How to Study in Germany: A Complete Guide for International Students
If you’re wondering how to study in Germany, you’re not alone. Many international students choose Germany because it offers high-quality education at little to no cost. With top-ranked universities, low tuition fees, and a lively cultural scene, Germany is a great place to study. In this easy-to-follow guide, we’ll explain how to study in Germany — from choosing the right university and applying, to getting your student visa and adjusting to life there.
Why Study in Germany?
Germany is home to some of the world’s most prestigious universities, including Ludwig Maximilian University of Munich, Heidelberg University, and the Technical University of Munich. One of the biggest draws is that public universities in Germany typically charge no tuition fees, even for international students. If you’re trying to figure out how to study in Germany without breaking the bank, this is a major advantage.
Beyond the financial benefits, German degrees are globally recognized, and many programs are offered in English, especially at the postgraduate level. Germany also boasts a strong economy, which means plenty of job opportunities for graduates.
Step 1: Research the Right University and Program
The first step in understanding how to study in Germany is to research universities and academic programs that match your interests. There are over 400 higher education institutions in Germany, offering more than 20,000 courses across various disciplines.
You can explore programs through platforms like:
- DAAD (German Academic Exchange Service)
- Study in Germany official website
Make sure to check if the course is offered in English or German. If it’s in German, you may need to provide proof of language proficiency (TestDaF or DSH scores).
Step 2: Meet the Admission Requirements
Understanding how to study in Germany also means understanding the entry requirements. Each university and course has its own criteria, but general requirements include:
- A recognized higher education entrance qualification (e.g., A-levels, IB, high school diploma)
- Academic transcripts
- Language proficiency (IELTS/TOEFL for English; TestDaF/DSH for German)
- Statement of Purpose or Motivation Letter
- CV or Resume
- Letters of Recommendation
For postgraduate courses, you’ll also need a relevant bachelor’s degree. Be sure to apply before deadlines, which are usually:
- Winter semester: Mid-July
- Summer semester: Mid-January
Step 3: Apply to Universities
Once you’ve chosen a course and ensured you meet the entry criteria, the next step in how to study in Germany is to apply. Most public universities use the Uni-Assist platform for applications, though some have their own portals.
Application documents should be complete and error-free. Pay close attention to required translations, notarizations, and deadlines. It’s advisable to apply to multiple universities to increase your chances of acceptance.
Step 4: Get Your Finances in Order
Although tuition fees are minimal or nonexistent, you still need to prove you can support yourself. As of 2025, international students must show access to €11,208 per year (about €934/month), usually through a blocked account.
This is a crucial part of understanding how to study in Germany—without financial proof, your student visa application will not be approved. You can open a blocked account with banks like Deutsche Bank or digital services like Fintiba and Expatrio.
Step 5: Apply for a Student Visa
Knowing how to study in Germany also involves navigating the visa process. If you’re from outside the EU/EEA, you’ll need a German student visa. Here’s what you typically need:
- Valid passport
- Letter of university admission
- Proof of financial resources (blocked account)
- Proof of health insurance
- Academic records
- Language certificates
- Completed visa application form
- Visa fee payment (€75 as of 2025)
Apply at the German embassy or consulate in your country. Processing can take 6–12 weeks, so apply early.
Step 6: Find Accommodation
Student housing in Germany can be competitive, especially in cities like Berlin, Munich, and Frankfurt. Options include:
- Student dormitories (managed by student services, called Studierendenwerk)
- Shared flats (Wohngemeinschaften or WGs)
- Private apartments
Apply for accommodation as soon as you get your admission letter. Websites like WG-Gesucht, Immowelt, and Studenten-WG.de can be helpful. Monthly rent varies but averages €250–€500 depending on location.
Step 7: Get Health Insurance
Another critical step in understanding how to study in Germany is health insurance. You must have valid health insurance to enroll and to get your residence permit.
Students under 30 can usually register with public providers like TK, AOK, or Barmer for around €110/month. Older students or non-EU students with private insurance need to ensure their policy is recognized in Germany.
Step 8: Enroll at Your University
Once you arrive, you must enroll (matriculate) at your university. This involves:
- Submitting your original documents
- Paying a semester contribution (usually €100–€350)
- Getting your student ID and confirmation of enrollment
Only after enrollment can you legally start your studies and receive student benefits, such as discounted transport.
Step 9: Register Your Residence
Everyone living in Germany must register at the local Residents’ Registration Office (Einwohnermeldeamt) within two weeks of arriving. You’ll need:
- Passport
- Rental agreement
- Confirmation from your landlord (Wohnungsgeberbestätigung)
After registration, apply for a residence permit at the Foreigners’ Office (Ausländerbehörde).
Step 10: Adjust to Student Life in Germany
Now that you know how to study in Germany from a technical standpoint, the final step is to settle in. German student life is rich and rewarding, with diverse student organizations, international meetups, and travel opportunities across Europe.
Some additional tips:
- Learn some basic German, even if your course is in English—it will make daily life easier.
- Budget wisely—Germany is affordable but not cheap.
- Work part-time if needed—students can work up to 120 full or 240 half days per year.
Final Thoughts
Figuring out how to study in Germany may seem overwhelming at first, but with the right planning and preparation, it’s entirely achievable. From world-class education to a high quality of life, Germany offers one of the most student-friendly environments in Europe. Whether you dream of studying engineering in Munich or philosophy in Berlin, now you know exactly how to study in Germany and take the first steps toward an exciting future.
