Study in Germany — Guide for International Students
Germany has over 400 universities and Fachhochschulen. Public universities charge no tuition fees — for EU and non-EU students alike. With one of the strongest job markets in Europe and a clear path from graduation to a work visa, Germany is one of the best places in the world to study.
This guide covers admission requirements, language levels, the student visa process, finances, and how to prepare your German before you arrive.
Why study in Germany?
€0
Tuition at most public universities
400+
Universities and Fachhochschulen
€934/mo
Minimum financial proof for visa
120 days
You can work per year as a student
Types of degree in Germany
Bachelor's (B.A. / B.Sc.)
Duration: 3–4 years
Language: Usually German (C1)
Some English-taught programmes available, especially at private universities.
Master's (M.A. / M.Sc.)
Duration: 1.5–2 years
Language: German (C1) or English (B2–C1)
Many public universities offer English-taught Master's, especially in STEM and business.
Ausbildung (Dual training)
Duration: 2–3.5 years
Language: German B1
Earn while you learn — a practical alternative to university with strong job prospects.
PhD (Doktorat)
Duration: 3–5 years
Language: German or English
Often funded via research positions. Strong in engineering, medicine, and natural sciences.
Admission requirements
- Recognised secondary school certificate (Abitur equivalent)
- University entrance qualification assessment (uni-assist)
- German C1 for German-taught programmes (DSH or TestDaF)
- Blocked account (Sperrkonto) with €11,208 for visa
- Health insurance (public or private)
- Valid passport and visa application
- Motivation letter and CV for some programmes
- Language certificates (Goethe, TestDaF, IELTS for English programmes)
German language for studying in Germany
German-taught programmes require C1 (DSH-2 or TestDaF 4). This takes most learners 2–3 years from A1. Starting early is essential.
Even for English-taught programmes, B1–B2 German makes daily life significantly easier — for housing, banking, healthcare, and social life. Most students who skip German struggle in their first year.
Frequently asked questions
- Is university in Germany really free?
- Public universities in Germany charge no tuition fees for most undergraduate and many postgraduate programmes — for both EU and non-EU students. You pay a small semester contribution (Semesterbeitrag) of €150–€350 which covers administration and often a public transport pass.
- What German level do I need to study in Germany?
- For German-taught programmes, universities require C1 German (DSH-2 or TestDaF level 4). For English-taught Master's programmes, B2–C1 English is required and no German is mandatory, though B1 German is strongly recommended for daily life.
- How much money do I need for a student visa in Germany?
- You need to show proof of financial resources — typically via a blocked account (Sperrkonto) containing €11,208 per year (€934/month as of 2024). This amount is released monthly once you are in Germany.
- Can I work while studying in Germany?
- Yes. International students in Germany can work up to 120 full days or 240 half days per year without a work permit. Many students work part-time in retail, hospitality, or as student assistants (Hiwi) at their university.
- What is the difference between Universität and Fachhochschule?
- A Universität is a research university offering a broad range of academic subjects including PhD programmes. A Fachhochschule (University of Applied Sciences) is more practice-oriented, often includes mandatory internships, and is directly career-focused. Both award internationally recognised degrees.
Start your German before you arrive
Whether your programme is in German or English, learning German early makes everything easier. Free to start with GoGermany.
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