Nestled in the heart of Europe and one of the most technologically advanced nations in the world, Germany offers excellent, affordable higher education.
The variety of available subjects and the quality of its universities have made Germany a desirable study destination. With a long-standing reputation for providing world-class technical degrees, German universities have been a popular choice among science students.
If you want to know more about the most sought-after subjects offered by German universities, check out this article on the best study fields in Germany.
The fact that Germany's public universities are tuition-free for both domestic and international students also differentiates the European country from other study destinations.
To help you understand the structure of the German higher education system, we've broken down the basics so that you can get a clear picture before you start planning your studies in this exciting country.
Quick facts about the German higher education system
- There are over 2.9 million students enrolled in German universities in the winter semester of 2022/2023
- There are over 380 officially recognised universities throughout the country
- There are more than 17,000 study programmes available across German universities
- An undergraduate programme lasts 6 to 8 semesters (3 to 4 years)
- A Master's programme is 2 to 4 semesters (1 to 2 years) long
- PhD programmes consist of 6 to 10 semesters (3 to 6 years) and usually include a doctoral thesis
- Both domestic and international students studying at public universities are not required to pay tuition fees in most cases
Types of higher education institutions in Germany
There are three different types of institutions in the German higher education system:
- Universities (Universitäten)
- Universities of Applied Sciences (Fachhochschulen)
- Academies of Arts, Music and Film (Kunst- und Musikhochschulen)
German universities are divided into two categories: public and private. Public universities are the most common and receive significant government funding, allowing them to offer courses with no tuition fees.
On the other hand, private universities, most of which are Universities of Applied Sciences, charge tuition fees for their programmes.
Universities
Universities (Universitäten) in Germany offer a wide range of courses in most subject areas and focus on research and teaching. They offer a more traditional style of learning. You can also study specialist subjects there.
Universities of Applied Sciences
Universities of Applied Sciences (Fachhochschulen) concentrate on a more practical and applied style of learning. One notable characteristic of 'Fachhochschulen' is their incorporation of paid practical training known as the 'Praxissemester' within the curriculum.
During the 'Praxissemester', students work in private companies or public institutions to gain practical experience that aligns closely with the demands of the job market.
These universities focus on IT, engineering, technology, business-related studies, social work, design, education, nursing and applied and natural sciences. Some of the Universities of Applied Sciences are government-funded, while most of them are private.
Lecturers and professors teaching at Universities of Applied Science also differentiate this type of higher education institution from the others.
Although they are academics, professors and lecturers at Universities of Applied Science have a robust history of hands-on professional experience in various industries outside of the academic sphere.
Academies of Art, Music and Film
Academies of Art, Music and Film offer an independent style of learning that embraces creativity. They provide study programmes for aspiring artists, musicians and educators in these fields.
Some of the Academies of Art, Music and Film provide courses in all art or music disciplines, while others focus specifically on particular subjects within these areas of study.
Subjects available at these institutions include fine arts, fashion design, film and television, instrumental music and graphic design.
How does the German higher education system work?
In Germany, each academic year consists of two semesters: a summer semester (April to September) and a winter semester (October to March).
University courses either start in October or April and are subject to different application deadlines. Therefore, it's a good idea to double-check with the university about when the course you are interested in is commencing.
If the programme you wish to enrol in starts in April, your application deadline is usually 15th January. If you are applying for a course starting in October, your deadline for submitting your application will be 15th July.
University courses in Germany
While German universities are famous for their technical degree programmes, with more than 17,000 courses delivered by nearly 400 higher education institutions, you can study pretty much any subject at a German university.
Many university courses in Germany are delivered in English, giving international students plenty of options. We recommend you start exploring the course offerings a few months in advance of your application to allow ample time for course selection.
Admission requirements of the German higher education system
To gain admission to a degree programme in Germany, you must hold a secondary education certificate (Hochschulzugangsberechtigung) or its equivalent from your country, such as an A-level certificate if you go to school in the UK.
International students whose qualifications are not recognised by German universities are often required to take an entrance exam. However, some programmes, arts and sports in particular, do require all applicants to sit an entrance exam.
If you wish to apply for a course taught in German, you may be asked to provide proof of your proficiency in the German language as an international applicant. Below are a few examples of widely accepted tests and qualifications:
- Test of German as a Foreign Language for foreign applicants (Test Deutsch als Fremdsprache für ausländischer Studienbewerber – TestDaF)
- German Language Proficiency Examination for Admission to Higher Education for Foreign Applicants (Deutsche Sprachprüfung für den Hochschulzugang ausländischer Studienbewerber – DSH)
- German Language Diploma of the Standing Conference – Level II (Deutsches Sprachdiplom der Kultusministerkonferenz – Zweite Stufe – DSD II)
Looking to apply to an Academy of Art, Music and Film? You will need both your secondary education certificate and the result of an aptitude test proving your artistic talent in your chosen area.
On some occasions, if you can provide strong evidence of possessing a unique artistic talent, you may be accepted to an Academy of Art, Music and Film even when you don't have a secondary education certificate.
In terms of the application process, we encourage you to begin your application process six months to a year prior to the intended course start date. Also, be prepared to submit references and a personal statement.
The cost of studying at a German university
As we mentioned earlier, most public universities in Germany do not charge tuition fees and this applies to both domestic and international students.
However, German universities do charge students a semester fee (Semesterbeitrag) every six months. Ranging from EUR 200 to EUR 500, semester fees cover the cost of administration for universities.
Last but not least, don't forget to take living costs into consideration, such as the costs of accommodation, transportation and food.
Now that you've learned more about the higher education system in Germany, are you convinced that it could be your ideal study destination?
If not, why not check out our article on why you should study in Germany to discover the perks of furthering your education in this leading European country.
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