Study in Mannheim

Facts

310,658 Inhabitants ¹

19,838 Students ²

5 Higher education institutions ²

WELCOME TO MANNHEIM

“Mannheim²“ – this is how the city calls itself. This has nothing to do with mathematics but with the unique layout of Mannheim’s city centre. The city’s streets are laid out in a grid pattern. These blocks surround the Baroque Palace in the shape of a horseshoe. The famous palace, which today houses the university, is always in the middle of the grid. As if this weren’t unusual enough, the streets in the city centre have no names but are referred to by a combination of letters and numbers, for example C1 or L5. This makes it much easier to find your way about because you don’t have to remember any complicated street names.

If you’re studying at the university, you might be lucky enough to have a lecture in the Baroque Palace, where you can admire the magnificent halls. This is a very special feeling. But you can also visit the palace at other times. You only have to pay admission if you want to visit the museum in the middle section.

Wandering through the city centre, you’ll soon notice how green Mannheim is. There are lots of parks, which attract crowds of people especially on sunny days. The locals often stroll along the shopping streets, known as the “Planken“, before they end the day at the Wasserturm.

Friedrichsplatz is right next to the Wasserturm. After an extensive tour of the town, you can cool off at the fountain. A few metres further along is the Luisenpark, rightly considered one of the most beautiful parks in Europe. An entrance fee is charged but you can admire lots of tropical plants, the Chinese Garden and animals.

Tip

You should definitely party at Schneckenhof, where the legendary University of Mannheim parties take place. Make sure you get a ticket well in advance because the open-air parties usually sell out really quickly!

If you fancy seeing Mannheim from above, it’s worth visiting the television tower. You will then have not only the city but the two Rhine and Neckar rivers at your feet. You also get a glimpse of the neighbouring towns of and Ludwigshafen.

Interview

SEVILAY FROM TURKEY

INTERVIEW WITH SEVILAY FROM TURKEY

Sevilay Alhan is 22 years old and studied Psychology at the University of Mannheim.

Why did you decide to study in Mannheim?

I actually wanted to go to Italy. But after I found out that tuition there is only in Italian I chose Germany, specifically Mannheim. Flights between Germany and Turkey are shorter too, that was especially important for my parents.

Did you have any problems when you first came to Mannheim?

I came to Germany in February. That was the coldest weather I’ve ever experienced! So if you come from a warm country, you definitely have to make the necessary preparations, for example bring thick clothes with you.

Was it difficult finding accommodation?

I found my shared flat and my room in student residences through the university. It has an online portal for international students which helps them look for accommodation.

Did you have a part-time job?

I didn’t work while I was studying in Germany. If you’re a student in Germany, you get a work permit. If you have time and need to finance yourself, you can look for vacancies on the university notice board.

What most surprised you about life in Mannheim?

I was really surprised about the Marktplatz. The locals call it „Little Istanbul“, which I find funny. A lot of Turks live here and many of the shops are Turkish. I knew beforehand that a lot of Turkish people live in Germany, but I never imagined there would be as many as there are here in Mannheim. As a Turkish person, this was a big advantage because I was able to find everything I needed from home.

What do you like best about Mannheim?

Mannheim is a city of culture. There are so many immigrants living here at the moment, the people of Mannheim are used to foreigners. I think that’s really great. So it’s not a problem if you can’t speak German. A lot of people can speak English.

Do you think Mannheim is a good place for international students to study?

The University of Mannheim does a lot, especially for Erasmus students. There are lots of events going on here that don’t cost much. From parties to travel offers all over the country – everything is offered. I think Mannheim is the best place to study. I had a great time there and I miss it.

What is the conclusion you would make at the end of your stay in Germany?

Studying in Germany is just great! For me, Germany is a country I’d always like to go back to.

LIVING IN MANNHEIM

If you’re looking for a typical student town, Mannheim is just right. There are numerous restaurants where you can eat at a very reasonable price. Restaurants and snack bars often offer student discounts.

Once you’ve eaten your fill at a hip café and shopped till you dropped at the numerous shops and boutiques on “Planken“, explore the Jungbuschviertel. You can enjoy a cocktail in one of the many bars while listening to the bands of tomorrow.

But also bigger events like concerts, film screenings and cabaret evenings are on offer.

Links

The people of Mannheim love to spend time on the Rhine or Neckar rivers. The promenades are ideal for this. You can meet friends here and contemplate the industrial sites on the opposite side of the river. This contrast is what makes up the charm of the city: on the one hand nature and public parks, on the other, workers loading transport ships.

Sports fans will find plenty to do in Mannheim, especially at the weekend. The town is ice-hockey mad and cheers on its team in the SAP Arena. You should definitely attend a match and experience the unique atmosphere!

How to find a room in Mannheim

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 Mannheim.