Destinations › Germany

Established European route

Study in Germany from Nigeria

Tuition-free public universities, a strong economy, and an 18-month job-seeker visa after you graduate, if you plan the blocked account and admissions correctly.

The Brandenburg Gate, Berlin

Germany’s public universities charge no tuition, only a small semester fee, which makes it one of the most cost-effective destinations for the right candidate. The trade-offs are the blocked-account requirement and competitive, document-heavy admissions. Get those right and you have access to Europe’s largest economy and an 18-month window to find work after graduating.

The blocked account (€11,904 for 2026) is the figure most applications get wrong. We confirm the current amount and a compliant provider before you transfer anything.

Who this destination suits

Strong academic profiles, especially in engineering, IT, sciences and business; cost-sensitive students who can fund a blocked account; those targeting long-term EU careers.

LightTouch’s role

We identify English-taught public programmes you can realistically enter, manage uni-assist/admissions and the blocked account, and prepare your visa file to the standard German consulates expect.

Key facts

Updated: June 2026
Main intakesWinter (October, main), Summer (April)
TuitionPublic universities tuition-free; ~€150–€350/semester fee (Baden-Württemberg charges €1,500/sem for non-EU)
Proof of fundsBlocked account €11,904/yr (€992/mo)
Work while studying120 full / 240 half days per year
After graduation18-month job-seeker residence permit
LanguageEnglish-taught Master’s available; some German often needed for work

Figures verified against official sources at build time. Rules change. Confirm with the relevant authorities before applying. LightTouch will check the current figures for your case.

FAQ

Common questions

Is Germany really tuition-free?
At public universities, yes, you pay only a semester fee of roughly €150–€350. One exception: Baden-Württemberg charges non-EU students about €1,500 per semester. Private universities charge full fees.
What is a blocked account and how much do I need?
A special account proving you can cover living costs, €11,904 for 2026 (€992/month). The money is released to you monthly after you arrive. We confirm the current figure at application time.
Can I stay and work after my degree?
Yes, an 18-month job-seeker residence permit lets you stay to find graduate-level work, after which you can switch to a work or EU Blue Card permit.

Check if Germany fits your budget.

One honest conversation, no service fee. We’ll confirm the current figures for your situation.

Eligibility check