Moving to Germany as a student

 Moving to Germany as a student involves several steps and meeting specific requirements. Here's a comprehensive guide to help you:

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✅ 1. Choose a Program and University

Germany offers:

• Tuition-free education at public universities (especially for undergraduate programs).

• Courses in English and German.

Use these portals:

• www.daad.de (German Academic Exchange Service)

• www.study-in-germany.de

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✅ 2. Admission Requirements

For Bachelor’s Programs:

• Secondary school certificate equivalent to Abitur (German high school qualification).

• Proof of English or German proficiency (see below).

• Motivational letter and CV (sometimes).

• APS Certificate (for some countries, e.g., India, Vietnam, China).

For Master’s Programs:

• Recognized bachelor's degree.

• Transcript of records.

• Letter of motivation.

• Two reference letters.

• Proof of language proficiency.

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✅ 3. Language Proficiency

German-taught programs:

• TestDaF or DSH

English-taught programs:

• TOEFL or IELTS

Typical scores:

• TOEFL iBT: 80+

• IELTS: 6.0+

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✅ 4. Apply for Admission

You can apply through:

• The university website directly

• Or uni-assist.de for some universities

Deadlines:

• Winter semester: Apply by July 15

• Summer semester: Apply by January 15

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✅ 5. Get Accepted and Receive Admission Letter

Once accepted, you’ll receive a Zulassungsbescheid (admission letter), required for the visa process.

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✅ 6. Secure Funding

You must prove you can cover living expenses:

• As of 2024, approx. €11,208 per year (~€934/month)

✅ Options:

• Blocked account (Sperrkonto)

• Scholarship (e.g., DAAD)

• Formal obligation letter from a sponsor in Germany

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✅ 7. Apply for a Student Visa

Apply at the German Embassy or Consulate in your home country.

Requirements:

• Valid passport

• Admission letter

• Proof of funds (blocked account, scholarship, or sponsor letter)

• Health insurance

• Academic transcripts and certificates

• Language proficiency proof

• Visa application form

• Passport photos

🕐 Processing time: 4–12 weeks

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✅ 8. Arrange Health Insurance

• Must have valid German health insurance

• Public insurers: TK, AOK, Barmer

• Cost: ~€110/month for students

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✅ 9. Travel to Germany

Once your visa is approved, you can travel.

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✅ 10. After Arrival in Germany

You must:

1. Register your address (Anmeldung) within 2 weeks

2. Open a German bank account (if not already)

3. Enroll at your university

4. Apply for a residence permit at the local Foreigners' Office (Ausländerbehörde)

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🟩 Bonus Tips

• Look for affordable student housing early!

• Learn basic German – even if your course is in English, it will help you in daily life.

• Explore scholarships at www.daad.de.