Application Process to Study in Germany

Learn German

The most important restriction for most international applicants is regarding language. German universities offer a mix of exclusively German language courses and courses incorporating English teaching.

There are many programs that are taught in English. If you don't have a good grasp of German, it's important to find universities that let you study in English. However, it's still advisable to learn some German as part of the application process.

Which university in Germany is the best for international students?

Finally, some German universities are known for being more suitable for international students. For instance, the University of Heidelberg actively seeks international applicants and has strong support systems to help with housing, finances, and teaching.

Germany application process

When you've chosen your course and university, it's time to start the application. In Germany, applicants have to pass through several stages in their application, and it's important to get them all right.

Fill out the application form

Each course will have its own application form, and filling it out can be a time-consuming process. Forms can be obtained from university websites and posted to foreign addresses.

However, institutions usually offer online forms, which is probably the best way to go.

When filling out application forms, you will probably be asked for a set of passport photos and a clearly legible copy of your passport.

At this stage, you will also need to submit evidence that you meet the university's admissions criteria, so make digital certified copies of any relevant exam certificates and diplomas.

Submit your application

Tip: When the form is done, submit it as soon as possible. If there are any mistakes on the form or bureaucratic hurdles, you may need time to sort them out. 

It's important to note here that certain application deadlines apply. If you are applying to begin studying in winter, applications must be submitted by 15 July, while the deadline for summer enrollment is usually 15 January. Keep those dates in mind.

Receive the admission letter

If you are successful in your application - that's great. But we're not done yet. Successful applicants will receive a letter of confirmation. Don't discard this or file it away. You'll need it to complete the application process.

Tip: It's a good idea to make a few copies of the letter, just in case, as it is vital for the next stage.

Get your student visa

Your student visa grants you access to Germany. Here are some of the mandatory requirements for your visa application, all of which can be applied for at one time with the Expatrio Value Package.

Health insurance

Firstly, you'll need to have comprehensive health insurance before the visa is granted. The German government recommends getting a policy that covers the entire period of study, as well as repatriation in case of illness. This means all international students in Germany must be covered by one of the country's health insurance schemes. We've covered this in more detail in guides to arranging health insurance.

Tip: Get your incoming (travel health) insurance, and your blocked account all at once with Expatrio.

Always choose an affordable provider, preferably one with excellent English language support. Techniker Krankenkasse (TK) is a good option to go for.

Blocked account

Secondly, you'll need to prove that you have enough money to support yourself. Students will also need to prove that they have the resources to fund their studies. You can prove this with a bank statement, scholarship award letter, or similar document. The best way to do so is to set up a blocked account (Sperrkonto) which is a type of bank account specifically for this purpose.

This account is partially locked, and will disburse funds on a monthly basis. Applicants for universities must add at least €934 per month to their account (€11,208 per year).

Value Package

At Expatrio, our Value Package makes things as easy as possible for international students. This package bundles together your health insurance and blocked account, and adds extra perks to the mix. There's no better way to minimize the stress involved in starting your studies in Germany, and it can save you time and money.

When your blocked account and health insurance have been arranged, you should be able to obtain a student visa and a residency permit. This will allow you to accept your place at university and rent accommodation, so it's an important step.

With those two things taken care of, you can apply for the visa at a German embassy or consulate in your home country. The application process is fairly straightforward, but you may have to provide more documents, such as evidence of your ties to your home country (to show that you don't intend to stay in Germany permanently).

Once the visa has been granted, you're free to move to Germany and begin your studies! After all that work, it's time to enjoy student life in one of the best countries in the world for higher education.

We hope this guide has been helpful. If you have any questions or comments, please don't hesitate to contact us. And if you're looking for more guidance on studying in Germany, check out our other articles about studying and life in Germany.