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How to Find a University in Germany as an International Student
Germany is one of the top destinations for international education in Europe—and for good reason. With over 400 officially recognized universities, tuition-free options at public institutions, and globally respected degrees, Germany offers unmatched academic value. However, the sheer volume of choices and a complex application process can feel overwhelming, especially for non-EU students.
This guide will walk you through how to find the right university in Germany as an international student, based on your goals, academic background, language proficiency, and visa needs.
Understanding the Higher Education System in Germany
Types of Universities in Germany
There are three main categories of universities in Germany:
- Universitäten (Universities): These focus on theoretical education and research. Ideal for those interested in master’s, PhDs, or academic careers.
- Fachhochschulen (Universities of Applied Sciences): These emphasize practice-oriented education. A strong fit for students aiming for careers in engineering, IT, business, and design.
- Colleges of Art, Film, and Music: Specialize in creative degrees and often require portfolios or entrance exams.
Public vs. Private Universities in Germany
Most international students choose public universities because they charge no tuition fees for bachelor’s and most master’s programs. Students only pay a semester contribution (between €250–€350), which includes public transportation.
Private universities, on the other hand, offer more English-language programs and smaller class sizes but charge between €5,000 to €20,000 per year. They are a good option if you need flexibility in course offerings or missed deadlines at public institutions.
How to Choose a University in Germany for International Students
Define Your Academic Goals
Before selecting a university, clarify the following:
- Are you applying for a bachelor’s, master’s, or doctoral program?
- Do you prefer a theory-heavy academic program or a practical, industry-oriented one?
- Is your goal to stay and work in Germany after graduation?
This will help determine whether you should look at research universities or applied sciences universities, and what kind of accreditation and partnerships to prioritize.
Research Courses Offered in English
If you don’t speak German yet, start with programs taught in English. Many master’s programs, and a growing number of bachelor’s programs, are available in English.
You can filter courses by language on:
- DAAD Course Finder
- University websites
- Uni-Assist and My GUIDE platforms
Make sure the language of instruction is clearly stated. Some “English-friendly” programs still require German for exams or projects.
Where to Search for Universities in Germany
DAAD: German Academic Exchange Service
The DAAD database is the most comprehensive official source for finding English- and German-taught degree programs in Germany. You can filter by:
- Subject area
- Degree type
- Language
- Tuition fees
- Application deadlines
DAAD also includes funding and scholarship opportunities, making it a central starting point for international students.
Uni-Assist: Centralized Application Platform
Uni-Assist is a service many German universities use to manage international applications. It’s not a search engine, but it provides:
- Lists of participating universities
- A checklist of required documents
- Tools to evaluate whether your foreign certificates are valid
Start your research on the DAAD portal and cross-reference with Uni-Assist.
My GUIDE (by DAAD)
My GUIDE helps match your academic background to university programs. It allows for customized filtering and also links you directly to university application pages.
Admission Requirements for International Students in Germany
University Entry Requirements
To apply to a German university, you’ll typically need:
- A recognized school-leaving certificate (e.g., Indian Class XII, IB, A-Levels)
- Transcripts from previous education
- Proof of language proficiency (German or English)
- Statement of Purpose (Motivationsschreiben)
- CV (Lebenslauf)
- Passport copy and application form
Some programs, especially in the creative or business fields, may require entrance exams, portfolios, or interviews.
Language Proficiency Requirements
Depending on the program, you may need to prove your knowledge of:
- German: Through TestDaF, DSH, Goethe-Zertifikat, or telc
- English: IELTS (typically 6.0–7.0), TOEFL (80–100 iBT), or Cambridge C1/C2
Always check the specific university’s requirements—many accept multiple types of proof.
How to Verify if Your Qualifications Are Recognized in Germany
Using the Anabin Database
The Anabin database helps determine whether your previous qualifications (especially from non-EU countries) are equivalent to the German education system.
Search by country and institution to check if your diploma or degree qualifies for direct admission—or if you’ll need to attend a Studienkolleg (preparatory course).
Applying via Uni-Assist for Validation
Uni-Assist often serves as the official recognition body. If your university uses it, you’ll upload your certificates for pre-assessment documentation (VPD).
Expect processing to take 4–6 weeks, so plan accordingly.
How to Apply to German Universities as an International Student
Application Portals and Processes
There are three main ways to apply:
- Via Uni-Assist: Most public universities for non-EU students.
- Direct to the university: Some accept direct applications through their own portals.
- Via My GUIDE: Useful for linking search results to application pages.
Always follow the university’s website instructions exactly. Applications not submitted correctly or missing required documents are automatically rejected.
Application Deadlines for German Universities
There are typically two intakes:
- Winter Semester (October start): Deadline 15 July (some as early as May)
- Summer Semester (April start): Deadline 15 January
Deadlines vary, especially for art and private universities—always verify on the official site.
Popular Courses for International Students in Germany
High-Demand Fields
Some of the most popular and career-relevant programs include:
- Computer Science / Data Science
- Mechanical or Automotive Engineering
- Renewable Energy / Environmental Engineering
- International Business / Management
- Public Health and Medicine
- Architecture and Urban Planning
- Artificial Intelligence and Robotics
Programs in STEM fields and healthcare are not only respected—they also offer better post-study visa and job opportunities.
Top Cities in Germany for International Students
Best University Cities in Germany
| City | Why It’s Popular |
|---|---|
| Berlin | Diverse, affordable, tech-friendly, strong in humanities/arts |
| Munich | High academic standards, job opportunities in tech & business |
| Heidelberg | Picturesque, historic, top-ranked universities |
| Hamburg | Port city, creative sectors, good for English programs |
| Cologne | Lively, media and communications stronghold |
| Aachen | Engineering hub (home of RWTH Aachen) |
| Stuttgart | Automotive and innovation capital |
When choosing a city, consider factors like living costs, student housing, job market, and cultural fit.
Scholarships and Financial Aid for International Students in Germany
Tuition-Free Doesn’t Mean Cost-Free
While most public universities don’t charge tuition, international students still face expenses:
- Semester fees (€250–€350 per term)
- Health insurance (~€110/month)
- Housing (€400–€700/month)
- Visa and residence permit fees
Top Scholarships to Consider
- DAAD Scholarships – Germany’s largest funding body for international students.
- Deutschlandstipendium – Merit-based, regardless of nationality.
- University-specific scholarships – Many institutions offer grants for outstanding foreign students.
- Private foundations – Bosch Foundation, Heinrich Böll, Friedrich Ebert, etc.
Tips for Choosing the Best University in Germany
Shortlisting Based on Your Profile
- Check rankings, but don’t rely on them blindly. Program relevance matters more than overall rank.
- Filter universities by language of instruction, industry connections, and job outcomes.
- Prefer universities in cities with strong internship and career networks in your field.
- Ensure the program has Anabin recognition if you plan to work in Germany later.
Connect With Current Students and Alumni
- Use platforms like LinkedIn or Reddit to message alumni.
- Join Facebook groups for international students in Germany.
- Attend virtual open days and info sessions hosted by universities.
What to Do After You Receive Admission
- Apply for a German student visa using your admission letter.
- Secure Anmeldung-eligible accommodation for legal registration (critical).
- Buy health insurance—required for both enrollment and visa.
- Get your academic documents translated and notarized if required.
- Book your flight, arrive early, and prepare for cultural adaptation.
Finding the Right University in Germany is About Strategy, Not Luck
Germany offers international students an extraordinary chance to study in a system known for academic integrity, affordability, and global recognition. But the key to success lies in understanding the system, preparing early, and choosing wisely.
From selecting the right type of university and checking qualification recognition to ensuring your program supports your career goals, this process demands research and strategy.
For international students aiming to live and study in Germany confidently, selecting the right university is not just the first step—it’s the foundation of everything that follows.
FAQ
How do I choose a university in Germany?
To choose a university in Germany, consider your field of study, language of instruction, admission requirements, location, and whether you prefer theory-based or applied learning. Use DAAD or My GUIDE to compare public and private options across the country.
Is 2.7 GPA good for masters in Germany?
A 2.7 GPA on a 4.0 scale is considered borderline for admission to German master’s programs. Competitive programs prefer 3.0 or above, but some universities of applied sciences may accept 2.5–2.7 if other application elements are strong.
How to shortlist German universities?
To shortlist German universities, filter programs by language, location, field of study, tuition fees, and career prospects. Use tools like DAAD’s course finder and verify that the university is accredited and offers degrees recognized by Anabin.
What is the easiest university to get into in Germany?
There’s no official list of the easiest universities in Germany, but universities of applied sciences typically have more accessible entry criteria than top research institutions. Schools in smaller cities also tend to have lower competition.
Is it easy to change university in Germany?
Changing universities in Germany is possible but requires careful coordination. You must meet the new university’s academic criteria, transfer credits, and reapply formally. If you’re a non-EU student, your visa may also need updating.
Is 1.7 a good GPA in Germany?
Yes, a 1.7 GPA in Germany is excellent. German GPAs are on a 1.0 (best) to 5.0 (fail) scale, so 1.7 reflects strong academic performance and is well above average. It’s competitive for scholarships and postgraduate programs.
What is a 4.0 GPA in Germany?
A 4.0 GPA in the U.S. system is roughly equivalent to a 1.0 in the German grading system, which is the highest possible score. It indicates outstanding academic achievement and meets the top requirements for most German institutions.
