Checklist for Studying in Germany

1. Research & University Applications

• Choose Your University & Course: Check DAAD.de for programs in English/German.  
• Check Admission Requirements:  Academic qualifications, language proficiency (IELTS/TOEFL for English, TestDaF/DSH for German).  
• Prepare & Submit Applications:  Most universities use uni-assist.de for applications.  
• Apply for Scholarships:  Look into DAAD, Deutschland stipendium, Erasmus+, and university grants.  

2. Admission & Visa Process

• Receive Your Admission Letter (Zulassungsbescheid): Required for a student visa.  
• Apply for a Student Visa at the German Embassy or Consulate in your country. Documents required:  
• Admission letter  
• Proof of financial resources (€11,208 in a Blocked Account)  
• Health insurance  
• Passport & visa application form  
• Book a Visa Appointment Early: Processing can take 6–12 weeks.  

3. Finances & Budgeting

• Open a Blocked Account (Fintiba, Expatrio, Deutsche Bank): Proof of funds for a visa.  
• Estimate Monthly Expenses (~€800–€1,200 per month).  
• Look for Part-Time Job Opportunities (Students can work 120 full days or 240 half days per year).  

4. Accommodation  

• Apply for Student Dormitories via Studierendenwerk (cheapest option, but limited spots).  
• Find Private Housing (WG-Gesucht.de, ImmoScout24.de, Facebook groups).  
• Read Your Rental Contract Carefully: Deposits, notice period, etc.  

5. Travel and Packing  

Book Flights in Advance: Frankfurt, Munich, and Berlin are major entry points.  

Pack Essential Documents:  

  – Admission letter  

  – Visa approval  

  – Health insurance  

  – Financial proof  

  – Passport & extra copies  

Pack for the Weather: Germany has cold winters, so bring warm clothes.  

6. Arrival & Settling In  

• Register Your Address (Anmeldung) at the local Bürgeramt within 14 days.  
• Open a German Bank Account (N26, Deutsche Bank, Commerzbank).  
• Get a German SIM Card (O2, Vodafone, Telekom).  
• Activate Health Insurance: TK, AOK, or private insurance (if applicable).  
• Get a Student Transport Pass (Semesterticket) for public transport discounts.  

7. University & Daily Life  

• Attend Orientation & Enroll at University (Get Student ID).  
• Apply for a Residence Permit (if required) at the Foreigners’ Office.  
• Explore & Join Student Groups: Integrate, make friends, and build networks.  

Bonus Tips:

• Learn Basic German (even if your course is in English).  
• Understand Recycling Rules:  Germans take waste separation seriously!  
• Try Local Food: Currywurst, Döner, and Pretzels are must-tries!