General Requirements to Study in Germany

Studying in Germany can be your gateway toward long-term success. The country offers an outstanding higher education system, making it a top student destination.

If you’re one of the many hopefuls who are eyeing Germany as their study destination, you must learn the general requirements of studying in the country. Securing admission to a German university is a tough process. You must provide specific documents and meet the criteria to get a spot.

Here are the general requirements you must prepare to study in Germany:

General Admission Requirements

Each German university has its own specific eligibility criteria and requirements. To identify these, you can refer to the university’s official website.

In general, the university must recognize your educational qualifications. If your educational certificates are not recognized, you must take a preparatory course. You can complete this course called Studienkolleg in one year.

You must meet the higher education entrance qualification of the university you’re applying for. You must also take the aptitude test called TestAS. This is a specialized exam for foreign students, particularly non-EU citizens.

There are also language requirements depending on the medium of instruction. If you’re not an English speaker but will be taking a program taught in English, you need either the TOEFL or IELTS. 

For programs taught in German, you must take TestDaF or Deutsche Sprachprüfung für den Hochschulzugang (DSH).

Required Documents

During your admission application, you must prepare the following documents:

• University application form/s
• Language proficiency exam
• High school diploma for undergraduate courses (certified copy only)
• Previous academic records translated into German
• Academic certificates (must be recognized by the university)
• Valid passport (copy)
• Passport size photograph

Proof of Sufficient Funds

Part of obtaining a student visa requires you to prove your financial capacity. This is essential to determine if you can support your education and living expenses. 

As of writing, you need around €10,236 every year. You can use a blocked account to prove your funds. A blocked account is a kind of bank account for foreign students.

Getting Health Insurance

Students who are EU/EEA citizens can use their own health insurance, given that they have one in their countries. Non-EU/EEA students need health insurance from either a private or public insurer.

Finding Student Accommodation

You have plenty of student accommodation options in Germany. You can opt for on-campus accommodation such as halls of residence. If you want more privacy, off-campus accommodation such as flats is a great option.

You can read our guide on renting apartments in Germany to learn more. Once you find an apartment, you must register the address. 

Student Visa Application

Visit the German Embassy or Consulate in your country to find out student visa requirements. Eligibility criteria and requirements vary per country, so it’s best to check it out.

You must apply directly to the German Embassy or Consulate. Usually, upon submitting the requirements, you will undergo an interview. Afterward, you must wait for your application to be approved. 

To study in Germany, you need to supply the right requirements to secure admission. Find out more information about studying in Germany by reading more articles here at MSM Unify.