Resources
Guides for Every Step of the Journey
Studying abroad involves a lot of moving pieces. Here's an overview of what to think through — and where Tangago can help.
Choosing Your Destination
Compare countries, program languages, and costs of living to find the right fit for your goals and budget.
- Compare tuition: public universities in Germany are nearly free, while other countries charge several thousand euros per year.
- Check the language of instruction: English-taught programs exist, but German opens more options and makes daily life easier.
- Estimate the cost of living city by city (rent, transport, insurance) before deciding.
- Look into student work rights and options to stay after graduation.
University & Program Selection
Shortlist universities and programs that match your academic profile, field of study, and career plans.
- Know the difference between research universities (Uni) and universities of applied sciences (Fachhochschule / HAW), which are more practice-oriented.
- Check that your degree is recognized in the anabin database (H+ status).
- For each program, note: admission requirements, minimum grade, language tests, and deadlines.
- Shortlist 4 to 8 programs, mixing reach and safe choices.
Useful links
Uni-AssistCentral platform used by many German universities to evaluate international applications.DAAD – International Programmes in GermanyDAAD's official database with more than 1,800 bachelor's, master's, and PhD programmes in Germany.HochschulkompassOfficial directory of all state-recognized universities in Germany and their degree programmes.Applications & Uni-Assist
Understand admission requirements, document checklists, and how the Uni-Assist evaluation process works.
- Some universities use Uni-Assist to evaluate foreign qualifications; others accept applications directly.
- Budget for Uni-Assist fees (around €75 for the first application, €30 for each additional one).
- Gather early: transcripts, degree certificate, certified translations, language proof, passport, motivation letter, CV.
- Allow 4 to 6 weeks for Uni-Assist processing — submit well before the university deadline.
Scholarships & Funding
Explore funding options and scholarship programs that can help cover tuition and living costs.
- The DAAD is the main source of scholarships for studying in Germany; search its database by country and level.
- Also check scholarships from the federal states (Länder), foundations (Studienstiftung and others), and universities themselves.
- Most scholarships require applying 6 to 12 months in advance, with letters of recommendation.
- A student job (up to 20 hrs/week) and a small loan can top up your funding.
Student Visa Guidance
Get clear on visa requirements, required documents, and how to prepare for your embassy appointment.
- Two cases: a student visa (once admitted) or a student applicant visa (Studienbewerbervisum) if you apply from Germany.
- Key documents: admission letter, proof of funding (blocked account), health insurance, passport, forms, and fees.
- Book your embassy appointment as early as possible — waiting times can reach several months.
- After arrival, convert the visa into a residence permit at the Ausländerbehörde once you have registered your address.
Blocked Account & Budget Planning
Learn how the Sperrkonto (blocked account) works and how to plan a realistic budget for your time abroad.
- The blocked account (Sperrkonto) proves you can support yourself for a year: a minimum of roughly €11,900 for twelve months, revised annually.
- Once in Germany, you can only withdraw a capped monthly amount.
- Open it online before your visa application; expect setup and maintenance fees.
- Budget separately for: housing deposit, flight ticket, and initial setup costs.
Our recommendation: Expatrio
We recommend Expatrio for opening your blocked account (Sperrkonto) — a reliable solution widely used by international students in Germany, with a 100% online process.
Open my Expatrio accountPartner link: this link may earn us a small commission, at no extra cost to you.
Housing Search
Know where and how to look for student housing before you arrive, and what to watch out for.
- Search Studierendenwerk halls of residence, WG-Gesucht, and city-specific student Facebook groups.
- Watch out for scams: never pay before a viewing (in person or by proxy) and a signed contract.
- A shared flat (WG) is often faster to find than a studio.
- You need an address for address registration, a bank account, and your residence permit — plan ahead.
Pre-Departure Checklist
From document translations to packing, get organized for departure with a clear step-by-step checklist.
- Get your official documents (diplomas, birth certificate) translated and certified before you leave.
- Take out travel/health insurance valid for entry, then German health insurance on arrival.
- Carry several paper and digital copies of your key documents.
- Keep enough cash or card funds to cover your first 4 to 6 weeks, before you can access the blocked account.
Life After Arrival
Registering your address, opening a bank account, health insurance, and settling into student life.
- Register your address (Anmeldung) within two weeks of arriving.
- Open a German current account and activate your health insurance.
- Apply for your residence permit at the Ausländerbehörde before your visa expires.
- Complete your university enrollment (immatriculation) and pick up your student card.
The Tangago blog
Stories and guidance for your journey
StoryMy journey to Germany: what I wish I’d known first
My path, my mistakes, and why I wanted to build the resource I wish I’d had.
By Sira · Founder of Tangago · 8 min read
Read the articleWant guidance made for your specific situation?
These are the essentials — a consultation goes deeper into your profile, your target program, and your timeline.