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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