INTAKES

Summer Session – which starts in March every year

Winter Session – which starts in September every year

DEADLINES

Summer Session – January 15

Winter Session – July 15

PASSPORT VALIDITY REQUIREMENT

A passport valid for three months beyond the length of stay and issued within the past 10 years is required.

LIVING COST

Compared to other European countries, the cost of living in Germany is quite reasonable. The prices for food, accommodation, clothing, cultural events, etc. are basically in line with the EU average. You will need around 850 euros a month to cover your living expenses. The largest expense is your monthly rent.

You should expect to pay the following expenses during your stay in Germany:

• Living expenses (rent, food, clothing, books, telephone, …)
• Semester contribution : administration work (for registration and re-registration), for the student services (Studentenwerk) and the activities of the student council or union (AStA) – the fees average between 50 to 250 euros per semester, as it varies depending on the university
• Health insurance
• Possible tuition fees

AFTER STUDIES – SETTLEMENT OPTIONS

Most foreign residents can apply for a permanent residence permit – a “settlement permit” (Niederlassungserlaubnis) – after five years. However, you need to fulfil various other conditions: you have to prove some basic knowledge of the German language, Germany’s political system, and German society. Moreover, you need to show that you are able to earn a living and that you have made financial contributions to Germany’s national pension plan for five years. Additionally, proof of accommodation is also required.