Good planners often make great students in Germany, and you’re already on the right track by reading this list and preparing ahead of time.

The country is a hotspot for international students—469,485 of them are already making the most of Germany’s world-class education system.

To join them in pursuing a degree, you need to fulfill the requirements listed below.

If you want a faster route to check your eligibility, you can always consult a German expert for free by answering a few simple questions!

Check Eligibility Today

Here is what it takes to study in Germany:

1. Study Program

Finding a study program is not a requirement as much as it is an essential first step to get you started on your journey to studying in Germany.

This is where it all begins, so take your time to research a program that matches your interests, offers interesting courses, and for which you fulfill basic eligibility requirements.

If you’re still undecided, you can search our database of international study programs in Germany for options based on your preferences.

2. University Admission Requirements

Each study program has specific requirements, but you must make sure that you’re eligible to study in Germany in the first place.

To apply to a German university, you need to have a university entrance qualification known in German as the Hochschulzugangsberechtigung (HZB) or Abitur. To see if your school-leaving certificates are equivalent to Germany’s Abitur, look up your country and qualifications in anabin or the DAAD database.

If your school-leaving certificate is not sufficient, you can attend a one-year preparatory course known as Studienkolleg or complete additional education in your home country.

Some universities also require an aptitude test called the TestAS. This test is designed for international students from non-EU countries who want to enroll in an undergraduate program in Germany.

Another important requirement is knowing the language of instruction. If your degree is completely taught in German, you need to prove that your German skills are up to par by submitting recognized language certificates such as the Deutsche Sprachprüfung für den Hochschulzugang (DSH) or TestDaF. If your course is taught in English and you’re not a native speaker, you need to submit scores from tests such as IELTS or TOEFL.

Some business schools in Germany may also list GMAT or GRE test scores among their requirements.

3. University Application Documents

You have to send an application for a study program in Germany either through the university’s own portal or through uni-assist. Each university and specific program may have different requirements, but these are the documents that you’ll need to submit in most cases:

• Completed application form. Find it on the university’s portal or in uni-assist, depending on the process.
• Recognized school-leaving certificate. Check this database to see if you meet university entry requirements.
• Certificates of previous studies (including university studies). If you’re applying to a postgraduate program, include official transcripts and the diploma certificate.
• Proof of language proficiency. Recognized German or English language certificates or previous studies in that language.
• Copy of valid passport and passport/portrait photo.
• Letter of motivation & recommendation letter(s) (if applicable).
• Curriculum vitae (CV)/resume.
• Standardized tests (if applicable). Some universities may ask for TestAS results & some business schools may require GMAT or GRE scores.
• Akademische Prüfstelle – APS certificate. Applicants with education qualifications from China, India, or Vietnam need to get this.
• Preliminary Review Documentation – VPD. Some universities require applicants to have their education documents reviewed and grades converted from uni-assist.

4. Proof of Financial Resources

International students need to have €11,904 per year to cover their living expenses in Germany (as of September 2024). If you need a student visa for Germany, you have to present proof of this money (Finanzierungsnachweis) during your appointment.

There are a couple of ways you can present proof of finances—the most reliable being a blocked account. Alternatively, you can send your parent’s income or financial asset statements, a German resident can guarantee to cover your expenses, you can send a bank guarantee, or if you won a scholarship, present the certificate stating the amount covered.

Learn more about opening a blocked account at Expatrio.

5. Student Visa

If you’re going to study in Germany for a period no longer than 90 days, you need a Schengen visa if your country doesn’t have a Schengen agreement with Germany. For studies longer than 90 days (usually degree programs), most students* need a national visa

To get a student visa for Germany, you need to apply for an appointment with the German embassy or consulate in your country. You should prepare the required documents and attend an interview on the date of the appointment. The embassy will then process and issue a decision on your application—which can take up to 25 days, depending on location and workload.

*Students of some specific nationalities such as the United States, Canada, etc. only need a residence permit after entering the country. Students from the EU/EEA (including Switzerland) are exempt from both the visa and residence permit requirements.

6. Accommodation

Within two weeks of arriving in Germany, you need to register your address at the local Resident’s Registration Office. Therefore, you should make sure to have found long-term accommodation by then.

There are different accommodation types in Germany to choose from, including student halls of residence, shared apartments (WGs), private rentals, and more. At an average of €410 per month, rent is usually the biggest expense for students—so searching ahead of time can help you stay within your budget.

The average monthly cost for different types of housing is as follows: €266.83 for student dorms, €363 for shared apartments (WGs), and around €820 for private apartments. These are just estimates, though, and prices can be higher or lower depending on location, amenities, and other factors.

7. Health Insurance

Everyone in Germany should have valid health insurance. If you’re from an EU member state (including Iceland, Liechtenstein, Norway, and Switzerland) or another country that has a bilateral agreement with Germany, you can use your health insurance from back home.

Otherwise, you need to get student health insurance in Germany. Most students are eligible for discounted premiums with statutory providers—starting at €125 per month. If you’re over 30 years old, you may have to get private health insurance instead. You can activate the insurance plan when you arrive in Germany.

If you need proof of health insurance to fulfill student visa requirements, travel health insurance is often sufficient until you arrive and get proper student insurance.

8. University Enrollment

Lastly, you need to enroll at your chosen university in Germany when you arrive here. To do so, you need to go to the Students Affairs Office and provide the necessary documents. You will receive a matriculation number and a university account, with which you can access your university’s portal and register your courses.

You’ll also receive your student ID card—useful for many student services such as the library and cafeteria, and as a pass for many cultural events.

Take these steps to enroll in a German university:

1. Receive an offer of admission.
2. Accept your study place.
3. Complete the application for enrollment (online form/printed).
4. Have your valid passport with you.
5. Pay the semester fee (usually €150-€350)
6. Submit proof of German statutory health insurance (many universities require your status to be digitally sent by the insurer).

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Embarking on a business journey as a young African student can be one of the most rewarding decisions you ever make. It’s a path filled with opportunities, learning experiences, and the chance to create a meaningful impact in your community and beyond. However, one of the most common concerns among young entrepreneurs is the lack of sufficient capital to start their ideas. The good news is that you don’t need a lot of money or even any money at all to get your business off the ground.

In this extensive guide, we’ll explore the concept of starting a business without capital, provide practical ideas that you can implement immediately, share success stories, and give you step-by-step strategies to turn your entrepreneurial dreams into reality. Whether you’re a university student, a recent graduate, or still in high school, this guide is tailored to help you understand that starting small and thinking smart is the key to success.

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Why Starting a Business as a Student Is a Great Idea

Before diving into how to start, it’s important to understand why entrepreneurship is especially beneficial for students like you. Being a student offers unique advantages that can make your entrepreneurial journey smoother and more enriching.

First, as a student, you are in an environment that provides access to new knowledge, ideas, and resources. You are constantly learning, which means you can quickly adapt and innovate. Second, being young gives you the flexibility to experiment and learn from failures without risking too much. You can afford to take risks because your responsibilities are often lighter than those of full-time workers or business owners with families.

Furthermore, starting a business while studying allows you to earn money, reduce financial dependency on your family, and develop skills like leadership, marketing, sales, communication, and problem-solving. These skills are highly valuable and will serve you for the rest of your life. Additionally, your early business experiences can open doors to internships, mentorship opportunities, and future employment.

And finally, you have the chance to positively impact your community by solving local problems, creating jobs, or providing valuable services. Your business can be a tool for social change and personal growth.

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The Power of Starting Small and Without Capital

Many young entrepreneurs believe they need a lot of money to start a successful business. While having capital can help accelerate growth, it is absolutely possible to start and succeed with little or no money.

The key is to leverage what you already have—your skills, knowledge, connections, and resources. Think of your business idea as a seed that needs nurturing, not a full-grown tree that requires a huge investment from the start. You can begin with minimal resources, learn as you grow, and reinvest your profits to expand.

Starting small also minimizes risks. If something doesn’t work out, you haven’t lost a lot of money, and you can learn valuable lessons to improve your next attempt. This approach reduces fear and encourages experimentation, which is essential for innovation.

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Practical Business Ideas You Can Start Without Capital

Now, let’s explore detailed ideas that you can implement right now, using skills you already possess, or resources you can access without upfront costs.

1. Offer Tutoring or Coaching Services

If you are good at academics or specialized subjects, tutoring is one of the easiest businesses to start with no capital. For example, if you excel in mathematics, science, English, or local languages, you can help other students improve their grades. You don’t need to buy any materials or rent a classroom; you can offer your services online via WhatsApp, social media, or even in person at your home, school, or local community centers.

Imagine you’re a university student excelling in mathematics. You can create short, easy-to-understand lessons, record videos, or hold live online sessions. Many parents and students are willing to pay for personalized tutoring to improve their grades. You can charge per session, weekly, or monthly, depending on what works best.

The beauty of tutoring is that it requires no initial investment—your knowledge and time are your primary assets. As you grow, you can create premium packages, offer group lessons, or develop study materials, which you can sell later once you have some resources.

2. Become a Freelance Content Creator

In today’s digital world, content is king. If you enjoy writing, designing, or creating videos, you can monetize your skills as a freelance content creator. Many businesses, NGOs, and individuals need fresh content for their social media pages, blogs, or websites.

Platforms like Upwork, Fiverr, and local job boards are free to join. You can start by offering small services such as writing articles, designing posters, editing videos, or managing social media accounts. Share your portfolio on your social media profiles or create a simple website for free using platforms like WordPress or Wix.

Over time, as you complete more projects, your reputation grows, and you can charge higher rates. The best part is that you don’t need to invest in expensive equipment initially—your phone camera, free editing tools like Canva or InShot, and your skills are enough to start.

3. Social Media Management

Many small businesses and community organizations need help managing their social media pages. If you are active online and understand how to grow followers, create engaging posts, and run basic advertising, you can offer social media management services.

Start by offering to manage a few accounts for free or at a low cost to build your experience and portfolio. Use free tools like Canva for designing posts, and schedule content using free versions of social media tools. As your reputation grows, you can charge monthly retainer fees or per-project rates.

4. Event Planning and Coordination

Are you good at organizing events, parties, or community activities? If yes, you can start an event planning service. Begin with small events like birthdays, school functions, or community gatherings. You don’t need to own a venue or expensive equipment; instead, focus on coordinating vendors, invitations, decorations, and entertainment.

Offer your services to friends, family, or local organizations. Initially, you can negotiate barter deals—perhaps helping to organize an event in exchange for services or goods. As you gain experience and build credibility, you can expand your services and increase your charges.

5. Reselling or Dropshipping

Reselling involves buying products at a low price and selling them at a higher price. Since you don’t want to buy inventory upfront, dropshipping is an ideal model—your supplier ships products directly to your customers.

You can start by identifying trending products or local needs—like clothing, accessories, or household items—and use social media to showcase these products. When someone places an order, you pass the details to your supplier, who then ships directly to the customer. Your profit is the difference between the wholesale and retail price.

This business requires minimal investment—mainly your time and effort in marketing and customer service. You can start with small orders and gradually increase your inventory as profits grow.

6. Personalized Services

Offering services like laundry, cleaning, or running errands is a practical way to earn money without capital. You can start by providing these services to friends, family, or neighbors, and expand through word-of-mouth.

For example, if you’re diligent and reliable, you can offer laundry pickup and delivery, cleaning services, or grocery shopping for busy individuals. The initial investment is just your time and effort, making it a very accessible business.

7. Photography and Videography

If you own a smartphone or camera, you can offer photography or videography services for events, social media content, or marketing campaigns. Start by taking photos at local events like festivals, graduations, or community gatherings.

Build a portfolio by offering your services at a discount or even for free for initial clients. Use social media to showcase your work. As your skills improve and your reputation grows, you can charge higher fees and take on larger projects.

8. Language and Cultural Teaching

If you are fluent in your native language or other languages, you can teach others through online or in-person classes. Many people want to learn local languages, or you can teach others your native language if it is in demand.

Create simple lesson plans, advertise through social media, and offer paid lessons or courses. This business requires minimal resources—just your knowledge and a device for online lessons.

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How to Start Without Capital: Practical Strategies

Starting a business with no money requires creativity, resourcefulness, and a proactive mindset. Here’s a step-by-step approach to help you get started:

1. Identify Your Skills and Resources

Begin by listing what you already know and can do. Are you good at teaching, writing, designing, or organizing? Do you have access to a smartphone, a computer, or a bicycle? Use these assets as your starting capital. Your skills, time, and existing equipment are your most valuable resources.

2. Choose a Business That Fits Your Strengths

Select an idea that aligns with your skills, interests, and available resources. For example, if you are good at social media, managing accounts might be your best choice. If you excel academically, tutoring could be your focus.

3. Leverage Free Online Tools and Platforms

The internet provides countless free tools to help you run your business effectively. Use Canva for designing marketing materials, WhatsApp for communicating with clients, Facebook or Instagram for marketing, and Google Drive for storing documents.

4. Build a Portfolio and Reputation

Start small by offering your services to friends, family, or local businesses at discounted rates or even for free. This will help you gather testimonials, showcase your work, and build credibility. Word of mouth is powerful, especially in close-knit communities.

5. Market Yourself Effectively

Use social media platforms to advertise your services. Create engaging content, share success stories, and interact with potential clients. Join local groups or forums to spread the word about your business.

6. Offer Exceptional Value

Focus on providing high-quality services. Satisfied clients are your best marketers—they will refer others and help you grow organically. Always listen to feedback and improve your offerings.

7. Reinvest Your Earnings

As you earn money, reinvest a portion into your business. Purchase better tools, expand your services, or increase your marketing efforts. This gradual reinvestment is key to scaling your business over time.

8. Stay Persistent and Patient

Building a successful business takes time. Don’t get discouraged by initial setbacks. Keep learning, adapting, and improving. Every challenge is an opportunity to grow.

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Overcoming Common Challenges

Starting a business without capital isn’t without challenges. You might face skepticism from others, struggle with limited resources, or encounter unpredictable income. Here are some tips to overcome these hurdles:

• Stay motivated and believe in your idea. Your passion and persistence are your strongest assets.
• Seek mentorship and advice. Connect with experienced entrepreneurs or local business groups.
• Be flexible and adaptable. If one idea doesn’t work, try another or modify your approach.
• Maintain a positive attitude. Challenges are part of the learning process. Celebrate small wins and keep moving forward.

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The Long-Term Perspective

While starting small and without capital is achievable, it’s important to think long-term. Use your initial earnings to reinvest in your business—perhaps by acquiring better tools, marketing more broadly, or expanding your services. As your business grows, consider formalizing it by registering it officially, which can open doors to more opportunities, funding, and partnerships.

Remember, many successful entrepreneurs started from nothing. With patience, dedication, and smart strategies, you can create a thriving business that not only supports you financially but also makes a positive impact in your community.

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Final Words: Your Entrepreneurial Journey Starts Today

Being a young African student with limited resources doesn’t mean your dreams are impossible. It means you need to be smarter, more creative, and more persistent. Your ideas, skills, and passion are your most valuable assets. Start small, learn as you grow, and don’t be afraid to make mistakes—they are stepping stones to success.

Every big business started with a simple idea and a willingness to take action. So, take that first step today. Identify your strengths, pick a business idea that suits you, leverage free resources, and begin your journey. The world needs your innovation, energy, and ideas.

Your future as a successful entrepreneur is waiting—go out and make it happen!

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Are you ready to start? Need more personalized advice or resources? Feel free to reach out. Your entrepreneurial success story begins now!