Which degree program are you planning to study in Germany? 

Here is the complete guide to degrees in Germany if you are still unsure about your degree options. 

Still looking for the perfect study program?

Find your dream course with your StudyBuddy.  The StudyBuddy quizzes can help you narrow down your choices, recommending programs that are perfect for you based on your preferences and personality. 

As soon as you have shortlisted your program choices, you can move onto the next step.

Converting your grades to the German grading system is common when applying to a German university for a more accurate comparison. You can calculate and save your German GPA below.

Here’s a guide to understanding the German grading system and what your average grade might look like in Germany. 

Do you know what your average German grade might be? Let us know. 

Most German universities require proof of English proficiency when applying for an English-taught program, typically through tests such as CEFR, IELTS, Cambridge (CAE), or TOEFL. Here is a complete guide for English language proficiency tests in Germany. 

You can also find the specific language requirements for your chosen course through the StudyBuddy Program Database. 

What English language proficiency test will you take/have already taken? 

Showcasing your extracurricular activities and achievements can significantly impact your university application. 

German universities have multiple application methods. Some require you to apply through uni-assist, while others may ask you to submit your application directly through the university’s portal. 

Here is our complete uni-assist guide to help you through the application process. 

Be sure to research the specific application process for your shortlisted programs so you’re fully prepared when applications open. 

Some universities may require Preliminary Review Documentation called  Vorprüfungsdokumentation (VPD) from uni-assist as part of the application process. If your chosen university needs a VPD, be sure to submit your application to uni-assist before the deadline. 

Here is all you need to know about the VPD process. 

Confirm whether your selected universities participate in the VPD procedure.

Now that you know about the application process, it's time to keep track of important deadlines. 

It's good practice to apply well in advance, giving yourself time to resubmit if any documents are missing or your application is incorrect. The StudyBuddy Program Database lists all the key deadlines you need to know.

Have you been accepted into your dream course yet?

Now that you’ve received your admission letter, the next step is to apply for a German student visa.

To do this, you’ll need to submit various documents to the German embassy or consulate in your country. Key documents include your university acceptance letter, proof of sufficient funds (typically through a blocked account), and proof of health and travel insurance.

We have created a German student visa guide to help you understand the process. 

Make sure to carefully review all visa requirements to ensure you provide the necessary documents when its time for your visa appointment.

Join our upcoming webinar on how to get a German scholarship and learn more about scholarships, loans, and the Blocked Account.  

To get a student visa or residence permit for study purposes in Germany, international students need to prove they have enough financial resources to cover their living expenses. One of the fastest ways to do this is through a Blocked Account, a special type of bank account required by German law for many internationals to secure their German visa, and ensures that funds are set aside specifically for the student's use.

Find out more about funding your German Blocked Account in 2024 here. 

Looking for a Blocked Account service provider? 

Get Expatrio's Value Package, your all-inclusive package for a seamless start in Germany.

The Value Package offers you a German Blocked Account, free Travel Insurance, Public or Private Health Insurance for your time in Germany, and a free German Bank Account, among other things. 

A well-written motivation letter helps the visa officer understand your background and why you want to study in Germany. It's important to create a thoughtful, well-researched letter for your visa application.

Keep in mind that a visa motivation letter is different from a university motivation letter. The visa letter focuses on explaining your plans to study in Germany and your ability to support yourself, while the university letter highlights your academic goals and why you're a good fit for the program.

Completing the VIDEX form is crucial to your German visa application process. Officially known as the "Antrag auf Erteilung eines nationalen Visums" (Application for a National Visa), this form gathers essential details about your personal background, reasons for coming to Germany, and relevant financial and professional information. Without it, your visa application will be incomplete.

The form is available on the official website of the German Embassy or consulate in your country. It’s a crucial part of the visa application process. Once completed, you must print, sign, and bring it to your visa appointment along with other required documents. 

Depending on your home country, you can schedule an appointment at a German Embassy, consulate, or an external service provider. Click through for a list of German missions in your country.

Your visa will be processed in at least four weeks, though it can take longer. The processing time depends on the country and peak application times, so please plan your appointment well in advance. 

If you let us know your visa appointment date here, we'll send you a helpful reminder the day before your visa appointment. 

Before your visa appointment, double-check all your documents to confirm that you have everything in order. Arriving early is always a good idea to avoid any last-minute delays. 

We wish you good luck with your visa appointment!

You will be notified by the embassy when your visa has been processed. 

Germany provides various financial support opportunities even after you begin your studies. Be sure to explore scholarship options offered by your university, as well as DAAD scholarships.

To find out more about scholarship opportunities for students studying in Germany, check out our guide on German scholarships.

Finding accommodation is an essential step as you will need a place to stay, and your residential address is needed for several other reasons, such as opening a bank account and completing your city registration.  

You can use our accommodation finder to find the perfect place for yourself. If you are looking to find out more information on accommodation variety in Germany, you can also check our overview of accommodations article.

Germany's extensive transport network ensures a smooth journey to your destination. Find out the nearest airport to your university and don't forget to take advantage of any student discounts offered by airlines.  

General items like cutlery and clothing are easily available in Germany, so prioritize packing based on the weather in your arrival city and keep your luggage manageable. Avoid overpacking and make sure to bring any important documents you might need during your stay.

Here is a complete packing guide for students coming to Germany, so you won't have to worry about missing anything. 

When you arrive in Germany, one of your first tasks will be to complete your city registration, known as "Anmeldung." This process involves registering your address with the local registration office (Bürgeramt) within a few weeks of your arrival. It's a crucial step as it’s required for many other processes, such as applying for a residence permit.

Make sure to gather all necessary documents, including your passport, rental agreement, and registration form, to ensure a smooth registration experience. Here is a guide to completing your city registration. 

Enrolling at your university is a key step to begin your studies officially. This process typically involves submitting your final documents, paying any required fees, and receiving your student ID. Here are more details on the steps for a successful enrollment. 

Make sure to check the enrollment deadlines and have all necessary paperwork, such as your admission letter, passport, and proof of health insurance, ready to complete the process smoothly. Once enrolled, you'll gain access to university facilities, courses, and student services.

Obtaining a German phone number is essential for staying connected and managing daily tasks like opening a bank account or accessing university services. To explore affordable options and learn how to set up a German phone number, click here for more details. 

Feel free to share your German phone number with us! We’re not sending texts just yet, but having your number means you'll be first in line for any important updates or cool info we might send your way in the future. 

You need to activate your Blocked Account to start receiving your payouts. If you’re using Expatrio’s services, the process is streamlined through the Expatrio mobile app. Find out all about activating your Blocked Account here. 

When you opt for the Expatrio Value Package, a free Current Bank Account will also be opened for you so you can start receiving your payouts soon after activation. If you choose an external Current Bank Account, you must confirm your account's IBAN and BIC code to start receiving funds. 

When you arrive in Germany, activating your Health Insurance is an important step as well. Depending on your chosen provider, you can activate your coverage through TK Insurance, Dr. Walter, or ottonova.

Simply follow the provided links to get detailed instructions and ensure your health insurance is active from the moment you start your journey in Germany.

After registering your residence, the Contribution Service (Beitragsservice) will contact you to register for the broadcasting fee (Rundfunkbeitrag). This mandatory fee funds public broadcasting channels in Germany, including radio, television, and online media, and applies to everyone over 18, regardless of media usage.

If you haven’t been contacted yet, be sure to familiarize yourself with the legal obligations to ensure compliance.

The student visa you receive in your home country is typically valid for 3 to 6 months. Once you arrive in Germany, you’ll need to convert it into a residence permit to stay beyond 90 days. This permit allows you to study, work, or engage in other activities during your time in Germany. To extend your stay, you’ll need to book an appointment with the local foreigner’s authority (Ausländerbehörde) in the city where you are registered.

Here is everything you need to know about the German Student Residence Permit. 

While not mandatory, many people in Germany choose to get liability insurance, known as Haftpflichtversicherung. This insurance covers you in various situations, such as accidentally damaging someone's property, injuring someone in an accident, or even if your child breaks something valuable at a friend's house. It’s a popular choice for those looking for peace of mind in everyday situations.

Make sure to get a "Haftpflichtversicherung" (liability insurance) so you don't have to worry about paying for any accidental damages during your time in Germany. 

Congratulations on your hard work and on following all the steps of the checklist. You have set yourself up for success from day one! Now is the time to immerse yourself in the culture, attend your lectures, and start attending networking events and parties!