Guidance for students worldwide
Study in Germany
Germany's universities attract students from around the world with research-led teaching and, at most public institutions, no tuition fees. We guide students from any country through choosing programmes, meeting admission requirements and preparing their application.
Wherever you live, you can book a consultation with us online. Requirements depend on your qualifications and nationality — we look at your situation individually.
- Tuition at public universities
- Mostly none
- Baden-Württemberg charges non-EU students €1,500 / semester
- Semester contribution
- ≈ €70–430
- Per semester, depending on the institution
- Proof of funds (visa)
- €992 / month
- As of 1 January 2025 — usually via a blocked account
- Intakes
- Winter & summer semester
- Deadlines vary by institution
Where you can study
Types of institutions
German higher education is offered by different types of institutions. Which one suits you depends on how academic or practical you want your studies to be.
Universities (Universitäten)
Research-oriented institutions offering a broad range of subjects, from Bachelor's level to the doctorate.
Universities of applied sciences (Fachhochschulen / HAW)
Practice-oriented degrees, frequently including internships and projects with industry — popular in engineering, business, IT and social sciences.
Colleges of art, film and music
Specialised institutions for creative subjects, usually with an aptitude test or portfolio review.
Zedex is not an agent of, and has no partnership with, any German institution unless stated otherwise. We help you find and apply to suitable programmes yourself.
Bachelor's degrees
Most Bachelor's programmes are taught in German, so German language skills are usually essential. A smaller number of English-taught Bachelor's programmes exist.
Master's degrees
A large number of Master's programmes are taught in English. You normally need a relevant Bachelor's degree, and some programmes set additional grade or subject requirements.
Requirements
Admission, qualifications & language
Requirements depend on the institution, programme, your qualifications and your nationality.
University entrance qualification (HZB)
Your school-leaving certificate must be recognised as a higher education entrance qualification in Germany. The DAAD admission database shows whether your certificate qualifies; the institution makes the final decision.
Studienkolleg (foundation course)
If your certificate isn't recognised for direct admission, you may need to attend a Studienkolleg. After two semesters you take the assessment test (Feststellungsprüfung), which qualifies you for related programmes.
Language requirements
German-taught programmes usually require at least B2 level of the Common European Framework, proven with an accepted certificate. English-taught programmes require proof of English instead.
How to apply
Applicants from outside the EU/EEA apply either through uni-assist or directly to the institution, depending on the university. Deadlines differ between institutions and semesters, so check each programme.
Documents commonly requested
- Valid passport
- School-leaving certificate (and university degree for Master's) with transcripts
- Certified translations where required
- Language certificate (German or English, depending on the programme)
- CV and motivation letter, if requested
- For the visa: admission letter, proof of financial resources and health insurance
Costs
Tuition & living costs
Tuition fees
There are generally no fees for Bachelor's and most Master's courses at state institutions. Baden-Württemberg charges non-EU students €1,500 per semester for most degree programmes. Private universities charge tuition.
Semester contribution
Every student pays a semester contribution — roughly €70 to €430 per semester depending on the institution. It often includes a public transport ticket.
Proof of financial resources
For a student visa you currently need to prove €992 per month (as of 1 January 2025) — usually €11,904 for a year, most often via a blocked account (Sperrkonto). The German mission in your country confirms the exact amount.
Living costs
According to the DZHW social survey (2023), students spend about €876 per month on average. Costs are higher in large cities such as Munich, Frankfurt or Hamburg.
Figures from the DAAD and the Federal Foreign Office. Amounts are reviewed regularly — always confirm current figures before you apply.
Scholarships
DAAD scholarship database
The German Academic Exchange Service lists scholarships for international students and graduates, searchable by country and study level.
Official information (opens in a new tab)Deutschlandstipendium
Merit-based scholarships awarded by participating universities, open to international students enrolled there.
Official information (opens in a new tab)
Scholarships are competitive and awarded by the funding bodies — we can help you find and apply for ones you may be eligible for, but cannot guarantee an award.
How we help
Your path to Germany, step by step
- 1
Free consultation
We review your qualifications, language level and goals — online, from any country.
- 2
Check eligibility
We check whether you qualify for direct admission or need a Studienkolleg, and which language test you need.
- 3
Shortlist & apply
We help you shortlist programmes and prepare applications via uni-assist or the university.
- 4
Funds & visa
We explain proof of funds, health insurance and the student visa process at the German mission in your country.
- 5
Pre-departure
Enrolment, accommodation and arrival checklists.
Visa Success Stories
Germany success stories
Verified student stories are on their way
We only publish stories with our students' permission. In the meantime, you can follow our latest updates on Facebook.
Visit our Facebook pageFAQ
Studying in Germany: common questions
Official sources
- DAAD — German Academic Exchange Service(opens in a new tab)
- DAAD — Costs of education and living(opens in a new tab)
- uni-assist — application service(opens in a new tab)
- Federal Foreign Office — visas and blocked accounts(opens in a new tab)
Information last checked October 2026. Admission and visa decisions are made by institutions and authorities.
Can I apply from any country?
Yes. German universities accept international applicants worldwide. What you need depends on your qualifications and nationality — for example, whether your certificate gives direct admission and whether you need a visa.
Do I need to speak German?
For German-taught programmes, usually yes (typically at least B2). Many Master's programmes are taught in English and require proof of English instead. Some German is useful for everyday life either way.
Is studying in Germany really free?
At most public universities there are no tuition fees for Bachelor's and most Master's programmes, but you pay a semester contribution, and Baden-Württemberg charges non-EU students €1,500 per semester. You also need to prove you can cover your living costs.
What is a blocked account?
A special bank account (Sperrkonto) into which you deposit your proof of funds — currently €992 per month of your stay. You can then withdraw a fixed monthly amount once in Germany.
Can Zedex guarantee admission or a visa?
No. Universities decide on admission and the German mission decides on your visa. We help you understand the requirements and prepare a strong, complete application.
Free consultation
Let's Plan Your Next Step
Tell us about your study goals, and our team can help you understand the options available to you.