How to study in Germany as a foreigner What you need

Germany is a country known for its beautiful landscapes and its undisputed German beer, but it is also a country with a high educational level and a great quality of life, which is why it has become one of the most popular study destinations among foreign students in the last decades. You may be wondering: how can I study in Germany if I don't have much money? Don't worry. In Germany, many universities are state-funded, so tuition fees are usually somewhat lower than in other countries, or even free of charge. In addition, Germany offers scholarships for international students.

However, if you are not a student from an EU country, you will need to apply for a student visa at the nearest embassy.

Please note that knowledge of the German language is not a prerequisite for studying at a German university, as some degree programs are taught in English. You can also take German language courses during your stay in Germany to become fluent in German. The number of foreign students studying in Germany has increased exponentially in recent decades and it is expected that around 350,000 will apply to study in Germany by 2020.

Types of visas to study in Germany

The following visas are available for studying in Germany:

Schengen visa. This visa is issued to students from European Union countries who wish to take a short course (maximum 3 months), i.e., who cannot complete an undergraduate, graduate or master's degree program.

Student or national visa. This type of visa is issued to foreign students who wish to study in Germany for more than 90 days. It is important to note that this visa is valid for a limited period of time, so you will need to apply for a residence visa in order to complete your studies.

As general information, you should also know that, if you are a good student, you can benefit from a scholarship program that provides you with a monthly financial aid to cover tuition, accommodation and living expenses in Germany. You can also work in Germany. You will find all the necessary information in our article "Studying and working in Germany".

If you are not an honors student, you don't have to worry: compared to countries like the UK and the USA, studying in Germany is cheap and often even free. If you are concerned about the quality of your studies, the quality of education in Germany is very good, and German universities are among the best in Europe.