Thriving in Germany: Cultural Etiquettes and Practical Living Tips for Indian Students
19 June 2025
Relocation to a foreign land is a fine way of development, but simultaneously poses the challenge of coping with different ways of living. Germany is particularly renowned for its outstanding education network, high-standard colleges, and economic way of living among Indian students. Nevertheless, daily life in Germany is quite unknown to the majority of Indians.
Learning about German social mores and customs is a key component of settling in. Not only facilitates smooth adjustment, but also encourages the establishment of good relations with colleagues, instructors, and the community.
At BCES Admissions Abroad, we not only guide Indian students through university admissions—presently, we guide you to settle abroad as well. Throughout this post, we will guide you through some simple, practical, and helpful tips regarding German culture so that you feel at home in Germany while sustaining your own cultural identity with pride.
Cultural Manners Indian Students Need to Follow in Germany
- Punctuality is a Mark of Respect
In Germany, punctuality is greatly appreciated. Whether it’s a class, meeting, or even a bus, Germans would want you to be on time. Being late a bit would seem like an act of disrespect. Always try to plan ahead and arrive a little earlier.
- People Prefer Direct Communication
In Germany, individuals communicate directly and simply. They say what they intend to say and do not use flowery language. Do not be offended by this; it is just their direct style of communication. Indians usually use polite hints or indirect answers, whereas in Germany direct answers are given.
- Personal Space is Important
In Germany, individuals prefer to have a gap of some comfort while communicating with someone, particularly if they are not familiar. Greeting with a handshake is the universal greeting, and respecting the distance while conversing is also courteous.
- Quietness is Appreciated in Public Places
Regardless of whether you are traveling by bus, reading in a library, or making a café stopover, it is only decent to speak softly. Germans love peaceful and quiet surroundings. Keeping your surroundings clean and following waste sorting regulations is also required.
- Formal Address Reflects Good Behavior
When greeting new individuals or approaching your lecturers, greet them formally using titles such as “Herr” (Mr.) or “Frau” (Ms./Mrs.) followed by their surname. You are not supposed to call them by first name unless they request you to.
Practical Tips to Help Indian Students Survive in Germany
- Be Prepared for the Weather
Germany can get very cold, especially in winter. If you’re coming from a warm place in India, the temperature might surprise you. Make sure to buy good-quality winter clothing, including thermal layers and a waterproof jacket.
- Cook Your Favourite Indian Meals
Indian restaurants can be found in major cities, but eating out every day is costly. Mastering simple Indian dishes will keep you in funds and provide you with a taste of home when you require it. Indian food stores are normally not hard to locate in major towns.
- Public Transport Makes Life Easy
Germany has great public transport. Buses, trains, and bicycles are extensively used and are punctual. You can usually avail travel discounts with semester tickets as a student, making it very economical to travel.
- Health Insurance is a Must
All German students need health insurance. You will need to organize this prior to commencing your lessons. English-speaking doctors are available in most towns, but a little basic medical German can be very useful in an emergency situation.
- Making New Friends
Joining student clubs, activities, and learning a few simple German words will make befriending individuals easy quickly. Most Germans will be ready to help you if they realize that you are attempting to learn their culture.
It’s not about getting a degree in Germany—it’s about enhancing one’s self and creating life-long memories. By being respectful of the German lifestyle and willing to try new things, you can have a good time.
Here at BCES Admissions Abroad, we’re not just here to assist you in getting admitted into university—we are here to assist you through your entire foreign experience. You may contact us at any point in time for recommendations, guidance, or admissions services. Call us on 9319996328.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)
It may take a few months or weeks for you to settle well, but as a whole, Indian students acclimatize easily by understanding local manners, becoming friendly with locals, and remaining receptive to new things.
Vegetarian and vegan food are readily available at shop and restaurant level. Indian food shops also stock typical vegetables, particularly in the larger cities.
Certain universities provide English as an important language of study, but learning some basic German can aid in everyday living and assist when dealing with native inhabitants.
Yes, German people are generally friendly to international students. As long as you’re interested in their culture and respect local customs, you can have a nice experience.
Don’t be late, yell very loudly on the street, and don’t recycle. They’re all little but polite German cultural habits and help you get along nicely.
