Back to school checklist Germany 2026: prepare for university with this detailed list

Starting university in Germany in autumn 2026 requires careful planning, especially if you're coming from abroad. This back to school checklist Germany 2026 covers everything you need: from visa documents to the university supplies list Germany for daily life, including accommodation, health insurance, and bureaucratic procedures. Use this list to ensure nothing is forgotten and start your studies stress-free.

Germany has strict deadlines for enrolment, visas, and insurance, so it's best to start months in advance. If you're an international student, the student visa checklist Germany is crucial: without it, you won't be able to enrol or open a bank account. Also, autumn temperatures drop quickly, so include warm clothing in your university supplies list Germany.

How to use this checklist in Foco

Import this list into Foco as a 'work' named 'University Germany'. This way, you can view all tasks in Panorama mode (each with its own colour) or filter them in Focus mode to concentrate solely on this project. Use the Kanban view to organise tasks by stages (documents, accommodation, supplies) or the Calendar view to assign key dates. Take advantage of voice capture to add quick reminders, like 'buy German plug adapter' or 'call the residence on 15 August'.

• Confirm your university admission and download the acceptance letter (Zulassungsbescheid)
• Check if you need a student visa (for non-EU students) and book an appointment at the German embassy at least 3 months in advance
• Gather visa documents: valid passport, acceptance letter, proof of financial means (11,208 €/year in 2026), health insurance, and application form
• Open a blocked account (Sperrkonto) with a German bank like Fintiba or Expatrio and deposit the required funds
• Take out public (e.g., TK or AOK) or private health insurance valid in Germany from the first day of your studies
• Find accommodation: apply for a place in student halls (Studentenwerk) or search for shared flats (WG) on portals like WG-Gesucht or Immoscout24
• Sign the rental contract and pay the deposit (Kaution), usually 2-3 months' rent
• Register your address in Germany (Anmeldung) at the local town hall within 14 days of arrival
• Enrol at the university (Immatrikulation) by presenting your acceptance letter, health insurance, passport, and proof of semester fee payment
• Request your student ID (Studentenausweis) to access discounts on transport, museums, and restaurants
• Buy a semester transport pass (Semesterticket) if included in your enrolment or a monthly local transport ticket
• Purchase basic supplies: type F plug adapter, sturdy backpack, notebooks, pens, and a laptop with German or English software
• Prepare warm clothing: waterproof jacket, boots, gloves, and a scarf for the German winter (temperatures can drop below 0°C in December)
• Buy household items: bedsheets (90x200 cm, standard in Germany), towels, kitchen utensils, and cleaning products
• Register with your country's consulate if required to maintain your nationality or access consular services
• Learn basic German phrases for daily life and administrative tasks, even if your courses are in English
• Download useful apps: DB Navigator (transport), Too Good To Go (cheap food), and your university's app for schedules and news
• Attend the orientation week (Orientierungswoche) to get to know the campus, meet other students, and learn about university services