Support for International Members
Support for International Members
We support our international members not only during their PhDs, but also during the preparatory phase after an offer of membership has been made. Please do not hesitate to contact us before your arrival in Giessen.
In all issues concerning international PhD students we also work closely with the university’s International Office.
Onboarding and administrative support
Once you have accepted your GCSC offer, you will receive onboarding materials to facilitate the formalisation of your PhD candidate status with the university and your move to Germany. We also offer individual support for completing all administrative steps at the university (your application as a doctoral student within your faculty and your matriculation). Please contact Lena Nüchter with questions.
If you do not have funding yet, please begin your search early on. You can refer to our Funding FAQ and contact Lena Nüchter if you have subsequent questions or would like support.
For questions about visa, residence permits or health insurance, please contact Dr. Imke Neumann-Fatia at the International Office. The International Office also offers a guide for Finding Accommodation in Giessen (PDF).
German Language Courses
As a non-native speaker of German, half a year before submitting your thesis – at the latest – you will be required to show proof of German language skills (usually level B1 of the Common European Framework of Reference for Languages). We recommend that all PhD students beginning their work at the GCSC with little or no German language skills start German courses early. You will profit from it soon, since German is also one of the two working languages at the GCSC. Navigating daily life and feeling at home will also be much easier with a bit of German at hand.
The International Office of Justus-Liebig-University offers intensive and evening courses at all levels. Furthermore, the summer before you start your PhD, you have the opportunity to participate in a preparatory language course covered by the GCSC.
GCSC members can apply for a refund of German course fees. Please contact Lena Nüchter before reserving a spot in a course.
