Please note the following:

• Please only select courses that correspond to your TO KNOW major at your home university. WE ARE HAPPY TO HOST YOU FOR AN EXCHANGE STUDY SEMESTER. YOU CAN • Aalen University expects you to take a minimum of GAIN CREDIT POINTS ABROAD BY ATTENDING OUR ENGLISH OR GERMAN TAUGHT 20 ECTS credits related to your LECTURES. study area and, in addition, a German course.

• Please pay attention to bachelor and master As an exchange student, you can freely select To consider your choice of lectures, you are very course offerings. If you wish to take master cour- courses from all our study programs. Our English welcome to browse through our catalogue to check ses here, you will need to submit an official proof Due to our free German taught programs are thematically structured within out available courses offered in English that fit your (signed and sealed by a representative of your language courses, communication with your the frame of the Aalen International Program. To major. Study with both German and international university) that you have achieved a minimum of If you would like to attend German taught lectures fellow students from Germany give you an overview of our study fields, we present students in the courses of your choice from our 180 ECTS (equivalent to 90 US-credits or 3 years of as well, please refer to the offers of our study pro- will be a lot easier. our international teaching portfolio under care- syllabus. studies). grams on the website of Aalen University or contact fully selected buzzwords to give you an overview (see [email protected]. page 13 for those buzzwords). • Please pay attention to course prerequisites. German language courses are free of charge. Exch- • Please note that some courses may only be taken ange students are expected to attend an intensive in combination with other courses. German course at an appropriate level during the orientation period. Upon passing the exam, they will • Please consider that some of the course offers receive credits. After the intensive course, students Find all might be subject to change at short notice. There- will participate in weekly German classes during the course descriptions fore, it might be necessary to change your learning semester. and our up-to-date agreement during the application process or even course catalogue here after your arrival in Aalen.

• Project work or writing a thesis is generally possible. Please contact our academic staff or the International Relations Office in advance to define the topic and the workload, and to find a super- visor.

Choose the courses from our syllabus that fit your major. 20 21 INTERNSHIPS: A GOLDEN OPPORTUNITY HIER STEHTFROM COSTADAS THEMA RICA DERTO AALEN SEITE

INTERNSHIPS: A AALEN UNIVERSITY OPENS UP EXCELLENT OPPORTUNITIES FOR GOLDEN OPPORTUNITY STUDENTS FROM ALL OVER THE WORLD, PROFESSIONALLY FACILITA- WE WANT YOU TO EXPERIENCE AS MUCH AS POSSIBLE DURING YOUR TIME WITH US. TES THE APPLICATION PROCESS AND GIVES THEM A WARM WELCOME. WITH AN UPGRADE TO OUR GOLD PROGRAM, YOU CAN DIVE INTO GERMAN WORK LIFE. THE CAMPUS IS WELL EQUIPPED FOR AN ATTRACTIVE AND INTERESTING ACADEMIC AND SOCIAL LIFE, AND THE SURROUNDINGS PROVIDE AMPLE If our Silver Program is not enough for you, you can As soon as you are a registered exchange student in upgrade to Gold. We certainly encourage it. All you the Gold Program at Aalen University, you are eligib- RECREATIONAL SPACES TO SPEND QUALITY TIME WITH FRIENDS. THE have to do is extend, upgrade and make the best le to apply for an internship – also called “co-op” – at of your stay in Germany. Once you are here, we will any of the regional technology hotspots, including RESEARCH FOCUS OF MY MASTER’S PROGRAM PROVIDES ME WITHCOM- support you in all your ventures. but not limited to Audi, Bosch, Daimler, Porsche, Voith, Zeiss, and ZF. If you prefer consulting, financi- PETENCIES THAT I CONSIDER VERY RELEVANT FOR MY FUTURE GOALS. al services or even investment banking, we will also help you find an internship that suits all your needs. We will support you in your pursuits and help with administrative issues and work permits. Once you are a student at Aalen University, obtaining a work permit is a very straightforward process. Our In- DARIO LEON, ternational Relations Office can help you with the COSTA RICA, paperwork. Use the opportunity to experience so- STUDENT IN MASTER’S RESEARCH PROGRAM mething new! “ADVANCED SYSTEMS DESIGN”

Typically, internships in Germany last six months. Companies expect you to commit to this six-month time frame with the possibility for extensions. Shorter internships have become very rare. While working for the company you choose, you will also earn an internship-wage. With the help of our Gold Program, interns dive deep into “real” work at their companies. During their internships, students will often help with a specific project. Do not miss the opportunity to make your stay in Germany golden! 22 23 FROM INDIA TO AALEN HANDS ON: UPGRADE TO PLATINUM HANDS ON: THE STATE-OF-THE-ART FACILITIES PROVIDED BY THE UNIVERSITY, AS WELL AS THE WEALTH OF KNOWLEDGE AND EXPERIENCE UPGRADE TO PLATINUM OF THE PROFESSORS, MADE STUDYING HERE SEEM LIKE A PIECE OF CAKE. YOU CAN‘T GET ENOUGH OF AALEN UNIVERSITY? STAY EVEN LONGER WITH US, WRITE YOUR THESIS OR WORK ON A SENIOR PROJECT IN OUR LABORATORIES. FOR ME, THE STAY AT AALEN UNIVERSITY HAS BEEN AN UNFORGETTABLE EXPERIENCE AND A REMARKABLE CULTURAL EXCHANGE. I HAVE DEVELOPED

IMMENSELY – NOT ONLY ACADEMICALLY, BUT PERSONALLY If you liked going gold, why not stay for another six even be able to take a few classes in German. This months? With an upgrade to our Platinum Program, individually tailored combination of research work AND PROFESSIONALLY AS WELL. you can stay at Aalen University for a senior project and courses is what we call the Executive Platinum or thesis. You can choose from many different indus- Program. trial technologies, like digitalization, laser technology, Students work and reserach on topics with future relevance or industry 4.0 for either of them. We will put you to work in one of our excellently equipped laboratories. You can become a member of the research team and get an assignment for a thesis or a senior project NAKUL DAVE, almost instantly. Your advisor will be there to support INDIA you throughout the entire process and help you with GRADUATE OF MASTER’S RESEARCH PROGRAM all your individual questions or needs. “ADVANCED MATERIALS AND MANUFACTURING” Do you want to work in a lab without having finished a study program or an internship semester? At Aalen University, you can do that too! If you prefer to work in a lab from the get-go, we can tailor your program so that you join a research group right away and work on a research project in your field. From our end, we can provide enough credit points with just lab work if you would rather do that than lectures. Better yet, if you want to pair your research project with a few pertinent classes in the field, you can do that too. You can add as many classes as you like. As you dive deeper into the coursework, you may 24 25 START HERE, GO ANYWHERE HIER STEHTFROM CAMEROONDAS THEMA DERTO AALEN SEITE

START HERE, WHAT I LIKE BEST ABOUT AALEN UNIVERSITY IS THAT THE GO ANYWHERE ATMOSPHERE HERE IS VERY GOOD AND FAMILIAR. AALEN UNIVERSITY IS A CENTER FOR YOUNG ENTREPRENEURS AND THOSE WHO THE LECTURERS KNOW THEIR STUDENTS AND THE WANT TO BECOME BUSINESS OWNERS OF THE FUTURE. STUDENTS KNOW THEIR LECTURERS. IF YOU HAVE A QUESTION AFTER THE LESSON, YOU CAN GO DIRECTLY TO THE

Aalen University answers the question “Can you shops and courses, students learn to develop their learn the spirit of entrepreneurship and a business- creativity, to have faith in their ideas, to practice LECTURER AND ASK. MOREOVER, I LIKE like thinking?” with a “Yes!”. Our university encourages team spirit and to hold self-confident presentations. students to come up with innovative ideas, develop Because at Aalen University, we want to discover the THE MENTALITY: THE PEOPLE HERE ARE VERY them and found their own businesses after graduati- potential of students, hold it in highest regards and on – or even during their time with us. help make innovative ideas a reality. RELIABLE AND PUNCTUAL.

Under the phrase “Entrepreneurship University”, The university’s very own entrepreneur initiative programs have been established and bundled with “stAArt-UP!de” teaches different techniques to - sol already existing offers concerning the founding of ve problems in a creative way or methods for busi- a business. Students interested in this topic can ness-like thinking. In the so-called INNO-Z innovation Makeing ideas a reality: choose from a variety of interdisciplinary consulta- center on campus Burren, students can work during LOICKA KOUNGA, start-ups in the INNO-Z tion and support services. In the programs, work- the pre-founding phase in Shared Desk areas to de- CAMEROON, velop their budding ideas. Afterwards, young start STUDENT IN BACHELOR‘S PROGRAM up-companies can move into the office spaces of the “ELECTRICAL ENGINEERING“ INNO-Z to build up their company. Since opening its gates to young entrepreneurs three years ago, 50 start-ups have sprouted roots in the INNO-Z. Some of them are already selling their goods or services.

The goal of Aalen University is to educate creative people who think along the lines of modern day bu- sinesses and beyond – no matter whether they build up their own company after graduation or take on jobs in already existing companies. 26 27 APPLICATION PROCESS APPLICATION PROCESS OUR EASY APPLICATION PROCESS JOIN AALEN UNIVERSITY AND BECOME A MEMBER OF ITS INTERNATIONALLY WELL-CONNECTED COMMUNITY

Academic Calender There are many academic and organizational deci- • The general application form Fall term: sions to be made if you want to study in a foreign (to be signed by your institution before country. The coordinators and the international sending) September 1st - February 28th office at your home university will assist you in -ob • The enrollment application Orientation Weeks taining information about the program you are in- • The application form for an Email account (including a German intensive course): terested in and help you handle the technicalities • The learning agreement approximately four weeks involved in studying at Aalen University. • Proof of language proficiency in German in September (min. B1) and/or English (min. B2) Lecture Period: The International Relations Office at Aalen Univer- • A final project request form Begin of October - End of January sity is the contact for the nomination and applica- (in case you wish to carry out your Examination Period: tion process. Exchange students first need to get final project / degree dissertation at) First three weeks nominated by their home university. As a second • Recent photo (passport format) 1. NOMINATION 2. APPLICATION of February step, the exchange students need to upload their • A transcript of records including all your (BY PARTNER UNIVERSITY) (BY STUDENT) Spring term: application documents through the Aalen Univer- study results so far

March 1st - August 31st sity application portal (the link for registration will • A full curriculum vitae be sent out after the nomination by your home We will send a table for you to fill out and Students will apply online and upload various Orientation Weeks university to the nominated students). Please pay The deadline for submitting a full application send back to us via email to [email protected]! documents that also need to be signed by (including a German intensive course): attention to the nomination and application dead- is November 30th for the Spring term and April home university. approximately two weeks lines. 30th for the Fall term. in March Nomination Deadlines Application Deadlines Lecture Period: All relevant application documents will be genera- Please contact us at [email protected] if Spring term: November 1st Spring term: November 30th Mid-March - End of June ted within the application portal of Aalen Universi- you have any questions regarding the applica- Fall term: April 1st Fall term: April 30th Examination Period: ty. A complete application will contain: tion process. First three weeks of July 28 2929 APPLICATION PROCESS HIER STEHTFROM DAS PORTUGAL THEMA DERTO AALEN SEITE YOU NEED MORE HELP? DESPITE STARTING MY STUDIES IN AALEN DURING THE COVID 19 PANDE- WE ARE HERE MIC, ON MY ARRIVAL, I DID NOT HAVE TO WORRY ABOUT ANYTHING. THE UNIVERSITY AND ITS STAFF PROVIDED THE BEST CONDITIONS AND THE FOR YOU! SAFEST ENVIRONMENT FOR ME! THE UNIVERSITY DOES NOT ONLY HAVE TAKING CARE OF SOME FORMAL ISSUES IS A NECESSITY, BUT YOU WILL NOT BE LEFT ALONE WITH THE RED TAPE THE BEST FACILITIES WHERE YOU CAN BRING THEORY AND PRACTICE TOGETHER; IT IS ALSO CLOSELY CONNECTED WITH THE LOCAL BUSI- Exchange students from most Non-European of admission, along with an invitation confirming countries will need a visa for Germany and should your status. Only then can you apply for your visa NESSES AND INDUSTRIES. THIS NETWORK ALLOWS STUDENTS TO GET consider that getting the visa may take quite at the German embassy or a German Consulate. some time. Therefore, we advise you to apply to Special visa regulations may apply for certain nati- INSIGHT INTO APPLIED RESEARCH. Aalen University as soon as possible. After we have onalities (e.g. Students from the USA do not need received your application, we will send you a letter a visa for entry).

When enrolling at Aalen University (normally after your arrival in Germany) the following additional items need to be taken care of: SONIA RAQUEL AMARO MACHADO, PORTUGAL, • adequate health insurance (can also be taken in EXCHANGE STUDENT IN MASTER’S PROGRAM Aalen) “POLYMER TECHNOLOGY” • the payment of an administration fee to the Ger- man Student Association • residence permit (registration with the City Hall) • opening a German bank account

The International Relations Office will of course assist you when you take care of these formalities. As soon as you have fulfilled all the enrolment re- quirements (normally a couple of days after your arrival) you will get your student card. Become a part of our student-community during your stay 30 31 SERVICES FOR INTERNATIONAL STUDENTS SERVICES FOR INTERNATIONAL STUDENTS

The International Relations Office (IRO) and the • On-campus accommodation faculty members make every effort to support all • Orientation weeks SERVICES FOR international students both academically and emo- • German language courses at tionally. Throughout the years, a comprehensive different levels service package for foreign students has been de- • Buddy and Family Friendship Programs INTERNATIONAL veloped to help get them settled in quickly into the • Advisory and Counseling services university, German academic culture, society and • Courses in intercultural communication the working environment. This service portfolio in- • Trips and excursions STUDENTS cludes: • Company visits • Cultural events WE KNOW VERY WELL THAT INTERNATIONAL STUDENTS CAN FOCUS ON THEIR • Supervision by the IRO and a faculty member • Support through student tutors and STUDIES ONLY IF THEY FEEL WELL. WE WILL GET YOU SETTLED IN, FAST AND SMOOTHLY. • Preparatory online German course Speexx resident assistants before arrival • Job interview trainings (for those who decide to go for an internship/co-op after their study semester) Variety is the Spice of Life BUDDY Together for International Friendship PROGRAM

OUR GERMAN STUDENTS ARE A WELCOMING COMMUNITY. IN OUR BUDDY PROGRAM, YOU WILL EXPERIENCE THAT FIRST HAND. Hier steht die Rubrik Porissimus aut remporro. The Buddy Program is designed to help international students adapt to campus life and German culture. It helps them get to know local students from Aalen University and from all over the world. International students get matched with a local buddy who can ans- wer basic questions about studying and living in Aalen, and help with social integration and adjusting to the new academic environment. Monthly activities like trips and get-to- gethers give all new international students the opportunity to meet other exchange and full time students. All around service - more time for studying, learning and enyoing your time in Aalen 32 33 ACCOMMODATION ACCOMMODATION

Where friendships are build: your network for ACCOMMODATION the future DEPENDING ON YOUR PERSONAL TASTES, YOU HAVE THE CHOICE OF LIVING EITHER OFF-CAMPUS IN PRIVATE ACCOMMODATIONS OR IN ONE OF THE STUDENT RESIDENCE HALLS. The AYA Student Residence Halls Include:

• Carl-Schneider Residen- ce Hall: single room in Compared to larger German cities, living in Aalen red flats. Many students look for an additional flat an 11-room unit; shared kitchen /bathroom/ is affordable for students. You just need to inform mate for a vacant room in a shared apartment. showers; monthly rent us of your accommodation preferences during the € 250,- *)

application process. These and other private offers can be found • Anton-Huber Residence on the university´s website under hs-aalen.de/ Hall: single room in 4 or 6-room unit; shared PRIVATE ACCOMMODATION apartments or on the website of the Student kitchen /bathroom/sho- There is plenty of private housing and private stu- Association studentenwerk-ulm.de/enhousing/ wers; monthly rent *) dent residence halls available in Aalen. The month- private-housing.html. € 290 - 305,- ly rent ranges between € 250,- for a room without • Steinertgasse Residence a shower and up to € 500,- for luxurious rooms. When you are looking for private accommodation, Hall – single Apartment; monthly rent € 340,-*) A very popular form of student housing are sha- please consider some additional aspects, such as *) Prices are valid as of Private Student September 2019; they may Residence Halls Close to be subject to change. the University Include: whether the rent includes utilities, or whether the requirement. You will be informed about further

-inn.de apartment comes furnished or unfurnished. Plea- details in time during the application process. se be aware that some of the landlords might not aal-inn-city.de speak English well. If you need any assistance when Please be aware that a contract for AYA accommo- Find your aal-inn-suites.de looking for private accommodation, please contact dation can only be signed for one full semester (= accomodation here us at [email protected]. 6 months, from March 1st to August 31st or from wohnungsbau- aalen.de/de/mieten/ September 1st to February 28th) and that students apartmenthaus- STUDENT HALLS obtaining a room in an AYA residence hall have to hopfenstrasse Aalen University does not own or operate any re- move out after 6 months so that new exchange vrbank-aalen.de/ sidence halls. Many exchange students choose students can be served. Thus, should somebody wohnheim accommodation in student residence halls run by plan from the start to stay more than 6 months or mikroapartments- the Aalen Youth Association (AYA). For exchange less than 6 months, we recommend that you look aalen.de students, there is a special room application pro- for accommodation on the private market from the

aa-apartments.de cedure. A deposit must be transferred in order to beginning. reserve a room and private liability insurance is a 34 35 CAMPUS LIFE CAMPUS LIFE CAMPUS LIFE STUDYING IS NOT ALL ABOUT FULL LECTURE HALLS. OUR CAMPUS IS FILLED WITH LIFE: THE STUDENTS ARE A COMMUNITY.

When you spend enough time at Aalen University, student can be active and work for a better and more you will see that our students are a close commu- exciting life on campus. The student body, called Ver- nity. They have formed associations in which each fasste Studierendenschaft, is an office led by a stu- dent committee. Their various departments organize and plan activities all over campus. They are respon- Apply what you learn in practice: The raceteams builds sible for the wide range of offers in the university’s a car from scratch each year sports program including yoga courses, basketball, salsa courses as well as tennis or volleyball. A high- with a company. The UStA also organizes a blood The explorhino program has set its goal at showing light in the summer is the University’s sports festival drive and the university cinema. The program for the children that science is fun. With this program, Aalen organized by the VS. They also manage the Q-Buddy cinema varies each semester; from current block- University wants to incorporate scientific games and system, which allows students to report problems wi- busters to Hollywood classics – the university-cine- experiments into early education to overcome child- thin programs or the University itself anonymously. ma in the main lecture hall will serve every taste. For ren’s hesitations against choosing a scientific career The VS also hands out international student identity international students, the UStA offers field trips to in later life. The experiments and courses offered by cards, funds field trips and organizes the university’s interesting and exciting locations all over Europe, the pupil’s laboratory make natural science palpable choir. A specialty of the VS is the annual Christmas like Berlin, Prague or Brussels. For those who pre- and approachable. If you want to help with this pro- Market held on campus with festive food and hot fer nightlife, the UStA organizes two of the biggest ject, the explorhino pupil’s laboratory is always look- drinks. parties on campus: the N8 of Students and the Ne- ing for volunteers! wie-Party at the beginning of each semester are po- Another big student-lead organization is the UStA. pular among students. Check out our social media channels to get impres- Their slogan “from students – for students” sums up sions of Campus Life at our university: their program effortlessly. The UStA is in charge of Our university also offers a range of other commu- organizing one of the biggest fairs on campus: The nities such as the “E-Motion Racing Team” who build @aalen_isn Aalen Industry Fair takes place each year and offers their own electric racecar from scratch to compete @hochschuleaalen students of Aalen University the chance to meet re- on racetracks all over Europe or the International gional companies and make connections for interns- Society Aalen (ISA). @AalenuniversityIRO Aalen Industry Fair: Meet over 140 companies on campus and widen your network hips, student jobs or writing a thesis in cooperation @hochschule.aalen 36 37 CITY LIFE CITY LIFE

showing how working underground developed du- CITY LIFE ring the heyday of iron mining. Aalen is also a city with long Roman history. The AALEN IS A LIVELY CITY AND HAS A LOT TO SHOW. HERE, YOU‘LL HAVE EVERYTHING: romans built their frontier, the , not far from INNOVATIVE INDUSTRIES, A LONG HISTORY AND BOOMING FESTIVALS. Aalen and erected the largest cavalry fort north of the Alps in what would later become the city of Aalen. To- day, the area is home to the Limes Museum, which underwent extensive refurbishments in 2018. The Aalen has an urban, almost Mediterranean flair. In site is counted among the UNESCO world heritage the pedestrian area at the heart of the city, you will sites. However, not only Aalen offers you a glance into find many shops, cafés and restaurants. In the spring, Roman history. In neighboring communities, you will you will see people eating outdoors at cafés and find the replica of a roman watchtower or a triumph restaurants. You can spend an afternoon in the arc that marked the frontier on a hilltop. After a visit shade outside one of the countless cafés with a coffee to the Roman sites, you can relax in the bubbling hot or something cold. In the evening, Aalen offers a bro- springs on a mountain overlooking Aalen. The ther- ad selection of various restaurants. Italian, Japanese, mal baths are situated in a spa resort with Roman Tapas bars, traditional German cuisine – you name flair and offer a unique view over Aalen. The hot springs it, Aalen has it. If you like to cook your own meals, international festival. Folklore performances as well „Limes-Therme“ offer Aalen has a farmer’s market twice per week. On Did you know that there is a prehistoric period called as culinary specialties shape the face of this street relaxation Wednesdays and Saturdays, the market place and the Age? If not, the primeval world museum festival. “Reichsstädter Tage” is Aalen’s biggest festival. the pedestrian area all the way up to the town hall might be for you. The term “Aalenian” is used in scien- It is held in September. Performances from various is turned into a market. Local farmers sell fresh tific dialog all over the world and Aalen – as a so-called bands and clubs shape this festival. The Limes Muse- produce, honey and baked goods, among other type locality – is known in geological circles globally. um also holds the „Roman Days“ festival in Septem- things. The primeval world museum offers a glance into the ber. Enactment groups from sometimes more than geologic history of the region with a collection of fos- six different countries show interested audiences HISTORY COMING TO LIFE sils – dinosaurs, squids, crinoid or giant ammonites how Romans lived in everyday life and during military Aalen is not only an urban center, it was also the cen- – spread over two floors. For someone who does not duty. In the fall, Aalen is home to the Aalen Jazzfesti- ter of industrialization in the region. Aalen is home to like strolling through museums, the guided walking val. Many concerts by leading jazz-musicians such as one of the oldest industrial companies in Germany. tours through Aalen at night might be a fun alterna- Gregory Porter, Zaz or Sinéad O’Connor take place in Schwäbische Hüttenwerke was founded in 1365 due tive. Accompanied by a night watch in historic garb, the city. In December, Aalen has its very own Christ- to the iron ore mining in the region. Still running to you can delve into the history of medieval Aalen and mas Market, a magical, festive get-together with good the present day, Schwäbische Hüttenwerke GmbH learn more about its development. food and warm drinks in the heart of the city situated offers pumps and engine components for all types around one of the largest Christmas pyramids in the of powertrain concepts. Not far from today’s site, the AALEN – FESTIVAL CAPITAL OF THE REGION region. mine “Tiefer Stollen” is situated north of Aalen in a Back to the present: Aalen has a variety of festivals During orientation week, you‘ll get to know Aalen City peaceful forest. The mine is now a museum, and to offer, with which you can fill your time. In July, during a guided tour offers a unique glance into the history of mining, Aalen celebrates its diverse inhabitants and holds the 38 39 FACTS & FIGURES FACTS & FIGURES

SOUTH AMERICA INTERNATIONAL FACTS THE CITY OF AALEN: CHEMISTRY OF AALEN UNIVERSITY ELECTRONICS & MULTICULTURAL AND INTERNATIONAL COMPUTER SCIENCE NORTH AMERICA 7% 4 INTERNATIONAL STUDENTS MANAGEMENT & 10 BUSINESS SCIENCES EUROPE ASIA 68,150 MECHANICAL ENGINEERING 54 INHABITANTS 59 18 & MATERIALS SCIENCE NATIONALITIES 28,9% 10 OPTICS & MECHATRONICS POSSESS A MIGRATION BACKGROUND CONTINENT OF ORIGIN OF ALL INTERNATIONAL 136 STUDENTS (EXCHANGE & DEGREE SEEKING) PARTNER UNIVERSITIES AT AALEN UNIVERSITY IN 56 COUNTRIES INTERNATIONAL STUDENTS AT AALEN UNIVERSITY STUDY IN THESE SCHOOLS TOP 5 DESTINATIONS MASTER AALEN UNIVERSITY STUDENTS 111NATIONALITIES IN TOTAL OF AALEN UNIVERSITY OF APPLIED SCIENCES

STUDENTS FOR STUDIES JAPAN ARGENTINA AND INTERNSHIPS INDIA BOSNIA- BELGIUM HERZEGOVINA ABROAD 6,000 USA CHILE FRANCE 23% STUDENTS GEORGIA CHINA SPAIN UKRAINE SOUTH KOREA 66% 34% 34% TSCHECHIA FINLAND 77% EXCHANGE EXCHANGE STUDENTS STUDENTS IRELAND 5 MYANMAR FROM COSTA RICA SPAIN FROM SCHOOLS IN 66% SWEDEN NON-EUROPEAN EUROPEAN BACHELOR ENGINEERING COUNTRIES COUNTRIES STUDENTS MEXICO AND BUSINESS USA PORTUGAL 33 BACHELOR PROGRAMS RUSSIA MEMBER OF JORDAN AUSTRALIA AND 29 MASTER PROGRAMS EUA AND DAAD HIER STEHT DAS THEMA DER SEITE See you soonin Aalen