Studying in Germany
One of the easiest ways to immigrate to Germany is through education. Germany offers top-quality education in both public and private universities. Public universities are almost tuition-free, but courses are mainly in German, requiring at least a B1-level certificate, which can be obtained in 2–3 months through the Malekpour Institute.
Private universities offer English programs and usually require an IELTS score of 5.5–6, with annual tuition fees ranging from €10,000 to €20,000. Requirements vary for students under 18 or those applying with a high school diploma.
Germany also offers generous scholarships, including:
- DAAD Scholarship
- Erasmus+ Scholarship
Applicants for immigration to Germany through education require a student visa. To study in Germany, applicants must prove sufficient funds to cover their living and study expenses and are allowed to work part-time up to 20 hours per week during their studies.
Germany offers a strong job market with excellent career opportunities in fields such as engineering, IT, healthcare, and economics. After graduation, students can apply for a work permit to begin their professional careers in the country.
For guidance on studying in Germany, the Malekpour Institute provides free consultations, helping students navigate the application, visa, and career processes efficiently.
Advantages and Disadvantages of Studying in Germany
Germany, a leading industrial nation and economic hub in Europe, is a top destination for international students. Before applying to study or immigrate, it’s essential to understand both the advantages and disadvantages.
While Germany offers free education, top universities, and strong job prospects, it also comes with challenges like high living costs and the need to learn German. Below is a quick overview of the key pros and cons of studying in Germany.
| Advantages of Studying in Germany | Disadvantages of Studying in Germany |
|---|---|
| Free education and access to tuition-free universities | Relatively high housing/rent costs |
| Home to many prestigious universities and educational institutions | Need to learn German for daily life and job opportunities |
| Globally recognized academic degrees | The German education system can be challenging for some international students |
| Possibility to study in English | Bureaucratic processes can be time-consuming |
| Availability of scholarships and financial aid | Some universities may lack adequate free educational facilities |
| Permission to work during studies | Dental care services can be expensive |
| Abundant job opportunities | |
| High income levels | |
| Possibility of staying in Germany after graduation |
Conditions for Studying in Germany
Studying in Germany is very popular among international students due to the high quality of the education system, reputable universities, and job opportunities after graduation. Below are explained the admission conditions for studying in Germany:
- For admission to German universities, the applicant’s educational qualifications must be equivalent to German educational qualifications.
- A German language certificate such as TestDaF or DSH is required.
- An English language certificate such as IELTS (minimum 6.5) or TOEFL (minimum 90).
- No criminal record
Grade Requirement for Studying in Germany
One key requirement for securing admission to German universities is your GPA. Admission criteria vary based on the university and field of study, but generally, most institutions require a minimum GPA equivalent to 2.5 or better on the German 5.0 scale (with 1.0 being the best and 4.0 the minimum passing grade).
For competitive programs like medicine, applicants typically need a GPA equivalent to 1.5 or better, which corresponds to excellent academic performance.
At the PhD level, academic grades are slightly less critical. A GPA of 2.5–3.0 may still be acceptable if supported by a strong research proposal, language proficiency, and a solid academic resume.
Age Conditions for Studying in Germany
One of the most important admission conditions for universities in Germany is the age conditions for studying in Germany. Applicants wishing to study at the undergraduate level in Germany must be a maximum of 21 years old to obtain student admission and a German student visa.
Applicants for master’s degrees must be a maximum of 30 years old to have a high chance of admission to German universities, as well as obtaining a student visa for this country. If the applicant intends to study at the doctoral level in Germany, they should know that there are no defined age limits for this level of education.
Studying at this level is highly competitive, and if successful in obtaining admission, they can get the German student visa.
Language Requirements for Study Acceptance in Germany
Applicants for studying in Germany must present proof of their language proficiency to obtain study admission and student visa in Germany. Since studying in Germany is possible in both German and English, applicants should provide the language certificate respective to the medium of instruction in Germany. Below are elaborated on each of the required language certificates for studying in Germany.
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Studying in Germany in German
Applicants need to provide a German language certificate at the B2 level to gain admission to German universities, but since most German universities offer courses in German, applicants can receive conditional admission by providing at least a B1 level German certificate and later enroll in a language course in Germany to enhance their skills to B2.
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Studying in Germany in English
If applicants opt to study in English in Germany, they need to present an English language certificate. Among the accepted documents for studying in Germany are IELTS and TOEFL. Based on their chosen field and degree, applicants must provide an IELTS score of 6 to 6.5 or a TOEFL score of at least 90.
Studying in Germany at Various Educational Levels
Studying at German universities is possible at three levels: bachelor, master, and doctorate. Applicants for studying at German universities can proceed through three categories of universities, applied science institutes, and colleges of arts, film, and music. Like most countries, Germany has both public and private universities; however, most German universities are public institutions. To find out about studying in Europe.
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Studying at German Colleges
| Category | Details |
|---|---|
| Duration of high school in Germany | 13 years |
| Tuition fee for public Studienkolleg (prep college) | Free |
| International preparatory courses offered | T-Kurs (Engineering), W-Kurs (Business), G-Kurs (Humanities), M-Kurs (Medicine) |
| Required language proficiency for admission | German level B1, IELTS score of 6.0 or 6.5 |
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Studying in German Schools
The federal government has little involvement in the education system of German schools, with each state independently making decisions regarding this matter. Germany’s school system varies by region but generally includes subjects like math, science, history, and languages, along with practical and technical training. Public schools teach in German, making them ideal for immigrant children to learn the local language. However, bilingual and private schools are also available.
The system is divided into primary and secondary education, each with different admission requirements for international students.
- School starts at age 6 and continues until age 18. The primary education period lasts from age 6 to 10, although in some schools it can extend to six years instead of four.
- The secondary system is categorized depending on the goal of further education, and it is divided into several types.
Gymnasium
Students aiming for higher education usually study under stricter conditions. Here, students study from ages 10 to 18 covering grades 5 through 13.
Once they reach age 11, a preparatory course is provided, which covers two years of readiness for their final exams. (Abitur or Abi) Eligible students after graduation can either enter university or select specific subjects for advanced studies, known as (Leistungskurse).
Realschule
Realschule is a popular secondary school in Germany, offering a broad academic curriculum including one or two foreign languages. It prepares students for mid-level careers and awards the Realschulabschluss diploma by age 15 or 16. Graduates can pursue vocational training, apprenticeships, or transfer to Gymnasium to complete their Abitur for university admission.
Secondary education typically spans ages 10 to 15, with options to continue until 18.
Hauptschule
This is a vocational training period for students aged 10 to 15 or 16. This course is designed for students who will eventually enter a trade or apprenticeship and aim to work in industrial sectors.
Gesamtschule and Comprehensive Schools
Comprehensive schools in Germany (Gesamtschulen) provide inclusive education by combining Hauptschule and Realschule curricula, while still offering all pathways: Hauptschulabschluss diploma, apprenticeships, or preparation for Abitur.
To study in the best schools in Germany, applicants need strong academic performance and financial capability.
Graduates of these schools gain access to Germany’s top universities, often tuition-free. Below is a list of leading international schools in Berlin with their official websites.
| School Name | Website |
|---|---|
| Phorms Berlin Mitte | berlin-mitte.phorms.de/en |
| Phorms Berlin Süd | berlin-sued.phorms.de/en |
| SIS Swiss International School | swissinternationalschool.de |
| Berlin Cosmopolitan School | cosmopolitanschool.de |
| Berlin Metropolitan School | metropolitanschool.com |
| Berlin International School | berlin-international-school.de |
| John F Kennedy School, Berlin | jfks.de |
| Berlin Brandenburg International School | bbis.de |
| Charles Dickens Primary School, Berlin | charles-dickens-gs.de/en |
| Berlin British School | berlinbritishschool.de |
| International School Villa Amalienhof, Berlin | is-va.com |
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Studying Bachelor’s Degree in Germany
There are various types of higher education institutions in Germany, including:
- Public universities or Universitäten
- Universities of applied sciences or Fachhochschulen
- Technical colleges or technische Hochschulen / technische Universitäten
- Pedagogical colleges or Pädagogische Hochschulen
- Institutions offering dual studies or Berufsakademie
- Institutions of the Federal Armed Forces
- Theological colleges or Theologische Hochschulen
The conditions and necessary documents for studying bachelor’s in Germany require a secondary education certificate (Hochschulzugangsberechtigung) or its equivalent in your country, such as A Level.
International students often must pass an entrance exam if their qualifications aren’t recognized by German universities. You may also need to submit personal statements and academic documents. For German-taught courses, proof of German proficiency is required.
| Requirement | Details |
|---|---|
| High School Certificate | Required |
| German Language Proficiency | Level A2 or B1 |
Foundation and language courses in Germany can help prepare you for admission. German universities offer a wide range of undergraduate programs, with popular fields available across all major disciplines.
- Mechanical Engineering Sciences
- Computer Science
- Biology
- Economics
- Environmental Sciences
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Studying Master’s Degree in Germany
After completing a bachelor’s degree, studying master’s in Germany is possible. About 70% of master’s programs in Germany are at public universities, which are nearly tuition-free with fees under €200 per semester. Germany boasts many top-ranked universities worldwide, making it a popular destination for international students.
To apply, find your program on the university’s website and submit your application online. Language requirements vary: public universities typically require German B1 proficiency, while private universities often need an IELTS 6.5 or TOEFL 90 score.
- Research universities: carry out scientific and research work.
- Technical universities: prepare specialists in the fields of technology and engineering.
- Universities of applied sciences: focus on practical subjects such as engineering, business or social sciences and often partner with commercial or professional organisations.
- Faculties of art, film and music: offer specialist practical training in creative disciplines and students must be qualified to be admitted.
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Studying PhD in Germany
Typically, studying Phd in Germany takes about 3 to 4 years. To obtain study admission, students must first find a suitable supervisor and through correspondence attract the supervisor’s perspective for supervising their thesis.
The most important requirement for admission at the doctoral level is providing a valid master’s degree from a recognized institution in Germany. Presenting a German or English language certificate is also among other prerequisites for securing doctoral study admission. Doctoral studies in Germany are free, and you will not be required to pay tuition.
Key requirements include:
- Recognition of referees from previous institutions by the German university
- Meeting language proficiency tests such as IELTS, TOEFL, DSH, or DAF
- A statement from a doctoral supervisor confirming your research intent
- Valid academic qualifications and confirmation of eligibility by the university rector
- At least two academic referees (professors familiar with your work)
- Approval from the doctoral department committee
- Some universities may require an interview, which can be conducted via Skype for international students
Deadlines for Studying in Germany
Academic Terms in Germany
The academic year in Germany includes two terms:
- Winter semester from October 1 to March 31 (official start of classes from mid-October to mid-February, i.e. four months).
- Summer semester from April 1 to September 30 (official start of classes from mid-April to mid-July, i.e. three months).
- Semester breaks in August, September and March are intended for internships, private study and exams.
Admission to most fields of study is possible only in the winter term. As a result, orientation sessions before the winter term are provided more than at the beginning of the summer term.
Study Conditions in Medicine
The conditions for studying medicine in Germany are very exact and clear. For studying dentistry in Germany, applicants must have the following conditions:
- Have a high school diploma equivalent to the Abitur
- Proficient in German
- Register for the TMS entrance exam
- Complete an internship in the medical field
- Personal interview at some universities
Study Programs in Germany
To study in Germany, various educational programs are offered in universities and educational institutions across the country. These programs can be divided into three main categories:
- German language course in Germany
- Ausbildung course in Germany
- Internship course in Germany
Vocational Education (Ausbildung) in Germany
The Ausbildung program is one of the important and popular courses in Germany, allowing secondary school graduates (Abitur) to enter university directly without taking an entrance exam. This educational program generally lasts about a year, and various course settings teach the foundational subjects related to their field of study.
The Ausbildung allows students to obtain the skills and knowledge necessary to start higher education programs. It usually provides a foundation for selecting and learning the German language, so students are prepared for studying at German universities. One of the most popular courses is Nursing Ausbildung in Germany.
Working While Studying in Germany
Germany has provided conditions for undergraduate students to study almost for free while being able to work and earn a salary. The most important condition for studying in Germany and participating in these courses is obtaining a 12-year diploma and also having proficiency in German at least at C1 level.
If you have a lower level of proficiency, such as A2, you can enter the foundation course and learn German to the required level, then proceed to study work conditions in Germany. Work-study programs in Germany can be categorized under business management, social affairs, physiotherapy, mechatronics, and management. Applicants can participate in these programs until the age of 25.
German Language Courses in Germany
To enter public universities in Germany, passing a university entrance exam is usually required unless you’ve already passed an equivalent exam in your home country. For fields like medicine, the entrance exam is mandatory.
Most free programs are taught in German, so a C1 German language certificate is essential for admission to public universities. To reach this level, students typically start with an A2 or B1 certificate and take German language courses in their home country or Germany.
Studying at nearly free public universities in Germany requires strong German skills and passing the entrance exam or its equivalent.
| Requirement | Details |
|---|---|
| Language Course Admission Certificate | German A2 or B1 certificate |
| Cost of German Language Course in Germany | €5,000 to €10,000 |
| Language Certificate for Public Universities | German C1 certificate |
Documents Required for Study Admission in Germany
Applicants for studying in Germany must possess a certain set of required documents and conditions. Any deficiency in documents can prevent the applicant from achieving their study goals in Germany, so they must gather essential documents with great care.
Please note that the documents required by each university may vary, so before proceeding, be sure to check your desired university’s website. Below are the necessary documents for study admission in Germany:
- Submitting previous educational qualifications approved in Germany
- Identity documents
- A valid passport
- A German or English language certificate depending on the university and field requirements
- An acceptance letter from a university or educational institution in Germany
- Financial means for the duration of the course
- Student insurance
- Two photographs
- A letter of approval from the supervisor for studying for a PhD in Germany
- Two letters of recommendation
Converting Grades to the German System
To convert your grade to Germany’s grading system (ranging from 1.0 to 5.0, with 1.0 being the best score), the Bavarian Formula is typically used:
N= [(maximum possible score – your score) / (maximum possible score – minimum passing score)] * 3 + 1
Recognition of Credentials in Germany
Credential recognition in Germany, known as “Recognition of Foreign Credentials,” requires translating and submitting educational documents to authorities. The ZAB (Zentralstelle für ausländisches Bildungswesen) evaluates these documents to confirm their equivalence with the German education system. Once recognized, applicants can apply to German universities, ensuring their qualifications meet local standards for higher education.
Top Universities in Germany
The educational and university history in Germany is rich, and the country leads in many research fields. Without a doubt, the research-based teaching method is one of Germany’s innovations.
Germany, like England and the USA, has the highest number of globally ranked universities. The table below displays some of the best universities in Germany along with their global ranks. This list also includes several of the easiest universities to get admission to in Germany.
| Rank in Germany | QS World Ranking | University Name | City |
|---|---|---|---|
| 1 | 28 | Technical University of Munich | Munich |
| 2 | 59 | LMU Munich | Munich |
| 3 | 84 | Heidelberg University | Heidelberg |
| 4 | =93 | Charité – Universitätsmedizin Berlin | Berlin |
| =5 | 55 | Humboldt University of Berlin | Berlin |
| =5 | 213 | University of Tübingen | Tübingen |
| 7 | 98 | University of Bonn | Bonn |
| 8 | 97 | Free University of Berlin | Berlin |
| 9 | =99 | RWTH Aachen University | Aachen |
| 10 | 212 | University of Freiburg | Freiburg |
Studying in Germany with Scholarships
As previously mentioned, studying at the public universities of Germany is almost possible without paying tuition fees. However, one must cover their living expenses in Germany. For this reason, some students desire to take advantage of scholarships in Germany. Most scholarship awards are given at the doctoral level, and the most notable include:
- Your supervisor may grant you around 1,250 euros per month from the German National Science Foundation (Studienstiftung des Deutsche Volkes).
- The DAAD scholarship (Deutscher Akademischer Austausch Dienst) offers foreign students studying for a doctoral degree in Germany a stipend of 1,200 euros.
- Provided by a group of 13 organizations that offer a total of 1,350 euros per month for international students in Germany.
- The Erasmus+ program, one of the largest student exchange programs in Europe, provides international students with the opportunity to study at German universities with financial backing. This scholarship covers tuition, living, travel, and insurance expenses.
For more detailed information about scholarships in Germany, you can visit www.studying-in-germany.org.
Cost of Studying in Germany
The cost of studying in Germany is a key factor for educational migration. School education costs around 16,000 euros per year. Public universities charge minimal tuition—about 200 euros per semester—with most master’s and doctoral programs being tuition-free for up to three years.
However, students must cover living expenses. Fees for semester administration and services range from 150 to 200 euros. This affordable education system makes Germany an attractive study destination.
Cost of Student Living in Germany
Studying and living in Germany with family requires a monthly budget of about 2,668 euros (excluding rent), while single students spend around 778 euros monthly. Overall, living costs in Germany are 11.6% lower than in France, but rent is about 9% higher.
Housing makes up a large part of student expenses. Below are typical housing and living costs for students in Germany.
| Category | Type | Cost (Euros per Month) |
|---|---|---|
| Student Housing Costs | Dormitory | 160 – 360 |
| Shared Flat | 150 – 350 | |
| Private Rent | Minimum 400 | |
| Other Student Living Expenses | Restaurant Meal | 10 |
| Cinema Ticket | 10 | |
| Monthly Transportation | 70 | |
| Monthly Utilities | 214 |
Student Insurance for Studying in Germany
Student insurance, often referred to as “health insurance for students” or “study abroad insurance,” is a type of coverage specifically designed for international students studying in Germany. This insurance is mandatory for all international students who enroll in a university or higher education institute in Germany.
Important points regarding student insurance for studying in Germany:
- Coverage – Student insurance in Germany includes medical treatment, hospital stays, prescribed medication, emergency services, and sometimes dental care or return to the home country.
- Eligibility – Students must be full-time at a recognized institution, usually under age 30, with proof of residence or a valid student visa.
- Cost – Basic student health insurance in Germany costs about €80–€100 per month, with higher fees for extra coverage.
Best Study Fields in Germany
One of the most important considerations when continuing education is the best fields of study in Germany. Germany is an industrial country that has a high demand for specialized labor in areas of industry and economy to keep its wheels turning. Additionally, given that Germany has an aging population, there is a great need for healthcare personnel.
Below is a list of the best fields of study in Germany.
- Engineering
- Computer Science
- Medicine
- Economics and Management
- Law
- Mathematics and Physics
- Social Sciences and Psychology
Continuing Education in an Unrelated Field in Germany
German universities typically require international students to continue their undergraduate studies in a related field. Applications for unrelated fields are generally not accepted unless the student has relevant work experience. This policy ensures academic credibility and benefits both the universities and students.
Student Employment During Studies in Germany
Student employment in Germany is a great way to cover living costs while studying. International students can work up to 20 hours per week during bachelor’s and master’s programs, while doctoral students can work 30 hours per week.
With Germany’s high demand for skilled workers, finding part-time jobs is usually easy. Earnings help cover expenses, and the work experience boosts career opportunities after graduation.
| Degree Level | Part-Time Work Allowance |
|---|---|
| Bachelor’s & Master’s | Up to 20 hours per week |
| Doctorate (PhD) | Up to 30 hours per week |
Reviewing Accompaniment Visas while Studying in Germany
One of the main concerns for married individuals wishing to study in Germany is the possibility of their families accompanying them. Fortunately, according to family reunification law, spouses and children under 18 years of age can accompany the student in Germany.
It is noteworthy that the applicant’s spouse will be allowed to work full-time in Germany. In this section of the writing, experts from the Malekpour Immigration Institute outline the requirements for obtaining an accompaniment visa for family members.
- Sufficient financial resources
- Suitable place of residence
- Marriage documents
- Appropriate age
- Language skills
- Period of residence
Student Dormitories in Germany
Student dormitories in Germany are the most affordable housing option for international students, costing around 300 euros per month. About 40% of international students and 10% of German students live in these dorms.
They offer free internet, social interaction that helps improve German language skills, and the option to pay fees in installments. However, dorm availability is limited compared to the high number of applicants.
Student Cities in Germany
Culturally, socially, and academically, student cities in Germany are very vibrant. Some well-known student cities in Germany include Berlin, Nuremberg, Leipzig, Dresden, Stuttgart, Heidelberg, Frankfurt, Cologne, Hamburg, and Munich. Since each of these cities has unique features and advantages, you can choose a city based on your preferences and academic needs.
Documents Required to Obtain a Student Visa for Germany
To study in Germany, applicants must first obtain a German student visa. The most important requirement is the university acceptance letter, which must be presented at the German embassy on the reserved date.
One major challenge is the long waiting time for embassy appointments, often up to 18 months. However, Germany recently announced that scholarship holders and students accepted into master’s, doctoral, and research programs with valid language certificates can secure faster embassy interviews.
The current time frame for these individuals to undergo the interview is between 3 to 4 weeks. The main documents required for obtaining a student visa for Germany are listed below.
- Academic qualifications
- Motivation letter
- Proof of language skills (German or English)
- Health insurance documents
- Proof of financial means
You usually need to show around 13,000 euros in your bank account. This amount is enough to cover your living expenses for one year in Germany. - A letter of acceptance from the university
Work Opportunities after Study in Germany
Most students aim to work in Germany after graduation due to its strong industrial economy and abundant job opportunities. Germany’s low unemployment rate makes finding a job easier for graduates.
Additionally, the German government allows international graduates to stay and job hunt for 18 months after finishing their studies. To switch from a student visa to a work visa, graduates must secure a job related to their field. During the 18 months, they can work freely without restrictions.
Consultation for Studying in Germany
Malekpour Institute offers top-quality consultancy for studying and immigrating to Germany and other leading countries. Their expert team works with Europe’s top universities to guide applicants on requirements and documents.
They also help find academic supervisors based on your profile and provide professional German and English language courses for all levels and ages.
Residency Status and Obtaining Citizenship After Studying in Germany
Many choose to study in Germany to migrate and seek residency, but studying alone doesn’t grant permanent residency or citizenship. After graduation, you must switch your residence permit.
Germany allows international graduates to stay for 18 months to find work, during which they can work freely without a permit. Once employed in a job related to their degree, graduates can obtain a work visa. After 4 years of work and tax payments, this visa can lead to permanent residency.
After three years of holding permanent residency, individuals can apply for citizenship and German passport. Note that individuals with permanent residency in Germany will enjoy most citizen rights and have minor differences in voting rights, political asylum, and employment in political positions compared to German citizens.
Frequently Asked Questions About Studying in Germany
- Is studying in Germany free?
Yes. There is no tuition fee required for studying at public universities in Germany, and you only pay a small annual amount for registration costs.
- Can one study in Germany without a language certificate?
You must at least present a B1 level German certificate and reach an acceptable level of proficiency in a German language course in the country.
- Can one obtain a scholarship from German universities?
Scholarships are usually awarded at the doctoral level, and you must provide a strong resume including a high language certificate score, published articles in international scientific journals, and a high GPA, etc.
- Can one work in Germany after graduation?
After graduation, you are granted 18 months to search for employment in Germany. If you secure a suitable job, you can convert your residency to a work-based tenement.
- What is studying in Germany like?
The academic level in German universities is quite high, and applicants have the opportunity to work alongside their studies in Germany.
Conclusion:
Studying in Germany is free at various education levels and attracts many applicants. The high quality and global reputation of German universities make it a popular choice. Graduates can stay for 18 months to find work and apply for a work visa. We hope this article gives you a clear overview of studying in Germany. For free advice, contact Malekpour Institute experts by phone or ask your questions in the comments—our team will respond promptly.
