A young lady excited about receiving a scholarship to study in Germany

Scholarship Opportunities for Studying in Germany: What You Need to Know

A young lady excited about receiving a scholarship to study in Germany

If you’re planning to study in Germany, you’ve probably heard that tuition fees at public universities are minimal or even free. But what about living costs, travel expenses, and other fees? That’s where scholarships can help. Find a quick sneak peek of available scholarships for international students.
  

DAAD Scholarships

The German Academic Exchange Service (DAAD) is one of the largest scholarship providers for international students globally. Its scholarship database lists hundreds of programs for both short- and long-term study opportunities.

University Scholarships

Many German universities offer their own scholarships. While these are often smaller compared to full grants in other countries, they can help cover semester contributions or living expenses.

Other Funding Opportunities

Aside from DAAD, other organizations such as political foundations and business associations offer scholarships for international students. Each has different requirements, often focusing on academic excellence, leadership qualities, or specific regions of the world.

What You Should Know

  • Full scholarships are rare in Germany. Most cover partial expenses.
  • First-time students rarely receive funding; most scholarships target master’s and PhD candidates.
  • Apply early! Scholarship deadlines are often months before your program begins.

Tip: Use the DAAD scholarship database and check with your chosen university for additional options.

Studying in Germany is already affordable but with the right scholarship, it can become even more accessible.

Download our free study guide and scholarship ebook to get started on your journey.

What You Really Need to Study in Germany: A Quick Guide

Germany has become one of the top study destinations for international students and it’s easy to see why. With world-class universities, little to no tuition fees, and a rich cultural experience, the country offers opportunities that are hard to match. But before packing your bags, you’ll need to understand the key requirements for studying in Germany.

1. Academic Qualifications

The very first step is proving that your previous education qualifies you to study in Germany. Universities check whether your school-leaving certificate or degree is recognised as equivalent to the German Abitur (university entrance qualification). Depending on your home country, you might need to complete a preparatory course (Studienkolleg) before starting your degree.

2. Proof of Language Proficiency

Most programmes in Germany are taught in German, especially at the undergraduate level. For this, you’ll need proof of proficiency through exams such as:

  • TestDaF (Test Deutsch als Fremdsprache)
  • DSH (Deutsche Sprachprüfung für den Hochschulzugang)

For international programmes taught in English, universities will ask for tests like TOEFL or IELTS.

3. University Admission Letter

Before you can apply for a visa, you must secure admission to a recognised German university. This involves submitting your transcripts, language certificates, and sometimes passing an entrance exam.

4. Student Visa

Non-EU students need a visa to study in Germany. The process involves proving you’ve been accepted to a university and that you can support yourself financially during your stay.

5. Proof of Financial Resources

This is one of the most important requirements. Students are asked to show they have at least €11,904 per year (as of 2025) to cover living costs. Usually, this is done by opening a blocked account (Sperrkonto) in Germany, where the money is deposited and released in monthly portions.

6. Health Insurance

Health insurance is mandatory in Germany. Students under 30 can often get affordable public health insurance, while older students may need private coverage. Without it, enrolment at the university isn’t possible.

7. Additional Documents

Depending on your case, you may also need:

  • A valid passport
  • Motivation letter or CV
  • Proof of previous internships or work experience (for some programmes)

Studying in Germany isn’t just about having the dream, it’s about preparing for it properly. From academic qualifications to financial proof, each requirement is a step closer to making your study journey possible.

The good news? With the right preparation, the process is straightforward. Thousands of students successfully start their education in Germany each year, and you could be next. You can start your journey here.

A graphic illustration on why learning German is a smart move for your career and personal growth

Why Learning German Is a Smart Move for Your Career and Personal Growth

In today’s global job market and fast-moving digital world, being bilingual or multilingual is a powerful asset. If you’re considering which language to tackle next, German is one of the smartest choices you can make, for both career advancement and personal development.

Spoken by over 100 million native speakers and used extensively across business, science, and education, German offers far more than just the ability to order schnitzel in Berlin. Let’s explore how learning German can transform your professional life and enrich your personal experiences plus, we’ll point you to the best apps, communities, courses, and eBooks to start learning today.

Career Benefits of Learning German

1. Discover Job Opportunities in Europe and Beyond

Germany boasts the largest economy in Europe. It recently became the third largest in the world and is home to international powerhouses like BMW, Siemens, Bosch, DHL, and SAP. Proficiency in German can:

  • Open doors to jobs in Germany, Austria, Switzerland, and parts of Belgium.
  • Help you stand out in multinational corporations or global trade roles.
  • Support relocation or work visa applications with language proficiency.

2. Boost Your Resume for International Business

Whether you work in engineering, IT, healthcare, or finance, German can add immense value:

  • Germany is a leading hub for innovation and manufacturing.
  • Many global firms prioritize candidates who speak a second European language.
  • German skills signal discipline, cultural adaptability, and communication strength.

Top Learning Apps for Busy Professionals:

  • Duolingo – German Course: Free, game-like lessons for quick daily practice.
  • Babbel: Focuses on business-friendly vocabulary and conversations.
  • Busuu: Personalized learning plans and real-time feedback.

Academic and Research Advantages

Germany is a leader in education and research, offering low-cost or even tuition-free university programs for international students. Knowing German helps you:

Recommended eBooks for Learners:

Cognitive and Personal Growth Benefits

Learning German isn’t just about communication, it sharpens your mind:

  • Boosts memory, attention span, and multitasking abilities.
  • Enhances decision-making and logical thinking through exposure to grammar patterns and structure.
  • Builds confidence and a growth mindset as you overcome language-learning challenges.

Engage with Online Communities:

  • Kampus Konnekt49: Connect with our community on WhatsApp for online courses and German practice.
  • Reddit – r/German: Ask questions, get feedback, and join thousands of learners.
  • Tandem: Find language exchange partners to practice speaking German.
  • HelloTalk: Connect with native speakers and chat through text and voice messages.

Cultural Access and Travel Perks

Understanding German allows you to appreciate Germany’s deep cultural history and enjoy authentic travel experiences:

  • Read works by Goethe, Schiller, Kafka, and Nietzsche in their original form.
  • Understand German films, theater, and music without subtitles.
  • Navigate your way across Berlin, Vienna, Zurich, and beyond like a local.

Structured Courses to Level Up:

Conclusion: Start Your German Learning Journey Today

Whether you’re looking to boost your career, study abroad, travel smarter, or simply exercise your brain, German is a practical and culturally rich language that delivers high value.

With so many modern resources from bite-sized apps and online courses to global communities and free eBooks, there’s never been a better time to start.

👉 Take the first step today. Download an app, grab a German grammar book, or join our WhatsApp Community to stay updated for free online courses and begin unlocking the many benefits of speaking one of Europe’s most influential languages.

Viel Erfolg! (Good luck!)

Got questions or need help finding the right resource? Drop a comment. We’d love to help you get started.

A graphical illustration of a girl holding the globe in one hand with the German flag on it.

The Benefits of Studying Abroad and Why Germany is a Top Choice

Studying abroad is a transformative experience that opens doors to personal growth, academic excellence, and career opportunities. Among the top destinations for international students, Germany stands out for its world-class education, rich cultural heritage, and vibrant student life. In this blog post, we’ll explore the benefits of studying abroad and why Germany is an excellent choice for your academic journey.

Why Study Abroad?

1. Personal Growth and Cultural Exposure

Living in a foreign country broadens your horizons and introduces you to new perspectives. You’ll learn to adapt to different cultures, overcome prejudices, and develop resilience, a skill highly valued in today’s globalized world.

2. Enhanced Career Prospects

Employers highly value international experience. Studying abroad strengthens your CV, improves language proficiency, and helps you build a global network, key advantages in a competitive job market.

3. Academic Flexibility

Many universities recognize credits earned abroad, ensuring your studies remain on track. Germany, in particular, offers internationally recognized degrees that enhance your academic and professional profile.

4. Lifelong Friendships

Studying abroad allows you to form lasting connections with peers from around the world, enriching your personal and professional life.

Why Choose Germany for Your Studies?

1. World-Class Education

Germany is home to some of the oldest and most prestigious universities, such as Heidelberg University (founded in 1386). With over 360 accredited institutions and 13,000 degree programs, students have ample choices in fields like engineering, medicine, humanities, and more.

2. Strong Research and Innovation

Germany is a global leader in research, with 68 Nobel Prize winners in science and medicine alone. Institutions like the Max Planck Society and Fraunhofer Institutes drive cutting-edge innovations.

3. Affordable Education

Most public universities in Germany charge little to no tuition fees, making high-quality education accessible. The cost of living is also reasonable compared to other European countries.

4. Multicultural Environment

With nearly 250,000 international students, Germany offers a welcoming and diverse community. English-taught programs (over 800 available) make it easier for non-German speakers to adapt.

5. Career Opportunities

Germany’s strong economy provides excellent job prospects for graduates, especially in fields like engineering, IT, and healthcare. Post-study work visas allow students to gain valuable work experience.

6. Safe and High-Quality Living Standards

Germany ranks highly for safety, healthcare, and infrastructure. Students benefit from excellent public transport, affordable healthcare, and a high standard of living.

Final Thoughts

Studying abroad in Germany is more than just an academic pursuit, it’s an investment in your future. From top-tier education to career opportunities and cultural experiences, Germany offers everything you need to succeed.

Ready to take the next step?

Explore degree programs: DAAD International Programmes

Learn about scholarships: DAAD Scholarship Database

Download our scholarship ebook: Scholarship Guide

Already got a scholarship and looking for interview tips? Download our insider tips on how to ace German scholarship interviews

Discover student life: Study in Germany

Would you like to begin your journey of studying in Germany? Get started here

Have questions? Drop them in the comments below!

THE PROS AND CONS OF STUDYING IN GERMANY

With almost 200 countries worldwide, picking a suitable destination for your tertiary education can be quite a hard decision to make. However, today, we’ll be going over what it takes to study in Germany.
We’ll dive into some of the factors to consider when considering studying in Germany and present you with some reasons why Germany may or may not be an option for you.

WHY SHOULD I STUDY IN GERMANY?

High-Quality Education

With well-established institutions that date back as far as the fourteenth century, Germany has managed to create a well-respected community of universities that work and strive to bring the best education to prospective candidates worldwide. 

With over 40 internationally recognized universities and more than 17,000 study programmes nationwide, Germany has more than enough options for a high school graduate looking for a potential university match. 

Germany serves high-quality education with a prestigious degree that guarantees you a job, in a world where employment opportunities are continuously depleting. 

Affordable Education

Many countries in the world have respectable universities and greatness to offer, but the difference between them and Germany is that acquiring that education does not create a financial strain on the students. 

As a nation, Germany is strong enough to support its universities through state finance. You do not need to pay high amounts of tuition fees to get access to high-quality education. 

The idea of affordable yet high-quality degrees presents an opportunity to bridge the wealthy and the less wealthy together, giving them a better shot at knowledge and educational growth.

Rich Culture and Lifestyle

As a first-world country with old roots and a great economy, Germany is a great place to be for a university student looking for more than just school and books. Germany has an incredibly rich history, culture, and lifestyle.

 With incredible architecture and classic art and music, Germany stands to give students an enriching experience that will broaden their minds and challenge their perspective – creating the bright, young leaders that are desperately needed to direct today’s world.

Great Location

Positioned fairly close to the center of Europe, Germany seems the perfect place for a student to live, considering how easy it becomes for one to travel to other countries for leisure trips places far and wide. 

Whether by train, plane, or sea, travelling around the continent becomes conveniently cheaper due to Germany’s central location, and with abundant job opportunities for students, studying in Germany also becomes another opportunity to explore the world and what it has to offer.

THE CONS OF STUDYING IN GERMANY

Language Barrier

Although Germany offers some world-renowned education, the degree comes at a cost. The majority of the available bachelor’s degrees are studied in the German language, and specific fluency levels are required to be accepted, at your own cost. 

There are six language levels to conquer, but at least three are required for most universities to successfully admit you, so German language lessons are much needed. 

Here at Kampus Konnekt, we can provide German lessons to help you solve this problem. German is not only needed to study, but it’s also useful in daily life, especially for ease of communication.

Working Limits

As a student in Germany, you can get a job, but your working hours are very limited. An international student is only allowed 120 full working days, with a maximum limit of how much money they can earn before they are required to pay tax and change their insurance costs. This results in higher costs and bills that may prove harder to keep up with.

The opportunity to study tertiary education is valuable, and its requirement in the modern world has grown considerably fast over the last century. 

Kampus Konnekt is here to help you realize your dreams, by connecting you to quality education and helping you conquer any obstacles along the way.

THE LIFE OF AN INTERNATIONAL STUDENT IN GERMANY

As a foreigner in a country you’ve never been to before, you might probably find it difficult to feel at home or to get used to the environment or even how things are done.

As an international student living and studying in Germany or planning to, there are quite some interesting facts you should take note of. Germany has a lot to offer aside from the success of the German educational system.

The Grace of Learning a New Language

I know quite a lot of us find learning a new language fun and interesting. Even if you don’t fall into this category, as an international student in Germany, there is a chance that you’d be tempted to learn the German language for better communication with people. The German language happens to be the most spoken language in the world and the most spoken native language in the European continent. With this, there is an open door of job opportunities waiting for you in German companies globally.

Work Opportunities Available on a Platter of Gold.

In Germany, international students are allowed to work part-time unlike in some other countries where there are restrictions but only for up to 20 hours a week or 120 days full days a year. This could help your employment experience and also help pay bills, reducing the burden on your finances.

You must also keep in mind that, international students aren’t allowed to be self-employed or to freelance and if you want to work past the limited hours, you are to take permission from the local employment agency and the foreigner’s registration office.

Here are some of the part-time roles you can lay your hands on in Germany, as an international student:

  •  A Tutor
  • A German Language translator
  • A Waiter
  • A Babysitter
  • A Writer
  • A Bartender
  • A Cashier
  • A Courier
  • A Library Supervisor at your academic institute
  • A Filling document officer
  • A Media Personae

 Read More on How to Fund Your Studies in Germany

A Chance for Exploration

If you love to travel around Europe and vlog, seeing new places and trying new things, I guess it’s a plus for you as an international student in Germany. There are lots of beautiful places to visit and new food to try, new culture and customs to learn and new friends to make. This gives room for socialization and cultural awareness.

A Low or No Tuition Fee

For public universities in Germany, the cost of studying is low or free. This makes it easy for international students to live and learn comfortably. 

The Standard of Living

The standard of living in Germany as an international student is quite low. The expenses of rent and other finances are affordable. With this, there will be enough to save and probably invest. Read here for more tips on how to live in Germany.

kampus-konnekt49-germany-cost-of-studying-there

Germany: What Does it Cost to Study There?

A Guide for International Students

The cost of study has been a major discouraging factor for international students. As we know, individuals with great intellectual abilities seek growth academically. This article looks to explain what the cost of study in Germany looks like and gives plausible suggestions on how to capitalize on its privileges.

Germany has become an increasingly popular study destination, with almost 374,583 applications for the 2018/2019 winter semester session from over 180 countries. This increasing influx of students into Germany for study might be for several reasons. But the most reasonable as identified by the Kampus Konnekt49 is because Germany has about 50 universities with a global reputation as it concerns studying abroad. Along with the perceived low cost of living, little or no tuition fees and a comfortable environment. All this is well suited for dedicated study, not to talk about the fun-filled environment.

Is College Study In Germany Free?

As of 2014, 16 states in Germany abolished tuition fees for undergraduates and some selected postgraduate students from public universities. This implied that both domestic and international students at public German Universities paid absolutely nothing for tuition. Save only a small fee for administration and semester registrations.

There may be additional charges for the purchase of “Semester-tickets” which cover public expenses for 6 months. The price, however, varies with different Semester-ticket options. These are reasons the Kampus Konnekt49 confirms that the low cost of living is one of the major attractions for prospective international students.

With the drastic change in the global economy, however, this may not last forever. The southwest state of Baden-Württemberg reintroduced the payment of tuitions for all non-EU students as of autumn 2017. There is a great likelihood that other states would follow suit in the coming years.

Cost of Living in Germany

We bear in mind that even though studying in Germany might be free of cost or very low, one cannot avoid the essentials of living expenses. They can vary from city to city with Munich as the most expensive, having a living cost of €12,000 (~US$13,900) per year.
Rent is mostly the largest expense when considering living costs, although this is cheaper if you live in a shared flat or a student hall of residence. Their average rent is €280 (US$340).

According to statistics from DAAD, average monthly costs are estimated:

Food: €168 (~US$205)

Clothes: €42 (~US$52)

Transport: €94 (~US$115)

Telephone, internet and TV license: €31 (~US$38)

Work/study materials: €20 (~US$25)

Leisure activities: €61 (~US$75)

How Much Deposit Would You Need to Study in Germany?

It is a known fact that for you to get a student visa to study in Germany, you will need to show proof you have, or have access to, a certain amount of money. Now, this is for students that would require a visa only. If you are an EU citizen or citizen of Iceland, Liechtenstein, Norway or Switzerland, you would not need a visa.

Other citizens, however, expect to pay €75 for a visa and have proof of fund or access to funds of €10,332 per year. This extra amount of money suffices to cover all expenses while studying (of course if spent wisely). But the application process can be sometimes tedious to even require a loan for low earners.

In conclusion, Germany is ranked 4th in universities with the greatest attraction for international students. This is because of several reasons, with free tuition being the most considered. Living expenses are very affordable compared to other European countries with a shared meal costing as low as €8-14. But the cost of living greatly depends on the area. Rent can also be very cheap when compared to other European countries. With these said; Germany is assumed to be of great attraction to prospective international students hoping to school abroad with a low budget.

Kampus Konnekt49 provides translation services for individuals who wish to study abroad or simply become a nurse. We also offer German classes for prospective students, support and consultations.

 

International students in Germany

Why is Germany An Attractive Destination for Study?

In this article, you will know and understand the different higher institutions in Germany.
You will also know why the country is one of the most attractive and sought after countries in the world for international students to study. In addition, you will learn what you need to do if you wish to study in Germany.

Types of Institutions

Germany has three main types of higher education institutions, namely:

1) Universitäten (Universities): Universities are the formal higher education institutions in Germany. The main purposes of universities are (basic) research and teaching. We differentiate universities as traditional universities, technical universities, educational colleges, and theological colleges.

Traditional universities offer academic disciplines and study programs, whereas the other university types are more specialised. Principally, only universities can grant or award doctoral and Habilitation degrees.

2) Fachhochschulen (Universities of Applied Sciences): Germany introduced Universities of Applied Sciences between the 1960s/1970s as one criterion to deal with the growth in student numbers. Their primary missions are teaching and applied research.
Universities of applied sciences mostly specialise in specific disciplines (like engineering or social work). We can’t pursue disciplines like law, medicine, most natural sciences, and humanities at universities of applied sciences.

3) Kunst- und Musikhochschulen (Colleges of Art and Music): Colleges of Art and Music are highly specialized higher education institutions offering study programs in fine art, performing arts, and music. Their fundamental mission is teaching.

Higher education institutions in Germany are public or state-recognized private institutions. Most private higher education institutions are universities of applied sciences with specialised programs.

Why Germany ?

First, general tuition fees at public institutions are free. Since 2014, none of the 16 states in Germany has imposed general tuition fees at public institutions. Although some states started tuition fees between 2006 and 2007. But, they later revoked these. Therefore, public funds mainly fund Public higher education institutions. And even when there are fees to pay, it is affordable.

Thus, the Organization for Economic Cooperation and Development “OECD” ranked Germany as the third world’s most attractive destination for international students according to education at glance reports in 2014.

Also, flexible foreign student visa policies are a factor that has largely affected international students’ motivation there. Perhaps one reason considered by OECD for ranking Germany as the third most attractive destination for international students.

Indeed, affordable living costs and work opportunities are other reasons worth mentioning. Students consider this factor to be more important in Germany than in other places, as some would like to work while studying. After graduation, students also have 18 months to get a job. That is a great incentive that is offered by only a few Western countries to international students.

Germany makes the list as one of the most popular study destinations in the global education market. Because the country earns it in terms of education quality and affordability.

Here are the requirements for studying in Germany:

1. Study Programme

First, you need to have a determined mindset on the type of degree program and course you want to pursue. You can find more info about courses that fit your academic interest here.

2. University Admission Requirements

Once you chose the programme to study, you check out if the admission criteria fit your academic profile. To be admitted to a German university, the chosen institution must accept your qualifications. An applicant must have a recognized “higher education entrance qualification” also known as Hochschulzugangsberechtigung (HZB) or Abitur. Some institutions also require an aptitude test known as TestAS. It is a test specifically designed for international students from non-EU countries.

3. University Application Documents

Each institution has its own requirement, but in most cases, they expect or demand the following documents:

-A duly completed application form.
-Certified copy of high school diploma.
-Translated overview of your modules and grades.
-Relevant recognized academic certificates.
-Copy of your passport and a passport photo.
-Proof of language proficiency up to C1 level in some cases.

Financial Means

To get a student visa, an applicant has to show proof of financial means. As of 2021, international students need €10,332 per year to cater to their expenses during their time in Germany. A blocked account is the best way to provide proof of financial resources at the German Embassy.

Health Insurance.

Health insurance is also vital if you want to study in Germany. International students must register in the healthcare system while they are in Germany. Residents of one of the EU/EEA member states can use their health insurance from back home. However, they will need to get a European Health Insurance Card (EHIC).
On the other hand, residents of non-EU/EEA member states will need to provide proof of health insurance. It is necessary for their student visa application and university enrolment. Those over 29 years have to pay a monthly amount to the public or private health insurance providers.

Student Visa.

Applicants from countries that need a student visa to enter Germany would apply for one at the German Embassy/Consulate in their home country. They will have to assemble the needed documents, attend an interview at the embassy, and wait for the acknowledgement. The student visa processing time is normally two weeks in normal situations.

Accommodation.

An applicant can choose between different options, like German halls of residence, private apartments, or shared flats. It is necessary to get one’s address registered at the registration office in Germany.

Fear of unemployment while studying or after graduation? Don’t worry, as mentioned above, graduates from German universities have 18 months to find a job after graduation.

Moreover, Germany is one of the biggest employers of labour in Europe and presents a lot of opportunities for graduates.