Study in Germany
Everything you need to know about pursuing your degree in Germany, from university selection to visa requirements.
Choose the right university for you
Public universities dominate Germany's academic landscape with tuition-free education. Private universities provide more specialized education with smaller class sizes. Both offer extensive English-taught programs for international students.
Public vs private universities explained
Understand the differences between Germany's two main university systems.
ExploreUniversity vs Fachhochschule
In Germany, universities focus on theoretical research, while universities of applied sciences emphasize practical education.
Find out more →Best universities in Germany ranked
Find top-ranked institutions across engineering, business, and humanities disciplines.
Programmes taught in English
Find out which universities offer Bachelor and Master's Programs taught entirely in English.
Browse →Find the institution that suits you best
Your choice shapes your entire academic experience and career trajectory.
Take the quiz →General admission requirements
To apply for a programme at a German university, applicants need a recognized secondary school or prior university qualification equivalent to the German Hochschulzugangsberechtigung, or Abitur. Check if your certificate is sufficient, by looking up your country and qualifications in anabin or the DAAD admission database.
If your school-leaving certificate is not sufficient, you can attend a preparatory course in Germany called Studienkolleg or complete additional education in your home country.
Prove your German or English ability
Most programmes taught in English require IELTS or TOEFL scores. For German-taught programmes you will need TestDaF or DSH certification. These tests prove you can handle lectures, seminars, and coursework in your chosen language.
APS - essential for applicants from India and China
The APS certificate verifies your educational credentials and prevents diploma fraud. Without it, German universities won't process your application.
Grades matter, but they're not everything
In addition to your transcripts, diplomas, and certificates, some universities also require an aptitude test called the TestAS. More over, references from professors or employers, as well as a strong statement of purpose explaining why you want to study in Germany may be very helpful to your application.
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Four clear steps to your German degree
The path forward is straightforward. Each stage builds on the last, moving you closer to acceptance and arrival. Know what comes next and you'll move with confidence.
Select your programme
Research universities and select programmes that match your academic background and career goals. Decide if you want to apply for the summer or winter semester intake and consider their deadlines.
DAAD databaseGather your documents
Check if your profile satisfies the eligibility requirements. Compile transcripts, diplomas, language certificates, and any other materials your chosen institution requires. You may have to submit translated versions of your documents.
Submit your application
Apply directly to the university or through uni-assist, a centralised application platform used by many German institutions. Double-check the deadline and that you have collected all necessary documents.
Apply with uni-assistReceive your admission
Universities respond within weeks or months depending on the programme and when you submitted your application. Once accepted, you'll have everything needed to move forward with your visa application and accommodation search.
What studying in Germany actually costs
Since tuition fees in Germany were abolished in 2014, many international students assume that studying here is completely free. While it's true that education is very affordable, there are still some unavoidable costs you will need to plan for.
Semester contribution
All students enrolled at a German university have to pay a semester contribution, usually between €100 and €400, covering administrative services and public transport (Deutschland-Semesterticket).
Tuition fees
Most public universities in Germany do not charge any tuition fees. However, non-EU students studying in Baden-Württemberg are charged €1,500 per semester. Private universities usually charge tuition fees ranging from €5,000 to over €20,000 per year.
Living expenses
Budget minimum €600 to over €1,200 monthly for rent, food, insurance and other essentials. Costs vary by city and lifestyle, with Munich and Frankfurt being most expensive (€1,200+) and smaller cities offering cheaper rent options.
Incoming health insurance
Before starting your university enrollment, you need incoming health insurance to cover the initial period of your stay in Germany. This is a private health insurance that you will also need for your visa application.
Public vs private insurance
If you are under 30, you will usually join a public plan (costs around €130–€150/month), while older students or those in certain programs can only take a private insurance (costs range greatly depending on included services).
Study in Germany Webinars
Join our webinars to hear from advisors who've guided thousands of through this process.
Visa and documents
A step-by-step guide to the German student visa process and required documentation.
Admission essentials
Learn what German embassies actually want to see in your application
Requirements for the German student visa
To apply for a German student visa, you typically need a valid passport, an admission letter from a recognized German university, proof of sufficient financial resources, health insurance coverage, and proof of language proficiency (English or German).
Additional requirements
You may also need to submit academic transcripts, a motivation letter, and attend a visa interview at the German embassy or consulate in your home country.
Proof of finance (2026)
You will need to prove you can cover one year of living costs (currently €11,904), usually through a blocked account (Sperrkonto). Scholarships or a formal letter of commitment can also be accepted.
Blocked account providers
Balance work
and studies
International students in Germany can work 120 full days (during semester breaks) or 240 half days annually. Part-time jobs are very common and a great way to ensure additional income and gain practical experience while studying.
Work limits
You can work up to 20 hours per week during semesters, or full-time (40h per week) during breaks. These restrictions exist to ensure you can remain largely focused on your studies and avoid burnout.
Student job opportunities
You can find jobs through your university (e.g. as an assistant), on campus notice boards, via the career centre, or on job portals. Please note: self-employment and freelancing are not possible during your studies.
Health insurance for international students in Germany
You must have health insurance in Germany to enroll at your university. This ensures that everyone has access to high-quality medical care, including doctor visits, urgent care or hospital treatment, and essential medications. Depending on your insurance plan, it can also cover preventive check-ups, mental health support, dental and other important services to keep you well during your studies.
Incoming health insurance
Before starting your university enrollment, you need incoming health insurance to cover the initial period of your stay. This is also required for your visa application.
Public vs private
Under 30? Usually public plan (€130-€150/month). Older students or specific programs may need private insurance.
Incoming health insurance
The essential bridge to your university enrollment and visa success. Total coverage from day one.
Next live webinar - Study in Germany Made Simple
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Sun 10 May
The blocked account: Your financial safety net
To receive your German student visa, you must prove you have enough money to live in Germany for one year. The most common and official way to do this is with a blocked account (Sperrkonto).
Required Amount (2026)
To be deposited before your visa interview
Monthly Allowance
Payout starts once you arrive and open a current account
Note: This amount is adjusted periodically by the German government to reflect the current cost of living.
Your journey to studying in Germany from A to Z
Plan ahead and you will move through each step confidently and without panic. These timelines are realistic and they give you breathing room to collect necessary documents, meet important deadlines, and take decisions with no additional pressure.
Discovery
Research universities and programmes that match your interests and abilities.
Application
Prepare documents and submit applications to your chosen institutions.
Visa Process
Prepare all visa requirements and begin the application process at your embassy.
Housing
Search for accommodation in your chosen city and secure housing.
Travel
Arrange travel, book flights, and prepare for your arrival in Germany.
Frequently asked questions
Quick answers to common questions about studying in Germany.