Enrolment in German Universities for International Students

Understanding University Enrolment in Germany

Enrolment, also known as matriculation or Immatrikulation, is the final confirmation that you are a student at your chosen German university. Without it, you can’t attend classes, take exams, or benefit from student privileges.

What Enrolment Means for International Students

When you enrol, you officially become part of the university’s student body. This means you’ll get your student ID, semester ticket (if applicable), and full access to services such as libraries, university cafeterias, and student support centres. It’s also a necessary step for your student residence permit application.

Difference Between Admission and Enrolment

Admission means you’ve been offered a place at the university, but you’re not yet a registered student. Enrolment is the step that finalises your student status. Think of admission as the “invitation” and enrolment as “accepting the invitation” to study at the university.

You will typically get your admission letter after the university application deadline has passed, and it is a requirement for your student visa application. Often, you only receive your enrolment certificate (Immatrikulationsbescheingung) after you pay the semester contribution fees. You will need it to apply for your student residence permit once you’re in Germany.

Steps to Enrol at a German University

Every university in Germany may have its own specific requirements for the enrolment process, but the general steps are quite similar across most German universities. Knowing these in advance can make your transition much smoother, especially for international students juggling visa appointments, housing arrangements, and travel plans.

Receive and Accept Your Admission Letter

Once you receive your admission letter, read it carefully. It will include important details such as enrolment deadlines, required documents, and payment instructions. Some universities require you to confirm your acceptance before proceeding to enrolment.

Prepare Required Documents for Enrolment

Gather all the documents mentioned in your admission letter. Missing paperwork can delay your enrolment, so prepare everything in advance. Common documents include your passport, academic certificates, and proof of health insurance. You may also need to provide the university with an address at this stage, so they are able to send you your student ID.

Pay Semester Contribution and Administrative Fees

Most universities charge a semester contribution, which often covers administrative costs, student services, and in many cases a public transport ticket. Payment instructions are usually provided in your admission email or on the university’s enrolment webpage.

Complete Enrolment In-Person or Online

Some universities allow you to enrol online by uploading your documents and making payments digitally. In this case, the university will most likely have a designated online platform that allows you to complete the enrolment procedure.

Other German universities require you to visit the student administration office in person. This means that you will need to arrive in Germany before the enrolment period is over and make sure you have all required documents with you. If you are not sure if you would make it to Germany on time, be sure to communicate this with the university to explore any other available options.

Required Documents for University Enrolment

While each university in Germany may have its own specific list, there is a common core of documents that almost every international student will need to prepare. Having these ready and in order before you begin your enrolment process will save you time, reduce stress, and help avoid last-minute complications.

Personal Identification Documents

To start with, you’ll need official proof of identity and your legal status as a student in Germany. This usually includes:

• Gültiger Reisepass
• National ID card (if requested)
• Visa or residence permit (if already in Germany)
• Biometric passport photos

If you are enrolling in person, make sure to bring both the original documents and copies, as universities typically ask for both during enrolment.

Academic and Language Qualification Documents

Next, universities will want to verify your educational background and qualifications to ensure you meet their entry requirements. You should prepare:

• Secondary school certificate or previous degree certificate (plus official translations if not in English or German)
• University admission qualification (Hochschulzugangsberechtigung)
• Admission letter from the university
• Language proficiency certificates (German or English depending on the selected study programme)

Proof of Health Insurance

Health insurance is mandatory for everyone living in Germany. Typically, you’ll be asked to provide:

• Confirmation of health insurance coverage that recognised in Germany
• M10 digital notification from your health insurance provider

What Is the M10 Notification?

The M10 digital notification (Meldung M10 in German) is an electronic confirmation sent by a German public health insurance provider directly to your university. This notifies the university of your health insurance status and is crucial to finalise your enrolment.

Regardless of whether you have public or private health insurance, AT-11, or an EHIC (European Health Insurance card), you must contact one of the public health insurance providers to initiate your M10 digital notification prior to enrolment.

If you received your health insurance via Fintiba Plus, you could complete this process directly from the Fintiba App.

Deadlines and Important Dates

German universities follow enrolment deadlines rather strictly. Missing a key date can mean losing your place, even if you have already been admitted. This is because your enrolment is what makes your student status official. Without it, you can’t attend classes, access university services, or receive your student ID.

It’s important to note that deadlines can differ depending on the university, the degree programme, and whether you’re starting in the summer or winter semester. Knowing these dates well in advance will save you from last-minute stress and ensure a smooth start to your studies.

Typical Enrolment Periods for Summer and Winter Semesters

Most German universities follow two main academic intakes:

• Summer semester (starts in April): Enrolment usually takes place between February and March.
• Winter semester (starts in October): Enrolment typically falls between August and September.

Exact dates vary by university, so always check your admission letter and the university’s official website.

Deadline to Submit Enrolment Documents After Admission

Once you receive your admission letter, the university will give you a set timeframe to submit all your required documents for enrolment. This can be as short as two to four weeks, depending on the institution. Late submissions are rarely accepted, so start gathering your documents as soon as possible, especially if you need certified translations.

Consequences of Missing the Enrolment Deadline

If you miss the deadline, you may lose your place for that semester. In some cases, you can appeal or apply again for the next intake, but it’s not guaranteed. If you think you might miss the enrolment deadline due to exceptional circumstances, such as visa delays or illness, contact the university immediately. They may offer an extension if informed early enough.

After Successful Enrolment

Once you’ve completed enrolment, you are officially a university student in Germany – congratulations! You’ll now receive essential documents and access to services that will support your studies and daily life. Taking the time to understand and use these resources early on will help you settle in smoothly and make the most of your university experience.

Receiving Your Student ID and Semester Ticket

After you’re officially enrolled, your university will send you a student ID card. This card is much more than just proof of enrolment and it can often be used as:

• Your library card
• Proof of identification for university facilities and exams
• Proof for student discounts in shops, cinemas, museums, and public transport

In many federal states or cities, your student ID often doubles as your semester ticket, giving you free or discounted public transport access within the region. Make sure you understand the ticket’s coverage area and validity dates, as it can be a huge money-saver.

Access to University Services and Online Portals

Once enrolled, you’ll get login details for your university’s online systems. This is where you can:

• Register for classes and exams
• Access lecture materials
• Check your grades
• Download official university documents like the enrolment certificate
• Access your student email account

Next Steps for Residence Registration and Student Residence Permit

If you’re new to Germany, your student journey isn’t complete without finalising your legal stay. This typically means:

1. Registering your address (Anmeldung) at your local residents’ office (Bürgeramt) within 14 days of moving in.
2. Applying for your residence permit at the local foreigners’ authority (Ausländerbehörde) before your student visa expires.

Starting these steps early ensures you remain compliant with German regulations and avoids last-minute stress.