Doubts about your studies
Get to the root of your doubts and understand what’s behind them.Stage
Introduction: Getting Started as an International Student
Beginning your studies in Germany: Help with uncertainty
Are you studying in Germany and facing challenges that make you question your studies? Here you’ll find information about common difficulties and the alternatives available to you if you’re considering leaving your degree program.
A new country, a new language, a foreign culture – starting your studies in Germany is exciting, but often also challenging. Many international students ask themselves:
- What documents do I need, and what deadlines apply?
- How can I finance my studies?
- Where can I get help with language difficulties or dealing with government offices?
- How do I find accommodation and make friends?
- And what if I feel overwhelmed or lonely?
If these questions sound familiar, you’re in the right place! You’re not alone with your concerns - many international students go through similar experiences. Reaching out, asking questions, or accepting support is not a sign of weakness; it’s an important step toward making your time in Germany safe, successful, and enjoyable.
Support in your studies
Here’s how to tackle the most common challenges
Language barriers, financial worries, or simply the feeling of not quite belonging - many international students experience these challenges at some point.
On the "Challenges for International Students" page, you'll find practical tips, practical tips, personal stories, and helpful support services covering:
- Language & Studies
- Daily Life & Culture
- Finances & Cost of Living
- Bureaucracy & Legal Issues
- Mental Health & Social Challenges
Finding new paths
Finding new paths – even if you end your studies early
Sometimes you realise that your degree program simply isn’t the right fit - and that’s completely okay.
On the page "Dropping out" , you can find out what options are available to you:
- Changing your degree program or university
- Starting an apprenticeship or a dual study program
- Adjusting your residence permit
- Discovering new career paths or opportunities abroad
Overview of content for students with doubts
Your studies. Your path. Your choice.
Understand your doubts, face your challenges, and find the career path that suits you.
Overcoming challenges
Find out more about your challenges and address them with suitable support services.Dropping out of university – what’s next?
Dropping out is not the end, but a new beginning: discover ways to move forward.Internal links (Cards)
Discover more content that will guide you and support you on your journey.
Challenges for international students
Studying in a new country opens up many opportunities, but it also comes with its own challenges. Explore more.Dropping out as an international student
Sometimes it becomes clear that your degree program just isn’t the right fit. Here you can find alternative possibilities.Services: Internal Links (Cards)
There is more support available than you might think - take the next step.
Take advantage of free support services.
Tools & tips for self-support
Identify what’s weighing you down and find exercises to help you recharge.Facts and numbers
Facts, Figures, and Data on University Dropouts
Doubts and dropping out of university are not rare—they are a reality for many students. These figures show that you’re not alone in your thoughts:
drop out of their bachelor's program
and 21% their master's degree (Source: DZHW 2022)
is the dropout rate in the humanities and natural sciences
(Source: DZHW 2022)
transition directly into an apprenticeship after dropping out
(AGBB 2024)
Services for counsellors & companies
Services for counsellors & companies
Support young people who are experiencing doubts about their studies or considering dropping out on their journey - whether through your free counselling services or your career opportunities. Create your free profile now to be found by your target group. We provide you with all the necessary information and tools, as well as events, best-practice examples, and networking opportunities.
For comapanies
See students who have dropped out as an opportunity for your company.
Infos for companies
For counsellors
From study doubts to reorientation - your counselling can make the difference.
Infos for counsellors
Services of the initiative
Here you will find information, guidance, and inspiration on how you can move forward. On our platform, we bring together facts, tools, and support services that accompany you on your journey. This helps you sort your thoughts, gain clarity, discover your strengths, and shape your own path - whether through a degree program or vocational training.
Take advantage of the many free support services available: from tips for self-reflection to counseling and career guidance, as well as events and real stories of people who have found their way. Honest, supportive, and on equal terms.
We are currently active in Berlin, Brandenburg, Bremen, Mecklenburg-Western Pomerania, Lower Saxony, Saxony, and Saxony-Anhalt - with nationwide expansion planned in the future.
Our services (Text)
Our services for young people who are unsure about their studies
Three projects, one goal: we support you when you have doubts about your studies – with information, guidance, and inspiration. "Without a Doubt – Find Your Path" is a cross-state initiative run by the dropout-support projects Queraufstieg Transfer (Advisory Network for Lateral Career Advancement), Quickstart Sachsen Transfer (Quickstart Saxony Transfer), and Kompass M-V Transfer (Compass Mecklenburg-Western Pomerania Transfer).
Die Initiative „Zweifellos – Finde deinen Weg" wird gefördert vom Bundesministerium für Bildung, Familie, Senioren, Frauen und Jugend im Rahmen der Initiative Bildungsketten.