Graduation first
The university entrance decides whether direct entry, preparatory college or alternative makes sense.
From the first question to the first semester. All steps, all deadlines, all documents – in the order that prevents you from doing any of them twice. This guide does not replace advice. It gives you the overview before it starts.
The guide works like a map: It separates preparation, application, visa and entry so that no step comes too early.
The university entrance decides whether direct entry, preparatory college or alternative makes sense.
The application window, language test and visa appointment must be thought of together.
After each step, it should be clear which document counts next.
As on the homepage: first clarify the direction, then decide on the details.
Step 01 of 07
This is the step that most people skip – and then have to repeat. Before you choose a university, book a course or make an appointment: Clarify whether your school leaving certificate in Germany counts for direct university admission.
Germany does not automatically recognize school qualifications from abroad. Recognition depends on which country you come from and what degree you have. The result is either: direct university entrance qualification – or preparatory college requirement.
The secretariat of the Conference of Ministers of Education maintains the Anabin database. The status that applies to most countries and degrees is listed there. Status H+ means: direct admission possible. Status H– means: preparatory course or equivalence test required. The university itself decides for countries that are not registered.
If your degree does not have H+ status, there are two options: Complete a preparatory college (lasts one year, ends with an assessment test) or take a supplementary exam directly in Germany. Which route applies depends on the federal state and the university.
Step 02 of 07
Before you book a course: First clarify which level and which proof applies to your planned course of study. A course without this clarity can hit the wrong level or the wrong provider.
Which level applies to you?
German-language degree programs require proof of German language proficiency. English-taught degree programs require proof of English language proficiency. Some courses require both. The requirements vary depending on the university and subject - they are always stated in the admission requirements for the respective course of study.
| Proof | level | When accepted |
|---|---|---|
| DSH (German language test for university entrance) | DSH-2 or DSH-3 | Standard proof is taken directly at universities |
| TestDaF | 4×4 (all 4 areas at least level 4) | Widely recognized, filed externally |
| Goethe certificate C2 | C2 | Accepted at most universities |
| telc German C1 University | C1 | Sufficient at numerous universities |
| DSD II | C1 | For graduates of schools with a DSD program |
| Proof | Typical minimum score |
|---|---|
| IELTS | 6.0–6.5 (depending on the university) |
| TOEFL iBT | 80-90 points |
| Cambridge B2 First / C1 Advanced | Accepted at many universities |
Step 03 of 07 · Optional / Mandatory
The preparatory college is not a setback. It is a structured path to university admission – but it lasts a year and must be planned for from the beginning.
The Studienkolleg is a one-year preparatory institution for international students, whose school leaving certificate in Germany does not directly entitle them to university admission. It ends with the assessment test (FSP). Once you have passed the FSP, you can apply regularly to German universities.
| Course | For whom | Typical subjects |
|---|---|---|
| T course (technology) | Natural sciences, computer science, engineering | Math, physics, chemistry, German |
| M course (medicine) | Medicine, pharmacy, biology | Biology, chemistry, German, physics |
| W course (economy) | Business studies, economics, law | Math, German, economics |
| G course (Humanities) | Languages, history, philosophy | German, history, English, social studies |
| S course (language) | Translation, German studies, cultural studies | Intensive German, literature, regional studies |
The preparatory college lasts two semesters (one school year). Admission dates are usually in the winter semester (October) and the summer semester (April). Proof of German (at least B2) and an entrance exam are also required for admission.
Step 04 of 07
The application runs parallel to the language certificate - not afterwards. If you wait for the language certificate, you will miss the deadlines.
| semester | Application deadline | Start of semester |
|---|---|---|
| Winter semester | July 15th (many universities earlier) | October |
| Summer semester | January 15th (many universities earlier) | April |
International applications are submitted either directly to the university or via uni-assist. uni-assist is a central preliminary examination organization that prepares the documents for the university. Which method applies is stated on the website of the respective university - it is not generally specified.
Step 05 of 07
You can only apply for a visa once you have received written approval. The acceptance letter is the central document for the embassy.
What to do after the commitment
After admission there is a deadline for enrollment. Depending on the university, this period is between two and six weeks. Enrollment must be confirmed - by paying the semester fee and submitting the final documents.
As soon as you have been approved: book the embassy appointment immediately. Waiting times between 4 and 16 weeks depending on the country. If you wait too long, you won't get an appointment before the start of the semester.
Step 06 of 07
The visa is the last step before entering the country - but the preparation starts early. Blocked accounts, embassy appointments and documents take more time than most people plan for.
For the study visa, proof of a blocked account at a German or international bank must be provided. The blocked account proves that you can support yourself financially during your studies. Minimum amount: €934 per month (as of 2025) – at least €11,208 for twelve months. The amount is released monthly.
| region | Typical waiting time |
|---|---|
| West and North Africa | 8-16 weeks |
| Middle East, Türkiye | 6-12 weeks |
| South Asia (India, Pakistan) | 8-14 weeks |
| East Asia (China, Korea) | 4-8 weeks |
| Latin America | 4-10 weeks |
| Eastern Europe (non-EU) | 4-8 weeks |
Step 07 of 07
There is a fixed order after entry. Residential registration must be completed within 14 days - without exception.
Student halls of residence have waiting lists – up to a year in some cities. Register early with the student union, at the same time looking for private accommodation as a bridging period. Without accommodation there is no registration, without registration there is no immigration authority, without registration there is no residence permit.
All topics in detail
You now know the order.
Let us clarify which step applies first to your situation.
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People who want to understand the entire study path to Germany as a sequence.
First check your qualifications and language level, then plan your application and visa.
Assess study planAs of: May 2026. Lalmano checks content editorially and is based on official information, including from Foreign Office, BAMF and Make it in Germany. The content does not replace individual legal advice.