Admission to Germany

Germany is one of the finest choices: free tuition at state universities, leading engineering programmes, and the chance to work and stay on after your studies.

Visa types

A student visa or a residence permit for the purpose of study. Processing takes 4–12 weeks.

Free tuition

At state universities, tuition is free for international students (except in Baden-Württemberg). You pay only a semester fee of 150–350 euros, which includes a travel pass.

Language requirements

For German — TestDaF or Goethe B2/C1 (usually C1). For English — IELTS 6.0–7.0 or TOEFL 80–100. Many Master's programmes are taught in English.

Academic requirements and documents

A school-leaving certificate is required for a Bachelor's. With a Russian school certificate, a Studienkolleg preparatory course is often needed. A Master's requires a Bachelor's degree. Documents needed: international passport, diplomas translated into German, language certificate, motivation letter and proof of funds.

Financial requirements

For the visa you need a blocked account (Sperrkonto) holding roughly a year's funds, which you draw down monthly, plus medical insurance.

Admission

Applications go through Uni-Assist or directly to the university. Deadlines: winter semester — by 15 July; summer semester — by 15 January.

Applying for a visa

Secure an offer from a university, open a blocked account, buy insurance, and submit the visa application at the embassy in person. Once you arrive, register your address.

Work for students

140 full days or 280 half days per year.

Admission timeline (over 12–14 months)

12 months ahead — choose your university. 10 months ahead — prepare for TestDaF/IELTS. 8 months ahead — gather and translate your documents. 6–7 months ahead — check whether a Studienkolleg is required. 5–6 months ahead — submit your application. 4 months ahead — sort the blocked account and insurance. 3 months ahead — submit the visa application. 1 month ahead — collect the visa and fly out.

Common mistakes

Weak German (C1 is required). No blocked account. Misjudging the need for a Studienkolleg. Missing the 15 July deadlines. Incorrectly translated documents.

How Edunation helps

We find you a university and programme free of charge, check whether a Studienkolleg is required, help translate your documents and write your motivation letter, help you open a blocked account and arrange insurance, submit your visa application, and organise your transfer and accommodation.

With Edunation, admission to Germany is realistic and affordable. Start with a free consultation.