Studying at a German University

Germany has some of the best universities in the world — and many charge no tuition fees, even for international students. But getting in requires strong German language skills.

What German level do universities require?

Most degree programmes taught in German require B2 or C1. The specific requirement depends on the university and programme. Engineering at TU Munich may require C1, while some applied sciences programmes accept B2.

For English-taught programmes, you do not need German — but German language skills will significantly improve your life in Germany.

Which certificate is accepted?

Goethe-Zertifikat C1 or C2 (some programmes accept B2 — check with your university)
TestDaF (Test Deutsch als Fremdsprache) — at least TDN 4 in all four parts
DSH (Deutsche Sprachprüfung für den Hochschulzugang) — usually DSH-2
telc Deutsch C1 Hochschule

Pathway for international students

Complete your secondary school or university at home
Have your certificates evaluated by uni-assist or anabin
Reach B2/C1 German and pass the required exam
Apply through uni-assist or directly to the university
Apply for a student visa (Studentenvisum)
You may need to attend a Studienkolleg (foundation year) first

Realistic timeline

From zero to B2 takes 12 to 18 months of focused daily study. Start with A1, work through A2 and B1, then tackle B2. DeutschWeg covers A1 through B2 completely.

Practise for this step

Practise B2 academic German for university B2 level · paid See what’s inside →

More practice

Grammar guides

Articles (der/die/das) Cases (Nominativ–Genitiv) Word Order sein & haben nicht or kein

Free A1 grammar lessons

der, die, das haben & sein Personal pronouns Present tense Word order Akkusativ Dativ Plural nouns Negation Modal verbs

Sources

Last checked: November 2026

This article is general information, not legal advice. Rules change, so please confirm your case with the German embassy or the responsible authority.