In 2025, Germany will rank as a top study destination due to its world-class universities, globally recognised degrees, and affordable education. Students who are planning to migrate to Germany should have an in-depth understanding of the study in Germany requirements before applying. Universities in Germany demand strong academic qualifications; moreover, international students must also meet German language requirements. Mainly, applicants must fulfil visa requirements to study in Germany, including proof of funds through a blocked account in Germany and valid health insurance for students in Germany. Scholarships such as the DAAD scholarship requirements can help students in mitigating financial pressure. The tuition fees in Germany are usually affordable, which attracts Indian students towards German universities.
The blog discusses in detail the visa requirements, finances, and language proof for international students.
University and Programme Selection in Germany
Choosing Public vs. Private Universities
- Public universities in Germany are highly popular among international students, since most of the universities charge a small amount as tuition fees. This attracts most of the Indian students towards German public universities.
- In the case of private universities, students may have to pay higher tuition fees. Even though these universities offer specialised programmes, flexible admission, and smaller class sizes.
Admission Deadlines and Intake Seasons
The study in Germany application process is closely linked to the intake seasons offered by universities. International students must plan their applications early, as missing deadlines can delay admission by several months.
- Winter Intake (October): This is the primary admission season in Germany and offers various programmes across public and private universities. Most international students prefer applying for the winter semester since it provides more course availability, especially in fields like engineering, computer science, and business. Application deadlines usually fall between May and July, depending on the university.
- Summer Intake (April): The summer semester has fewer course options but offers quicker timelines for those who want to begin studies earlier. It is especially useful for students applying to English-taught programmes or exchange opportunities. Deadlines for this intake typically range from December to January, and students are strongly advised to check requirements through university portals in advance.
Popular Courses for International Students
- Germany is especially known for engineering, computer science, medicine, management, and social sciences.
- Many universities also offer English-taught programmes, but fulfilling German language requirements for international students can increase academic opportunities.
- Programmes supported by scholarships, such as the DAAD scholarship requirements, are highly competitive and in demand.
Academic Eligibility: Requirements to Study in Germany
Securing admission in Germany requires meeting particular academic requirements. Universities require students to meet certain criteria depending on whether a student applies for a bachelor’s, master’s, or doctoral programme.
Minimum Academic Qualifications
- For bachelor’s programmes, international students must have completed 12 years of schooling (higher secondary education) equivalent to the German “Abitur”. In many cases, students may need to complete a foundation course if their school-leaving certificate does not directly qualify them.
- For master’s programmes, applicants need a recognised undergraduate degree in a relevant field. Some programmes may also require entrance tests or a strong academic score in previous studies.
APS Certificate and Verification for Indian Students
- Since 2023, Indian students have been required to obtain an APS Certificate (Academic Evaluation Centre certificate) as part of the study in Germany requirements for international students.
- The APS verifies academic documents such as mark sheets and degree certificates to ensure they meet German standards. Without this verification, students cannot proceed with the visa requirements to study in Germany.
- By 2025, the APS process will continue with digital updates, which require Indian applicants to start early.
Additional Admission Documents
Along with academic transcripts and certificates, most universities ask for supporting documents to evaluate a student’s readiness. These usually include:
- Statement of Purpose (SOP): Explaining academic interests and career goals.
- Letters of Recommendation (LORs): From professors or employers highlighting the student’s academic/professional strengths.
- CV/Resume: Outlining education, skills, and relevant experiences.
German Language Requirements for International Students
Language proficiency plays an important role in the study of German requirements for international students, as most public universities conduct their courses in German. Depending on the programme, students may need to demonstrate either German or English proficiency.
Accepted German Language Tests
For courses that are taught in German, students should prove their proficiency in German through exams such as:
- DSH (Deutsche Sprachprüfung für den Hochschulzugang): A university-level test for foreign applicants.
- TestDaF (Test Deutsch als Fremdsprache): Widely accepted across German universities.
- Goethe-Institut Certificates (B2/C1 levels): Internationally recognised and valid proof of German proficiency.
- The required level usually ranges between B2 and C1 under the CEFR (Common European Framework of Reference for Languages).
English-Taught Programmes and IELTS/TOEFL Requirements
Many universities in Germany also offer English-taught programmes, especially at the master’s level. For these, students must meet English proficiency standards through tests like:
- IELTS
- TOEFL iBT
Financial and Visa Requirements to Study in Germany
Students who are planning to secure education in Germany have to strategically plan their finances and visa regulations.
Visa Requirements to Study in Germany (2025)
- To study in Germany, international students need a student visa approved by the German Embassy or Consulate.
- The application requires an admission letter from a recognised university, proof of funds, valid health insurance for students in Germany, and academic documents.
Blocked Account Germany 2025: Latest Rules & Minimum Amount
- One of the most important financial requirements for studying in Germany is maintaining a blocked account.
- By 2025, international students should maintain a minimum amount of €11,904 per year in their account to cover living expenses.
- This account acts as proof that students can finance their stay, and funds are released in monthly installments after arrival in Germany.
DAAD Scholarship Requirements for Funding Support
- To reduce costs, many international students apply for DAAD scholarships, which support living expenses, tuition fees, and health insurance.
- The DAAD scholarship requirements typically include strong academic records, a convincing research proposal or study plan, and language proficiency in German or English, depending on the course.
Health Insurance and Enrolment in Germany
Health insurance is one of the most important procedures for international students in Germany. Without valid insurance, you cannot get a student visa or enrol at a university.
Mandatory Health Insurance for Students in Germany
Every international student must have health insurance in Germany. This ensures you are covered for medical treatment, emergencies, and regular checkups during your studies.
Public vs. Private Student Insurance Options
- Most students under 30 choose public health insurance, which costs around €110 per month and covers almost everything.
- Some students, especially those over 30 or in special cases, may choose private insurance, which can be cheaper initially but offers limited coverage.
Cost of Living and Accommodation in Germany
Even though the tuition fees are low, the cost of living in Germany may vary depending on the city. Thus, students should have a clear idea about the expenses of living in Germany.
Monthly expenses for Indian students in Germany
- International students may have to spend about €900–€1,200 per month to cover rent, food, transport, health insurance, and personal expenses.
- Accommodation is the biggest expense. A room in a student dormitory costs around €250–€400 per month, while private apartments may cost €500 or more.
- Compared to smaller towns in Germany, Munich and Frankfurt are more expensive.
Tuition Fee Details
- Public universities usually do not charge tuition fees, but for small semester contributions, students may have to pay around €250–€350.
- Depending on the programme, private universities may charge between €5,000 and €15,000 per year.
Do not let complex visa rules or application deadlines hold you back. Clifton is here to guide you through every step, from university selection and document preparation to securing your APS Certificate, arranging your blocked account, and getting your German student visa approved. Contact Clifton today to get expert counselling and a personalised admission plan for Germany.
Frequently asked questions and answers
- What are the visa requirements to study in Germany in 2025?
You need an admission letter, proof of funds, a blocked account, valid health insurance, and verified academic documents. Visa applications should be submitted at least 8–12 weeks before travel. - How much money do I need in the blocked account for Germany in 2025?
For covering living expenses, students should have a minimum amount of €11,208 per year in their account. This is a mandatory financial requirement for students studying in Germany. - Do international students need health insurance in Germany?
Yes. Health insurance is mandatory for university enrolment and visa approval. Students can choose public insurance or private insurance depending on eligibility. - When should I apply for the winter and summer intakes in German universities?
Winter intake deadlines are usually from May to July. Summer intake deadlines are typically between December and January. - What are the most popular courses in Germany for international students?
Engineering, computer science, medicine, management, and social sciences are among the most popular programmes for international students.
