Studying in Germany – The 10 Steps Guide
Your comprehensive roadmap from choosing a program to enrolling at a German university. Follow these 10 essential steps to make your study abroad dream a reality.
Planning to study in Germany but not sure where to start? This guide walks you through the full journey, from choosing the right program to enrolling at a German university.
Germany welcomes hundreds of thousands of international students each year thanks to its respected universities, manageable costs, and strong career prospects.
Pick a study program that suits your requirements
Choose your subject, degree level, and language of instruction. Use program databases and rankings to match options to your goals.
Key Resources
- Search the DAAD database for English/German programs
- Compare rankings and student reviews
- Check career outcomes and industry links
Check the admission requirements
Verify academic and language requirements early; some programs need portfolios or entrance exams. Confirm minimum scores and document formats.
Academic Requirements
- Confirm recognized entrance qualification
- Gather academic transcripts
- Meet minimum GPA (if required)
Language Requirements
- Provide TestDaF or DSH for German-taught programs
- Provide TOEFL or IELTS for English-taught programs
- Meet minimum score thresholds
Organize your finances
Estimate tuition and living costs, then plan your budget. Prepare proof of funds (such as a blocked account) and explore scholarships.
Estimated Monthly Costs
Apply for health insurance
Health insurance is mandatory. Compare public and private plans and choose what fits your budget and eligibility.
Public Health Insurance
- Choose TK (Techniker Krankenkasse)
- Compare AOK (Allgemeine Ortskrankenkasse)
- Consider Barmer
- Budget about €110/month
Private Health Insurance
- Compare Mawista Student
- Check Care Concept
- Review Expatrio
- Budget about €35-€60/month
Set up a blocked account
If required for your visa, open a blocked account and deposit the required amount. Start early, as verification can take time.
Popular Providers
- Compare Expatrio
- Check Fintiba
- Review Coracle
- Consider Deutsche Bank (limited availability)
Apply to universities
Apply via uni-assist or directly to the university. Submit complete, consistent documents and track your application status.
Typical Requirements
- Prepare school/university diplomas
- Prepare academic transcripts
- Collect language certificates
- Draft motivation letter
- Update CV/resume
- Add passport copy
Get your student visa
After admission, book your embassy appointment and prepare your visa dossier. Processing times vary, so allow enough lead time.
Required Documents
- Prepare admission letter
- Prepare proof of financial resources
- Arrange health insurance
- Ensure valid passport
- Complete visa application form
Find accommodation
Start housing search early. Apply for dorms, consider shared flats, and have documents ready for landlords.
Housing Tips
- Apply for student dorms early
- Check WG-Gesucht for shared flats
- Use trusted rental platforms
- Prepare documents (SCHUFA, proof of income)
Arrive in Germany and enroll
Once you arrive, register your address, complete university enrollment, and arrange your residence permit if required.
First Week Checklist
- Register your address at the Bürgeramt
- Enroll at your university
- Open a German bank account
- Get a German SIM card
Start your studies
Attend orientation, build your support network, and settle into your new academic routine.
Make the Most of It
- Join student clubs
- Attend international student events
- Explore your new city
- Build your support network
Sources
What you should do next
Use these links to continue planning your study journey.