🇩🇪 Germany

The majority of higher education institutions in Germany are financed by the state. There are generally no fees for Bachelor's courses or most Master's courses at state higher education institutions. Tuition fees may have to be paid for certain continuing education Master's programmes, but they are not particularly high compared to other countries. Private higher education institutions may demand more substantial fees for their degree programmes. The Federal State of Baden-Württemberg has however decided to charge non-EU citizens tuition fees of EUR 1,500 per semester.

On average, a German student has expenses of EUR 842 per month. That includes rent, travel expenses, expenditures for food, clothing, learning materials, health insurance, telephone, Internet, radio and TV licence fees, and recreational activities. (Added to this is the semester contribution, which varies between higher education institutions.)

See more information about scholarships to study in Germany.

Always check with each university/programme to inquire about tuition, fees, and possible financial aid and scholarships.

See more general information about tuition, fees, cost of living, and financial aid opportunities here.

For international degree programmes, you can normally be accepted without proof of German language skills. However, you will then need proof of other language skills, usually English.

For most other programs, you will often have to present proof of proficiency in German when you apply. Generally, IB German courses are not accepted as proof of proficiency.

Contact the International Office at your higher education institution for details.

How do I prove my language skills?

Usually you will be expected to take a German language test before you are admitted to your degree programme. There are official tests with which you can prove your German language skills.

What do these tests look like?

• The Test Deutsch als Fremdsprache (TestDaF) is offered in around 100 countries, so you can already take it in your home country. 

• The Deutsche Sprachprüfung für den Hochschulzugang (DSH) has to be taken in Germany and is offered by many higher education institutions. Both tests consist of several sections that assess your reading and listening comprehension as well as your ability to communicate. If you achieve at least the medium level in all sections you can be admitted to your degree programme.

• The Goethe-Zertifikat C2, the telc Deutsch C1 Hochschule examination and the Deutsches Sprachdiplom (level II) of the Standing Conference of the Ministers of Education and Cultural Affairs are usually also recognised by higher education institutions. For some degree programmes, the Goethe-Zertifikat B2 and C1 and the Österreichisches Sprachdiplom Deutsch B2 and C1 are also recognised. 

Please be sure to contact your higher education institution for information on the rules that apply for your degree programme, making sure to include important information about the courses and type of school you attend.

When and where can I take the test?

Testing is offered several times a year. Information on test locations and dates is available on the websites of the test providers and from the contacts at your higher education institution.

In all cases, it is up to the student/parents to be aware of the relevant German language proficiency requirements that apply to them and to meet those requirements as stated by the individual institutions. For that reason, the general guidance is that all students who intend to study in Germany should take one of the officially recognized proficiency assessments unless they have verified directly with the institution(s) to which they will apply that they are exempt from this requirement.

Read more helpful information here: https://www.study-in-germany.de/en/plan-your-studies/requirements/language-skills/

In the pursuit of higher education, students often encounter various terms like university and university of applied sciences, each offering distinct educational experiences. Understanding these differences is crucial for making informed decisions about one's academic path. Let's delve into the nuances between these two types of tertiary institutions.

Universität:

A university, known as "Universität" in German, represents the pinnacle of tertiary education. It provides students with a comprehensive theoretical foundation coupled with practical applications. For instance, in a field like Computer Science, a university curriculum encompasses not only programming but also delves deep into the theoretical underpinnings of the discipline. This approach equips students with the knowledge needed for scientific research within their chosen fields.

(Fach)hochschule:

On the other hand, a university of applied sciences, or "Fachhochschule" in German, offers a different educational approach. While still providing a thorough education, the focus here lies more on the practical application of scientific principles rather than extensive research. In disciplines like Computer Science, students in a university of applied sciences may engage in more hands-on programming and database work, with less emphasis on theoretical frameworks.

Transitioning Between Institutions:

One notable aspect is the possibility of transitioning between institutions. Students from Hochschulen often pursue further education at traditional universities, typically after completing their bachelor's degrees. This transition, commonly occurring at the master's level, allows students to bridge any gaps in theoretical knowledge and prepare for advanced research or scientific work.

However, transitioning between institutions does come with challenges. Students may find themselves facing unfamiliar theoretical concepts or methodologies, especially if there are disparities between the curricula of their previous institution and the new one. And  there are some pre-Master programs that allow Hochschul grads to do this, it depends on the program. Masters from Hochschulen especially in Engineering are often equally recognised by companies though.

In conclusion, while both universities and universities of applied sciences offer valuable educational opportunities, they differ in their approaches to teaching and learning. Understanding these distinctions is essential for students as they chart their academic journeys and pursue their goals in higher education.

In the following cases, applications for medical-type degrees are handled via hochschulstart.de and not by uni-assist:

• If you are a German, EU or EEA citizen or

• if you have a German Abitur or

• if you live in Germany and a member of your family (spouse, parents or child) is a German, EU or EEA citizen.

Every other applicant should apply through uni-assist or check the requirements of the specific programme you wish to complete.

An IB diploma is generally recognized throughout Germany as a university entrance qualification. The IB Diploma opens up direct university entrance for all subjects if all requirements are met. Depending on the subjects covered in the IB Diploma, there will be either a direct, general university entrance with free choice to study whatever you'd like or one subject-specific, meaning you are only accepted to study the specific subject you applied for.

*Note on Math courses: if you plan to study in Germany, you must complete a HL Math course. SL Math is not qualified for admission to a German university.

If you are a German citizen, you can write to the relevant state Anerkennungsstelle: https://anabin.kmk.org/no_cache/filter/anerkennungs-und-beratungsstellen-in-deutschland.html

Non-German citizens should apply through uni-assist, who will verify that your DP/CP courses meet the requirements: https://www.uni-assist.de/en/faqs/assemble-your-documents/#c7641

More on course selection and recognition (from ISD): http://www.isdcounselling.org/the-ib-diploma-dp-the-abitur--german-higher-education-admission.html

• Info from DAAD here: https://www.daad.de/de/studieren-und-forschen-in-deutschland/studium-planen/anerkennung-ib-diploma/

• Application guide from the IB: https://pds.ibo.org/UCC-country-specific-how-to-apply-guides/story.html

• A comprehensive list of universities that accept and recognize the IB Diploma DP and/or CP programme: https://www.ibo.org/university-admission/find-countries-and-universities-that-recognize-the-IB/

Didn't get the IB diploma? Don't panic!     Read the guide here.

If you are determined to study in Germany but find that you do not meet the basic requirements, foundation years are a great start. 

• Studienkollegs: If you do not earn the IB diploma or it is not recognised in Germany, you will need to attend a "Studienkolleg" (foundation course) in order to enter a German university. This ends with an exam - the "Feststellungsprüfung" (the university entrance exam).

• Propädeutikum: If you do not have to attend a "Studienkolleg", you can take a preparatory course (Propädeutikum), which is typically a one semester course to study German language skills necessary for admission.

Make sure to contact the university/course you wish to attend to ask about their requirements and if you will need to attend a Studienkolleg or Propädeutikum.

Read more about the requirements here: https://www.study-in-germany.de/en/plan-your-studies/requirements/prep-foundation-courses/

Students may want to consider using the CommonApp system if applying to schools in multiple countries or find the local system very confusing and difficult to navigate. The CommonApp, while typically used for US colleges/universities, is a non-profit organization with a single application which can be used to apply to 1,000+ universities worldwide. This will help make the application system more efficient and easier to navigate.

You can search for available universities and programs of study in Germany and other countries HERE.