2.Silence in Public Transport- The Awkward Symphony
Back home, we talk to anyone and everyone. On a German train, it is so quiet you can hear a pin drop. Loud conversations, laughing, or TikTok with volume, that’s a social sin in Germany. You will probably be taking public transport daily to your university or part-time job. Adapting to the silence helps you blend in and avoid unwanted attention.

Tip: Keep your voice down, use headphones, and save the gossip for the WhatsApp voice note

3.The Weather – From Tropic Heat to Arctic Feels
In Sri Lanka, seasons go: hot, hotter, and rain. In Germany you will meet snow, wind, grey skies, and the occasional five-minute summer. The worst part is that the sun disappears at 4 PM in winter. Seasonal changes can affect your mood and energy, especially when adjusting to university life and independent living.

Tip: Get a warm coat, boots, and a worthy umbrella. Also, keep your vitamin D levels up.

4.Direct Communication – Not rude, just honest
In Sri Lanka, we sugarcoat everything. Germans? Not so much. They will tell you straight up if something is wrong. It might feel rude, but it is meant to be helpful and honest.
At university and in professional settings, direct communication saves time and avoids confusion. Whether you are applying for scholarships in Germany or asking your professor for feedback, being clear and confident is key.

Tip: Don’t overthink it. Be polite but get to the point. The Germans will respect you for it.

5.The Recycling Rules – Garbage isn’t simple anymore
Remember in Sri Lanka, where trash goes in “the bin”? In Germany, it is a full-blown exam: paper, bio, plastic, glass (by color), and general waste, all separated perfectly. Many student accommodations and flat shares require you to follow strict recycling rules. Failing to sort properly might get you a passive-aggressive post on the fridge.

Tip: Learn the categories,
•Gelber Sack – plastics and packaging
•Papier – paper and cardboard
•Bio – food scraps
•Restmüll – the rest

6.The Food – Bread, Bread, and…. More Bread
Sri Lankan meals are warm, spicy, and usually served with rice. In Germany, bread is life. Breakfast? Bread. Dinner? Cold bread. Spice level? Zero. Adapting to new food can be tough, especially when cravings hit mid-exam season. Thankfully, many cities have Asian stores where you can buy Lankan ingredients and even frozen parathas.

Tip: Stock up on chili flakes, bring curry powder from home, and learn a few student-friendly Sri Lankan recipes. Your taste buds will thank you.

7.Making Friends – Cold at first, warm forever
Germans might not smile or greet you unless they know you. It is not personal. They are just reserved until the ice is broken. Once you have earned their trust, they will be some of the most loyal friends you will ever have. Making connections is key to surviving and thriving, especially when you are far from home. From study groups to flatmates, building your community takes time.

Tip: Join student clubs, volunteer, or attend language exchange events. Be genuine, consistent, and share some Sri Lankan snacks. You will have a friend for life.

8.Independent Learning – No more spoon feeding
University in Germany is nothing like the A/L tuition culture. Professors won’t chase you for assignments or attendance. You will be expected to manage your own time, research, and workload. Whether you are pursuing a bachelor’s in Germany or a master’s in Germany, your success depends on self-motivation. Lectures are only part of the puzzle.

Tip: Use planners, set deadlines, and don’t be afraid to ask questions. Mastering independence is part of the German student superpower.

9.Tuition Free Education – Still sounds fake, but it’s real
You can study for free in Germany at some of the best universities in the world. Many public universities charge zero tuition, even for international students. This is one of the biggest advantages of choosing to study in Germany. You still need to cover living costs, that is where your block account in Germany comes in, but compared to other countries, it’s incredibly affordable.

Tip: Plan your finances, find part-time work, and take full advantage of this academic blessing. Your wallet will thank you later.

10.Scholarships in Germany – Hidden treasures
Many students don’t realize how many scholarships in Germany are available. From DAAD to university specific grants, there are options for nearly every field. These scholarships can help
cover living expenses, fund research, or even waive semester contributions. It is a game-changer for financially conscious students.

Tip: Start early. Prepare strong applications, highlight your motivation, and check for deadlines. It is worth the effort.

Every country has its quirks, but these shocks are also what make studying abroad unforgettable. The key is to laugh through the weird moments, learn from the awkward ones, and lean into the experience. So, whether you are applying for a free university in Germany, dreaming of a master’s in Germany, or figuring out your block account in Germany, just know you are not alone. And if it all gets too overwhelming, take a deep breath and take some free time.