What is it to work as a “HiWi” in Germany?

HiWi is the abbreviation for “Hilfswissenschaftler”, which in Portuguese means something like “scientific assistant” or “research assistant”. Basically, it's when you work part-time at a university, helping professors, researchers, or even other departments with academic tasks. Think of it as being an intellectual “handyman” and it's cooler than it sounds!

‍

How does this so-called HiWi work in practice?

Imagine that you are studying engineering and a vacancy appears to help a teacher with research on renewable energy. You can work organizing data, helping with experiments, or even supporting other students in laboratories. It's work, but it's work that makes sense with what you're studying.

The great thing is that you gain practical experience in your area while still in college. It's like having an internship, but with more flexibility and generally better compensation. Who are you doing it for exchange in Hamburg or in any German city, it's a golden opportunity.

‍

How much does a HiWi earn in Germany?

A HiWi in Germany earns between €12 and €15 per hour, depending on the university, your area of study, and the type of work you are going to do. With this amount, you can cover a large part of your monthly expenses. Student housing in Germany costs between €300 and €600, food is around €250 per month, and public transport €80. The cool thing is that, unlike other part-time jobs, such as working in restaurants or stores, HiWi gives you experience directly related to your course.

‍

What kind of work do you do as a HiWi?

The variety is enormous, and that's what makes everything more interesting. You can:

Help with research: Collecting data, organizing information, doing interviews, or statistical analysis. If you are in the area of IT in Germany, can work developing systems or analyzing codes.

Provide laboratory support: Preparing experiments, maintaining equipment, or helping other students.

Assist in classes: Correcting tests, preparing teaching material, or even giving reinforcement classes to other students.

Work in the administration: Organizing academic events, taking care of documents, or helping with university bureaucratic processes.

Support special projects: Each university has its unique projects, and they always need extra hands to touch things forward.

‍

How to get a HiWi vacancy?

Here's the secret: networking is everything! Most vacancies aren't even announced publicly. Teachers generally offer it first to students they already know and trust. So, if you want to be a HiWi, start by being a present and engaged student.

It's also worth keeping an eye on the university murals and the official website. Vacancies are often advertised there, especially at the beginning of the semester. And don't be ashamed to send an email to teachers in your area asking if they need help. For students considering Work part-time during the exchange, HiWi is definitely one of the best options available.

‍

Advantages of being a HiWi

In addition to the money (which is already a good reason), being a HiWi has several other advantages that can make all the difference in your experience in Germany:

Academic networking: You will get to know teachers, researchers, and other professionals in your field much more closely than would be possible just by attending classes.

Practical experience: It's the chance to apply what you're learning to theory in a real and concrete way.

Improvement of German: Working with Germans, your language will naturally improve. And look, you are going to learn technical German in your field on a daily basis.

Gateway to future opportunities: Many HIWIs end up being invited to internships, master's degrees, or even jobs after graduation.

Flexibility: Most HiWi jobs have flexible hours, allowing them to reconcile well with studies.

‍

Requirements to be a HiWi

You don't have to be a genius to get a HiWi job, but a few things help a lot:

At least intermediate German: You don't have to speak like a native speaker, but you do need to be able to communicate well, especially if you're going to work directly with German teachers.

Good grades: You don't have to be first in class, but decent grades show that you take your studies seriously.

Genuine interest: Teachers can tell when someone is really interested in the area versus someone who just wants the money.

Responsibility: As you will be dealing with important research and projects, reliability is paramount.

Basic computer skills: Excel, Word, PowerPoint - the basics, but it makes a difference in everyday life.

‍

What to expect in the future as a former HIWI?

One of the best things about being a HiWi is that this experience opens a lot of doors. Many students who worked as HiWi end up being invited to:

• Master's programs at the same university
• Internships at university partner companies
• More advanced research projects
• Jobs in startups or companies in the region
• PhD programs (if you have an academic interest)

The experience as a HiWi is especially valuable if you are thinking of staying in Germany after your studies. German employers highly value candidates who have already had work experience in the country, even if it's part-time work during their studies.

‍

Be Easy: turning dreams into reality

If you are considering studying in Germany and want to take advantage of all these opportunities as a HiWi, Be Easy is here to help you every step of the way. Our team is deeply familiar with the German education system and can guide you from choosing a course to practical tips on how to get a job as a student. Don't let red tape or doubts stop you from living this experience. Contact us and let's plan your academic and professional future in Germany together!