Top Universities in Germany for International Students

Often called the ‘Powerhouse of Europe’, Germany is Europe’s largest and most populous country. It has produced some of the most renowned researchers such as Albert Einstein and has a complex and tumultuous history.

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Whether it is sampling German beers at Oktoberfest, or exploring the fairy tale castles of the north there is a lot to see and do in Germany! Needless to say, nestled between Western and Eastern Europe, Germany is the perfect place to travel from. One of the greatest allures of studying in Germany is the non-existent tuition fees at public universities.  There are, however, semester fees of 100-500 euros, which includes a transportation pass.

An IB diploma (with specific courses and scores) meet the admissions requirements. The requirements for American students without an IB diploma changed again in 2020! The first requirement pertains to the courses the student takes in high school. Most of these are pretty much aligned with the college track graduation requirements in the US. These requirements include 4 years of English (honors for one), 2 years of a foreign language, 3 years of social studies,  2-3 years of math (Algebra II or Trig and Precalc), and 2-3 in Science (2 courses in either math or science, 3 in the other).  This is all doable.In addition, students need to have 4 AP scores of 3+. These scores make students eligible to apply only for specific subjects. There are two different combinations of specific scores needed. Students who want to apply to programs related to Humanities, Social Sciences, Law, and Economics need scores of 3+ in:EnglishForeign language (French, Spanish, Latin, or German)Math or natural science (Calc, Bio, Chem, or both Physics C testsAdditional score in European History, American History, Computer Science or Macro+Micro EconomicsStudents who want to apply for programs around Math, Science, and Technology need scores of 3+ in:Math (specifically Calc)Natural Science (Bio, Chem, or both Physics C tests)Language (French, Latin, German, Spanish or English Lit or Lang/Comp)Additional score in European History, American History, Computer Science or Macro+Micro Economics

You must prove you have financial resources to support yourself during your period of study, which currently means around 10236 euros of income or assets are required for the first year, (853 euros per month). 

International students can work 120 full days or 240 half days per year.  Non-EU graduates of German schools can apply to extend their residence permit for up to 18 months to seek employment.

There are also a number of countries in which students can obtain their necessary residence permits for study purposes after their arrival. These include Australia, Israel, Japan, Canada, New Zealand, South Korea, and the United States. It also includes the following countries, provided that the student does not intend to work in Germany before or after completing their studies: Andorra, Brazil, El Salvador, Honduras, Monaco, and San Marino.

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International students from other countries generally need to apply for a visa before arrival.

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Please contact the German embassy in your home country and apply for a student visa or an applicant visa.

Health insurance is a requirement for enrolling in classes in Germany.

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If your home nation offers a national insurance plan, you may be covered in Germany. If you have private insurance today, check with your insurance provider to see if you'll be covered during your period of study in Germany. If so, you will need to obtain a confirmation certificate to enroll in the university. Otherwise, you will need to obtain insurance in Germany.

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Health insurers in Germany are required to provide discounted rates for students until they reach 30 years of age or until the end of their 14th subject-related semester.