Requirements for studying in Germany
Germany is a hotspot for education, offering a wide range of courses and programs at world-renowned universities. With over 450,000 international students already making the most of what Germany has to offer, it’s a top pick for students worldwide.
If you’re considering pursuing a degree in Germany, we’ve put together a handy list of the requirements you’ll need to meet – check them out below!
Here are the study in Germany requirements:
1. Study Program
Although not a requirement as much as an essential step to studying in Germany, finding a course you like will get you started on all the upcoming requirements.
If you have set your mind to pursue your qualification in this picturesque Western European country, you must gather as much information as possible regarding the requirements and university admission criteria in Germany.
If you still need to choose a program, then you can go through our database of international study programs in Germany and search for options based on your preferences.
2. University Admission Requirements
Once you find the study program you’re interested in, the next step is understanding the admission requirements. Before anything else, you will have to meet the criteria set by the higher education institution to gain admission to that particular program.
To be admitted to a German university, your qualifications must be recognized by the university you have chosen. What this means is that you need to have a university entrance qualification, also known as Hochschulzugangsberechtigung (HZB) or Abitur. If your school-leaving certificate is not recognized in Germany, you will be required to attend a one-year preparatory course known as Studienkolleg.
Some universities also require an aptitude test called the TestAS. This test is designed for international students from non-EU countries who want to enrol in an undergraduate program in Germany.
Language requirements are also among the university admission criteria. If your degree program is entirely in German, then you will be required to provide proof of German language proficiency, such as Deutsche Sprachprüfung für den Hochschulzugang (DSH) or TestDaF. Alternatively, if your course is taught in English and you are not a native English speaker, you will be required to provide IELTS or TOEFL scores.
Some business schools in Germany might require a GMAT test.
3. University Application Documents
Although each university has its own specific admission requirements, some documents are commonly expected to submit an application.
The documents you typically need to apply to a German university are:
- A duly completed application form. You can find the application form on the university’s application portal or through uni-assist, depending on the university’s process.
- Recognized foreign school-leaving certificate.
- Certificates for previous university studies. If you’re applying to a postgraduate program, include official transcripts and the diploma certificate.
- Proof of language proficiency. Copies of German or English language certificates, previous studies in that language, or other accepted evidence.
- Copy of your passport and a passport/portrait photo.
- Letter of motivation & recommendation letters (if applicable).
- Curriculum Vitae (CV).
- Standardized tests (if applicable). TestAS may be required for certain universities or GMAT/GRE scores for some business schools.
- Akademische Prüfstelle – APS certificate. For applicants with qualifications from China, India, or Vietnam
4. Proof of Financial Resources
If you are a citizen of the countries who need a student visa to study in Germany, then you will be required to provide proof of financial means (Finanzierungsnachweis) when you apply for your visa. As of 2023, an international student needs €11,208 per year to cover their expenses during their time in Germany.
The best way to provide proof of financial resources at the German Embassy is through a blocked account. You can also prove your finances through your parents’ financial details, a guarantee from a resident in Germany, a bank guarantee, or a scholarship.
Learn more about opening a blocked account at Expatrio.
5. Health Insurance
Health insurance is mandatory if you want to study in Germany. If you are a resident of one of the EU/EEA member states or some other country with which Germany has a social insurance agreement, then you will likely be able to use your health insurance from back home. This is usually done by obtaining a European Health Insurance Card (EHIC).
On the other hand, if your insurance is not recognized in Germany, you’ll need to obtain German health insurance to provide proof of health insurance for your student visa application as well as university enrolment. You will be expected to pay a monthly amount to the public (around €120 per month) or private (if you’re over 30) health insurance providers.
6. Student Visa
If you’re planning to study in Germany for up to 90 days, you’ll generally need a Schengen visa unless you’re from a country that’s exempt from this visa requirement. For study periods over 90 days, a national visa is necessary, with exemptions also applicable for certain countries.
If you need a student visa for Germany, you’ll need to apply at the German embassy or consulate in your country. This process includes collecting the necessary documents, attending an interview at the embassy, and waiting for their decision. Keep in mind that the processing time for a student visa can take up to 25 days, depending on the embassy’s location and workload.
Learn more about getting a student visa for Germany.
7. Accommodation
As an international student in Germany, you have several housing options, including halls of residence, private apartments, and shared apartments (WG). Keep in mind that rent will likely be your largest expense, with students spending an average of €410 monthly on accommodation.
Specifically, student dorms cost about €266.83 on average, shared apartments (WGs) are around €363, and private apartments are typically €820, though prices can greatly differ depending on the location and facilities.
Remember that you have to register your address at the local registration office within two weeks of arriving in Germany.
8. University Enrollment
Once you’re accepted into a German university, the next step is to enroll by providing certain documents to the Student Affairs Office and registering for your courses. This process will give you a matriculation number and a university account, which you’ll use for various university services.
Additionally, you’ll receive a student ID card. This card is not just for identification; it also works as a semester transport ticket, a library card, a payment card for the cafeteria, and a pass for various cultural events.
Here are the main steps to enroll in a German university:
- Receive an offer of admission.
- Accept your study place.
- Complete the application for enrolment (online form/printed).
- Have your valid passport with you.
- Pay the semester fee in due time.
- Submit proof of German statutory health insurance (many universities require your status to be digitally sent by the insurer).
