Study in Germany for international students: Tips & tricks

Germany has become a top destination for international students, and its education system prioritizes attracting talent from around the world. With high-quality universities and the opportunity to study in Germany for international students without expensive tuition fees, many choose this country to further their academic careers. If studying in Germany is part of your plans, this article will guide you through everything you need to know.

To make your study experience in Germany as smooth and hassle-free as possible, we recommend following a clear step-by-step process. This will help you stay organized and successfully enroll in a German institution. We’ll also go over the key requirements to join the education system, and if you’re considering online study, you’ll find useful details on that option too.

How does the education system work in Germany?

Germany’s education system is designed to provide opportunities for people of all ages and academic backgrounds. It emphasizes quality and equal access, ensuring that students receive both academic and technical training tailored to their needs. Here’s an overview of how it’s structured:

Levels of study in Germany

Pre-school and school education:

• Basic education begins with Kindergarten (ages 3 to 6), which is not compulsory, followed by primary education (Grundschule), which lasts four years.
• After primary school, students move on to different types of secondary school depending on their performance and goals:
  • Hauptschule: Basic training (up to ages 15-16).
  • Realschule: Technical or vocational preparation (up to age 16).
  • Gymnasium: University preparatory education (up to ages 18-19), concluding with the Abitur.

Higher education:

• Germany has traditional universities (Universitäten), universities of applied sciences (Fachhochschulen) and art academies.
• University degrees are structured as follows:
  • Bachelor’s degree: Three to four years of study.
  • Master’s degree: Usually one to two years.
  • Doctorate (Promotion): Variable duration, depending on the field of study and the research project.

Duration and flexibility in Germany

Germany’s education system is much more flexible compared to other countries. Students have the opportunity to combine their studies with hands-on work experience through dual education programs offered in partnership with universities and companies.

Tuition fees in Germany

Most public universities don’t charge tuition fees, but students do pay a semester fee ranging from 150 to 300 euros ($160 to $350). This fee covers services like public transportation and student activities. Thanks to this system, Germany remains one of the most affordable destinations for international students.

Requirements to study in Germany for international students

To study in Germany, you must meet certain legal and academic requirements. These are the main aspects to consider:

1. Academic eligibility

• You must have a valid high school diploma (Hochschulzugangsberechtigung). If your degree is not automatically recognized, you may need to complete a preparatory course (Studienkolleg).
• If you are applying for a postgraduate degree, you need to have completed a university degree equivalent to the German system.

2. Language test

• German: Many programs are taught in German, so you will need to prove your level through exams such as TestDaF or DSH.
• English: If you choose an international program, you will need tests such as TOEFL or IELTS.

3. Admission letter

Before applying for a student visa, you must have been accepted by a German university.

4. Medical insurance

You must have health insurance to cover your stay. It can be public or private, depending on your age and situation.

5. Proof of financial resources

You’ll need to prove that you can support yourself financially during your stay. For 2025, the amount required is 11,208 euros ($12,200) per year (934 euros per month ($1,000)), which should be deposited into a blocked account (Sperrkonto).

6. Student visa application

Non-European Union countries must apply for a specific visa for studies. This process can take between 4 and 12 weeks.

7. Homologation of previous degrees

If your studies do not fully conform to the German system, you may need additional equivalencies or complementary courses.

8. Motivation and references

Universities usually ask for a motivation letter and, occasionally, letters of recommendation from former professors or employers.

9. Additional documentation

• Valid passport.
• Translated and legalized academic certificates.
• Passport size photos.
• University application form.

Meeting these requirements ensures that you can enter the German education system and have a smoother transition as you adapt to student life in the country.

Steps to study in Germany as an international student

When you choose to study in Germany, it’s crucial to follow a clear and structured process to make sure your academic and personal experience is a success. Here’s a guide to help you, from the initial decision all the way to your arrival and the start of your studies.

1. Evaluate universities and courses in Germany

The first step in studying in Germany is to research universities and programs that align with your interests and career goals. With over 400 higher education institutions, including public and private universities, applied sciences universities, and art academies, Germany offers a wide range of options.

Factors to consider:

• Academic reputation: Check international rankings such as QS World University Rankings or Times Higher Education.
• Language: Check whether the programs are in German, English or both.
• Location: Assess German cities based on cost of living, accessibility and student environment.
• Specialized programs: Many universities offer interdisciplinary programs or practical training.

Useful tools:

• The DAAD (German Academic Exchange Service) portal offers a comprehensive database to search for international programs.
• Universities such as LMU Munich, TU Berlin or Heidelberg are excellent options for international students.

Tip:

• With EF, you can take a German language course in Germany tailored to your needs and goals. Whether you’re preparing to enter university, looking to improve your language skills quickly, enhancing your career prospects, or getting ready for an official exam like the DSH or Goethe, EF has a program for you.

2. Review financing options for study in Germany

Although many public universities in Germany don’t have tuition fees, living expenses and semester fees can still pose a financial challenge. It’s essential to look into funding options before you apply.

Scholarships available:

• DAAD: Offers full or partial scholarships for international students at different academic levels.
• Erasmus+: Supports students from Europe and other countries who choose Germany as their destination.
• Private foundations: Heinrich Böll Foundation or the Konrad Adenauer Foundation.

Educational loans:

• Some institutions offer loans at reduced rates for international students.
• Please research options in your home country as well, such as government programs or bilateral agreements.

Work and study:

• In Germany, international students can work up to 120 full days or 240 half days per year, which makes it easier to cover part of the costs.

To get a complete overview of scholarship opportunities in Germany, we recommend reading our article on the best scholarships available in Germany.

3. Apply to a study program in Germany

Once you have chosen a university, time to apply to the study program. This process requires attention to detail and meeting deadlines.

Standard documents for the application:

• Translated and legalized transcript of previous studies.
• Language test (TestDaF, DSH, TOEFL or IELTS, as applicable).
• Motivation letter, explaining why you want to study in that program and in Germany.
• Updated CV.
• Academic or professional letters of recommendation.

Application process:

• Many universities use centralized platforms such as uni-assist to manage international applications.
• Make sure to check the application deadlines, which are typically between May and July for the winter semester, and between November and January for the summer semester.

Acceptance and enrollment:

• Once admitted, you will receive a letter of acceptance (Zulassungsbescheid), which you’ll need for visa and final enrollment.

4. Applying for a visa to study in Germany

A visa is essential for students from outside the European Union who wish to study in Germany. Below, we explain the basic steps to apply for a visa:

Types of student visa:

• National student visa (Visum zu Studienzwecken): Perfect for those who already have a letter of admission.
• Visa for study purposes (Visum zur Studienbewerbung): For those who need to travel to complete requirements or apply in person.

Required documentation:

• Letter of acceptance from a German university.
• Proof of financial resources (11,208 euros ($12,100) per year deposited in a blocked account).
• Medical insurance valid in Germany.
• Valid passport and recent photos.
• Visa application form.

Where to apply:

• Apply at the German embassy or consulate in your home country. Please apply at least three months in advance.

5. Moving to Germany

With your visa approved and preparations in place, the next step is to plan your move to Germany. Here are some practical tips:

Accommodation:

• Begin looking for housing early. Options include student residences, shared apartments (Wohngemeinschaft), or private rentals.
• Useful portals: Studentenwerk, WG-Gesucht, or ImmobilienScout24.

Transportation and mobility:

• Take advantage of efficient public transportation systems. Most universities offer discounted semester passes.
• If you plan to bring extra luggage, compare international shipping options.

Cultural adaptation:

• Learn some basic German phrases to ease initial communication.
• Familiarize yourself with German culture, from their schedules to the rules of coexistence, such as recycling and punctuality.

Practicalities:

• Upon arrival, register at the registration office (Anmeldung) within the first few weeks.
• Open a local bank account to manage your finances. We also recommend you to check our article on taxes in Germany. 
• Find out about health services, such as how to access a doctor or emergency services.

​​Moving to a new country can be a challenge, but proper planning will make the process much easier and enriching.

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How much does it cost to study abroad in Germany?

Germany is considered a budget-friendly destination for international students, largely due to its public universities that offer either free or low-cost tuition. However, there are other expenses you’ll need to factor into your budget. Here’s a breakdown of the key living costs for students in the country.

Accommodation for students in Germany

Accommodation is one of the largest expenses in Germany. Costs vary by city, with places like Munich, Frankfurt, and Hamburg being more expensive, while cities like Leipzig and Dresden offer more affordable options.

• Student residences: Between 200 and 400 euros ($216-430) per month.
• Shared apartments (Wohngemeinschaft or WG): Between 300 and 600 euros ($325-650) per month.
• Individual apartments: From 500 to 900 euros ($540-980) per month, depending on location and size.

Transportation in Germany

Public transportation in Germany is efficient and widely used by students. Many universities provide semester passes for local transport, which helps keep costs down.

• Monthly public transport pass: Between 60 and 90 euros ($65-95) (without discount).
• Semester pass for students: Between 150 and 250 euros ($160-270) , depending on the region.
• Bicycles: Popular option, with purchase prices starting at 100 euros ($110) in second-hand stores.

Food in Germany

Food costs are moderate, especially if you shop in supermarkets and cook at home.

• Monthly food expenses: Between 150 and 300 euros ($160-325)
• Meals in affordable restaurants: Between 8 and 12 euros ($9-13)
• Meals in university cafeterias (Mensa): Between 2.50 and 5 euros ($2.60-6) per plate.

Careers and university courses in Germany

In most public universities, there are no tuition fees for undergraduate and master’s programs, except in Baden-Württemberg, where non-European students must pay around 1,500 euros ($1,620) per semester.

• Semester fees (Semesterbeitrag): Between 100 and 350 euros ($110-380) , including local transportation and other student services.
• Private universities: Between 10,000 and 20,000 euros ($10,080 to $20,100) per year, depending on the program.

General expenses in Germany

Other expenses to consider include:

• Mandatory health insurance: Between 80 and 110 euros ($86-120) per month.
• Cell phone and internet: Between 20 and 50 euros ($23-55) per month.
• Leisure activities: Between 50 and 100 euros ($60-110) per month.

In general, we recommend a monthly budget of between 850 and 1,200 euros ($920-1300) to cover all expenses as a foreign student in Germany.

When and how to homologate degrees and courses in Germany?

Getting your qualifications recognized is an important step for students who want to continue their education in Germany. This process ensures that your previous education is officially acknowledged within the German education system.

When do I need to have my degree recognized in Germany?

• Undergraduate studies: If you completed your secondary education outside the EU, you’ll likely need to have your high school diploma recognized. This is important to prove that you meet the admission requirements.
• Postgraduate studies: Previous university degrees are usually accepted without the need for direct recognition, although universities may require specific equivalencies for certain programs.
• Technical or professional courses: For technical qualifications, recognition may be required if you plan to work or study in specialized fields like engineering, healthcare, or education.

How is homologation done in Germany?

• Please refer to the specific requirements: Visit the official Anabin portal, where you can check if your degree is recognized in Germany and find out what additional steps you need to take.
• Translation and legalization of documents: Certificates must be translated into German by sworn translators and, in some cases, apostilled or legalized.
• Application to the respective authorities: Depending on the level of education, send your documents to the Zentralstelle für ausländisches Bildungswesen (ZAB) or to the university where you plan to study.
• Evaluation and result: A detailed report will be sent to you indicating if your degree is equivalent or if you need to complete additional courses to equate your training.

The process can take between 2 and 6 months, so we recommend that you start the process early.

Study online in Germany as an international student

For those who can’t travel to Germany, online study is a fantastic option. Many universities and online platforms offer accessible programs that you can take from anywhere in the world.

Online study options in Germany

Distance learning university degrees in Germany

• Universities such as FernUniversität in Hagen offer fully online bachelor’s and master’s degree programs.
• Some international institutions, such as TU Berlin or RWTH Aachen, have hybrid or distance programs in English.

Online courses and certifications in Germany

• Platforms such as Coursera and edX collaborate with German universities to offer online courses.
• Subjects range from engineering and technology to business and humanities.

How to access online studies in Germany?

• Research accredited programs: Use portals such as DAAD or university websites to search for online programs.
• Meet the requirements: While the process may be simpler than for on-campus studies, you still need to meet certain requirements, such as language proficiency tests or prior certifications.
• Enrollment and access: Once admitted, you’ll receive access to the educational platforms, digital materials and resources necessary to complete your studies.

Studying online reduces commuting and living costs, allowing you to combine studies with work or other responsibilities.

Frequently asked questions to study in Germany as an international student

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