## How to Study in Germany: At a Glance

Want to study in Germany but don't know where to get started? Here's what you need to do:

- Research universities and courses

- Check admission criteria

- Apply for your student visa

- Secure finances and accommodation

- Integrate into the local culture

We explore each step in further detail in this guide. By the end, you'll be fully prepared to start your new student life in Germany!

Studying in Germany opens up many career opportunities. You'll have access to some of the world's best resources and lecturers while connecting with the heart of Europe. But how do you set this new journey in motion? Becoming a student in Germany is actually quite straightforward.

## Step 1: Research & Choose the Right Study Programme

Studying in Germany starts with fundamental research. But there are hundreds of higher education institutions across the country, so how do you find the best fit? The first stage is to compare tuition fees, admission requirements, and language options before applying.

### Public vs. Private Universities in Germany – What’s the Difference?

### Public Universities:

- Don't tend to charge tuition fees (unless you're in the state of Baden-Württemberg, where it's €1,500/semester for non-EU students
  ).

- Teach their programmes in German, so you'll need a decent grasp of the language.

- Require a strict and often competitive admission process.

- Focus on academic research and traditional teaching methods.

### Private Universities:

- Charge tuition fees that can vary between €4,000 and €20,000 per year.

- Offer more flexible study formats and English-taught programs.

- Provide you with closer links and more frequent interactions with industry leaders.

- Are often easier to apply for and get into.

So, which one is best for you?

Public universities are ideal if you want affordable tuition and are fluent in German. But if you want to study in Germany in English with flexible classes, private universities are the better fit.

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### How to Find the Best University in Germany?

Choosing the right university requires thorough research. Start with these steps to establish a shortlist of institutions:

Visit the university website and explore as much of it as you can. Look at the courses they offer and the specifics of each one. Check what faculty you'll be in and what facilities they offer. You may also want to investigate the culture and social activities you could take part in if accepted.

You'll need to identify the admission requirements once you've narrowed down a course or programme. Make a note of what documents you need to provide and when the deadline is to be on the safe side.

Want to see how a uni compares against others? Explore world university rankings on the Times Higher Education
website, or use the comprehensive CHE University Ranking
(in partnership with DAAD) to check how German universities stack up against each other annually.

Incidentally, the DAAD website (German Academic Exchange Service) is one of the best tools for comparing study programmes in Germany. Its database lists thousands of courses in Germany, and you can even find funding options and English-taught studies.

Consider factors like academic reputation and student satisfaction when you assess each university. You'll also want to check the cost of living in the city and whether they offer scholarships.

Many universities provide free digital brochures with curriculum details. You can often find these easily on their websites or by requesting the information directly from universities. And once you get into contact with a staff member at the institution, you may even be able to access more personalised guidance on the application process.

Top Tip:

The best programmes fill up fast! Start planning at least 12 months before applying to give yourself the best chance of success. Create a spreadsheet to help you track tuition fees, entry criteria, academic rankings, and application deadlines.

## Step 2: Meet the Admission Requirements

You've done the research and have a shortlist of German universities you'd be happy to attend. Now, you need to ensure your previous education is recognised and gather all the required documents for a smooth admission process.

### Is Your Previous Education Qualification Recognised?

Not all international qualifications are automatically accepted in Germany. Use the Anabin database
to verify if your education meets the required standards. Bear in mind that the site is in German, though!

You may need to take a foundation course (called a Studienkolleg), which includes a Feststellungsprüfung (FSP) - an exam that assesses the qualifications of international students - if the German government doesn't recognise your qualification. Some universities also require a Preliminary Review Documentation (VPD) via Uni-Assist.

### Required Documents for Admission

Each university has its own document checklist, but most require:

- Academic transcripts & certificates (officially translated)

- Proof of language proficiency (German or English, sometimes both)

- Statement of Purpose (SOP) explaining your study goals

- Letter(s) of recommendation (from professors or employers)

- Curriculum Vitae (CV) listing education & work experience

- APS Certificate (for students from India, China, and Vietnam)

Always check the university website for document-specific guidelines.

### Bachelor’s vs. Master’s Admission Process

You'll need a recognised higher education entrance qualification (HZB) to apply for a bachelor's degree in Germany. Failing that, you'll take a Studienkolleg before you're accepted. You can submit your application directly through the university's website.

Applying for a master’s degree follows a similar process. You'll require a recognised bachelor's degree from a previous university. Some courses may ask for work experience or an entrance test, and the most competitive master's degree programs might even have a minimum GPA requirement.

Top Tip:

Apply to at least 3–5 universities with a mix of public and private options to boost your chances of securing a place in the highly competitive application process. Some universities offer rolling admissions, which means you can secure a spot earlier!

Your future in Germany awaits!

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## Step 3: Prepare Your Application & Submit It On Time

You can start university in Germany during one of two intakes. The winter intake starts in October. It's the most popular and has deadlines around July to August. Meanwhile, the summer intake begins in April, with deadlines in January and February.

You can apply to German universities through their websites. But some require a separate submission through Uni-Assist, which processes applications for multiple institutions. Create your shortlist of unis and fill in your applications.

## Step 4: Get Your German Student Visa & Financial Proof

Congratulations, you've been accepted! But it's not quite finalised yet, as you now need to apply for a student visa. Start your application immediately, as processing can take anywhere from 4 to 12 weeks. You’ll need to prove financial stability by either opening a blocked account (€11,904/year as of September 2024) or securing official sponsorship from a guarantor in Germany.

Are you concerned about financing your studies? Scholarships exist to help international students. Check out the DAAD website or the Deutschlandstipendium to view what funding is available. Some private universities also offer tuition reductions or flexible payment plans.

Health insurance is also mandatory for students in Germany. Choose between public options like TK or AOK (for students under 30) or private providers like Mawista or Care Concept. Without proof of health insurance, you won’t be able to enroll at your university or get your visa approved.

Top Tip:

Don’t wait for your admission letter to start visa preparations. Gathering documents in advance will save you time and reduce stress.

## Step 5: Prepare for Life in Germany

University? Identified. Application? Accepted. Student visa? Acquired.

Now comes the move to Germany - exciting stuff! But in between all your celebrations, make sure to leave time to plan the transition. Finding accommodation should be your top priority, as student housing is competitive, so start searching at least three months before arrival. Platforms like WG-Gesucht (for shared flats) and Studierendenwerk (for student dorms) are great places to start. Some universities also have housing support services, so check their websites early.

Managing living costs is also key. The average student budget in Germany ranges from €850 to €1,200 per month, depending on the city. Open a German student bank account (we recommend either N26 or Deutsche Bank) to help you handle daily expenses and pay rent.

When you arrive in Germany, you must remember to register your address at the local Bürgeramt within 14 days and apply for a residence permit at the Foreigners' Office (Ausländerbehörde). This is vital if you want to stay in Germany legally. Book an appointment online as soon as possible!

Top Tip:

Beware of rental scams! Don't pay anyone who asks for full rent upfront or refuses a video call. Always request a signed rental contract and avoid making payments via non-secure platforms like Western Union.

## Step 6: Settle In & Start Studying

Nearly there, we promise! All you have to do now is officially enroll at your university. This process, known as immatrikulation, registers you as a student and gives you access to university facilities and online portals. You'll also get your very own student ID, which comes with perks like public transport discounts and student meal plans.

Looking to earn a bit of extra money? Germany allows international students to work 120 full days or 240 half days per year without needing an additional work permit. Universities often have career services to help you find student jobs and internships - check out platforms like JobTeaser and StepStone.

Make the most of your student life in Germany. Join student clubs, explore your city, and connect with fellow international students. Germany has a vibrant student culture, and you're sure to find an event or international meet-up that will make settling in easier.

Top Tip:

Don’t skip your university orientation! It’s the best way to meet people and understand what's expected of you. Plus, you can get useful tips on student life from those who’ve already been through it.

## What Has Changed in 2025?

The application process is relatively stable for international students, but you should always be on the lookout for new regulations and law changes.

The main change was the new Consular Services Portal
, launched by the German Foreign Ministry at the start of 2025. It enables international students to apply for visas a lot more easily and accelerates visa processing times. You'll need to use this new portal to apply for your German student visa.

Make sure you keep up to date with new developments in Germany throughout the academic year, as thresholds and permissions can change.

## Germany Study Timeline – Your Month-by-Month Plan

Planning ahead will create a smooth study abroad journey. While most German universities have two main intakes - winter (October) and summer (April) - IU International University of Applied Sciences offers two intakes per year, giving you more options to start your studies when it suits you best.

Here’s a structured timeline to help you stay on track:

12–18 months before

Research study programmes, compare universities, and check admission requirements. Decide whether a winter or summer intake fits your schedule.

10–12 months before

Take language tests (IELTS, TOEFL, TestDaF, or DSH) and gather initial documents.

8–10 months before

Collect important documents like transcripts and letters of recommendation. Submit applications via the university website or Uni-Assist before the deadlines.

6–8 months before

Wait for admission results and, once accepted, start your visa application process. Processing can take several weeks, so act quickly.

4–6 months before

Open a blocked account (€11,904 minimum) and secure health insurance, which is mandatory for enrollment.

2–3 months before

Finalise accommodation through WG-Gesucht or Studierendenwerk, or university housing options. Book your flight to Germany and plan your arrival.

1 month before

Pack your bags, ensure all visa and residence permit documents are in order, and get ready for your new academic journey in Germany!

## Resources & Helpful Links

Applying to universities in Germany can feel overwhelming, but the right resources can make it much easier. Below are essential platforms that will help you along your journey to study in Germany:

- DAAD Database
  – Search for study programmes, find scholarships, and get insights into studying in Germany.

- Uni-Assist
  – A centralised portal that processes applications for many German universities. Ideal if you're applying to multiple institutions.

- Blocked Account Providers – Open a blocked account (minimum €11,904/year) through trusted providers like Fintiba, Expatrio, N26, Commerzbank, or Deutsche Bank to prove your financial stability for a student visa.

- German Health Insurance – Health insurance is mandatory for all students. Public providers like TK and AOK are common choices, while private insurers like Mawista offer flexible options.

## Why Studying at IU is a Smart Choice

Germany offers world-class education and great career prospects. At IU International University of Applied Sciences, we provide international students with a hassle-free, career-focused study experience designed for success.

- 100% English-Taught Programs – No need to learn German! Study in English and gain a state-accredited and internationally awarded degree.

- Easier Admission Process – IU has low entry barriers, making it more accessible than public universities with strict quotas.

- Strong Career Support – We help you find jobs through career coaching, networking events, and employer connections.

- Visa & Study Support – IU provides free visa concierge services, making it easier to navigate the student visa process.

If you’re looking for a career-driven education in Germany, IU is the best choice to fast-track your future! Join 130,000 students from more than 190 countries at Germany's largest university.

Ready to start? Explore your options today!

## FAQs

Attending a private university will cost money, but there are public institutions where you can study for free. Keep in mind, though, that public universities are generally harder to get into. If you're worried about funding your studies in Germany, research scholarships that can cover your tuition fees.

German universities offer many support channels to their students. At IU, you'll benefit from a supportive learning environment with experiences professors and state-of-the-art tools designed to enhance your studies. And even before you arrive, you can use our IU Pathway Programme to help you settle into life in Germany.

International students in Germany are allowed to work 120 full days per year. If you want to continue working in the country after you finish your studies, you'll have to apply for a new visa. Students at IU can apply for an 18-month work visa after they finish studying, helping facilitate the transition to a fruitful work life in the European Union.

Germany is a very welcoming country to international students. Many top institutions offer courses in English - just remember to check if that's the case before you apply! Private universities are more likely to offer English-taught programmes than public universities.

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