Building Bridges Into the German Labor Market

RWTH Aachen University views itself as a member of the global scientific community and we have been working intensively for years to train and attract talent from all over the world. Our efforts have paid off: More than a third of students at RWTH Aachen University now come from other countries. This diversity holds enormous potential for the future of the University, but also for companies. In order to systematically tap into this potential, the Career Service International was set up as part of the FIT for Success@RWTH Aachen project within the Career Center at RWTH Aachen University.

The FIT project is funded by the DAAD as part of the “International Experts” campus initiative with funds from the Federal Ministry of Education, Research and Space and it aims to provide international students with targeted support during their studies, to help them to improve their qualifications and to assist them on their way into the German labor market. The project runs until the end of 2028 and it brings together various stakeholders at the University – from the International Office to the Language Center and the Career Center.

Early Orientation – Targeted Support

The Career Service International at the Career Center offers a range of services that are specially tailored to our international students and graduates. The aim is to support them at an early stage in their professional orientation, to develop their skills and to open up prospects for a successful career start in Germany.

The core offers include:

• Individual advice on applications, finding an internship and starting a career
• Workshops and training on intercultural communication, application strategies, networking, and much more.
• Events with companies and potential employers
• Materials and templates for application documents, job interviews, and career strategies

A key component of this support is the modular support program “Career Success in Germany”.

Career Success in Germany Certificate Program

“By providing this program, we want to offer students the opportunity to prepare themselves specifically for entering the German job market and to be able to prove their suitability with the certificate by including it in their application documents,” says Xuan Wu-Mades, coordinator of the program. The certificate includes compulsory modules such as German courses, intercultural workshops, job application training, and group visits to trade fairs. In addition, further modules can be taken in the elective area to help them to integrate socially, such as sports courses or general social activities.

At the end of the program, participants receive a certificate that clearly shows their commitment and what they have achieved. This makes them more employable, and companies can easily see the skills of their future staff.

Participants’ opinions

The students confirm that the course is effective. Marat, B.Sc. Computer Science, said the following:

“I would like to express my thanks to you again, both for your support in preparing my CV and cover letter and for being there the whole time and guiding me through every step of the process.”

Naresh G., a medical student from India, also emphasizes the added value:

“The RWTH Career Success certificate is a real game changer for me. Through the practical workshops and trainings, I can not only significantly improve my soft skills but also sharpen my professional profile. The job interview and networking sessions are particularly helpful – they helped me enormously when I started my career. I can recommend the program to those who want to actively shape their careers – whether they are studying or on their way to work.”

Malhar G., a master's student on the Computer Aided Mechanical Engineering course, said this after taking part in a company tour:

“We are so grateful to the company and the staff at Career Service International for offering this great opportunity to us. We were able to gain valuable insights into the structure of a German company as well as in the possibilities in renewable energy.”

Companies and alumni as partners

Bridges to the job market are created most effectively when students come into direct contact with companies. That’s why we are strengthening this area in a targeted manner:

• Field trips to regional employers provide insights into operational processes.
• A Career Day for international students is planned for the 2026 summer semester.
• The Role Model Initiative is also being expanded: Alumni with an international background or intercultural experience share their career paths and provide guidance.

Alumni in particular are indispensable partners. Their own experiences – whether in starting a career, integrating into the German labor market or in an international context – make them authentic bridge builders between studying and working. Whether as a discussion partner at events, as a host during company visits or simply through personal discussions: Their contribution really counts.

– Author: Jutta Theß