How to do an exchange in Germany: Everything you need to know
The exchange in Germany is an enriching opportunity for those who wish to study and work abroad. In this guide, we'll explore who can do an exchange in Germany and everything you need to know to prepare for and enjoy this experience!
Opening doors for exchange: Study in Germany
To do an exchange in Germany, you must be enrolled in a study program. The most common educational programs for exchange students in Germany are undergraduate (bachelor) and graduate programs such as master's and MBA.
Germany offers a variety of programs and scholarships in various fields, which are based on academic performance, allowing you to find something that matches your interests and career goals.
Available fields of study in Germany
In Germany, universities offer a wide range of courses for international students. Here are some of the available areas of study:
- Art and Design
- Technology and Software
- sports
- psychology
- Tourism and Hospitality
- Digital Marketing
- Negócios
- Administration
- engineering
And many other areas of study. With so many options available, for Study and Work in Germany, you're sure to find something that aligns with your goals.
Proficiency tests to study in Germany
To study in Germany, it is essential that you have a good understanding of German or English depending on the university you choose.
Proficiency in German
To prove your proficiency in German, the most common exams that German universities accept are:
- Test DAF: OR Test DAF It is an advanced German exam, recognized by all universities and Fachhochschulen (universities of applied sciences) in Germany.
- DSH: A DSH (Deutsche Sprachprüfung für den Hochschulzugang) is an entrance exam in German for students who wish to take an undergraduate course in German.
These exams are internationally recognized as an indication of German language proficiency. Many universities offer language preparation programs for international students, improving their knowledge of German before starting their studies.
Proficiency in English
If you opt for a study program that is fully taught in English, you will need to prove your English language proficiency. The exams most commonly accepted by German universities include:
- TOEFL (Test of English as a Foreign Language)
- IELTS (International English Language Testing System)
- Cambridge English exams
- Duolingo English test
The scoring requirements vary from university to university, so it's important to check specifically what score the institution you intend to attend asks for.
Student visa in Germany
And here's some good news! It is not necessary to apply for a student visa in Brazil. The visa process takes place after you arrive in Germany. Here's a summary of the process:
- Enroll at a German University: First of all, you need to be accepted to a German university. The university will provide the necessary documentation for your visa application.
- Arrive in Germany: You can enter Germany as a tourist and then apply for a student visa when you are there.
- Register in the city: Upon your arrival, you need to register at the “Bürgeramt” (Registration Office) of the city where you are going to live.
- Apply for a Student Visa: Finally, you can apply for a student visa at the “Ausländerbehörde” (Department of Foreigners) in your city. It is important to do this as soon as possible after your arrival in Germany.
It is worth mentioning that the cost of this visa is only 75 euros. This is an affordable amount, especially when compared to the cost of traditional visas. This is due to the fact that it is a visa aimed at studies and work, contributing to making the exchange experience even more attractive.
Financial proof requirement for a student visa
One of the most important aspects when planning your study in Germany is financial proof. When you apply for the visa, you'll need to show that you have sufficient funds to support yourself during your time in Germany.
The amount required is approximately 12,000 euros per person in a Blocked Account. The blocked account is a special bank account in Germany, into which international students deposit the necessary money to cover a year's worth of expenses.
Here are the basic steps to open a locked account:
- Request the opening of a blocked account: this can be done online through several German banks.
- Deposit the funds: funds must be deposited in the account.
- Get confirmation: after the funds have been deposited, you will receive a confirmation that will be used to apply for a student visa.
The entire visa process can be done in Germany. You can board with a tourist visa, on account of the Schengen Treaty, and do the process within the country. While waiting for your permit to be ready, you can study with a tourist visa. This is a benefit that few countries offer and will certainly make your study experience in Germany even more unique.
Working in Germany with a student visa
By taking an educational program in Germany with a student visa, you also have the opportunity to work in the country. Following the student visa rules, you are allowed to work until 20 hours a week during the semester.
It should be noted that the main purpose of the student visa is to allow it to dedicate itself to studies, so the limitation of working hours, once the bachelor's or master's degree is completed, Germany allows students to stay in the country for an additional period of 18 months, with the sole purpose of working.
Germany has the third largest economy in the world, which means that there is a high demand for jobs, which increases the chances of getting a job in a variety of sectors. In addition, the minimum wage in Germany in 2024 is 12.41 euros per hour, which is an attractive factor for international students.
Is it possible to take the family to Germany?
If you plan to study in Germany and have a family, there's good news! Your family, including your spouse and children, can accompany you during the period of your studies.
The spouse has the right to work, and the duration of their visa will accompany that of the main visa. Thus, if the student is allowed to stay in Germany for three years, the spouse also has this right.
In addition, the couple's children aged 6 and over are entitled to free education in Germany. That means they can attend local schools.
For the spouse to receive these rights, it is necessary for the couple to be married civilly. A common-law marriage is not sufficient for a spouse to receive the same rights as a student in Germany.
Upon completion of the studies, the student, as well as the spouse, can stay in Germany for an additional 18 months to seek employment, facilitating the post-study transition.
Be easy
Your journey of studying and working in Germany is an experience that you will surely treasure for the rest of your life, and we want to be part of that journey.
If you have questions, concerns, or simply want to know more about, don't hesitate to contact us. We're here to help you every step of the way. Our team is always ready to answer your questions and provide the necessary guidance. Contact us right now to start your incredible study and work journey in Germany!
