My Qualifications: I moved to Germany for 7 years
I can only add my voice to what others have said: Just apply to universities and get your student visa.
In general it is very difficult applying to jobs in countries from abroad, and in many countries they have laws requiring that companies must prove that they couldn't source talent locally first.
Meanwhile student visas are very easy to get, and after you are in the country on a student visa, you can seek part time work, or get a job as soon as you graduate. Many countries offer fast-track residence permits for expats who have graduated from one of their universities.
My story: I applied to a german university, got accepted, and got the student visa relatively painlessly. After graduating I found a job relatively quickly and got a work permit.
I have some more tips, specifically pertaining to Germany and your requirements:
> Language: In Germany you can get around no problem with 0 German. Me personally I downloaded Duolinguo the day before my flight and I did just fine learning as I went.
> EU financial foundation: I'd say you can just build a US financial foundation then send it over via bank transfer when u arrive.
> Established living situation: If you get accepted to a german university, try to show up at least a month before courses start. Take that time to open a bank account, get insurance, enrol and find an apartment. Do NOT try to find a rental when you don't have boots on the ground, there are a bunch of scams that target international students trying to secure accomodation. For your first month or so, just stay in an airbnb until you find a place you like long-term
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Did you experience a lot of cash loss in moving your finances over? I’ve been concerned about losing too much to fees, which is in part why I’ve hoped to set a bit of a financial bedrock before trying to start school.