Gisma Alumni

Student Life at Gisma

Experience Student Life at Gisma: A Supportive, Student-Centered Environment

We believe that university life is about more than just academic success.

At Gisma, we’re all about supporting your journey – personally, academically, and professionally, so you can make the most of your university experience. From world-class education to practical support services, vibrant campus life, and career development opportunities, we are committed to helping you thrive in every aspect of your student journey. Whether you’re navigating life in a new country or preparing for a successful career, at Gisma, you’ll find everything you need to make the most of your time with us. Welcome to a community that’s dedicated to your success.

Life on Campus: Community, Connection & Culture

Student life at Gisma is full of moments, from spontaneous café chats between classes to team sports under the sun and late-night brainstorming sessions that spark new ideas. Our campuses are more than learning spaces – they’re buzzing hubs of energy and collaboration.

Team Spirit Starts Here

Want to stay active, social, and energised while you study? Join a sports club or our student football team.

It doesn’t matter if you’re a total beginner or an old pro – this is about movement, teamwork, and fun. It’s your chance to let off steam, meet new people, and stay balanced while you’re chasing big goals.

Explore Germany With Us

Study abroad isn’t just about the classroom, it’s about experiencing everything around it.

Our student excursions and cultural trips help you get to know Germany beyond the textbooks. From city tours to historic landmarks, company visits to seasonal festivals – each trip is a chance to make new memories and deeper connections.

Where Studies Meet Stillness

At our Potsdam Campus, nature is just around the corner, and sometimes, right outside your lecture room.

Bike through forests, paddle on the lake, or just take a walk between classes. With stand-up paddleboards available on our campus and green spaces everywhere, you’ll find it easy to unwind and stay grounded.

Learning Beyond the Classroom

University is about more than lectures – at Gisma, we connect theory with hands-on experience and personal growth.

Gisma Berlin double degree programmes

Learn German, Live the Culture

Want to feel more at home in Germany, in class, at work, and day-to-day?

Our German Language Add-On course helps you build real-world communication skills, from casual convos to job interviews. Taught by experienced instructors with flexible schedules, it’s designed to boost your confidence and open more doors – socially and professionally. Because learning the language isn’t just smart, it’s empowering.

For more info visit our German Top-up page

Skills Sprint Week, Level Up in Just One Week

Imagine learning that actually feels like doing. That’s what Skills Sprint Week is all about.

Once a year, we pause the usual routine for a full-on, hands-on immersion into real-world challenges, from AI to sustainability to innovation. You’ll join workshops, solve problems, work with industry experts, and build skills that go way beyond the classroom. It’s intense, inspiring, and completely unforgettable.

data governance

Connections That Count

Your career journey starts while you’re studying, and we’re here to help you build it.

From networking evenings to guest speakers and company visits, our events are designed to connect you with professionals who could shape your future. It’s your chance to ask questions, explore industries, and get noticed.

Your Well-being Comes First

University life can be incredible, but it’s not always easy. That’s why we’re here for you, not just as a student but as a human being. Whether you’re juggling deadlines, feeling overwhelmed, or just need space to breathe, Gisma offers real support that goes beyond the classroom.

Psychological Support and Wellness Workshops

At Gisma, we understand that behind every academic journey is a person trying to balance deadlines, expectations, and life. That’s why we’re here for you, not just with books and lectures, but with real support when it matters most.

Our Psychological Support and Wellness Workshops are a safe space to pause, breathe, and refocus. Whether you’re feeling overwhelmed or just need someone to talk to, our counsellor Viktoria Tiltman is here to listen. Through one-on-one sessions, mindfulness practices, and stress management techniques, we’ll help you build the tools to stay grounded, resilient, and well.

Because your well-being isn’t just important—it’s everything.

A Soft Landing in a New Country. Settling into Life in Germany

Moving to a new country is a bold step, and you don’t have to do it alone. From the moment you land, Gisma is ready to help you settle in and feel at home. We’ve been through this with hundreds of students, and we know the difference a little support can make. You focus on the adventure ahead, we’ll handle the logistics.

Accommodation and Airport Pickup

Arriving in a new country can be overwhelming – we’re here to make it easy.

Our airport pickup service will get you to campus hassle-free, and our Accommodation Advisory Service will help you find the perfect place to live. Whether it’s a shared flat, private studio, or student residence, we’ve got you covered. In Berlin, you’ll also have access to the Edge Student Hub, a modern student residence just a short commute from campus. No matter where you live, we’ll help you navigate the practicalities so you can focus on what matters most, your studies, your well-being, and your Gisma experience.

For more info visit our accommodation page

International Student Affairs at Gisma

The International Student Affairs team at Gisma University of Applied Sciences is committed towards assisting you with your migration to Germany. Upon requests, the experienced team can advise and offer recommendations for your national visa application, German residence permit for study and job seekers’ purpose, student mobility programmes, and varied topics concerning immigration to Germany.

The team understands that settling down in a new city could be very exciting but daunting at the same time. To make your adjustment to a new setting easier, the team can offer guidance towards your upcoming travel plan, informational sessions on next steps after arrival in Germany, and organize workshops/webinars during your studies at Gisma. One of the unique services from the team includes ‘SERS residence permit service’ that authorizes SERS, a reputable immigration law firm based in Berlin to apply for German residence permits on behalf of Gisma students whether for study purposes or as job seekers after graduation. This support is offered free of charge to eligible Gisma students and detailed information is available on the SERS residence permit service guide.

Please feel free to contact the international student affairs team at internationalaffairs@gisma.com should you have any questions. The team really looks forward to making your life in Germany a memorable experience!

Visa information

SERS residence permit service

Gisma University of Applied Sciences is proud to maintain a long-standing partnership with SERS, a reputable immigration law firm based in Berlin, Germany.

SERS is our official partner, authorized to apply for German residence permits on behalf of Gisma students whether for study purposes or as job seekers after graduation.
This service is available to matriculated Gisma students currently residing in Berlin or Potsdam. In practical terms, SERS can submit your first-time residence permit application for both study and job-seeking purposes directly to the local immigration offices in Berlin or Potsdam.

This support is offered free of charge to eligible Gisma students. Please note, however, that the official residence permit fee set by the German immigration authorities must still be paid by the student.

Through our collaboration with SERS, you can count on expert legal guidance throughout your immigration process. Their team will assist you with documentation and ensure the entire procedure is clear, efficient, and compliant — helping you secure the right residence permit with confidence.

The International Student Affairs Team at Gisma is here to facilitate your application with SERS and provide practical and process-oriented guidance on all immigration matters during your studies.

We hope this partnership brings you peace of mind, allowing you to focus on what truly matters your studies and your future success.

Go Global With Erasmus+

We're opening the door to even more international learning experiences.

Through this programme, you’ll have the opportunity to enhance your academic experience with international learning, collaborative projects, and mobility options. Whether it’s spending time studying at one of our partner institutions or participating in cross-campus initiatives, Erasmus+ opens the door to global opportunities that will enrich your education and career. It’s not just about learning in the classroom, it’s about growing as a global citizen and gaining perspectives that set you apart in today’s interconnected world.
Download the Erasmus+ policy statement

Explore More

Discover our full range of programmes, find out about our student experience and student support services, or have a look our financial options.