How to do an exchange in Germany in 2024?
Undertaking an exchange in Germany is an increasingly tangible dream for Brazilian students. The country offers quality education, professional opportunities, and a unique cultural experience. If you wish study and work in Germany, you need to know all the requirements and steps necessary to make that dream a reality.
Understanding the German Education System
The German higher education system is recognized worldwide for its excellence and has two main aspects: the Universities (Universitäten), focused on academic teaching and research, and the Universities of Applied Sciences (Fachhochschulen), with an emphasis on practical and professional training. This distinction is important for choosing the path that best aligns with your career goals through the program Study and Work in Germany.
German institutions offer three main types of programs: Bachelor (3-4 years), Master (1-2 years), and PhD (3-5 years). Most graduate-level courses are taught in German, while there are more options in English for graduate studies. Some programs also offer the possibility of a paid internship during studies. Learn more about German school system.
Essential requirements
To study in Germany, you'll need to meet some fundamental requirements that vary depending on the type of program you choose:
- Recognized high school leaving certificate
- Language proficiency (German or English)
- Financial proof
- Health insurance
- Student visa
- Translated and notarized personal documents
- School transcript with grades
- Letters of recommendation (for some programs)
- Motivation letter
- Curriculum Vitae
Documentation and selection process
The application process requires organization and attention to detail. Your educational qualifications must be recognized by the German system through the “Hochschulzugangsberechtigung” (HZB). If your certificate is not directly recognized, you can opt for the “Studienkolleg” preparatory course or the program Pathway for university entry.
It is essential to start preparing the documentation well in advance. All documents must be translated by a certified translator and notarized. The translation and authentication process can take several weeks, so we recommend starting at least 6 months before the registration deadline.
Application steps
- Choice of program and university
- Search for recognized institutions
- Check rankings and reviews
- Compare curricular grids
- Verification of specific requirements
- Consult institution requirements
- Check enrollment deadlines
- Confirm required documentation
- Preparation of the necessary documentation
- Organize certified translations
- Provide authentications
- Prepare portfolio if necessary
- Proof of language proficiency
- TOEFL/IELTS for courses in English
- TestDAF/DSH for courses in German
- Certificates accepted by the institution
- Opening of Blocked account
- Choose authorized bank
- Deposit the minimum required amount
- Get official proof
- Visa application
- Schedule an interview at the consulate
- Prepare complete documentation
- Pay necessary fees
- Contracting health insurance
- Choose a recognized insurance company
- Check minimum coverage
- Get supporting documentation
- Search for housing
- Search for available options
- Compare costs and location
- Book in advance
- Enrollment at the institution
- Meet established deadlines
- Present complete documentation
- Pay fees if applicable
Language and adaptation
Knowledge of German is an important differential for your experience in the country. Even if your course is in English, a basic command of German will make it much easier for you to adapt to everyday life. We recommend starting language studies at least 6 months before the trip.
For courses in German, the minimum required level is generally B2/C1, proven through certificates such as TestDaF or DSH. For programs in English, TOEFL (minimum 83 points) or IELTS (minimum 6.5) is required.
Costs and funding
The investment to study in Germany includes several aspects that need to be considered in financial planning:
Approximate Monthly Costs:
- House: €300-800
- Food: €200-300
- Health insurance: €110
- Shipping: €50-100
- Teaching material: €50
- Leisure and others: €100-200
Initial Costs:
- Viewed: €75
- Airfare: €800-1200
- Housing deposit: 2-3 months' rent
- Blocked account: €11,904 (value 2024)
Practical Tips for Success
Organization is critical to the success of your application. Some important tips that can make a difference:
- Start planning at least a year in advance
- Keep an up-to-date checklist of documents and deadlines
- Take a basic German course before the trip
- Research about the chosen city and local culture
- Get in touch with other Brazilian students in Germany
- Prepare financially with a good emergency reserve
Job opportunities
While studying in Germany, international students can work up to 120 full days or 240 part-time periods per year. This allows you to gain professional experience and supplement income. The minimum wage in 2024 is €12.41 per hour, which can significantly help with monthly expenses.
Be Easy
A Be Easy is ready to guide you at every stage of your academic journey in Germany. Our specialized team offers full support, from choosing the program to adapting it in the country. With years of experience in the German market, we guarantee a smooth and successful process for our exchange students.
Do you want to fulfill your dream of studying in Germany? Get in touch with our expert advisors and find out how we can help you start your academic journey in Germany! Click here and schedule a free consultation to learn all the details of the process.
