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.
Guide by
Abdullah
Creator of Ankommo · Based in Germany
I moved to Germany and built Ankommo to help others navigate the same process I went through. I offer 1-on-1 video consultations on visas, Ausbildung applications, citizenship requirements, and German language — in English, Urdu, or German.
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Tuition at most public universities
400+
Universities and Fachhochschulen
€934/mo
Financial proof for student visa
120 days
You can work per year as a student
Germany's public universities are funded by the state — not by tuition. Even non-EU students pay only a semester administration fee (€150–€350), which often includes a public transport pass for the city.
Types of degree in Germany
Bachelor's (B.A. / B.Sc.)
Some English-taught programmes available, especially at private universities.
Master's (M.A. / M.Sc.)
Many public universities offer English-taught Master's, especially in STEM and business.
Ausbildung (Dual training)
Earn while you learn — a practical alternative to university with strong job prospects.
PhD (Doktorat)
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)
Blocked account (Sperrkonto)
€11,208 per year — released as €934/month
For the student visa, you must show proof of financial support. The Sperrkonto (blocked account) with Fintiba, Coracle, or Deutsche Bank is the most accepted method. The full amount must be deposited before your visa appointment.
German language path for study
German-taught programmes require C1 (DSH-2 or TestDaF 4). Even for English-taught programmes, B1–B2 makes daily life significantly easier.
A1
Beginner
A2
Elementary
B1
Daily life
B2
English-taught
C1
German-taught ✓
Most students who skip German struggle in their first year. Starting at A1 now and reaching C1 in 2–3 years is the clearest path to a German-taught degree.
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.
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