Your Semester in Pune – A Journey of Discovery

Discover Pune’s Rich Biodiversity

Pune, nestled in the Western Ghats—a UNESCO World Biodiversity Hotspot—boasts a surprising variety of flora and fauna. What makes Pune truly special is how nature thrives alongside city life—parakeets nest in building crevices, banyan trees tower over bustling streets, and monsoon rains transform the landscape into a verdant paradise. Protecting these ecosystems is vital, as they provide clean air, water, and a refuge for both wildlife and weary urban dwellers. For nature-loving students, Pune is a living classroom waiting to be explored!

Your semester at BVDU

All JIMES students spend their second semester together in Pune, India, at Bharati Vidyapeeth (Deemed to be University). The second semester starts in January. This shared mobility experience is a core part of the program and enables deep intercultural exchange, field-based learning, and joint supervision.

Studying in Pune isn’t just a change of scenery — it’s a transformative experience. Your second semester at Bharati Vidyapeeth (Deemed to be University) will immerse you in a new academic environment, a different climate and culture, and a vibrant student community. This is your opportunity to see the world through new perspectives, to learn across cultures, and to build lasting connections with fellow students and faculty in India. It’s a time for curiosity, openness, and mutual respect — inside and outside the classroom.

From exploring new approaches to sustainability, to sharing daily life with your peers in Pune, this semester will challenge and inspire you in ways that go far beyond academics. Make the most of it — with an open mind, a spirit of adventure, and a readiness to grow.

Support with Visa, Housing, and Arrival

You won’t be on your own when preparing for your semester in Pune. The JIMES program coordinators in both Cologne and Pune will support you with the key steps — including visa applications, housing arrangements, and arrival planning.

Before the start of the semester, you’ll receive detailed information, documents for your visa application, and assistance with securing accommodation on or near the BVDU campus. We’re here to help make your transition to India as smooth as possible. All JIMES students will need a Student Visa (Type ‘S’) for their second semester at Bharati Vidyapeeth (Deemed to be University) in Pune.

While the JIMES coordinators in Cologne and Pune will support you with the required documents and guidance, you are responsible for submitting your visa application in time. Make sure to prepare early.

Here’s what you’ll typically need (for information only, the full set of documents will be determined and communicated in due time):

• Completed Visa Application Form – Submitted to the Indian Embassy or Consulate in your country.
• Valid Passport – Your passport must be valid for at least six months beyond your planned return date to Germany.
• Proof of Financial Resources – e.g. blocked account or sponsorship letter
• University Admission Letter – Provided by the JIMES office.
• Health & Travel Insurance – Comprehensive coverage is mandatory for your visa.

Check for detailed information: Indian Visa Portal

Health & Vaccinations

Your health and safety are important to us, and we’ll help you prepare for your stay in India.

• Vaccinations – We recommend checking with a travel doctor about common vaccinations such as Hepatitis A and B, Typhoid, Tetanus, and Diphtheria. These are standard for most travel to South Asia.
• Prescription Medications – If you take regular medication, please bring a sufficient supply along with a doctor’s prescription in English. This ensures continuity while you’re abroad.
• First-Aid Kit – It’s helpful to pack a small personal kit with basic medicines (e.g. for stomach issues, allergies, or pain relief). These are also available in India, but having your own at the start is practical.

The team in Pune will be there to support you with health-related questions, doctor visits if needed, and general well-being during your semester abroad.

Cost of Living

The cost of living is lower in India compared to Germany. However, opportunities for part-time jobs are more limited due to differences in lifestyle.

Support & Community at BVDU

You’ll be supported throughout your stay in Pune — both academically and personally.

• Your first point of contact is the BVDU Institute of Environment Education and Research (BVEER). The team at BVEER will assist you with arrival, orientation, and settling in on campus.
• You’ll also benefit from the Office of International Affairs, which offers additional support and organizes events for international students.
• There are many opportunities to connect with Indian and international peers, join student clubs, and take part in cultural exchange activities.

Together with your JIMES coordinators, BVEER and BVDU will ensure that you feel welcome and supported throughout your semester in Pune.