Germany, with its high academic standards and free public universities, is one of the most popular places in the world for students to study abroad. There are many universities in Germany that offer free or very low-cost tuition programs for international students. This is why many people choose Germany to improve their education. Follow this article to learn everything you need to know about studying in Germany.
Germany is home to 83 million people and is known for its beautiful landscapes, rich history, and modern technology. If you like skiing, you will love Germany's mountains. If you prefer city life, Germany's cities are lively and exciting, blending tradition with modern culture. Germany offers a great mix of natural beauty and urban excitement, making it an ideal place for students.
In this article, we will explore the top universities in Germany, the benefits of studying there, and the application process and requirements. We will also provide details on specific university requirements and top courses.
Germany and Its Offerings
Germany is a top choice for students considering studying abroad. The number of international students in Germany has increased by nearly 40% from 2014 to 2021. Here are the key reasons why:
- Low or No Cost Education: International students can study at public universities in Germany for free, only needing to pay a small administrative fee.
- Top Ranked Universities: German universities are globally renowned for their quality education. A degree from a reputable German university can greatly boost your career prospects.
- Scholarships Available: Various scholarships like DAAD offer financial support to international students.
- Affordable Living: The cost of living in Germany is reasonable, especially accommodation costs. Students have options like dormitories, shared apartments, etc.
- Work Opportunities: Germany offers plenty of job opportunities after graduation, with major companies like Daimler, BMW, and Adidas hiring international graduates.
- Focus on Research: German universities emphasise research, providing modern facilities and partnerships with local and international research institutes.
- Travel in Europe: With a student visa in Germany, you can travel throughout the EU. Berlin and Munich offer rich historical sites to explore.
Germany's combination of quality education, affordable living, and career opportunities makes it an attractive destination for students from around the world.
Requirements When Applying For German Universities
1. Study Programme
To start studying in Germany, you need to find a course you like. This is an important first step. Learn about the requirements and admission criteria for universities in Germany. Use a database of international study programmes to find options that match your preferences.
2. University Admission Requirements
After choosing a programme, understand the admission requirements.
- Qualifications: Your school-leaving certificate must be recognised in Germany. If not, you must attend a one-year preparatory course called Studienkolleg.
- Aptitude Tests: Some universities require a TestAS aptitude test for non-EU students.
- Language Proficiency: Proof of German (DSH or TestDaF) or English (IELTS or TOEFL) language proficiency is needed, depending on the course language.
- Special Tests: Some business schools may require a GMAT test.
3. University Application Documents
Each university may have specific requirements, but commonly needed documents include:
- Completed application form
- Recognised foreign school-leaving certificate
- Certificates for previous university studies (transcripts and diploma for postgraduate programmes)
- Proof of language proficiency
- Copy of passport and passport photo
- Letter of motivation and recommendation letters (if applicable)
- Curriculum Vitae (CV)
- Standardised test scores (TestAS, GMAT/GRE for some schools)
- APS certificate (for applicants from China, India, or Vietnam)
4. Proof of Financial Resources
If you need a student visa to study in Germany, you must provide proof of financial resources. As of 2023, an international student needs €11,208 per year to cover expenses. The best way to do this is through a blocked account. Other options include showing your parents’ financial details, a guarantee from a resident in Germany, a bank guarantee, or a scholarship.
5. Health Insurance
Health insurance is mandatory in Germany. If you are from the EU/EEA or a country with a social insurance agreement with Germany, you can use your health insurance from home with a European Health Insurance Card (EHIC). If not, you must get German health insurance, costing around €120 per month for public insurance.
6. Student Visa
For study periods over 90 days, you need a national visa. Apply at the German embassy or consulate in your country. The process includes collecting documents, attending an interview, and waiting for a decision. Processing can take up to 25 days.
7. Accommodation
You have several housing options, including halls of residence, private apartments, and shared apartments (WG). Rent is a major expense, averaging €410 per month. Student dorms cost about €266.83, shared apartments about €363, and private apartments around €820. Register your address at the local registration office within two weeks of arriving.
8. University Enrolment
Once accepted, enrol by providing documents to the Student Affairs Office and registering for your courses. You will get a matriculation number and a university account. You will also receive a student ID card, which serves as a transport ticket, library card, payment card for the cafeteria, and pass for cultural events.
Let us see the steps to enrol:
- 1. Receive an offer of admission.
- 2. Accept your study place.
- 3. Complete the enrollment application (online or printed).
- 4. Have your valid passport with you.
- 5. Pay the semester fee on time.
- 6. Submit proof of German statutory health insurance.
Top Ranking Universities and Criteria
Highest Ranking Universities in Germany |
|||
University Name |
Times Higher Education (National Ranking) |
Times Higher Education (Global Ranking) |
U.S. News (Global Ranking) |
Technical University of Munich |
1 |
=30 |
82 |
LMU Munich |
2 |
=38 |
53 |
Universität Heidelberg |
3 |
47 |
55 |
Humboldt University of Berlin |
4 |
=87 |
48 |
RWTH Aachen University |
5 |
90 |
218 |
University of Bonn |
6 |
91 |
157 |
Charité - Universitätsmedizin Berlin |
7 |
94 |
- |
University of Tübingen |
8 |
=95 |
197 |
Free University of Berlin |
9 |
102 |
66 |
University of Göttingen |
10 |
=111 |
172 |
1. Technical University of Munich
The Technical University of Munich (TUM) is one of the best technology universities in Germany. It has been given the title "University of Excellence" three times in a row. Hence, showing that it is a top place for learning and research.
TUM is strong because of its excellent research and teaching in its seven TUM Schools. These schools work together to create new ideas and inventions. TUM is changing how engineering is taught to keep up with our fast-changing world by including:
- Natural and life sciences,
- Medicine,
- Business,
- Humanities, and
- Social sciences.
The university's main goal is to help all kinds of students learn and create new knowledge. It supports new businesses and prepares students for future jobs that match society's values and environmental needs.
TUM has a community of intelligent and open-minded students and alumni from around the world. The university also helps its students work with Greater Munich’s science and industry network and partners with top global institutions.
Technical University of Munich |
||||
General Information |
||||
Acceptance Rate (%) |
Total Students |
International Students |
Student per Staff |
Female to Male Ratio |
8% |
35,506 |
39% |
44.4 |
37:63 |
Technical University of Munich |
|||||
Academic Criteria |
|||||
IB (International Baccalaureate) |
GPA |
GRE |
GMAT |
IELTS |
TOEFL |
30 |
3.6 |
157-164 |
6.5 |
6.5 |
88 |
Technical University of Munich |
|||||
High Ranking Courses |
|||||
Course Name |
Radiology, Nuclear Medicine and Medical Imaging |
Ecology |
Computer Science |
Biotechnology and Applied Microbiology |
Physics |
Subject Ranking |
19 |
30 |
33 |
46 |
49 |
2. LMU Munich
LMU, or Ludwig Maximilian University of Munich, was founded in 1472 and has attracted smart scholars and talented students from around the world. This has made LMU a place where important ideas are shared and developed.
For over 500 years, LMU has been a top university for research and teaching in many different subjects, including:
- Humanities,
- Cultural studies,
- Law,
- Economics,
- Social sciences,
- Medicine, and
- Natural sciences.
The university encourages learning across different subjects to create new ideas that are important for our future.
Students from all over Germany and the world come to LMU. They enjoy a wide range of study programmes and a strong focus on research. LMU helps students connect what they learn in classes to real-world research, preparing them for successful careers. Moreover, LMU is located in Munich which is a major centre for technology and media in Germany.
At LMU, everyone is involved in creating new knowledge to benefit society. The university supports excellent research and encourages collaboration between different fields of study.
LMU is known for its outstanding library system and its university hospital, which is one of the best in Germany.
LMU Munich |
||||
General Information |
||||
Acceptance Rate (%) |
Total Students |
International Students |
Student per Staff |
Female to Male Ratio |
10% |
34,622 |
18% |
33.5 |
62:38 |
LMU Munich |
|||||
Academic Criteria |
|||||
IB (International Baccalaureate) |
GPA |
GRE |
GMAT |
IELTS |
TOEFL |
33 |
3.5 |
325 |
600 |
6 |
83 |
LMU Munich |
|||||
High Ranking Courses |
|||||
Course Name |
Education and Educational Research |
Radiology, Nuclear Medicine and Medical Imaging |
Neuroscience and Behavior |
Arts and Humanities |
Molecular Biology and Genetics |
Subject Ranking |
15 |
16 |
23 |
28 |
29 |
3. Universität Heidelberg
Heidelberg University, founded in 1386, is the oldest university in Germany and one of the most research-focused in Europe. It has earned a great reputation through its achievements in competitions and rankings. The university teaches students by combining research with classes and offers strong support for those aiming to become researchers.
Heidelberg University covers many subjects, including humanities, social sciences, law, natural and engineering sciences, life sciences, and medicine. It encourages students to learn beyond traditional subjects and use their research to benefit society and the economy.
With about 30,000 students and over 180 study programmes, Heidelberg provides a wide range of study options. This allows for a personalised and interdisciplinary education. Heidelberg University also offers language courses and other skills to help students prepare for their future careers.
The university supports young researchers, aiming to attract talented individuals from around the world and provide them with the best conditions for success. It has many international partnerships and exchange programmes, connecting with universities worldwide.
Located in Heidelberg, the university is part of a diverse research community and works closely with local research institutions and businesses. The city itself is known for its friendly atmosphere, rich culture, and famous sights like Heidelberg Castle and the Philosophers’ Walk.
Universität Heidelberg |
||||
General Information |
||||
Acceptance Rate (%) |
Total Students |
International Students |
Student per Staff |
Female to Male Ratio |
17% |
19,315 |
20% |
13.3 |
55:45 |
Universität Heidelberg |
|||||
Academic Criteria |
|||||
IB (International Baccalaureate) |
GPA |
GRE |
GMAT |
IELTS |
TOEFL |
33 |
3.2 |
Not required |
500 |
6.5 |
79 |
Universität Heidelberg |
|||||
High Ranking Courses |
|||||
Course Name |
Radiology, Nuclear Medicine and Medical Imaging |
Oncology |
Biology and Biochemistry |
Neuroscience and Behavior |
Space Science |
Subject Ranking |
7 |
24 |
25 |
28 |
31 |
4. Humboldt University of Berlin
Established over 200 years ago in 1810, Humboldt University of Berlin (HU Berlin) is highly esteemed not only in Germany but throughout Europe. Originally named the University of Berlin, it adopted its current name in 1949 in honour of Wilhelm and Alexander von Humboldt. Wilhelm von Humboldt laid the foundations for a university model emphasising close ties between research and teaching which influenced universities worldwide.
HU Berlin has an impressive academic legacy, having educated 29 Nobel Prize winners, including Max Born for physics in 1954, Theodor Mommsen for literature in 1902, and Wassily Leontief for economics in 1973.
The university's reputation was further improved when it received additional funding under the German Universities Excellence Initiative in 2012. The award acknowledged its leadership in science and research.
Among its notable alumni are Karl Marx and Friedrich Engels, founders of Marxism, novelist Alfred Döblin, and theologian Friedrich Schleiermacher. Composer Felix Mendelssohn and physicist Albert Einstein also studied or taught at HU Berlin.
Humboldt University of Berlin |
||||
General Information |
||||
Acceptance Rate (%) |
Total Students |
International Students |
Student per Staff |
Female to Male Ratio |
18% |
34,761 |
18% |
54.5 |
58:42 |
Humboldt University of Berlin |
|||||
Academic Criteria |
|||||
IB (International Baccalaureate) |
GPA |
GRE |
GMAT |
IELTS |
TOEFL |
33 |
3.2 |
Required (course dependent) |
Required (course dependent) |
6.0 |
84 |
Humboldt University of Berlin |
|||||
High Ranking Courses |
|||||
Course Name |
Cardiac and Cardiovascular Systems |
Infectious Diseases |
Neuroscience and Behavior |
Molecular Biology and Genetics |
Immunology |
Subject Ranking |
9 |
19 |
26 |
34 |
35 |
5. RWTH Aachen University
RWTH Aachen University was founded in 1870 after Prince William of Prussia decided to use a donation to set up a technology institute in the Rhine Province. Funding from local banks and an insurance company helped locate it in Aachen. The building work started in 1865, and the university opened during the Franco-Prussian War with 223 students.
As far as Aachen is concerned, it is Germany’s westernmost important city, close to the Dutch and Belgian borders. This gives RWTH Aachen a mix of cultures and languages. Though faculties of philosophy and medicine were introduced in the 1960s, the university is still famous for natural sciences and engineering.
Furthermore, the university has strong ties with industry, creating a European equivalent of Silicon Valley. It attracts high levels of funding for its researchers. Aachen is a leader in university spin-off companies (sister companies/subsidiaries) and engineering firms.
The world's first wind tunnel and particle accelerator were developed here. Innovations include an aircraft made entirely of metal and a diesel soot filter. RWTH Aachen focuses on interdisciplinary research, diversity, internationalisation, and natural sciences. It aims to be the top German university of technology and one of the best in Europe.
RWTH Aachen University |
||||
General Information |
||||
Acceptance Rate (%) |
Total Students |
International Students |
Student per Staff |
Female to Male Ratio |
10% |
34,914 |
29% |
43.3 |
34:66 |
RWTH Aachen University |
|||||
Academic Criteria |
|||||
IB (International Baccalaureate) |
GPA |
GRE |
GMAT |
IELTS |
TOEFL |
32 |
3.0 |
160 in the quantitative section |
Not specified |
6.5 |
90 |
RWTH Aachen University |
|||||
High Ranking Courses |
|||||
Course Name |
Chemical Engineering |
Physics |
Chemistry |
Environmental Engineering |
Engineering |
Subject Ranking |
69 |
69 |
78 |
84 |
95 |
6. University of Bonn
The University of Bonn, officially known as The Rhenish Friedrich Wilhelm University of Bonn, was founded in 1818 under King Friedrich Wilhelm. It began during the Age of Enlightenment which marks the end of the Medieval era and was a time of new ideas and liberal values.
During the 1930s, the university faced challenges as Jewish intellectuals and critics were forced out under Nazi rule. The university itself was heavily damaged during the bombing of Bonn in 1944. After the war, Bonn University was rebuilt, welcoming back students and faculty who worked hard to restore its academic reputation.
Today, the University of Bonn stands as a leading research institution globally. With over 35,000 students and 4,500 staff, it collaborates closely with 70 universities worldwide. A significant number of its students, about 12.5%, come from abroad, reflecting its strong international presence. Each year, the university awards approximately 800 PhDs.
Known for strengths in Mathematics, Physics, Astronomy, Economics, Biosciences, and Philosophy, Bonn University has produced Nobel Prize winners like Wolfgang Paul and Reinhard Selten and hosts eight Leibniz Prize recipients. Its alumni include influential figures such as Karl Marx, Friedrich Nietzsche, and composer Robert Schumann.
Located in the historic city of Bonn, along the River Rhine and the birthplace of Beethoven, the university offers over 90 degree programmes spread across 371 buildings.
University of Bonn |
||||
General Information |
||||
Acceptance Rate (%) |
Total Students |
International Students |
Student per Staff |
Female to Male Ratio |
36% |
26,290 |
17% |
44.5 |
57:43 |
University of Bonn |
|||||
Academic Criteria |
|||||
IB (International Baccalaureate) |
GPA |
GRE |
GMAT |
IELTS |
TOEFL |
30 |
2.8 |
Score requirements vary by programme |
Required for specific business programmes |
6.5 |
90 |
University of Bonn |
|||||
High Ranking Courses |
|||||
Course Name |
Mathematics |
Cell Biology |
Neuroscience and Behavior |
Agricultural Sciences |
Space Science |
Subject Ranking |
54 |
65 |
66 |
91 |
98 |
7. Charité - Universitätsmedizin Berlin
Charité - Universitätsmedizin Berlin is one of the biggest university hospitals in Europe. Its motto is ‘Research, Teaching, Healing, Helping.’ Established in 1710 during a plague epidemic in Eastern Prussia, it became known as Charité by 1727 and served as a military hospital and training centre.
It was rebuilt after the destruction of World War II and operated as a medical institute under the German Democratic Republic until 1989. Through mergers with other medical institutes, Charité became one of Europe’s top medical centres by 2003.
Charité has a remarkable history of having produced over half of Germany's Nobel Prize winners in medicine. Some of these names include Robert Koch and Paul Ehrlich.
Charité has about 7,000 students, including 1,200 from overseas in four different campuses in Berlin. It has 100 departments and institutes grouped into 17 Charité Centres, providing a very stimulating learning environment. Students are also encouraged to join councils and committees to help shape their education.
Charité - Universitätsmedizin Berlin |
||||
General Information |
||||
Acceptance Rate (%) |
Total Students |
International Students |
Student per Staff |
Female to Male Ratio |
10% |
8,868 |
21% |
17.5 |
65:35 |
Charité - Universitätsmedizin Berlin |
|||||
Academic Criteria |
|||||
IB (International Baccalaureate) |
GPA |
GRE |
GMAT |
IELTS |
TOEFL |
36 |
3.4 |
Not specified |
Not specified |
6.0 |
80 |
Charité - Universitätsmedizin Berlin |
|||||
High Ranking Courses |
|||||
Course Name |
Medicine |
Psychology |
Biology |
Chemistry |
Computer Sciences |
Subject Ranking |
45 |
102 |
104 |
206 |
249 |
8. University of Tübingen
The University of Tübingen, also known as Eberhard Karls University, is well-respected for its teaching and research in humanities, natural sciences, and theology. The university is located in the historic German town of Tübingen, Baden-Württemberg which is known for its beautiful boat trips and beautiful old town architecture.
The university’s Protestant theology department was founded in 1477 with support from Count Eberhard of Württemberg. Later on, the department played a crucial role in the work of Johannes Kepler, an important astronomer.
Over the centuries, Tübingen expanded rapidly, establishing Germany's first Natural Sciences department and university hospital. Today, the university offers 280 courses across 14 schools, including Bachelor's, Master's, and Doctorate programmes.
Moreover, it is part of Germany's Excellence Initiative and receives funding from the German Research Foundation for research in neuroscience, particle physics, and nanotechnology.
The university also has strong ties with over 150 international institutions in 62 countries, offering students opportunities to study abroad.
Although Tübingen does not have a traditional campus, the city hosts numerous events such as concerts and offers courses in photography, journalism, and creative writing. Famous alumni include neuropathologist Alois Alzheimer and former EU commissioner Martin Bangemann.
The university’s motto, 'I dare', reflects its spirit of innovation and exploration.
University of Tübingen |
||||
General Information |
||||
Acceptance Rate (%) |
Total Students |
International Students |
Student per Staff |
Female to Male Ratio |
33% |
21,632 |
14% |
27.1 |
59:41 |
University of Tübingen |
|||||
Academic Criteria |
|||||
IB (International Baccalaureate) |
GPA |
GRE |
GMAT |
IELTS |
TOEFL |
30 |
2.8 |
Not required |
Not required |
6.0 |
85 |
University of Tübingen |
|||||
High Ranking Courses |
|||||
Course Name |
Education and Educational Research |
Oncology |
Radiology, Nuclear Medicine and Medical Imaging |
Neuroscience and Behavior |
Molecular Biology and Genetics |
Subject Ranking |
54 |
73 |
73 |
75 |
77 |
9. Free University of Berlin
The Free University of Berlin was established in 1948 during the post-war Germany. In Soviet-controlled Berlin, students of Universität Unter den Linden faced discrimination for their beliefs. To protect their interests and beliefs, the Free University of Berlin came into being through international aid.
The university’s seal bears the words "Truth, justice and freedom," which reflect its core values. In the 1960s, the university became a focal point for student protests. Following German reunification in 1990, the university went through some changes that refocused its efforts on research. Today, it stands as one of Germany’s eleven ‘Universities of Excellence’.
Located in the Dahlem suburb of southwest Berlin, the university hosts over 32,000 students and offers more than 150 degree programmes. It has 17 collaborative research centres, nearly 5,000 academic staff, and partnerships with universities globally. It maintains seven international liaison offices in Beijing, Brussels, Cairo, Moscow, New Delhi, New York, and Sao Paulo.
The university proudly has five Nobel Prize winners and 17 Leibniz Prize winners among its faculty. With women holding 30% of its professorships, it leads German higher education in gender representation.
Over the years, the Free University of Berlin has hosted influential figures, including President John F. Kennedy, who delivered his historic ‘Ich bin ein Berliner’ speech there in 1963.
Free University of Berlin |
||||
General Information |
||||
Acceptance Rate (%) |
Total Students |
International Students |
Student per Staff |
Female to Male Ratio |
15% |
25,427 |
20% |
41.5 |
63:37 |
Free University of Berlin |
|||||
Academic Criteria |
|||||
IB (International Baccalaureate) |
GPA |
GRE |
GMAT |
IELTS |
TOEFL |
30 |
3 |
291 |
550 |
6.0 |
90 |
Free University of Berlin |
|||||
High Ranking Courses |
|||||
Course Name |
Cardiac and Cardiovascular Systems |
Infectious Diseases |
Immunology |
Neuroscience and Behavior |
Cell Biology |
Subject Ranking |
9 |
14 |
38 |
41 |
45 |
10. University of Göttingen
The University of Göttingen is situated in the historic town of Göttingen in central Germany. It is widely esteemed as one of the country’s foremost universities.
The university was founded in 1737 and is commonly known as Georgia Augusta. It accommodates approximately 26,000 students, with 11% coming from international backgrounds.
King George II of England, as Elector of Hanover, founded the university, with its library established in 1734 as Europe’s first comprehensive academic library.
During the early 20th century, Göttingen held a prominent place in the mathematical world. However, this status was disrupted in 1933 when over 50 faculty members were compelled to leave under Nazi rule.
After World War II, Göttingen was the first German university to resume teaching, hence, growing into one of the largest institutions of higher learning in the country.
Today, Göttingen offers a wide range of degree programmes across its 13 faculties, particularly strong in the humanities. Furthermore, both students and faculty are encouraged to promote innovative thinking alongside acquiring methodological knowledge.
The university’s academic profile is further strengthened by partnerships with local research institutions such as:
- The Göttingen Academy of Sciences,
- The German Aerospace Centre, and
- Five Max Planck Institutes.
Moreover, Göttingen has strong connections with over 40 Nobel Prize winners, including physicists Max Born, Werner Heisenberg, Max Planck, and Otto Stern. Notable figures like the Brothers Grimm, statesman Otto von Bismarck, philosopher Arthur Schopenhauer, poet Heinrich Heine, and sociologist Max Weber have all contributed to its distinguished alumni.
University of Göttingen |
||||
General Information |
||||
Acceptance Rate (%) |
Total Students |
International Students |
Student per Staff |
Female to Male Ratio |
32% |
23,349 |
14% |
27.4 |
53:47 |
University of Göttingen |
|||||
Academic Criteria |
|||||
IB (International Baccalaureate) |
GPA |
GRE |
GMAT |
IELTS |
TOEFL |
24 |
2 |
Not required |
Not required |
6 |
80 |
University of Göttingen |
|||||
High Ranking Courses |
|||||
Course Name |
Ecology |
Plant and Animal Science |
Agricultural Sciences |
Environment/Ecology |
Cell Biology |
Subject Ranking |
8 |
42 |
48 |
55 |
77 |
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Key Takeaways
- Technical University of Munich (TUM)
- Established: 1868
- Special Features: Known for excellence in technology, TUM has been awarded "University of Excellence" three times. It focuses on interdisciplinary research and innovation, covering fields like natural and life sciences, medicine, business, humanities, and social sciences.
- Programmes: Bachelor's, Master's, and PhD programmes, especially strong in engineering and technology.
- Ludwig Maximilian University of Munich (LMU Munich)
- Established: 1472
- Special Features: One of the oldest and most prestigious universities, LMU is renowned for research and teaching across a wide range of disciplines including humanities, social sciences, natural sciences, medicine, law, and economics.
- Programmes: Extensive range of Bachelor's, Master's, and PhD programmes.
- Heidelberg University
- Established: 1386
- Special Features: The oldest university in Germany, known for its strong research focus. Offers a broad range of subjects and combines teaching with research to support future researchers.
- Programmes: Bachelor's, Master's, and PhD programmes across various disciplines including humanities, social sciences, natural sciences, and medicine.
- Humboldt University of Berlin
- Established: 1810
- Special Features: Known for its historical academic legacy and for educating 29 Nobel Prize winners. Strong in sciences, humanities, and social sciences.
- Programmes: Wide range of Bachelor's, Master's, and PhD programmes.
- RWTH Aachen University
- Established: 1870
- Special Features: Focuses on engineering and natural sciences with strong industry ties. Known for its interdisciplinary research and technological innovations.
- Programmes: Bachelor's, Master's, and PhD programmes, especially in engineering and technology.
- University of Bonn
- Established: 1818
- Special Features: Known for its strong research capabilities and international collaborations. Offers a diverse range of programmes.
- Programmes: Bachelor's, Master's, and PhD programmes across various fields including mathematics, physics, economics, and biosciences.
- Charité - Universitätsmedizin Berlin
- Established: 1710
- Special Features: One of Europe’s largest university hospitals. Renowned for medical research and education, producing numerous Nobel laureates in medicine.
- Programmes: Medical degrees and research-focused programmes.
- University of Tübingen
- Established: 1477
- Special Features: Known for humanities, natural sciences, and theology. Part of the Excellence Initiative, with strong international partnerships.
- Programmes: Bachelor's, Master's, and PhD programmes.
- Free University of Berlin
- Established: 1948
- Special Features: Known for its commitment to academic freedom and strong research focus. Offers a wide range of programmes with international collaborations.
- Programmes: Bachelor's, Master's, and PhD programmes.
- University of Göttingen
- Established: 1737
- Special Features: Known for its strong humanities programmes and historical significance in mathematics and sciences. Hosts numerous Nobel Prize winners among its alumni.
- Programmes: Bachelor's, Master's, and PhD programmes.
- General Admission Requirements for Universities in Germany
- Bachelor’s Programmes:
- Qualifications: A recognised school-leaving certificate equivalent to the German Abitur. If not, attendance at a one-year preparatory course (Studienkolleg) may be required.
- Language Proficiency: Proof of German (DSH or TestDaF) or English (IELTS or TOEFL) language proficiency, depending on the course language.
- Aptitude Tests: Some universities may require a TestAS aptitude test for non-EU students.
- Master’s Programmes:
- Bachelor’s Degree: Relevant field of study from a recognised university.
- Language Proficiency: Proof of German (DSH or TestDaF) or English (IELTS or TOEFL) language proficiency.
- Additional Documents: May include a statement of purpose, letters of recommendation, CV, and sometimes a portfolio or interview.
- Bachelor’s Programmes:
- General Requirements:
- Application Documents: Completed application form, recognised school-leaving certificate, transcripts and diploma for postgraduate programmes, proof of language proficiency, copy of passport and passport photo, letter of motivation, recommendation letters, CV, standardised test scores (TestAS, GMAT/GRE), and APS certificate for applicants from China, India, or Vietnam.
- Proof of Financial Resources: Non-EU/EEA students must show proof of financial resources, often through a blocked account, covering €11,208 per year (as of 2023).
- Health Insurance: Mandatory. EU/EEA students can use their home insurance with a European Health Insurance Card (EHIC). Non-EU/EEA students must get German health insurance.
- Student Visa: Required for non-EU/EEA students for study periods over 90 days. Apply at the German embassy or consulate.
- Accommodation: Options include halls of residence, private apartments, and shared apartments, with varying costs. Register the address at the local registration office within two weeks of arrival.
- University Enrolment: Provide necessary documents to the Student Affairs Office, register for courses, pay the semester fee, and submit proof of German statutory health insurance.
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