Study in Weingarten

Facts

25,155 Inhabitants ¹

7,347 Students ²

2 Higher education institutions ²

WELCOME TO WEINGARTEN

Weingarten is located in the south-east corner of Baden-Württemberg in southern Germany just a few kilometres away from Lake Constance (in German Bodensee). From Weingarten you can easily cross over the border into Austria or Switzerland. The closest neighbouring city is Ravensburg. The was originally founded as an engineering school in Ravensburg. That’s why Ravensburg is in the name. But all of the courses offered take place in Weingarten. The is also situated in the town.

The city has a very cosy, small-town atmosphere which will help you feel right at home. On your first walk through the quaint historic downtown, you’ll soon discover some of Weingarten’s attractions. The best-known is certainly . You’ll see it perched high up on the “Martinsberg“ north of the city centre. From there you can enjoy a great view of Weingarten. It’s quite a romantic setting, especially in the summer at sunset. Many locals refer to the abbey as the “Swabian St. Peter’s“, because St. Peter’s Cathedral in Rome was used as a model for the Baroque church, which is half the size of the Italian original. But even so, it holds the title as the largest Baroque church north of the Alps.

Several minutes away on foot, you’ll arrive at what residents endearingly call the Fruchtkasten, (translated “Fruit Box“). Built in 1688, this castle-like building was once used as the town’s granary and wine cellar. Today the “Fruchtkasten“ serves as the library of the higher education institutions in Weingarten.

Tip

On one of your days off, you should head over to Ravensburg which is only a few minutes away by bike or bus. Ravensburg is known as the “City of Towers“. There’s the “Green Tower“, the “Flour Tower“ and many more… see for yourself! The view from Veitsburg Castle is especially pretty. From there you can see the Alps and, when the skies are clear, even the Bodensee.

Other sites worth visiting downtown include the City Hall, the Alemannic Museum and the sculpture titled “Steinerne Plätzler“ next to the Amtshaus.

Interview

BIPLAB FROM NEPAL

INTERVIEW WITH BIPLAB FROM NEPAL

Biplab Dhakal is 22 years old and is enrolled in the “Electrical Engineering and Information Technology“ bachelor’s programme at the Ravensburg-Weingarten University of Applied Sciences.

Why did you decide to study in Weingarten?

The University of Applied Sciences in Ravensburg-Weingarten offers a wide range of international and interdisciplinary courses. This, in combination with research, practical training and instruction, was exactly what I was looking for. What’s more, they offer an English-language bachelor’s programme in Electrical Engineering and Information Technology.

How did you prepare for your stay in Germany?

Once I received my admission letter to study in Weingarten, I took a German course. That lasted three months. I tried to improve my German as much as I could. But I also knew a few students who were already studying here and who I could talk to.

What was the hardest thing for you in the beginning, and how did you deal with it?

It was the first time I left my family. At first, it was really hard for me. But after I had made a few friends in Weingarten, it got easier. The hardest thing for me was the winter which I really didn’t like in the beginning. After a while, I got used to it.

Has Weingarten met your expectations?

To be honest, I didn’t have many expectations to begin with. I wanted a good academic environment, as well as professors who were interested in supporting their students. And that’s what I found, and that’s why I’m very satisfied with my programme. The university is known for its strong practical orientation. Some of the professors used to work at companies, and that helps you learn to connect the theory with practical application.

How do you finance your living expenses in Germany?

My parents supported me financially during my first two semesters here. But now I work part-time. That’s what most students do here. You can often find job offers on the message boards at the university. Or you can ask at a café or the International Office if they need help. Of course, it’s good if you can speak German a little better.

Why is Weingarten a good place to study?

Weingarten is a small city full of many different kinds of people! Everyone I’ve met so far is very friendly. There’s also a lot of nature here. I really enjoy taking walks between classes. In Weingarten and the surrounding area you’ll find numerous thermal baths, and there’s even a water park at the outdoor swimming pools. I definitely recommend going there in the summer!

What’s the best way to get to know other students?

The university’s “Buddy Programme“ is a great way to practice and improve your language skills. It makes it easier to approach people and talk to them. The university organises excursions for international students where you can get to know the area and your fellow students. There are also student pubs in Weingarten. Those are good places to meet people and practice your new language skills in conversation.

LIVING IN WEINGARTEN

In contrast to the metropolitan centres of and nearby, Weingarten is a quiet, peaceful town where you can easily master the challenges of daily life on foot or by bike. In the summer, you’ll see lots of people in the Stadtgarten (city park) relaxing in the sun, enjoying an ice-cream.

If you decide to live in Weingarten, you will have to learn more about the “Plätzler“. The “Plätzler Altdorf Weingarten Guild“ was founded in 1348. During “Fasnet“ the members dress up in their typical red and white costumes. “Fasnet“ is the celebration of Carnival that takes place every February or March, similar to “Karneval“ or “Fasching“ in other parts of Germany. The days of “Fasnet“ mark the beginning of Lent – traditionally a period of fasting, six weeks before Easter. A one-of-a-kind event you shouldn’t miss. You can learn more about the history of “Fasnet“ at the .

In addition to “Fasnet“, Weingarten also hosts a huge event every year called the ““ featuring more than two thousand horseriders in tailcoats and top hats parading through the city. The event, which takes place on the Friday after Ascension, is said to be the largest mounted procession in Europe. The riders are accompanied by some 100 marching bands and attract more than 20,000 tourists each year. A spectacle you have to see with your own eyes!

Links

In your free time you can participate in a sports course offered by the University of Education which are open for students of both higher education institutions. It includes a wide range of inexpensive courses, for example, in dancing, gymnastics, swimming, or volleyball. The international offices of both institutions also offer events for international students. Weingarten lies directly at the edge of Altdorf Forest. If you don’t have too much time, but need a breather, the forest is a safe place to take a walk under the trees.

How to find a room in Weingarten

Many university and college towns have dormitories or student halls, and a room there is often the most affordable accommodation. To obtain a room in a dormitory or student hall, you have to apply to your college or university’s student union (). Our ‘Find Student Hall’ function can be of practical help. You only need to make a few mouse clicks to get to the online application form. Find a room and more information about dormitories and student halls in Weingarten.