Are you a Nigerian student looking to study in Germany? Studying abroad can be both an exciting and daunting experience, but knowing what the requirements are is key to success. From language proficiency to visa regulations, Nigerian students need to be aware of the necessary procedures to study in Germany.
This article will provide helpful information on the requirements for studying in Germany for Nigerian students. Read on for more valuable insight into this topic!
Is Germany good for Nigerian students?
Studying in Germany has a lot of advantages for Nigerian students. Learning the German language can be difficult for anyone, but many benefits remain for the student. For Nigerian students considering studying abroad, here are some top reasons to consider Germany as their destination of choice.
First, the country’s well-established reputation means courses are of a high standard, and potential employers around the world highly respect degree qualifications.
The diverse range of universities and courses also makes it easy to find an institution that suits individual needs and interests. Therefore, it is unsurprising that the country boasts over 350 universities with countless courses and degree programmes.
Furthermore, tuition fees at German universities are often lower than in other countries; while living costs in some places can be relatively high, they are generally lower than elsewhere in Europe. So it’s easy to see why nearly 400,000 international students now study in Germany.
Requirements to Study in Germany as a Nigerian Student
We have compiled a list of requirements for those interested in pursuing a degree in Germany, so please take a look at them below.
- Find the study programme
- Meet all the requirements
- Gather your application documents
- Provide Proof of Language Proficiency
- Provide proof of financial means
- Provide Health Insurance or Medical certificate
- Apply for admission
- Apply for a German Student Visa
- Find Accommodation
- Enrol at your university
#1. Find the study program
Finding a course you love can help you get started on the upcoming requirements. If you have decided to further your education in Germany, you must obtain as much information as possible about the university entrance requirements. To find the study programme that is best for you, it is important to take into account your interests and goals. You can find information about all the different study programs available in Germany on the German Academic Exchange Service (DAAD) website. This website also offers a number of helpful tools, such as an overview of tuition fees and scholarships available for international students.
#2. Meet all the requirements
When you discover a study program that interests you, you consider the admission requirements. Before everything else, you must meet the criteria established by the university in order to be admitted to that specific program. Your qualifications must be recognized by the university you have chosen in order to be admitted. This means you must possess a recognized ‘higher education entry qualification,’ commonly known as Hochschulzugangsberechtigung (HZB) or Abitur. If your high school diploma is not accepted in Germany, you will be required to enroll in a one-year preparatory course, Studienkolleg.
In addition, some universities also require the TestAS aptitude test, which is created exclusively for international students from non-EU countries.
#3. Gather your application documents
As a Nigerian student intending to study in Germany, you must gather all your application documents. These include your passport, a passport photo, visa application form, a Certified copy of your School leaving certificate (SSCE or WAEC), transcripts of your academic records, letters of recommendation (if applicable), and other documentation that shows that you are qualified to study in Germany.
#4. Provide Proof of Language Proficiency
You will need proof of your ability to speak and understand German fluently. This could be through passing an accredited language exam or having completed a course in German for at least three months. However, most German universities will not require a language proficiency certificate. You should also check with the university to see if an English proficiency certificate is required.
#5. Provide proof of financial means
You must present proof of financial means when applying for a visa to study in Germany as a Nigerian student. For example, a Nigerian student needs €11,208 (₦5,487,795) per year to cover their expenses in Germany as of 2023. A blocked account is the best option to offer proof of financial resources to the German Embassy.
A block account is for students who need to apply for a visa in Germany but have limited withdrawal power. The block account is where you put the specified amount of money to cover your academic and personal expenditures during your first year in Germany.
#6. Provide Health Insurance
If you wish to study in Germany, you must also have health insurance. Therefore, Nigerian students must be covered by the German healthcare system while in Germany. Though it can be costly, you will need to submit proof of health insurance for your student visa application and university enrollment. In most cases, you will be required to pay a monthly fee to a public or private health insurance provider (if you are over 29).
#7. Apply for admission
Once all of the required documentation is ready, you can apply to the university of your choice for admission. Most of the time, you have to apply online, although certain universities would rather have your application sent in the mail. It’s interesting to note that while some institutions manage their own online admissions platform on their own website, the majority of German universities participate in the UniAssist national application portal. Learn about your university’s online application requirements before submitting an application.
#8. Apply for a German Student Visa
After being granted admission, upon your online application, you should make contact with the German Embassy or consulate in your location for information about visa processing. While applying for a student visa, gather all the documents above, such as proof of funds, health insurance, and an acceptance or admission letter for studying in Germany. Then, it’s time to schedule an appointment, go to the embassy for an interview, and wait for a response. Under normal conditions, the processing time for a student visa is two weeks.
#9. Find Accommodation
After obtaining a german student visa, you will also need to find accommodation. As a Nigerian student in Germany, you have various alternatives for housing. You can pick between German residence halls, private apartments, and shared flats. However, remember that rent in Germany is not cheap and will most likely be your most significant financial challenge during your stay. However, once you’ve found a place to live, register your address with the German registration office.
#10. Enroll at your university
Finally, After getting accommodation in Germany, the penultimate step is to enroll in the course you were admitted to study. This implies that once admitted, you must submit a number of documents to the Office of Student Affairs and register for courses in order to attend lectures, exercises, and examinations.
Free Universities in Germany for Nigerian students
As earlier stated, Germany is one of the most popular study destinations for students from Nigeria. Several free universities in Germany are particularly popular with Nigerian students. The following are three of the most well-known German free universities for Nigerian students:
The University of Cologne offers courses in English and has a strong international orientation. In addition, the university has partnerships with universities all over the world, making it easy for Nigerian students to get involved in their studies.
The University of Bamberg offers courses in German, English, and French, as well as a variety of other languages. In addition, the university has a close relationship with renowned German universities, meaning that Nigerian students can easily integrate into their studies.
The University of Duisburg-Essen is known for its research programmes and offers courses in business administration, engineering, law, and other areas.
Final Word!
In conclusion, studying in Germany as a Nigerian student is a great option for those who are looking for an international education with excellent credentials. The country has a rich history and is one of the most thriving economies in the world. With its excellent universities and rich cultural heritage, Germany is a perfect fit for students seeking an excellent education. However, students interested in studying in Germany should ensure they have the correct requirements and thoroughly research their options.
Frequently Asked Questions
What does a Nigerian need to study in Germany?
A Nigerian student must have a valid passport and a student visa. In addition, language skills are required to excel in your classes and navigate your way around Germany.
What are the basic requirements to study in Germany?
In order to study in Germany, you will need a valid passport, a student visa, and proof of financial support. Additionally, you will need to have a degree from an accredited institution of higher education. Check above for detailed requirements to study in Germany!
Can I use Waec to study in Germany?
Unfortunately, Waec is not recognised as an official educational credential in Germany. Therefore, entry into a German university is only possible after completing one year of higher education in Nigeria or a one-year preparatory course (Studienkolleg) in Germany.
Does Germany accept Nigerian students?
Yes, Germany does accept Nigerian students. In fact, there are several universities in Germany that offer programmes specifically for Nigerian students.
