Heading into the World (Auf in die Welt) Dortmund

The “Auf in die Welt” fair is a well-established education event held across Germany, offering students, parents, and educators reliable guidance on opportunities for studying or staying abroad during and after school. Twice a year, the Dietrich-Keuning-Haus in Dortmund transforms into a vibrant hub for international education and exchange.

The event is organized by the German Foundation for International Understanding, a non-profit organization committed to promoting global exchange, educational access, and intercultural dialogue throughout Germany. The fair is part of a nationwide series of events regularly hosted in cities across the country.

At the heart of the Dortmund fair are the many paths to going abroad – from high school exchanges, boarding schools, and private school programs to language trips, summer camps, and gap year opportunities such as au pair placements, volunteer work, Work & Travel programs, internships, or Wwoofing. Funding options and scholarships are also a key focus, with practical application tips and direct access to scholarship providers.

Visitors benefit from independent advice, first-hand reports from former participants, expert talks, and the chance to compare a variety of providers. The fair thus offers valuable support in making well-informed decisions about individual international experiences.

What sets the fair apart is its hands-on approach: Leading exchange organizations, language travel providers, international schools, educational institutions, as well as embassies and consulates offer in-depth insights into programs, procedures, and opportunities. The combination of personal consultation, authentic experiences, and actionable advice makes the fair a valuable information platform for anyone exploring international education options.

The main target groups are secondary school students, parents, teachers, prospective university students, and high school graduates planning a gap year. The fair welcomes both individual visitors and school groups or educational institutions.

As a key part of the nationwide fair series, the Dortmund edition is a major hub for international education counseling in the Ruhr region. The choice of the Dietrich-Keuning-Haus—known for its strong commitment to integration and cultural exchange—highlights the fair’s mission to build bridges between education, global thinking, and local engagement. Its central location and excellent public transport connections make it an ideal venue for this open and welcoming event.

The “Auf in die Welt” fair in Dortmund is therefore much more than an information event: it is a practical and inspiring resource for anyone looking to experience education from a global perspective.

The Heading into the World (Auf in die Welt) will take place on Saturday, 21. March 2026 in Dortmund.