Welcome to Germany!
Germany is an attractive place to study and our university degrees are highly respected by employers worldwide.
In a recent ranking compiled by Study.eu, Germany was deemed the most attractive study destination for international students in Europe. The high quality of the German tertiary education system, the amount of English study programmes and the moderate cost of living are factors that contribute to Germany’s ranking as the most attractive country in Europe to study in. Low crime rates in general and a low unemployment rate for university graduates make the nation in the heart of Europe a perfect study location. In addition, graduates from German universities are eligible to apply for an 18-month residence permit that allows them to find a job in Germany after their graduation.
Germany has a lot to offer as a place to study, including
- Safe country
- Strong economy
- Good infrastructure
- Good quality
- High level and high wages
- High demand of skilled professionals
- Reasonable living costs
- Good work conditions
- Great health system
- Social security
After your graduation you will have many job opportunities and a 18 months stay back option.
German Higher education system
In Germany there are around 400 state-recognised universities. These are divided into:
- Universities
- Universities of Applied Sciences
- Colleges of Art & Music
Universities embody the traditional form of higher education and combine research and teaching. They often offer a wide range of subjects. Studying at universities of applied sciences, on the other hand, is more practice-oriented. As a rule, the universities of applied sciences are also very well networked with companies. The focus is on technology, business, design and the social sector. Art colleges offer programmes in artistic and creative subjects such as visual art, music, graphics, fashion design, film, etc. In order to qualify for these courses, students must pass an entrance examination.
Student Visa
If you are not a citizen of the European Union, of an EEA state or of Switzerland and you are planning to study in Germany, you must apply for a visa at the German Embassy in your home country BEFORE you come to Germany. Without proof of a valid study visa for Germany universities are not allowed to enrol you. Please contact the German Embassy in your home country to find out whether you need a visa or not. Here you will find a list of all German embassies and consulates with foreign offices.
FAQ´s
Please do not underestimate the process and keep in mind that you will not be able to study in Germany without a valid visa. Visa processing times can take several months so you should apply as early as possible. Please consider that there might be a considerable waiting period for an appointment (4 to 6 weeks) and a processing period of additional 4 to 8 weeks. We recommend that you contact your German Embassy at least 3 months before the semester starts. Important Notice: Please keep in mind that universities are not involved in the student’s visa application process. They have neither directive authority nor effective influence on the processing times of governmental authorities.
Be sure to apply for a long-term national (D) visa for study purposes. The short-term (C) “Schengen” visa is only valid for up to 3 months and will not cover your study stay in Germany.
In order to be able to apply for a study visa, you need an acceptance letter from a German university. The other documents that are required to obtain such a study visa include a valid passport, a current photo, proof of financial support as well as some additional application documents. Bear in mind that visa rules and regulations can differ considerably from country to country. Therefore, it is crucial that you contact the German Embassy in your home country.
When you receive your visa, you will notice that it is only valid for 90 days. This is not a mistake and no reason to worry. This visa is an entry visa and has to be converted into a German residence permit at the local Immigration Office after your arrival in Germany.