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

1/11

Study in Berlin - MBA & International Master’s Programmes

Study management in English. Improve your leadership skills. Gain digital know-how. Become part of an international student body. Benefit from many corporate activities, valuable career consultation a...

More

Discover the business of tomorrow – enhance your career opportunities ...

Advance your career with an MBA from Pforzheim University, one of the leading Business Schools in Germany!

Mehr

MBA IN INDUSTRIAL MANAGEMENT --> YOUR KEY TO SUCCESS

Esslingen University - one of Germany’s leading universities for applied sciences. Core areas: engineering, management, applied research.

More

Your Choice of English Programs at Coburg University

Join a welcoming international campus: Coburg University combines innovation, practical experience, and diverse perspectives in your studies.

More

M.Sc. in Geomatics for Environmental Monitoring

Study an International Master’s program and apply satellite, mapping and geodetic tools to solve today’s environmental challenges.

More
TU Dortmund

Master of Science in Manufacturing Technology (M.Sc.)

Boost your engineering career by studying Manufacturing in Germany, one of the top Manufacturing nations worldwide! Apply from Jan 1st – Mar 15th at TU Dortmund University. No tuition fees.

Mehr

Take the next step towards a global career: Bucerius Master of Law & B...

Join Bucerius Law School in Hamburg! Apply by 15 January to study at one of Germany’s top private universities for future global professionals.

More

Boost your career with the International Master‘s in Project Managemen...

Boost your career! Earn a German Master’s degree in Data Science & Project Management. Join the MPMD programme at HTW Berlin!

More

Level up your finance future — propel your career with our MBA in Fina...

Unlock your finance and leadership potential – our premium, accredited MBA in Financial Management opens doors to top careers in Germany’s thriving market.

More

Enhance your career in the field of International Cooperation!

Apply until 9 March 2026 to Kehl University for our English-language and career-integrated Master Programme Public Management in International Cooperation – Designing African-European and Intra-Afri...

More

MBA & Engineering in Life Science Management Programme

Internationally accredited MBA&E providing life science expertise required in leaders of the future combining comprehensive, industry-specific knowledge and management skills.

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