A plain-language guide to studying in Germany, written specifically for students from the Gulf and MENA region.
Public universities in Germany charge no tuition fees for undergraduate and most postgraduate programmes. You pay only a semester contribution of €150–350, which covers public transport and student services.
Germany has three main types: Universität (research-focused), Fachhochschule or HAW (applied sciences & practice-oriented), and Technische Universität (engineering & natural sciences). Each has different admission criteria and cultures.
International students need a recognised school-leaving certificate (Hochschulzugangsberechtigung, or HZB). Depending on your background, you may need a Studienkolleg foundation year — or you can qualify directly via TestAS.
TestAS is a standardised academic aptitude test offered in English and German. A strong score can enable direct admission without a Studienkolleg — the most direct route for many MENA students.
You need a national student visa (D-Visum) from the German embassy in your country. Requirements: university admission, blocked account (€11,208/year), health insurance, and language certificates.
Monthly costs range from €800 to €1,100 depending on city. Cities like Wuppertal, Dortmund, and Bochum are significantly more affordable than Munich or Frankfurt — and often better for international students.