The principle of "Studierendenwerk" - where universities take care of teaching and research and a service institution does the rest - is rare in other countries.
Two of our student editors went abroad for a semester - Olivia to Madrid, Maria to New York. From their respective locations, they report on how student services are organized locally. How does it work with the dorms? How much does the Mensa cost? Are there counseling centers? How and where do you meet new people?
Find out how to finance your studies in Spain, how health care is organized there, or how to find an apartment in New York.
Good preparation tips included...