Study in Germany: 7 Essential Steps & Free Guide

1. Check Your Eligibility

Before you start browsing through the countless degree programs and universities available, the very first step is to ensure you are eligible to study in Germany. This is particularly important if you come from a non-European education system, as your qualifications might not directly align with the German education system.

To verify your eligibility, visit the official DAAD website and use their eligibility checker. By entering your academic data, the tool will let you know if you meet the criteria and what additional measures you might need to take. Some of these extra requirements might include:

• Attending a preparatory course at a Studienkolleg
• Submitting specific language certificates

Additionally, you should check the Anabin database to see if your home country’s university is recognized in Germany. Ensuring you meet these prerequisites early on will set a solid foundation for your application and academic journey.

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2. Choose the Right University and Course

Germany offers an extensive list of over 400 universities, with the majority being tuition-free. However, the right choice depends on your specific career goals and interests. It is essential to remember that there is no “one-size-fits-all” when it comes to higher education in Germany. Unlike the US, Germany does not have a formal system of elite universities – excellence can be found in institutions of all sizes, even in smaller cities.

When selecting your degree program, consider the following:

• Course content – Even if two programs have the same title, they can vary significantly in curriculum and focus.
• Location – Check if the city aligns with your lifestyle and budget.
• Facilities and student reviews – Investigate what current students say about the university’s resources and overall experience.

Use the DAAD university database to explore over 21,000 degree programs. Filters and keyword searches allow you to narrow down your list to those best suited to your interests. Additionally, if you are looking specifically for English-taught programs, take a look at MyGermanUniversity.

A practical tip for organizing your research is to shortlist 10 to 15 universities and degree programs in a spreadsheet. Document details such as deadlines, tuition fees, and unique features of the program. Then, narrow the list down to your top 5-7 choices. This method will help streamline your application process and increase your chances for admission.

3. Prepare for Exams and Certificates

Most degree programs in Germany specify certain exam requirements to ensure that students have the necessary skills. These may include aptitude tests like the GMAT and various language exams. Since these exams require ample preparation, determine as soon as possible which tests you need to take.

For instance, if you plan to enroll in a program requiring a German language certificate, such as the A2 level exam, you should consider starting your preparation by October or November. In many cases, programs demand more advanced language proficiency (B2 or C1), which may require at least one year of focused study before attempting the exam.

Here are some tips to keep in mind:

• Start early: The preparation process for language exams or other standardized tests takes time.
• Aim high: Do not settle for passing scores. A strong performance in language exams (or any tests, such as English proficiency exams) strengthens your application and reduces the chance of rejection.

You can find a wide array of resources online, including practice guides and expert tips. Investing time in improving your language skills is one of the best ways to ensure your success when you study in Germany.

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4. Gather All Necessary Documents

The documentation process is one of the most critical aspects of your application. Each university has its own list of required documents, which may vary based on your academic background and country of origin. Generally, the common documents you’ll need include:

• Your academic transcripts and diplomas
• Language test certificates (for German or English)
• Curriculum Vitae (CV) or resume
• Letters of recommendation
• A copy of your passport
• A detailed description of your degree program (Modulhandbuch, if applicable)

For example, if you are applying for Computer Science at a prestigious institution like KIT, visit their official website, and look for the course-specific requirements listed on their admissions page. Should you have any questions, the International Office at each university is typically available to assist you with the document checklist and other details.

5. Secure Proof of Financial Resources

An essential requirement for studying in Germany is providing proof of financial resources to the German government. This verifies that you have sufficient funds to support yourself during your studies. For students from non-EU countries, this often involves setting up a blocked account.

As of the current guidelines, you must secure approximately 11,208 euros per year in a blocked account before arriving in Germany. This sum is then disbursed monthly to cover your living expenses once you start your studies. While this might seem like a substantial amount, it is a mandatory measure designed to ensure that students do not face financial hardship while studying in Germany.

In addition to the blocked account, there are a number of scholarship and funding opportunities available. For more details, check out resources such as the DAAD scholarship database or visit myStipendium for comprehensive scholarship listings.

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6. Mind the Application Deadlines and Portals

One of the most crucial aspects when planning to study in Germany is adherence to application deadlines. Germany primarily offers three ways to submit your application:

• Hochschulstart: The central application portal for many programs.
• UniAssist: A service that processes applications on behalf of some German universities.
• University-specific portals: Some institutions manage their own admissions process.

For the winter semester (starting in October), the general application deadline is usually the 15th of July. Similarly, for the summer semester, which starts in April, the deadline is typically on the 15th of January. However, many portals open earlier, allowing universities to review applications as they come in. For example, some institutions start processing applications in early May. Keeping track of these dates is vital, as missing a deadline could delay or even jeopardize your admission.

A key tip is to begin your application process as early as possible and maintain a personal calendar with all important deadlines and events.

7. Final Preparations & Download the Free Studying in Germany Guide

After managing academic records, language tests, documents, financial proof, and application procedures, the final step is to put all your preparations together and keep refining your applications. Ensure you have backup options by ranking your shortlisted universities and understanding that there is always an alternative plan if your top choice does not work out.

This stage also involves finalizing your arrangements prior to departure. When everything is ready, it’s time to focus on exploring the cultural, logistical, and practical details of living in Germany.

Tip: Continuously update your checklist and timeline as deadlines and requirements might change over time. Stay informed by regularly visiting the Study in Germany official website and the DAAD portal.

For those looking for further detailed insights, do not miss out on our free studying in Germany guide—packed with extra tips, resources, and expert advice. Download your free copy today and set yourself on the right path for your academic journey!

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