International students worst hit by pandemic, group warns

DSW calls for more emotional support, housing and finances to help those from abroad cope at university

International students have been the worst affected student group during the Covid-19 pandemic, facing an onslaught of financial difficulties, loneliness and housing shortage, according to the German National Association for Student Affairs (DSW).

“The pandemic is acting like a burning glass,” said DSW secretary general Matthias Anbuhl, explaining that Germany-wide lockdowns and the resulting closure of workplaces and services had intensified pre-existing problems.