Frequently Asked Questions about the Academic Year in Germany

Yes, the trip is mandatory for all students and is an integral part of the academic program.

During the academic year abroad, students take elective courses at one of the available campuses and then complete an internship supervised by the host university. This internship may be carried out anywhere in the world, except in Paraguay.

The student must:

• Be up to date with tuition payments.

• Be up to date with the academic progress of their program.

• Have the minimum required level of German (B2.2).

Students with outstanding administrative debts, pending courses, or who do not meet the required German language level will NOT be allowed to travel.

The trip takes place during the third year of the program, generally at the end of September, to coincide with the start of the European autumn–winter semester on the first working day of October.

It has a minimum duration of 10 months, although this may vary depending on the length of the student’s internship.

The internship has a minimum duration established by the host university, which varies depending on the academic program. Generally, it lasts 4 months, although some companies offer 6-month internships.

Finding an internship is the sole responsibility of the student. The university provides workshops to prepare the CV and motivation letters according to European standards, which are then sent to companies during the application process.

Each year, the university informs students about the available campuses and their academic offerings. Students select the campus based on the elective courses they wish to take.

No, the Itaipú scholarship does NOT cover the trip or the costs of the academic year abroad.

Yes, tuition and fees must continue to be paid regularly to UPA. Students do NOT pay any additional tuition fees at the host university in Germany.

Students must arrange personal and academic documents, such as:

• A valid passport.

• German language proficiency certificate (B2.2).

• Academic transcripts and enrollment certificates.

• Letter of acceptance from the host university.

The options are:

• On-campus apartments: managed by the host university. Costs range from €450 to €760, plus a refundable security deposit.

• Shared apartments off campus (WG): accommodation is arranged directly by the student.

Yes, students without a European passport must apply for a German visa through the German Embassy in Asunción. For more details, please visit the German Embassy. 

The cost is €75, payable in Paraguayan guaraníes at the exchange rate of the day. This amount is subject to change.

• Application forms (2).

• Biometric passport photos (2).

• Valid passport and copies.

• Letter of acceptance from the host university.

• Academic transcripts and enrollment certificates.

• German language certificate (B2.2).

• Proof of health insurance and a blocked bank account.

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It is a bank account in which the student deposits the total amount required to cover living expenses during the period of stay. For example, for 12 months, €11,904 must be deposited (€992 per month).

This requirement guarantees the student’s financial solvency and is mandatory for obtaining the visa.

The estimated cost is €1,000 per month, which includes food, accommodation, transportation, and health insurance.

Normally, there are no specific scholarships available. However, in some years ERASMUS mobility scholarships are offered. For more information, please contact the International Relations Office.

Yes, informational meetings are held at the end of the second year and during the third academic year. These meetings are announced through the institutional email.

The International Relations Office provides support in all aspects of the experience, from visa processing to course selection and enrollment at the host university.