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In Germany, you can expect a wide range of opportunities to study and to do research. To be able to study in Germany, you need a school-leaving certificate that qualifies you for academic studies (university entrance qualification). Before you apply to a university, you may want to check the university’s requirements.
You have already found a university place and received a confirmation?
In that case, as a citizen of Australia, Andorra, Brazil, El Salvador, Honduras, Israel, Japan, Canada, Monaco, the Republic of Korea, New Zealand, San Marino, the United Kingdom of Great Britain and Northern Ireland or the USA, you do not require an entry visa to enter Germany. Once you are in Germany, you can start your academic studies. Please note that you must apply for the respective residence permit at the competent foreigners authority within 90 days.
The following information might help you with your preparations for entering Germany:
- Checklist for students (PDF)
You have not found a university place yet?
You can enter the country without a visa and stay in Germany for a period of up to 90 days without a residence permit. This time frame can be spent by looking for a university place. If your search for a university place has been successful, you can start your studies immediately. Please note that you must apply for a residence permit for the purpose of studying at the competent foreigners authority within 90 days of entering Germany and successfully obtaining a university place.
If you happen to require more time to look for a university place, you could apply for a visa for applying for a course of studies. Submit your application at the competent German embassy in your country. The visa will allow you to enter the country and look for suitable university places for a period of six months.
The following information might help you with your visa application:
Information on studying in Germany:
- Find out more about prospects after studying in Germany in the "Study" section.
- The "Study in Germany" platform provides important information on universities, study programmes and life during studies in Germany.
