Germany remains one of the leading centres of education in Europe. The educational ladder is clearly structured — from preschools to universities. Programs take into account both academic and professional directions, often providing students with work experience in their specialty while they are studying. A significant number of educational institutions are funded by the state, thanks to which it is possible to study there for free, even for foreigners.

The education system in Germany is regulated at both federal and state levels: each region (Bundesland) has a certain amount of autonomy in terms of curricula, school structure, and admission requirements. This means that conditions may vary from state to state, and when planning your education in Germany, you need to take into account the specific characteristics of the region.

We’ve reviewed the German education system and created a practical guide for anyone considering studying in Germany for themselves or their children. 

Contents:

  1. Advantages of Studying in Germany
  2. Pre-School Education (Kindergarten)
  3. Primary School in Germany (Grundschule)
  4. Secondary Education in Germany
    1. Private Schools in Germany
  5. Vocational education (Ausbildung)
  6. Higher education in Germany
    1. Online Studying in Germany
    2. Scholarships, Housing, and Earning Opportunities in Germany
  7. How to get a visa and residence permit for the duration of your studies in Germany
    1. Visa process

Advantages of Studying in Germany

Basically, it is students who benefit from studying in Germany. For children, the main, and perhaps the only, advantage will be integration into German society from an early age. Therefore, we will consider the list of advantages using students as an example:

  • Residence permit options. International students admitted to German universities receive a residence permit for the duration of their studies.
  • Employment prospects after graduation. After completing their studies in Germany, graduates can extend their stay in Germany for 18 months to find a job that matches their qualifications. And if they sign an employment contract, they can obtain a residence permit with the right to work.
  • Employment options during studies. International students have the right to work up to 120 full or 240 part-time days per year without the need for additional permission.
  • Support and integration programs. To facilitate the adaptation of international students in the country, universities offer intensive German courses in Germany, assistance in writing a resume, preparing for interviews, and finding internships.

Pre-School Education (Kindergarten)

In Germany, preschool education is provided to children aged 3 to 6 years: it is not compulsory, but more than 93% of children in this age group attend it. Preschool education in Germany varies in its form of ownership and pedagogical approaches:

  • Public (municipal) kindergartens. They are financed by local authorities and cost less than private kindergartens.
  • Private kindergarten in Germany. A feature of private kindergartens is the relative freedom in the application of child-rearing standards. They place greater emphasis on certain educational concepts. For example, environmental education, creativity, and language development.
  • Confessional institutions. They operate under the auspices of the Catholic or Evangelical Church and focus on the spiritual education of the child.
  • Alternative pedagogical concepts. For example, Montessori, Waldorf education, Reggio Emilia, or forest kindergartens.

The cost of attending a kindergarten in Germany depends on the region, type of institution, length of stay, and family income:

  • Public kindergartens usually cost between 15 and 400 euros, with an average price of 169 euros per month. 
  • Private kindergartens are more expensive and reach 1000 euros per month and above.

The preschool education system in Germany is free in some federal states, such as Berlin and Hamburg. In the first case, parents only have to pay for food, and in the second case, for basic preschool education over 5 hours a day. 

Foreign citizens can enroll their children in kindergartens under the same conditions as German citizens. Due to the shortage of places, it is better to apply to several institutions at once and as early as possible. To do this, you will need to provide:

  • Child’s birth certificate.
  • Residence registration (Meldebescheinigung).
  • Medical certificate of the child’s health.
  • Vaccination confirmation (vaccination against measles is mandatory).

Primary School in Germany (Grundschule)

The primary education system in Germany starts with Grundschule. It includes children in the age group from 6 to 10 years, that is, up to the fourth grade. However, there is no single federal program, and in the federal states of Berlin and Brandenburg, children go to primary school up to the 6th grade (up to 12 years). 

The school system in Germany includes five main subjects:

  • German.
  • Mathematics.
  • The world around us (Sachkunde).
  • Physical education.
  • Music and fine arts.

In some federal states, a second foreign language is also introduced, most often English, starting in grade 3 or 4. Free education in Germany is available in state primary schools. However, there are several additional costs that the child’s parents pay:

  • Educational materials (notebooks, pens, textbooks).
  • Excursions and extracurricular activities.
  • Meals in the school canteen (if available).

Children of foreign nationals can study in state primary schools under the same conditions as other children. For enrollment, it is necessary to provide a standard package of documents for the child (birth certificate, registration at the place of residence, health certificate, list of vaccinations), but sometimes an entrance medical examination may be required.

At the end of the primary general education program in Germany, teachers give recommendations on the child’s further educational path. They are useful for continuing education, but are not mandatory, because the final decision is made by the parents.

Hamburg cityscape

Secondary Education in Germany

After completing primary school (Grundschule) at around age 10 (or 12 in Berlin and Brandenburg), pupils move on to secondary education (Sekundarstufe I), which lasts until age 15–16. There are four main types of schools in Germany:

  • Hauptschule focuses on general basic education and the acquisition of practical skills. After completing it, you can enroll in vocational schools.
  • Realschule prepares for secondary vocational education or the transition to Gymnasium.
  • Gymnasium. Gymnasiums in Germany provide an in-depth academic education. Upon completion, the student receives the Abitur, which is needed for admission to higher education institutions.
  • Gesamtschule is a combined school that combines elements of all three types.

The situation with foreign citizens is identical to primary education: education in state institutions is free for them, and a standard package of documents is required. The secondary education system in Germany requires that a student knows German — a child can be sent to preparatory classes Internationale Förderklassen or Vorbereitungsklassen if the level of proficiency is below B1-B2. To enroll in senior classes, certificates and certificates from the previous school with translation are required.

Private Schools in Germany

Private schools in Germany make up about 9% of all educational institutions, and although they are subject to strict government regulation, they often offer alternative pedagogical approaches to a child’s education. Such schools are especially popular among expats, as they offer instruction in English.

Key differences from public schools:

  • Funding. Private schools receive funding from parents, private investors, and government subsidies, and tuition is paid.
  • Pedagogical approaches. Such schools often use non-standard teaching methods, such as Montessori, Waldorf, religious education, and other alternative concepts.
  • Class size. Groups of students are formed so that the teacher has enough time and attention for each, and not according to the standard scheme of 20 or 30 children per group.

Types of Private Schools in Germany:

  • Ersatzschulen (replacement schools) are similar to state schools and receive state subsidies. Tuition costs between 100 and 500 euros per month.
  • Ergänzungsschulen (supplementary schools) offer specialized or international programs.
  • Confessional schools include compulsory religious education.
  • International schools teach in Germany in English, but cost between 2,500 and 25,000 euros per year.

Vocational education (Ausbildung)

Vocational education in Germany is divided into dual training (Duale Ausbildung), in which education is combined with work in the target sector, and school vocational education (Schulische Ausbildung) without practical training.

Dual German education (Ausbildung) lasts 2–3.5 years and includes practical training, which is counted as professional experience. Thanks to this, about 90% of graduates eventually find a job before graduation. EU and EFTA citizens can freely participate in this training model without a visa, while third-country nationals require a visa for vocational training. To obtain one, you need a contract with an employer and, in some cases, proof of financial solvency.

Training is free, since the costs are covered by employers and the state. Apprentices receive a salary (Ausbildungsvergütung), the minimum amount of which in 2025 is 649 euros per month in the first year of study, with an increase in each subsequent year (e.g., 690 euros in the second, 743 euros in the third). In popular industries such as IT or mechanical engineering, salaries reach 1000-1500 euros per month.

Vocational school education (Schulische Ausbildung) lasts from 1 to 3 years depending on the program, and takes place in vocational schools (Berufsfachschule, Fachschule). This type of training is popular among future specialists in the fields of health care (nurses, physiotherapists), social services (educators, social workers), and the arts (graphic designers).

Tuition is free in state schools or paid in private schools (100–500 euros per month), and some programs include paid internships. Foreign citizens from third countries planning to study under the program without scholarships or internships, in addition to a visa, require proof of financial solvency in the amount of 11,208 euros per year. Knowledge of German (level B1—B2) is required, as the training is conducted in German.

Students may be eligible for financial aid:

  • BAföG (Bundesausbildungsförderungsgesetz). State aid consists of a non-repayable grant of 50% of the tuition fees and an interest-free loan for the other half. BAföG is available to students up to 30 years of age (up to 35 years in special cases, such as refugees). Foreign citizens can only apply for BAföG after 5 years of residence in Germany or if they have refugee status.
  • Scholarships and grants. Private schools, organizations and colleges in Germany offer scholarships for students with high academic achievements or in difficult financial situations.
  • Tax deductions. Parents can deduct up to 30% of the tuition fees at a private school (up to a maximum of 5,000 euros per year per child) as special expenses (Sonderausgaben) when filing their tax return. This applies to children under 18 years of age (or under 25 years of age if they are studying).

If you cannot find a source of subsidy, you can get a part-time job. According to German law, students are allowed to work up to 120 full or 240 part-time days a year at a rate of up to 10-15 euros/hour. As a last resort, you can apply for assistance for needy students — Ausbildungsgeld. If a student has a difficult housing situation, for example, there are no affordable options in the region, you can apply for housing subsidies — Wohnkostenzuschuss.

Cologne with the Rhine River running through it and the large cathedral in the background

Higher education in Germany

The higher education system in Germany mainly operates according to the Bologna system: bachelor’s degree (3-4 years), master’s degree (1-2 years), and doctoral degree (3-5 years). Universities in Germany are divided into classical universities (Universitäten), focused on fundamental research and academic disciplines; universities of applied sciences (Fachhochschulen), focused on practical training and cooperation with industry; and specialized academies of arts, music, and film, which require entrance exams (Eignungsprüfung). Here, as in secondary vocational education, there is a dual education system, according to which you can study for 3-4 years and alternate theory with practice every 2-3 months, receiving a salary of 800-1500 euros per month (up to 2000 euros in large companies) and valuable experience. This model is popular in engineering, IT, and business specialties, but requires a language proficiency level of B2-C1. Higher education in Germany at public universities is mostly free for both German citizens and international students. This applies in almost all federal states, with the exception of Baden-Württemberg, where, since 2017, non-EU students have paid €1,500 per semester.

In some states, such as North Rhine-Westphalia or Bavaria, students who have exceeded the standard period of study (Regelstudienzeit) pay an additional €500—800 per semester, but only if there are no valid reasons such as illness or pregnancy.
All universities have a mandatory semester fee of €100—400 (in large cities such as Munich or Berlin, €350—400). The fee includes a public transport pass, student union services, and administrative costs.

Tuition fees in Germany at private universities vary: 5,000–20,000 euros per year for bachelor’s programs and 10,000–40,000 euros per year for master’s programs. Examples of such universities are the University of Europe for Applied Sciences, Hertie School in Berlin, and Otto Beisheim School of Management (WHU). Their main difference from state universities is the opportunity to study in English.

To enter a university in Germany, foreign applicants need a recognized equivalent of a German certificate (Abitur). For Russian graduates, this usually means completing 1–2 years of university in their home country or completing a preparatory course, Studienkolleg (1 year, German level B1—B2, cost up to 500 euros per semester). In rare cases, admission to a German university is permitted after 12 years of school education with in-depth study of specialized subjects, but this requires verification through the Uni-Assist platform.

Knowledge of the language is critical: German-language programs require level B2—C1 (TestDaF, DSH, Goethe-Zertifikаt certificates), English-language programs require TOEFL (iBT 80–100), IELTS (6.0–7.0), or their equivalents. Even for universities in Germany that teach in English, basic knowledge of German (A2—B1) is recommended, as it makes everyday life, finding a part-time job, social integration, and a future career in the country easier.

Online Studying in Germany

Online studying in Germany is available through state universities, FernUniversität in Hagen, IU International University, and private platforms. All types of online programs are available: bachelor’s, master’s, and advanced training courses in IT, business, healthcare, and engineering.

The courses are taught in German or English, and lectures are conducted through platforms such as Moodle. The cost is 100-500 euros per semester at state universities, 5000-15,000 euros per year at private universities. Foreigners need a visa, but only for trips to Germany, for example, for exams.

The language requirements are standard: B2-C1 (TestDaF, DSH) for German, IELTS 6.0-7.0/TOEFL iBT 80-100 for English. Diplomas are equivalent to full-time ones and also provide access to the German labor market and the opportunity to stay for 18 months to look for a job.

Scholarships, Housing, and Earning Opportunities in Germany

Organizations and universities in Germany offer scholarships to cover the costs of studying and living. The DAAD provides grants of 850–1200 euros per month for bachelor’s, master’s, and doctoral students. To receive it, you need a high average grade in all subjects, a motivation letter, recommendations, and often an essay or interview.

Deutschlandstipendium offers 300 euros per month (half from the state, half from sponsors) to support students with outstanding academic or social achievements. Political foundations such as the Konrad-Adenauer-Stiftung or Friedrich-Ebert-Stiftung offer 800–1000 euros per month for socially active students.

Some universities provide their own grants (500-2000 euros per semester). To apply, you need a CV, a motivation letter, an academic transcript, and adherence to the deadlines on the websites of the DAAD, the university, or the foundation. Universities offer dormitory accommodation (Studentenwohnheim), but not for free, at a price of 250–400 euros per month per room. There are few places, so the competition is quite tough, which is why it is recommended to submit an application 6–12 months before the start of studies. Alternatively, you can rent accommodation together with other students.

As already mentioned, students can work part-time. It is better to look for vacancies through the Jobbörse, Indeed, or job boards. For most part-time jobs, you need basic German (A2-B1), although in IT or international companies, English is enough.

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How to get a visa and residence permit for the duration of your studies in Germany

For third-country nationals (outside the EU/EFTA), there are several types of visas suitable for studying at German educational institutions. The most popular is the student visa, which is issued for studying at a university (bachelor’s, doctoral, and master’s degrees in Germany) or other recognized educational programs lasting more than 90 days.

Other types of visas:

  • Visa for vocational training. For dual training or school vocational education at a Berufsfachschule/Fachschule.
  • Visa for language courses or preparatory programs. Applicable if the applicant’s German language level is below the required level. It is issued for up to 1 year, with the possibility of switching to a student visa after admission to a university.
  • Short-term visa (Schengen, type C). For programs shorter than 90 days (e.g., intensive language courses in Germany). Not suitable for long-term studies and is not “convertible” into a residence permit.

EU/EFTA citizens do not require a visa. They can enter Germany, register their place of residence (Meldebescheinigung), and begin their studies.

Key requirements for obtaining a study visa:

  • Confirmation of enrollment or contract.
    • For a university: a letter of acceptance (Zulassungsbescheinigung) from the university or Studienkolleg. If a decision on acceptance has not yet been made, a conditional confirmation of application (Bewerberbestätigung) can be submitted for a student visa.
    • For vocational training: a contract with an employer (Ausbildungsvertrag) for a Duale Ausbildung or a letter of acceptance from a Berufsfachschule for a Schulische Ausbildung.
    • For language courses: confirmation of enrolment in a course (course intensity of at least 18 hours per week).
  • Financial solvency. It is necessary to prove the availability of funds for living, 11,208 euros per year (934 euros per month). This can be confirmed by:
    • German bank accounts.
    • Scholarships (confirmation from DAAD or other fund).
    • Letter of guarantee from parents/sponsor (Verpflichtungserklärung), certified in Germany.
    • Contractual salaries (for Duale Ausbildung or duales Studium, if it covers the costs).
  • Knowledge of language. When studying in German-language programs, the required level is B2—C1. For Studienkolleg or vocational training, B1—B2 is sufficient. German universities in English require IELTS (6.0–7.0), TOEFL (iBT 80–100) or equivalent. Basic German (A2—B1) is recommended for life and part-time work.
  • Health insurance. State (gesetzliche Krankenversicherung, about 110–120 euros per month) or private insurance for the entire period of stay in the country is mandatory.
  • A passport valid for the entire duration of the visa and, preferably, for at least 6 months after completion of studies.

Additionally, you will need: a motivation letter (an explanation of why Germany and the program were chosen) and academic documents: certificate, diploma, and certificate from the university (with translation into German/English, certified by a translator). For vocational training, a certificate of previous education is sometimes required.

Aerial shot of the beautiful cityscape of Kassel in Germany

Visa process

Preparation of documents

The entire package of documents will be required:

  • Visa application (filled out on the embassy website or VIDEX).
  • Passport + copies.
  • 2-3 biometric photographs (35×45 mm).
  • Confirmation of enrollment.
  • Proof of financial solvency.
  • Health insurance.
  • Language certificates (TestDaF, IELTS, etc.).
  • Motivation letter (1-2 pages).
  • Academic documents (certificate, diploma, certificate, translated and certified).
  • Payment of the visa fee of 75 euros.
  • Proof of accommodation (dormitory reservation, rental agreement, if any).

Submitting an application. You can submit your application through the German consulate in your country or through a visa center (e.g., TLScontact), but the service fee will be higher in the latter case.

Waiting for a decision. The standard processing time for an application is 4–12 weeks, but for a student visa, it may be faster.

Notification of the final decision comes by mail or through a visa center. If it is positive, the applicant is issued a visa for 3–6 months. You must enter Germany before the start of your studies (usually 2–4 weeks) for registration and paperwork.

After entering Germany on a student visa, you must obtain a residence permit (Aufenthaltserlaubnis) to continue your studies. A residence permit is issued for the duration of your studies (usually 1–2 years, with an extension). To do this, you must register with the local Citizenship Authority (Einwohnermeldeamt) and then contact the Foreigners Authority (Ausländerbehörde) in your city of residence. There, you submit an application and all accompanying documents, the same as for registration at the consulate. The application is reviewed for 2–8 weeks, after which you are issued a residence card (eAT). The residence permit is extended annually or every two years if the study program is not completed.