Germany has more than 20,000 study programmes and a variety of options for study, including:

  • a university or university of applied sciences (HAW)
  • dual study programmes
  • part-time study
  • initial induction courses alongside studies

HAWK is a state University of Applied Sciences and part of the German university system.

 

Who can study in Germany?

There are a range of qualifications (in German) that enable you to start a degree course. Officially, anyone with a University entrance qualification (Hochschulzugangsberechtigung) can be admitted.

Some school-leaving certificates from other countries do not allow you to study in Germany right away; you have to gain a further qualification first, e.g. by completing a foundation programme or undertaking vocational training.

 

The university you apply to will let you know about the status of your school-leaving certificate. If it does not allow you to study in Germany right away, our advisory services will be happy to provide you with information on potential pathways to study in Germany in the future.

Vocational training

Dual vocational training is a special feature of the German education system (in German). It combines training in a company with instruction on theory at a vocational school. For some professions and individuals, vocational training is more appropriate than a degree course.

HAWK study programmes

HAWK has 6 faculties across 3 sites. All sites are in the federal state of Lower Saxony.

There are around 50 programmes to choose from. Some of these can be studied for on a dual basis or alongside employment. Part-time study is also an option, but must be applied for separately.

 

Study costs and funding options

Before you start your studies, it is important to know what costs a degree programme entails and what funding options are available to you.

Exchange programme

Would you like to study at the HAWK for 1 or 2 semesters as part of an exchange programme? Find out more about the Erasmus+ exchange programme and other opportunities.

Preparing for your studies

Further information on applications and admissions can be found on the International Office website. To ensure you are ideally prepared for your studies, you can apply for the Studienstart plus programme. This gives you more time to get started with your studies. You should also start learning German at an early stage. We offer Intensive German courses to help you learn the language and get to know the university. You can also apply for the Study Buddies programme. Experienced students will support you during your initial weeks and months of study and help you find your feet at HAWK.

Getting organised

At HAWK, as at many German universities, students organise many things for themselves. This includes reading module descriptions and study regulations, choosing courses and putting together your own timetable. It is also students’ responsibility to be aware of and meet key deadlines and to find out in good time when to register for examinations. It is also students’ responsibility to be aware of and meet key deadlines and to find out in good time when to register for examinations.

Critical thinking is seen as a democratic process in Germany and is viewed as a positive skill, especially in discussions. So don’t hesitate to express doubts or ask critical questions in seminars.

Being independent also means realising when you’re not coping and knowing when to ask for help. Please speak to other students or lecturers if you have any questions. You’ll also find help at the HAWK service centres.

Personalised advice

With so many options, it can be difficult to find the right path. We provide independent advice on all topics - it is important to us that you find the path that suits you best.

Important: This advice service is aimed at international applicants and current international students. If you are an exchange student (e.g. Erasmus+), you will be advised by the International Office.