Writing term papers, presentations and theses without Microsoft Office? Impossible! But a licence can be expensive. Lucky you! As a student enrolled at the University of Konstanz or the HTWG you may download Microsoft Office 365 Pro Plus for your PC and Mac for 3.99 euros! And the best part: you can use it on up to five different devices. For more information, visit the IT Service Centre and office für bildung pages.
Tip for bargain hunters: Get a GEZ exemption
Since 1 January 2013, every household has had to pay the so-called “Rundfunkbeitrag” (TV and radio licence fee). That means: It doesn’t matter how many people you share your flat with, as long as one person pays the fee the entire household is covered.
BAföG (German Federal Training Assistance Act) recipients may apply for an exemption from paying the Rundfunkbeitrag. If you or one of your flatmates are granted an exemption, the others won’t have to pay the fee either.
It’s best to apply for an exemption from paying licence fees within two months of having your BAföG application approved. You must do this in order for your Rundfunkbeitrag exemption to take effect retrospectively on the day your BAföG starts. If you don’t apply within two months, you will not be exempted until the following month.
Tip for bargain hunters: Zebra, the home of underground cinema
A film for 6.50 euros (students and pupils only 5.50) – where would you find that? At the Zebra cinema in Konstanz of course! For more than 30 years, the non-commercial Zebra cinema has been well-known for its excellent film selection beyond the mainstream. Their motto is “Andere Filme anders zeigen”, which is to say they aim to show different films in a different manner. The programme is organised by a team of volunteers and consists of various film series and thematic emphases. A special treat for real film buffs: They also show 35-mm films! Drinks are very affordable and on Mondays (Kinotag) admission is a sensational 4.50 euros!
Additionally, the Zebra team organises the low-budget »short.film.festival« every autumn. 2016 saw its 13th instalment! In several film blocks, you can watch short films lasting a maximum of 30 minutes each. Make sure to get your glamour on: numerous film directors will be present!
Tip for bargain hunters: Give it away, Konstanz
Sometimes it is really amazing what other people want to throw away. The Facebook page “Verschenk’s Konstanz” (give it away, Konstanz) has become a real bargain highlight. Rumour has it that some people simply stare at the page and wait until the next offer shows up, as only the early bird gets the worm! By the way: giving away will make you happy yourself, too!
Tip for bargain hunters: Fairkauf, recycling depot, Brockenhaus
You need crockery for your apartment, a wardrobe, or a used vacuum cleaner? Have a look at the second-hand store “Fairkauf” or the Warenbörse (merchandise exchange) of the Wertstoffhof (recycling depot) . Both are Caritas initiatives where you can find great bargains from time to time.
In Switzerland we recommend the Brockenhaus, called “Brocki” by everyone (there are two inKreuzlingen!).
Tip for bargain hunters: All You Can Eat at Ginza Chinese Restaurant
Ravenous but stumped for cash? Then “all you can eat” is what you need. At the Ginza Chinese Restaurant, 9.90 euros will go a long way. Visit between 11:30 and 15:00 and eat as much as you like. Or opt for one of the affordable lunch menus, which start at 6.20 euros!
Tip for bargain hunters: budget drinking in the Casba
You are up for a match of table football, loud music and budget drinks? Come on, let’s go to the Casba. This alternative bar is legendary and is unrivalled in its student-friendly prices, even after all these years. The atmosphere in this bar is always fantastic.
Tip for bargain hunters: going by bus for free
Don’t have a Studi-Ticket but want to ride the bus for free? No problem! All students enrolled at the university or HTWG can use the Studi-Ticket public transportation services from 19:00 to 04:30 thanks to the solidarity fee all students pay each semester. That includes the bus, the Seehas trains and even the ferry to/from Meersburg. Only exception: the special “Nachtschwärmer” (night owl) buses. Please don’t forget to bring along your student ID card and the attached semester sticker.