Study in Germany

Third-country nationals need a national visa for study if their course lasts more than 90 days. You need admission to a state or state-recognised higher education institution, and proof of finance. EU/EEA and Swiss nationals do not need a visa for study.

Most state higher education institutions charge no tuition for Bachelor's and most Master's programmes, but all students pay a separate semester contribution (currently around EUR 70-430 per semester). Some exceptions exist: Baden-Wurttemberg charges non-EU citizens EUR 1,500 per semester, and some Bavarian institutions may charge tuition for non-EU/EEA students. Private institutions may charge substantial tuition.

For study, the financial-proof requirement is EUR 992 per month (EUR 11,904 per year). Acceptable proof includes a blocked account, a scholarship or a Declaration of Commitment. This is a visa financial-proof requirement, not a statement of average living costs.

The semester contribution is a separate fee paid by all students at state institutions, typically covering student services and, in many places, a public-transport ticket. DAAD currently gives a range of approximately EUR 70-430 per semester.

Yes. Third-country students may work up to 140 full days or 280 half-days per year without Federal Employment Agency approval; an alternative arrangement of up to 20 hours per week as a student worker is also described in the rules. Student auxiliary work at higher education institutions is treated differently.

After successfully completing a German higher-education degree, you can obtain a residence permit for up to 18 months to seek qualified employment, and may work during this period. Once you secure qualified employment, you can transition to an appropriate skilled-worker residence permit or EU Blue Card where eligible.

Yes, health insurance is compulsory. Students must hold valid health insurance covering their stay, either through the statutory system or a recognised private policy.