Erasmus+: Step by Step

Application for a place in the Erasmus+ program

• Read about the program on the Erasmus+ website of the University of Potsdam in advance. You will find partner universities, contacts, and testimonials from former Erasmus+ students here. Please also take advantage of the information events offered by the International Office.
• Applications must be submitted to the Exchange Coordinators in the departments. The application deadline is January 10 for the following academic year.
• Most importantly, note that there is only one application round for the entire subsequent academic year (winter and summer semester)!
• Be sure to research the semester schedules at the host universities, as they often differ from the Potsdam semesters!

Application documents

The application documents vary depending on the subject. Usually, a resume, letter of motivation, PULS performance overview, and proof of language proficiency are required. Applications must be submitted online via the application portal MoveON.

Allocation of spots in the Erasmus+ program

• Selection of applicants by the exchange coordinators on the basis of the following potential criteria: academic performance, linguistic competence, motivation and time of application, progress made in the degree program.
• Nomination at the host universities by the International Office.
• The exchange coordinators usually issue their acceptance or rejection of the applications between January and March.

Before the study abroad period

• By accepting the place offered in your department, you automatically register with the International Office to participate in the Erasmus+ program. The International Office will provide you with lots of important information.
• The International Office nominates you for the exchange at the host university (March–May for the winter semester or September–November for the summer semester). 
• You must apply to the host university between March and June. Please note that the application process varies greatly between partner universities. Check the website of your host university in good time for deadlines and required documents. Some universities will send you information directly, while others require you to take action yourself. Different deadlines apply for the summer semester (September to November).
• Create a digital learning agreement. With the learning agreement, you agree on the course selection at the host university and at the same time clarify the recognition of credits at the University of Potsdam. 
• You do not need to reapply for the Erasmus+ scholarship. In June, you will receive a Grant Agreement with all the information about the scholarship. The first instalment will be paid before your departure. Information about the Erasmus+ scholarship can be found here. 

Once you have arrived in the host country

• Have your arrival confirmed.
• You can make changes to your digital learning agreement within five weeks of the start of the semester. Obtain approval from the host university and your home university.
• You may like the host university so much that you would like to stay for an extra semester. Contact the International Office in good time!

If you have any problems or questions, feel free to contact the International Office.

Before your return

Confirmation of Stay: Before you leave, get confirmation of the actual length of your stay from the host institution. Obtain any necessary signatures and find out when and how your certificate will be delivered to you.

After your return

• Submit the necessary documents to complete your Erasmus+ stay.
• You will receive the second installment after you have submitted all the required documents.

 Transfer of credits for studies abroad

As soon as you have received the list of your academic achievements from abroad (Transcript of Records), you should contact the Examining Board of your institute/department (not the Central Examination Office!) for recognition. You can find information on grade conversion as well as forms here.