Welcome Week for International Students
At the beginning of the semester and before departments hold their induction week, the International Office usually offers a Welcome Week for International Degree-Seeking Students (= Students who are pursuing a degree at Osnabrück University).
In the winter semester 2025/26, the program is expected to include six (Latecomers') Welcome Sessions on October 1, 8, 15 and 22, and on November 5 and 19, 2025. International degree-seeking students can choose which of the six sessions is most convenient for them, depending on their date of arrival.
For International Exchange Students
The Welcome Week for International Exchange Students will take place from October 1 to 11, 2025. Some events during the two Welcome Weeks are offered jointly.
During the (Latecomers') Welcome Sessions, we organize a variety of social and cultural activities to help you get to know other international students and the beautiful city of Osnabrück. We also help you with the various formalities (registering with the city, applying for a residence permit if necessary, opening a bank account, taking out health insurance). We can also advise you on finding a room on the open housing market or a part-time job.
Here you can find the detailed program for the (Latecomers') Welcome Sessions (PDF, 415 kB) for International Degree-Seeking Students.
Being an international student comes with several challenges. However, we often forget that 'feeling at home' and the comfort associated with that feeling is what we all want. Teresa and her team ensured that any request put forward was handled and all issues/problems were given the highest priority. If felt as if someone from my own family was there to care for me and help with all my issues with settling in. I would love to experience another welcome week just to be surround by the love and warmth of the International Office.
Ameer (Pakistan)
[...] The kindness and positive energy of the International Office during my journey to Osnabrück were truly incomparable. They provided me with immense support throughout the entire process of coming here, and their warmth made all the difference. I understand that sometimes the challenges they face are larger than expected, but the way they treat students - with so much love, patience, and understanding - makes you feel genuinely welcomed. Before coming here, I had heard that people in Germany could be distant, but my experience was completely the opposite. The staff at the International Office were incredibly kind and empathetic, always willing to help. Meeting them in person made me feel like hugging them because their support was such a big comfort for me. Even as I continue to deal with challenges, they are always available to assist and try to find solutions. [...]
Maria Alejandra (Colombia)
Welcome Week for international exchange students
The International Office organizes a separate Welcome Week for exchange students who are studying in Osnabrück for one or two semesters.