Compared to other European countries, the cost of living in Germany is quite reasonable. The prices for food, accommodation, clothing, cultural events, etc. are basically in line with the EU average. You will need around 500 - 800 Euros a month to cover your living expenses. The largest expense is your monthly rent.
You should expect to pay the following expenses during your stay in Germany:
Useful Link:
Study in Germany - cost of living
At Harz University of Applied Sciences you do not have to pay any tuition fees. The German Higher Education System is highly subsidised by the government. However, each semester you need to pay a semester contribution. This covers administrative costs and the semester ticket. It entitles you to use all buses within Wernigerode and Halberstadt for free.
Semester Contribution:
Wernigerode: 118,00 €
Halberstadt: 109,00 €
International exchange students who wish to study in Germany longer than 3 months need a visa. This is also true if you have a national residence card for a European member state. Visa application can take up to 3 months (mail and processing time). You should therefore contact your local German embassy in good time. In order to get a visa, you will need to submit an acceptance letter. You will receive this once we have obtained your complete application.
People from the following countries do not require a visa
Are you a citizen of one of these countries? Please ensure your passport is valid for the duration of your studies at Harz University of Applied Sciences.
Useful Link:
Visa Information (Federal Foreign Office)
According to regulations in Germany, you need a valid health insurance from outside of Germany or get insured once you arrive in Germany in order to be permitted to matriculate at our university. Your insurance needs to be valid for the entire duration of your studies, starting the day of your arrival.
EU citizens
Public Health Insurance
You may enter Germany with the European Health Insurance Card (EHIC). Please contact your health insurance provider at home to find out which services it pays for in Germany. Not all costs are always covered by all foreign health insurance policies. More information on using the EHIC in Germany can be found here.
Private Health Insurance
You must have the validity of your private health insurance policy checked by a German public health insurance company, which can be done during Orientation. If your health insurance covers the minimum requirements, you will receive an exemption certificate, which is required for enrolment at our university. If not, you need to sign up with a German public health insurance.
Non-EU citizens
Public Health Insurance
Even if you have a public health insurance policy in your home country you need to sign up with a German public or private health insurance after your arrival, which covers your entire stay.
Private Health Insurance
Even if you have a private health insurance policy in your home country you need to sign up with a German public or private health insurance after your arrival, which covers your entire stay. If you decide for a private health insurance, you must have its validity checked by a German public health insurance company. If your health insurance covers the minimum requirements, you will receive an exemption certificate, which is required for enrolment at our university.
We recommend taking out personal liability insurance, covering the costs in case you cause any personal or material damage.