1. What are the basic requirements to study in Germany?

You'll typically need a recognised prior qualification (a relevant Bachelor's degree for Master's applicants, or Abitur-equivalent schooling for Bachelor's applicants), proof of language proficiency (German and/or English depending on the program), academic transcripts, a statement of purpose/motivation letter, and — for most Indian students — an APS certificate verifying your academic documents. Specific universities and programs may add their own criteria, such as entrance exams or work experience.

 

2. Do I need to know German to study in Germany?

Not always. Germany offers a growing number of Bachelor's and Master's programs taught entirely in English, especially at the Master's level and in fields like engineering, business, and technology. However, having at least basic German (A1/A2) makes daily life, part-time work, and integration much easier, and some programs — particularly Bachelor's degrees at public universities — still require German proficiency (usually B2/C1, tested via TestDaF or DSH).

 

3. What is APS certification, and do I need it?

APS (Akademische Prüfstelle) is a mandatory document verification process for Indian students applying to German universities. It confirms the authenticity of your academic records before you apply. Most Indian applicants need an APS certificate as part of their university application, and it's a step you should start early, since processing can take several weeks.

 

4. What is the dMAT exam, and do I need to take it?

The dMAT (digital Master Test) is a new standardised aptitude test introduced for select Master's applicants from India, effective for applications submitted (or APS registration completed) on or after 29 June 2026. It's not a university entrance exam and doesn't replace your degree or APS verification — it's an additional document that APS India requires as part of your verification file for certain fields of study. It tests general analytical and reasoning ability rather than subject knowledge, through a Core Module and a Subject Module.

 

5. Who actually needs to take the dMAT?

You're likely required to take it if all of the following apply: you completed your Bachelor's degree in India, you're applying for a Master's program in Germany for Summer Semester 2027 or later, your undergraduate degree falls under Engineering, Commerce, Accounting, Finance, Economics, Business, or Management, and your APS application/registration falls on or after 29 June 2026. You're generally exempt if you're applying for a Bachelor's or PhD program, your degree is outside the listed fields, you're on an exchange or double-degree program, or you completed APS registration/shipped documents before 29 June 2026. Since interdisciplinary degrees (like Business Analytics or Data Science) can go either way, it's worth checking your exact classification against the official APS list before assuming you're exempt.

 

6. How much does it cost to study in Germany?

Public universities in Germany are largely tuition-free (or charge a small semester contribution covering administration and transport), even for international students, though some states and specific Master's programs do charge fees. Living costs are the main expense — budget roughly €900–€1,200 per month for accommodation, food, health insurance, and other essentials, which is also the amount you'll need to show for your blocked account when applying for a student visa.

 

7. What's the visa process for studying in Germany?

Once you have a university admission (or are eligible to apply for a "prospective student" visa), you'll apply for a German student visa through the German embassy or consulate in your home country. You'll typically need proof of admission (or eligibility), a blocked account showing sufficient funds, health insurance, academic documents, and your APS certificate. After arriving in Germany, you'll need to register your address and convert your visa into a residence permit at the local immigration office.