Transferring to a New City as a Student in Germany

Thinking of moving to a new city during your studies in Germany? Whether it’s for a better university, lower cost of living, a different lifestyle, or personal reasons, you're not alone. Many international students find themselves considering a change in scenery while continuing their education at a German university.

This guide walks you through everything you need to know about how to transfer your university to another city in Germany, from academic steps to relocation logistics.

Can You Transfer to Another City in Germany?

Yes, you can transfer to another city in Germany. This process is quite common, especially among international students who want to explore other cities or find a better academic or living environment. You’ll need to follow a few important steps to ensure your application process is smooth and that your residence permit, credits, and other legal documents remain valid.

Whether you're starting a new Bachelor’s or Master degree, or simply continuing in a different location, transferring is possible if planned correctly.

Why Do Students Move Cities During Their Studies?

Here are common reasons students choose to change university city in Germany:

• Looking for a university with stronger faculty or better resources for their field

• Wanting a more affordable cost of living

• Searching for better health insurance options or access to medical support

• Seeking a different environment (smaller vs. larger city, international community, etc.)

• Finding it easier to live in a city where more people speak German language (or more English, depending on comfort)

• Moving in with friends, partners, or family who also study in Germany

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How to Transfer to Another City in Germany

1. Find a Program Match in Your Target City

• Search for a German university in your preferred city offering the same or a similar study program

• Make sure your current academic credits will be recognized (especially if you plan to apply for a higher semester)

• Review the application deadlines for the winter semester or summer semester, as they may vary

Not sure what your options are? Try the StudyBuddy All-in-One Quiz! It helps you discover study programs based on your preferences, including field of study and preferred city

2. Submit Your Application

• Apply through uni-assist or directly to the university

• Prepare your application form, transcripts, and credit summaries

• Contact the examinations office of the new university for advice on credit transfer

3. Accept Your Admission and Deregister

• Once accepted, begin the application process to formally switch universities in Germany

• Inform your current university and request deregistration (Exmatrikulation)

• Start your enrollment (Immatrikulation) process in the new city

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Practical Relocation Tips for Students

Transferring isn’t just about academics — there are important personal and legal things to manage when you move cities as a student in Germany.

Anmeldung (City Registration)

• Once you move, you must register your new address with the local Bürgeramt

• This update is necessary to keep your residence permit valid

Update Your Bank & Insurance Info

• Update your German bank account and insurance providers

• If you use a Blocked Account, check if you need to update any documents for visa purposes

Inform the Ausländerbehörde (Foreigners' Office)

• Let them know about your student relocation in Germany

• This is especially important for students from non-European countries who need to maintain their residence permit

Find Housing in Your New City

• Start your housing search early, as student accommodation in popular cities fills up quickly

• Many universities have a housing office that can help

What About Tuition, Fees, and Support?

• Semester contributions and fees may vary by state and university

• Ask about any local welcome services for students who have recently moved to Germany or changed cities

• Orientation programs are often available for students arriving in Germany for the first time or settling in a new location

Managing Your Blocked Account During a City Transfer

If you're transferring to a new city in Germany, don’t forget to consider your Blocked Account — an essential part of maintaining your residence permit.

• Visa renewal or extension: When you move to a new city and enroll in a different university, the local Ausländerbehörde may ask for updated proof of financial stability. This often includes showing a valid Blocked Account.

• Topping up or extending: If your current balance doesn’t meet the yearly minimum, you might need to top up your Blocked Account or open a new one depending on how long you still plan to stay in Germany.

• Relocation costs: Budgeting for a move often means extra upfront expenses. Make sure your account covers costs like housing deposits, transport, and new semester fees.

Expatrio’s Blocked Account is trusted by thousands of international students in Germany. It’s fast, fully digital, and accepted by all German authorities — making it ideal for students who are relocating and need quick updates to their financial documents.

Explore Expatrio’s Blocked Account →