Studying in Germany isn’t just about getting in — it’s about staying in, succeeding, and building the future you imagined.

Every year, thousands of international students are accepted into top German universities. But many don’t make it to graduation.
Why? Because academic life in Germany is very different — and most students are never told how much self-responsibility it actually demands.

In this guide, we’ll walk you through what it truly takes to succeed as an international student in Germany — and how to avoid the mistakes that cause others to give up early.

Why studying in Germany is a big achievement — but also a big challenge

Getting accepted into a German university already shows:

• You’ve passed academic requirements
  
• You likely met a language requirement (German B2 or higher)
  
• You submitted documents for a visa, finances, and health insurance
  
• You navigated bureaucracy — often in another language

But this is only the beginning. Many students don’t realize that the real work starts after arrival. Without structure, reminders, or academic hand-holding, your success depends entirely on you.

If you’re one of the lucky few who get a spot — treat it like gold. Own it. Protect it.

Know the numbers: International students drop out at much higher rates

• 41% of international students in Germany discontinue their degree
  
• That’s almost double the rate of local students (28%)
  
• Less than half complete a master’s degree — even though it’s often expected by German employers
  
• 54% return to their home country after graduation, even in a strong job market
  

Source: Stifterverband & McKinsey “Campus International” report

The system isn’t stacked against you — but it does expect you to adapt quickly, stay focused, and manage yourself independently.

What makes studying in Germany so different?

Here’s what most international students aren’t prepared for:

Expectation	Reality in Germany
Regular attendance checks	No one tracks attendance — it’s up to you
Professor reminds you of deadlines	You must register for every exam yourself
Clear structure & support	The system is flexible — and hands-off
Personal follow-up if you fall behind	No one chases you — you just fail silently

💬 “If you forget to register for your exam, you don’t sit the exam. You fail — and lose one of your limited attempts.”

What does success in Germany really require?

If you want to graduate and go on to a master’s program or employment, you need to:

• Register your courses and exams yourself — every semester
  
• Stay informed about changes to visa, housing, and insurance
  
• Develop academic self-discipline and a personal study routine
  
• Ask for help early when you feel lost (before it’s too late)
  
• Understand that failure has consequences — often automatic course expulsion after 3 failed attempts
  

Pro tip: Build your own semester planner from day one. Include class dates, exam registration periods, and deadlines.

Why so many students fail — and how you can avoid it

Here are the top 3 reasons international students drop out in Germany:

1. Lack of structure → No one tells you what to do, when, or how
   
2. Underestimating the language barrier → Especially in lectures, exams, or thesis work
   
3. Poor time and stress management → Leading to isolation or academic failure
   

How to avoid this:

• Build a weekly structure with study + life balance 
• Improve your German consistently — even if you study in English 
• Join student support programs, language cafés, or peer mentoring
• Reach out to your international office — they’re there to help

Before you apply — are you truly ready?

Before you take the TestAS, shortlist universities, or apply for housing, ask yourself:

• Am I ready to manage my schedule independently — without reminders?
  
• Am I prepared to handle financial and administrative tasks alone?
  
• Am I mentally prepared to work consistently for 3+ years — even without external motivation?
  
• Do I have a system to ask for help when I need it?
  

If the answer is “yes,” you’re already ahead of most applicants.

Next step: Get prepared with our guide:
How to choose what to study: A strategic guide for international students

What successful students do differently

Struggling students	Successful students
Wait for instructions	Take initiative, ask questions
Rely on memory	Use calendars, to-do lists, and reminders
Avoid academic offices	Use university resources proactively
Stick to people from home country	Join diverse social and study groups
Treat this as a short trip	Invest in long-term growth and integration

Mindset shift: You’re not just “studying abroad” — you’re building your future. Treat it that way from day one.

How edu-link helps you succeed from day one

Since 2014, edu-link GmbH has helped international students not only start their journey in Germany — but finish it successfully.

We offer:

• Personalized study and success planning
  
• TestAS preparation books and training
  
• Help with selecting the right degree and university
  
• Guidance on exams, enrollment, housing, and career paths
  
• Support through every stage of your academic life
  

Ready to take your next step with confidence?
Explore our student success services or Get TestAS-ready with our official preparation books