January - March

Start your research!

Use Expatrio's Study Eligibility Checker to find out if you can apply directly to German universities or need to attend a preparatory course.

TIP: Not sure how to choose a university course? Explore the StudyBuddy Program Database and browse through 13,000+ study programs using our filtering tool.

April - May

Entrance exam preparation

Most German universities require proof of language proficiency, either in English or German, depending on the language of instruction of your chosen program.

Start preparing for the relevant language exams early, as slots can fill up quickly. Depending on your study program, you may also need to prepare for other entrance exams such as GMAT, GRE, or subject-specific tests.

June - July

Take the exams

After all that preparation, now is the perfect time to take your language and entrance exams. Book your exam slots early as popular test centres fill up fast, especially during summer.

TIP: Keep in mind that some exams take several weeks to deliver results. Plan ahead so your scores arrive in time for application deadlines.

August - October

Prepare your documents

Now it's time to prepare the other documents required by the university of your choice. The list includes but is not limited to:

• A completely filled-out university application form.
• Academic transcript or pre-transcript.
• Valid passport and passport photo.
• Letter of Motivation.
• Letter of Recommendation.
• Certified translations of documents where needed.

Please clarify all required documents directly with the university.

Keep an eye on application deadlines too. While most universities set their summer semester deadline in January, some programs and portals like uni-assist have earlier cutoffs. Check your specific program's deadline now so you're not caught off guard.

TIP: Use the StudyBuddy Checklist to track every step of your application and make sure nothing falls through the cracks.

November - December

Submit your applications

With the January deadline approaching, now is the time to finalise and send your university applications. Aim to submit at least 8 weeks before the deadline to allow for processing time.

If you're applying to more than one university, stay organised. Track which applications have been submitted, which need follow-up documents, and watch for any requests from admissions offices.

TIP: Before you hit submit, review every document for completeness and formatting. Incomplete applications are one of the most common reasons for rejection.

January

Deadline for the Summer Semester

Save the date: January 15th

This is the general deadline for international applicants at most German universities for the summer semester. Some programs and portals like uni-assist may have earlier cutoffs, so always verify with your chosen institution.

February

Secure your visa documents

While you wait to hear back from the universities, now is a great time to start preparing for your visa documents. You don't have to wait until your admission is confirmed to get started. Setting up your Blocked Account early means one less thing to deal with once your Letter of Admission arrives.

The Expatrio Value Package bundles everything you need for your visa application in one place:

1. Blocked Account
2. Health Insurance
3. German Bank Account

TIP: You can now apply for your student visa digitally through the Consular Services Portal. Upload your documents, get them pre-checked by embassy staff, and book your in-person appointment online.

March

Find accommodation

Got your student visa? Now it's time to sort out where you'll be living. Use Expatrio's Accommodation Finder to browse trusted accommodation providers across Germany.

These guides can help you get started:

• Types of accommodation for students
• How to find a student apartment in Germany
• What to pack before arriving in Germany

April

Welcome to Germany!

You've made it! Here's what you need to take care of in your first few weeks:

• Register your apartment (Anmeldung)
• Activate your Blocked Account, Bank Account, and Health Insurance so you can access your funds and stay covered.
• Download our full arrival checklist to avoid any missteps!