What Americans need to know about studying in Germany

Germany is a popular choice for aspiring learners from abroad – not least because it offers free or low-cost tuition fees to both domestic and international students. 

In the 2023/2024 winter semester, around 469,485 international students were registered in Germany, according to statistics compiled by the Wissenschaft Weltoffen.

The Bundesrepublik is also home to some of the world's top universities. According to an international university ranking for 2025 by Times Higher Education, the Technical University of Munich (TUM) ranked 26th in the world, while Heidelberg University took the 47th spot.

Add to that a solid jobs market with opportunities for English speakers, it's no wonder that Americans are hopping over the Atlantic for a few years or longer. 

This longing to move among some US citizens and residents has intensified since Donald Trump was re-elected as US President. 

With the crackdown on immigration, turbulent politics and the rising cost of living showing no signs of dampening down, it's no wonder that many Americans are eyeing Germany to continue their education.  

READ ALSO: 'I will never move back' - How do Americans in Germany feel about Trump win?

Here's what any Americans thinking about applying to study in Germany need to know: 

You don't have to pay tuition fees (in many cases) 

When deciding on where to study in Germany, you'll no doubt be thinking about the subject you want to specialise in, where you'd like to live and, of course, how much it's going to cost. 

In the United States, the cost of going to college depends on factors such as whether it's a public or private institution, and where it's situated. Students on average have to shell out around 38,270 US Dollars per year for their tuition, as well as other expenses like books and supplies, according to recent statistics on education. 

In Germany, you'll be glad to hear that it's a lot less expensive. In fact, at public universities, you don't even have to pay any tuition fees. Keep in mind, though, that students usually have to pay a Semesterbeitrag (semester fee) which covers administrative costs and other services. This could be anywhere from around €100 to €400, and often includes a public transport ticket. 

Many of these also offer courses in English. If you're up to the job, you can also apply for a course in German, although a B2 level German language certificate will likely be required. Note that non-native English speakers will likely need to show proof of their English language skills. 

Public universities that provide free tuition and programmes in English include: Berlin's Free University, the University of Hamburg, the University of Göttlingen and University of Freiburg among others. A few universities, such as the Technical University of Munich, have different fee rules for international students so make sure you read the small print.

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Even private university tuition in Germany is relatively affordable

Budding students in the US may find that one of Germany's many accredited private universities are a better choice for them. That could be down to several reasons such as their varied selection of courses or because there are more English-language opportunities. 

Some private universities include: Bucerius Law School in Hamburg, Frankfurt School of Finance and Management and Bard College Berlin. There are also some private practical and technical schools - often with Hochschule in the name - offering English-language programmes.

Fees are set at the discretion of the university but can be anywhere around €5,000-€7,000 per semester which is lower than many other countries (including the US). 

You'll need a student residence permit

As an American, you can enjoy visa-free travel to Germany. Citizens of countries including the US, UK, Canada, Australia, Brazil and Japan are allowed to spend 90 days in the EU in every 180 without needing a visa (although bear in mind that you'll have to get familiar with the EU's new Exit and Entry System rules known as EES).

However, Americans do need a student residence permit to attend university. After you've arrived in Germany and registered your address, you'll need to get an appointment at the local immigration office (Ausländerbehörde) – and make sure you have your documents ready to go!

CHECKLIST: How to move to Germany as an American

The most important one for students is your certificate confirming your enrolment to an accredited study programme in Germany. Bring that along with an application form, biometric pictures and a valid passport. You'll also need to meet other requirements such as having health insurance and some money saved (more on that below).

Check the requirements of your local authority because you may need other documents such as proof of your rental contract or a letter from your landlord confirming your address. You'll also have to pay the fee for the permit. 

Some German universities offer support for their students coming from abroad, including helping them prepare residence permit applications.

Get familiar with key rules

Americans coming to Germany – like other internationals – have to prove that they have enough money to support themselves.  

This often needs to be stored in a so-called 'blocked account' (Sperrkonto), which is a a special type of bank account for international students and other visa applicants. According to the latest figures, internationals starting university generally need a total of €11,904 per year in their account. This amounts to €992 per month for living expenses. 

Alternatively, some students lean on parental support to prove their financial stability. In this case, you can skip setting up the blocked account and instead provide a guarantee letter (Verpflichtungserklärung) from a guardian in which they confirm that they take full financial responsibility for you. The guarantor will need to provide a bank statement or other proof that they have enough money to do so.

It is also a requirement in Germany for everyone, including students coming from abroad, to have health insurance. Depending on your age and other factors, you may qualify for public health insurance. Students over 30 generally have to take out private insurance.

On average, the cost of student health insurance in Germany is between €130 and €150 per month, according to estimates from October 2024. 

READ ALSO: How much money do international students need to study in Germany?

Be aware of the semester dates and deadlines

If you're applying for university in Germany, you need to know when the semesters run, and the deadlines for joining classes. 

In Germany the academic year is split into two: The winter semester is from October to March and the summer semester runs from April to September.

The semesters include a lecture-free period, known as a Semesterferien, when exams are typically scheduled. 

The deadlines can vary depending on the institution, but many schools have an application deadline around July 15th for courses starting in the autumn/winter period, and around January 15th for courses starting in the spring/summer period. 

You can work part-time

Students in Germany regularly find a part-time job to boost their bank account.

International students, such as those from the US, are allowed to work up to 140 full days or 280 half-days per year without extra approval from authorities. A simpler way to think about it is that students from non-EU countries are allowed to work up to 20 hours per week.

During the semester break there are no limits on the number of hours that students can work.

READ ALSO: Weimar to Heidelberg - The best German university towns for foreign students

Many students opt for a minijob, which allows them to earn extra cash without paying full social security contributions. These can be found at bars and cafes, for example.

From January 2025, students can earn up to €556 per month in a minijob, working around 43.3 hours per month at the new minimum wage. That works out at around 11 hours per week, which is below the 20 permitted for international students. 

Alternatively, depending on your industry, there may also be 'working student' (Werkstudent) jobs to be found. These jobs can be especially convenient for those on a student residence permit, because they are designed to be aligned with the working time limits mentioned above. They are also intended to let students get their foot in the door and gain some entry-level experience before graduating.

Are you an American who has studied in Germany? Share in the comments about how you've found the experience – and any tips.