Studying in Germany
Higher education in Germany is globally recognised and thousands of students come into the country in order to further their studies.
Studying in Germany can be a great opportunity due to the many programmes and universities available.
In total there are more than 300 universities within Germany and in order to enter, one needs to abide with specific requirements. Apart from that, it can be a great experience.
If you do not know the German language too well, worry not, as most of the universities offer courses in English, while you can learn German, on the side. Most German universities offer free language courses and campus activities for their students.
Sounds interesting, doesn’t it? In this article you can find five easy steps how you can start studying in Germany.
Step 1 – Find a German University
Before searching for a specific university, you need to decide on what course you are going to take, whether it is a diploma, degree, masters or PHD. In order to do this, simply use the German Academic Exchange Service (DAAD), which is designed to help students their course and make them aware which universities offer it. It also tells you the costs and requirements of each university, therefore it is quite easy to compare.
Step 2 – Get a Student Visa
If you are from within the EU, then you can skip this step. For non-EU students, after finding a university, you can apply for a German student visa. In order to get a visa, you need to;
- Have at least one offer from a German university, to show your means for travel.
- Evidence that you can financially support yourself. If you depend on your parents financially, then you need proof from your parents and signed by a notary or lawyer, that they will cover you financially.
According to regulations, you must prove that you have more than €8040 for your first year. If the whole process of getting a visa is too complicated, you can opt for professional help.
Step 3 – German Health Insurance
Health Insurance in Germany is mandatory by law for all those residing in Germany. With that being said, you have the options of choosing public or private health insurance. For more information about German Health Insurance, kindly visit our Insurance section, where you can find, compare and get free health insurance quotes.
Step 4 – Accommodation
There are many sources where you can search for accommodation including, websites, newspapers and rental agencies. First start by deciding in which are you want to live in and consider that you will have to be travelling from there to the university every day. Therefore, take into consideration transport costs.
If you are going to rent a property, go visit it before in order to experience the location and apartment first hand. For students, there is also the option to stay in the university residence if it has one. Most of the time, these are the best option since you will be close to your university and most of the more affordable.
Step 5 – Address Registration
Once you have settled your university, visa and accommodation, the next part is to register the place where you will be living and receiving post. Having a German address can help you with many other things, such as, renting a car, opening a bank account and applying for internet.
You need to register at the local registration office within fifteen days of your arrival. The registration process includes two forms;
- Landlord confirmation
- Registration form
Conclusion
Studying in Germany can be a great opportunity for you to advance with your studies. Apart from that several German universities are ranked amongst the top in the world.
