Anyone coming to Germany from abroad to study has to organise many things at the same time. Residence status, accommodation and financing need to be clarified, in addition to the challenge of finding your way in a new environment. The Hochschule Niederrhein aims to provide better support for international students in the future. The International Office will open the "Welcome Centre for International Students" in the summer semester of 2026.
In the winter semester 2025/26, 1,388 international students were registered at The Hochschule Niederrhein, accounting for 10.4% of the total student body. "International students are a growing target group for universities. They bring new perspectives, strengthen intercultural exchange and are an important factor for the region in view of the shortage of skilled workers," says Nicole Blankenhagel, Coordinator of the Welcome Centre. Internationalisation is a central strategic goal at The Hochschule Niederrhein. Many degree programmes have an international focus and there are collaborations worldwide.
Reliable local structures are needed so that students from abroad can successfully start and complete their studies. The Welcome Centre provides advice and information throughout the entire duration of studies. Topics include residence status, finding accommodation, integration, acculturation and student finance. The aim is to support international students in all matters and at the same time relieve the burden on faculties and administrative offices, which have often been the first point of contact in the past.
The topic is also important for the Lower Rhine region. International graduates help to secure specialists and strengthen local economic development. A structured counselling service increases the chances of them successfully completing their studies and staying in the region in the long term. The Welcome Centre therefore also sees itself as contributing to a welcoming culture at the university and beyond.
Coordinator Nicole Blankenhagel is supported by a team of International Office staff and student assistants who provide initial and referral counselling. Further physical contact points at the campus locations as well as additional workshops and networking events are planned for the future. Information is available on the Welcome Centre's new website. Requests can be sent by email to welcomecentre@hs-niederrhein.de.
https://www.hs-niederrhein.de/internationales/welcome-centre/
