You're not from the Aachen area and don't know your way around? No problem!
We've summarized all the most important facts for you on this page:
- Preliminary Information
- Accomodations in Aachen
- Must-Sees in Aachen
- Public Transport
- What Else You Should Know…
After submitting your application, you must pass the knowledge test. However, if you do not live in the Aachen area, you have the option of scheduling the knowledge test and interviews in the same week. This means you may only need to travel once. If you prefer this option or have any questions about scheduling, please contact us using these contact details.
We have put together a selection of budget-friendly accommodations for you:
- A&O Hostel at main station
- Youth Hostel in Aachen
- Hostel Aachen
- Ibis Budget in Aachen
- Bestpreis Hotel Aachen
If you would like to get to know Aachen a little better on your first visit, a trip to the old town is highly recommended. The old town is located in the center of Aachen, about a 20-minute walk from the IT Center. Here you can visit Aachen Cathedral, a building steeped in cultural heritage. Right next to it you will find the old town hall, the treasury, the Elisenbrunnen fountain, and many attractive shopping opportunities.
Pontstraße is known among students as the “student mile” and gives you a first glimpse of Aachen's nightlife with bars, pubs, and restaurants that are popular meeting places for Aachen students. If you prefer a quieter atmosphere, you can stick to the cafés and restaurants in the upper part of Pontstraße. Pontstraße is within walking distance of green spaces: you can reach the Lousberg in 5 minutes and enjoy views of the whole of Aachen or relax in a hammock.
The border triangle, where Germany, the Netherlands, and Belgium meet, is also always worth a visit. The Dreiländereck is located on the edge of the Vaalser Quartier and is therefore best reached from the center by public transportation. Simply take public transportation to the Keltenstraße stop and continue on foot toward Vaals. There you will find a sign pointing you to the Dreiländereck. But that was just a small glimpse - Aachen has so much more to offer...
The best way to get around Aachen is by bus. You can find all the information you need about tickets on the ASEAG website. Buying a ticket online in advance can save you stress when you arrive.
If you are arriving by train, take bus line 3A from the main station to the Seffenter Weg bus stop. You will then be right at the IT Center of RWTH Aachen University, where the knowledge test will take place in the Seffenter Weg 23 building.
- If you decide to combine MATSE training with the Applied Mathematics and Computer Science degree program, you can also apply for accommodation in one of the many student residences at FH Aachen.
- As a student, you enjoy a number of advantages, including university sports: whether you want to meet new people or try a new sport, exercise is always a good way to balance out a stressful day.
- Being new to a city doesn't mean you have to spend a lot of money. There are many ways to discover Aachen for free:
- Walking Tours: You can explore the city on your own on various walking tours. The Aachen Tourist Office offers various maps for download.
- You can enjoy free music at the Aachen September Special concerts or, if you prefer classical music, at the concerts of the Aachen Music Academy.
- The Vennbahn Cycle Route has something for all cycling enthusiasts: you can cycle through three countries over 125 km and discover fascinating landscapes and historical stories.
- With your semester ticket, you can not only travel free of charge on public transport throughout North Rhine-Westphalia, but even as far as Maastricht! How about a visit to the Dutch university city?