DAAD Nairobi - How To Study In Germany

Step 1: German – the language of instruction?

Although most courses at German universities are taught in German, more and more courses are now also offered in English. For the latter, proficiency in German is not always required for admission, but advisable for daily life.

For courses offered in German:
Language proficiency: TestDaF or DSH

For most of the degree courses you will be required to take a German language proficiency test for admittance.

Information about the language requirements are available here (in English).

Step 2: Is your academic qualification sufficient to be admitted at a German university directly?

For an undergraduate degree course:

A-Level
Baccalaureate
In the case of Kenya:
1. KCSE: Minimum of C+ required (but this grade is not a guarantee for admission!), language proficiency (see above) and one year preparatory school “Studienkolleg” (www.studienkollegs.de) in Germany (generally free of charge; language of instruction: German), followed by an assessment test for entrance to university
2. KCSE and at least one year of successful studies at a recognized Kenyan university.
Other school leaving certificates: To be assessed by chosen university’s International Office. Please check also the Admission Data Base.

If course is in English: Refer to individual university requirements

For a postgraduate degree course:
Bachelor’s degree of recognized / chartered university and particular course requirements.

You can test your aptitude for academic studies at TestAS.

Step 3: Check your financial status: How will you finance your stay in Germany?

Many courses at the public universities are still free of charge. Those who charge tuition cost appr. Euros 500 per semester (6 months), in some cases more, in some cases less.

Allow for a monthly budget of Euros 650 minimum to cover your upkeep. Please note that DAAD does not offer undergraduate scholarships!

If you cannot pay for yourself, look for financial assistance. Check for options (www.funding-guide.de).

For work opportunities in Germany, click here.

Step 4: Choose your course by using the following contacts (available in English):

For further inquiries: studying_in_germany@daad.de

Step 5: Contact the International Office at your chosen university for application details (via the home page of the university)!

Some universities require you to apply through the central body “uni-assist”. Confirm with the university of your choice whether it is a member of this body. Otherwise place your application directly at the university.

Step 6: Apply for a visa to Germany with the admission letter from the university (Confirm additional visa requirements at the German Embassy in your home country)!

Step 7: In case of further questions, please email or visit us at the DAAD Regional Office in Nairobi!