
Study in Germany:
Your Knowledge Hub
Dreaming of studying in Germany?
With its world-class universities, affordable tuition, and incredible career opportunities, it’s no surprise that students from around the globe are choosing it as their destination. But between visas, applications, and finding your way in a new country, getting started can feel like a maze. Don’t worry—we’ve got you covered!
This page is your one-stop hub for everything you need to know about studying in Germany. From visa processes to student life and career opportunities, we’ve gathered all the essential information to help you make the best decision.
Why study in Germany?
Affordable & World-Class Education
Get a globally respected degree without the high price tag of other countries.
Career Opportunities After Graduation
Stay in Germany for 18 months post-graduation to find a job in Europe’s strongest economy.
Study in English, Live in Europe
No German? No problem. Enjoy 100% English-taught programs in the heart of Europe.
Vibrant Student Life
Experience life in Cologne, a diverse and vibrant city that offers the perfect mix of cultural life, career opprunities and international flair.
Everything you need to know in one place
Stay updated with our latest blog posts on studying in Germany, covering everything from visa processes to student life hacks.
IU’s Unique Advantages
At IU International University of Applied Sciences, we make studying in Germany even easier, with 100% English programmes, in-person lectures supplemented with self-study, and strong career support to help you succeed.
Biggest private university in Germany
State-Accredited & Internationally Recognized Degrees
Professors with 5+ Years’ Industry Experience
On-campus lectures supplemented by self-study with our digital tools
10 programmes with 15+ specialisations
25+ Years of Experience and Quality
With an IU degree, the sky is the limit
Don’t settle on your education. With IU, you get an award-winning education that’s recognised around the world, all at an affordable price. Join 130,000+ IU students from all over the globe and choose the right programme for you from our degree portfolio.
Discover Bachelor Programmes Discover Master Programmes Discover MBA ProgrammesKickstart your career in Germany
Germany offers excellent job prospects for international students, both during and after their studies. As a student, you can work up to 120 full days or 240 half days per year, allowing you to gain hands-on experience while supporting your studies.
After graduation, Germany’s 18-month post-study work visa gives you time to find a job that aligns with your degree and career aspirations. With a strong economy, a thriving tech and business sector, and countless global companies, Germany is an excellent place to kick-start your professional journey.
This is perfect for those looking to earn some side income to fund living expenses in Germany. You’ll find tons of mini jobs as waiters/waitresses, retail staff, babysitting, and more.
It’s essentially minimum-waged part-time work and you can only earn a maximum of €450 per month. This means you don’t need to contribute to taxes or social and health insurances.
Ideal for those who want to kickstart a career in Germany while studying. You’ll work in a large company in a field related to your studies. This allows you to:
apply the knowledge acquire in the classroom in practice.
gain relevant work experience and industry networking.
potentially have a job offer at the same company after graduation.
get better earnings than at a mini job.
You’ll typically work 20 hours per week at an average of €14 per hour. These jobs will cross the tax threshold, but as a student you can claim the taxes back at the end of the tax year.
Looking for student job opportunities?
Explore our career office page and discover more. Our team is here to help you!
The cost of living in Germany
Wondering how much it costs to live and study in Germany? This video breaks down the real cost of living for students: from rent and health insurance to groceries, transportation, and everyday expenses; giving you a clear picture of what to budget for as an international student.
FAQs
Admission requirements can vary depending on the degree programme and university. Generally, you'll need to have a recognised high school diploma or bachelor's degree, meet language requirements, and provide proof of financial means to support yourself during your studies.
Furthermore, a 15-minute online interview conducted by our admission team is a mandatory part of the admission criteria for all applicants.
It depends on the programme and university you choose. At IU, our programmes and materials are 100% in English.
In addition to your tuition fees, you'll need to budget for living expenses such as accommodation, food, and health insurance.
You'll need also to show proof of financial means to support yourself during your stay. On average the applicant needs to have between €22,000 and €25,000 per year including living expenses and tuition fees.
Note that these calculations include the amount for a mandatory blocked account and first-year tuition fees that can be paid either semesterly, annually or full in advance (please check your country's German embassy for specific visa requirements).
You can apply for a student visa at the German embassy or consulate in your home country. The visa requirements and application process may vary depending on your country of origin.
Check the website of the German embassy or consulate in your home country for detailed information on visa requirements and application procedures.
Yes! We will connect you to our trusted visa application partner, who will take care of the entire process for you – from start to finish, 100% free of charge.
To receive this service, you’ll need to be officially enrolled first – so it’s important that you sign your study contract and pay your one-time campus registration fee as soon as your admission documents have been approved.
The sooner you finish the IU application process, the quicker you can begin the visa application process – and start your studies.
Yes, international students in Germany can work up to 120 full days or 240 half days per year. However, it's important to note that part-time jobs may not cover all living expenses and may require German language proficiency.
Also, please ensure that your mandatory in-person lectures are compatible with your working hours.
Award-winning education at IU







Do you have any questions?
Visit our FAQ page or get in touch with our Study Advisors.
















