Services for International Researchers
Welcome to RWTH Aachen University!
The team of the Welcome Center for International Researchers at RWTH Aachen University supports international researchers in planning and implementing their research stay. We offer advice and practical support so you can move and settle into Aachen nicely. Through a broad network of partners we offer you access to a wide range of administrative and social services inside and outside the University.
Registering at the Welcome Center
In order to use the services of the Welcome Center, we ask you to register in advance at the Welcome Center. Even if you come stay with us only for a short time and don‘t plan on receiving any qualification at RWTH, please register online here. In any case, we need some personal information from you, for example your name, your host institute, and the length of your stay. You can easily register online.
By registering at the Welcome Center:
- you will benefit from our support and advising services
- you will get access to the further education courses we offer
- you will have the opportunity to participate in social and cultural activities
- you will receive invitations to information events
Preparing Your Stay
Even before your arrival, we will gladly inform you about visa and residence regulations or answer your questions about work permits and employment contracts. To prepare for your stay in the best possible way, we have also compiled some information about living in Germany. Here you will find practical information, for example more about driving and driving licenses, accommodation, as well as general information about insurance.
When You Arrrive in Aachen
Once you have arrived in Aachen, if desired, we will guide you through completing the necessary formalities and administrative procedures. Our focus is on the non-academic aspects that are important for your start at RWTH and in the city of Aachen.
In close cooperation with your host and the experts of the respective service points, we coordinate the necessary processes for a smooth start at RWTH.
During your stay, we will arrange and network the offers of the various service and advice centers at RWTH and in Aachen and give you tips on living in the city. If you come to Aachen with your family, we will be happy to compile individual information for you.
Before You Go
At the end of your research stay, we will inform you about the necessary formalities and administrative procedures and will gladly establish contact with the RWTH Aachen Alumni Network.
Events and Networking
We regularly offer workshops, excursions, and events, including many in cooperation with other RWTH institutions. Also, you are very welcome to join our LinkedIn group for international researchers and use it to network with other international researchers in Aachen.
Register With the RWTH Aachen University Alumni Network
Are you a visiting researcher or post-doc finishing your stay at RWTH? Then do not forget to register for the university's Alumni Portal! Use the free offers and advantages of the University's worldwide alumni network! As a registered member you can subscribe to the alumni magazine, receive the alumni newsletter, apply for an alumni card, and take advantage of many other offers for RWTH researcher alumni!
More information can be found on the alumni websites:
Host Institutions
If necessary, we also support the host institutes in all matters concerning the recruitment and arrival of international guests. Furthermore, we offer advice on the financial support of short stays within the framework of the RWTH Aachen Travel Grant and handle the application process. If you are interested in helping researchers who have fled from abroad, we will be happy to inform you about the possibilities in the Philipp Schwartz Initiative.