Eight steps to Germany

Student walks through the city smiling with the Berlin Cathedral in the background.
© GettyImages/Westend61
Germany is one of the top destinations for international students. If you’re planning to study or research at a German university, you’re likely to have many of questions on where to start. Here, we outline the 8 essential steps to ensure a successful study experience in Germany.

The Right University

Anyone looking to study in Germany is spoilt for choice. There are many different types of universities, all of which provide outstanding quality.

More at daad.de
Two students are sitting in front of a laptop in the foyer of the university.

The Right Degree Programme

Whether Bachelor's or Master's, state exam or PhD – there is a wide range of degree courses and short courses on offer at German universities. All your options at a glance.

More at daad.de
View from above of two students talking in the library.

The Requirements

Anyone who wants to study at a university in Germany needs a so-called "Hochschulzugangsberechtigung" (HZB) or higher education entrance qualification.

More at daad.de
Student sitting smiling with writing pad in the foyer of the university.
International students sitting over study materials in the lecture hall.

Learning German

Learning German is worthwhile. Find out where and how you can improve your German language skills.

Costs of Education and Living

Compared to other EU states, living costs in Germany are relatively modest. Nevertheless, to ensure a successful stay in Germany, it is of utmost importance that funding is secured for the entire study period in Germany. Study and living costs at a glance.

More at daad.de
Two students sit smiling outside at a table in the café.

Applying

Anyone looking to study at a German university needs to fulfill certain admissions criteria.

More at daad.de
View from above of student writing on her laptop.

Visas

International students often need a visa to travel to Germany. This depends on the country of origin and how long you want to stay.

More at daad.de
One hand holds a passport.

Renting a Room

Unlike in many other countries, freshers at German universities are not automatically allocated student accommodation on enrolment. So it is important to start searching for accomodation early on.

More at daad.de
Two students are standing in the courtyard of a student dormitory.

Help and Advice

Whether you are interested in studying or research in Germany, our employees are always happy to assist with any questions relating to your study in Germany.

More at daad.de
Two students sit during a counselling talk with a university employee.

Consultations

Have you got questions about study and research in Germany? Have you always dreamed of studying in Europe? Are you looking for funding for your Master or PhD degree? Then make an appointment for a consultation with the DAAD Johannesburg Team! We would be happy to assist and advise!

More

Advertisements by German Universities

1/14

Global Change Ecology (M.Sc.)

Your master’s degree linking natural science perspectives on global change with approaches in social science! Be a part of our international master’s programme and apply now!

More

M.Sc. in Chemistry, Engineering, Sustainability

Interested in chemistry, engineering, sustainability? Boost your career by studying in Germany, one of the top Chemistry nations worldwide!

More

Top-ranked international Master & PhD Programs (english-taught) @ RPTU...

International Master & PhD Programs @ RPTU University Kaiserslautern-Landau | Germany Application Deadline: 30.04. & 31.10. More information: www.rptu.de/en/international/home

More
Logo Universität Bayreuth

International Master program “Digitalization & Sustainability in Mater...

Do you want to successfully address current challenges of our time and create impact for a sustainable future? Do you want to explore the potential of combining materials science, digital technologie...

More

GET MA – Global and European Transformations: Social Sciences with a G...

GET MA offers an interdisciplinary master's program combining political science and sociology, with a double degree from Berlin and Ankara. Ideal for careers in diplomacy, policy advising, NGOs and ac...

More
Logo Universität Bayreuth

Natural Products & Drug Chemistry (M.Sc.)

Creativity inspired by Nature - With a strong focus on synthetic Organic Chemistry we address the current challenges of research on bioactive molecules and drugs.

More

English-taught Bachelor’s and Master’s programs at Hof University

Shape your future with our career-focused Bachelor’s and Master’s programs in English, featuring hands-on learning, internships, and strong industry connections!

More

Get a truly international education!

Are you looking to study at a German university that will launch your international career? Join us at ESB Business School for a top-tier education!

More

Natural and Applied Sciences in Cottbus – Senftenberg

Would you like to study in German, but are still not sure? Start online at home – finish in person in Germany!

More

TH Mannheim - Your Career Starts Here

Invest in your future in Germany and discover our international Bachelor programs BSc Electrical Engineering and BSc Engineering and Management at Technische Hochschule Mannheim!

More

International Master program “African Studies” (M.A.)

The Master of African Studies offers students a uniquely interdisciplinary social sciences approach to the study of Africa. The programme critically engages the social, political and cultural dynamics...

More
Hof University - University of Applied Sciences Logo RGB

Hands-on Master’s programs at Hof University Graduate School

Boost your career with our practical M.B.A. and M.Eng. programs, including a one-year industry internship to gain real-world experience!

More

LL.M. in European and International – Start your global career now!

Study European Integration, Economic Law, Trade, Investment and IDR as well as Human Rights together with students from more than 30 countries!

More
Logo Universität Bayreuth

Philosophy and Computer Science (M.A. / M.Sc.)

Think. Code. Transform. This interdisciplinary master’s programme combines philosophy and computer science to address challenges raised by modern information technologies.

More

Contact

  • DAAD Information Centre Johannesburg

    Jorissen Street SM3151, Third Floor, Solomon Mahlangu House, University of the Witwatersrand. | PO Box 269, Wits 2050, Johannesburg, South Africa, Johannesburg Telephone: +27 (0) 11 717 9334
    E-mail: daadwits.ac.za
Location pin on map display