Initial Orientation

In order to to be well prepared, it is important to focus on planning your career early on. International students at TU Darmstadt can find initial information on working in Germany here. Find out more about residence rights, application procedures, networking and career events.

Applying and Working in Germany and the World

Tips and Tricks

The transition from university to the working world is exciting but sometimes confusing. Here you can find resourceful materials and information to help you find your dream job following your studies.

Job Search

Are you in your last semester at TU Darmstadt? Ready to start looking for jobs? Here you can find various resources and information when searching for a job.

Right of Residence for Job Search:

According to German Law (§ 20 para. 3 no. 1 AufenthG), a residence permit can be issued up to 18 months after the successful completion of a degree-programme. After completion of your studies, you have the right to apply for a residence permit in Germany to look for work.

For this purpose, the Foreigner's Office requires the following documents:

• Application for extension of the residence permit

• Copy of the Bachelor or Master degree

• Proof of securing livelihood (blocked account, employment contract, declaration of commitment or Verpflichtungserklärung)

• Rental agreement/contract

• Proof of health insurance

Applying for a Job

Have you found a job you are interested in? Ready to apply? The resources collected here will help you prepare your application properly and successfully.

Working in Germany

You've been accepted to a new job? Congratulations! Here you will find more information about the final steps you should take before starting your new job.

As soon as you have found a job and the employer wants to offer you a contract, you will have to apply for a residence permit for employment purposes (German Law §19a AufenthG). To change your employment status, you must make sure that the job description matches your academic qualifications (the subject you studied).

You will need the following information or documents

  • Employment contract or a certificate of the employer
  • the job description
  • the duration of the contract
  • and present your income level

However, please contact your local Foreigners Office for the exact documents you would need in order to change your residence permit into a work permit. This may vary depending on your place of residence and the requirements of your local Foreigners Office.

Work Contract

When you receive your first employment contract, you should always check it carefully before signing.

Income Taxes

Every employee who is employed in Germany must pay an income tax.

German Social Security

There are various social security contributions to which you may be entitled once you start working in Germany.

Networking and Career Development at TU Darmstadt

The following organisations at TU Darmstadt can guide you with professional and specialised support for your individual career plans and help to connect you to other TU graduates to expand your network.

Ingenium – Young Researchers at TU Darmstadt is an organization which, together with its members, promotes ambitious early career researchers. The comprehensive program supports young researchers in setting and realizing their career goals.

HIGHEST is an innovation and founding center that offers various support services, especially for start-ups in the field of digitalization and high-tech. HIGHEST helps the founders to find funding opportunities, design suitable business models and to establish networks with other businesses. With its wide range of services, HIGHEST assists innovations and start-ups to successfully advance.

TU Darmstadt's Alumni network helps graduates to stay in touch even after their studies, to exchange experiences and to further expand their network. Interesting events on various topics take place regularly.

Big Sister is a network and mentoring programme offered by TU Darmstadt. It is aimed at supporting female students, particularly those from overseas or with a migration background. The programme facilitates networking and exchange between female students to support their successful transition to life at TU Darmstadt. Group meetings provide students the opportunity to discuss life in Darmstadt, exam preparation at the TU and recreational, free-time activities.