
China sends more students to Germany than any other country in the world — over 40,000 Chinese students are currently enrolled at German universities, making them the single largest international group. This is no coincidence. Germany offers China's best students what few other countries can: public universities that charge no tuition fees, world-leading engineering and natural science research, and a pathway to the European job market. The German academic tradition of research-driven education — the Humboldt model — is deeply respected in China, where many of the country's modern scientific institutions were influenced by German scholarship. This guide covers everything Chinese students need to know, beginning with the APS certificate.
Why Germany is the top destination for Chinese students
No tuition fees at public universities — only €150–€350/semester administrative contribution
World-leading programs in engineering, natural sciences, computer science, and management
Over 40,000 Chinese students already enrolled — the largest international student community in Germany
DAAD and CSC scholarship cooperation specifically for Chinese applicants
Strong German-Chinese industrial ties: Volkswagen, BMW, BASF, Siemens all have major China operations
18-month post-study job-search visa after graduation
German degree holders are highly valued by multinational employers in China
Key things to plan for as a Chinese applicant
APS certificate is mandatory — plan 8–12 weeks minimum for the process
Gaokao holders applying for a bachelor's directly may need Studienkolleg (foundation year) at some universities
CNY→EUR transfers are subject to SAFE annual limits (~$50,000 USD equivalent) — coordinate funding across family members if needed
German student visa appointment slots at German Embassy Beijing and consulates can be limited in peak season (May–August)
German public universities — especially at bachelor's level — have limited English-taught programs; master's level has far more options
Your route from China to Germany
- Apply for APS certificate at German Embassy Beijing or your regional consulate
- Research and apply to universities (direct application or uni-assist)
- Open Sperrkonto and fund it (~€11,208)
- Apply for German national student visa
- Travel to Germany, enrol, register at Einwohnermeldeamt, obtain residence permit
Подробные гиды для студентов из Китай, обучающихся в Германия
Каждый гид полностью раскрывает свою тему — без поверхностного обзора, как на других сайтах.
APS Certificate
Mandatory academic verification for Chinese students — how the China APS process works, city by city.
Blocked Account
Sperrkonto requirements and how to transfer CNY within SAFE forex limits.
Student Visa
German national visa application from Beijing, Shanghai, Guangzhou, Chengdu, or Shenyang.
Cost of Living
Monthly budgets by city — what you'll spend on rent, food, transport, and health insurance.
Scholarships
DAAD, CSC, Deutschlandstipendium, and political foundation scholarships for Chinese students.
Post-Study Work
18-month job seeker visa, EU Blue Card, and working in Germany as a Chinese graduate.
Student Life
Chinese community, WeChat groups, banking, health insurance, and practical first-week steps.
German Language
Language requirements, Goethe Institut China locations, and how Chinese students approach German.
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