📘 Germany Education Glossary
Plain-language explanations of the key terms you'll encounter while applying to and studying in Germany. Each entry has FAQ and links to official sources.
APS (Akademische Prüfstelle)
Mandatory diploma verification certificate for applicants from China, India, Pakistan, Vietnam, and Mongolia applying to German universities.
Read more →Anabin — KMK Diploma Database
Official diploma recognition database run by the German Conference of Education Ministers (KMK). Shows how each country's diploma is recognized in Germany.
Read more →DAAD — German Academic Exchange Service
Joint organization of German universities. Provides scholarships, information, and counseling to international students. 70+ offices in 100+ countries.
Read more →ECTS — European Credit Transfer System
Credit standardization system used in 30 European countries. 1 ECTS = 25-30 hours of student workload.
Read more →EU Blue Card
EU-wide residence + work permit for highly qualified non-EU workers. Has minimum salary threshold.
Read more →Sperrkonto (Blocked Account)
Mandatory bank account for German student visa with monthly withdrawal limit. 2026 annual amount: €11,904.
Read more →Studienkolleg
1-year university preparation program for international students whose diploma is not directly recognized. Ends with Feststellungsprüfung (FSP) exam.
Read more →Uni-Assist
Central platform processing international student applications for approximately 180 German universities.
Read more →Need to know more?
Browse our FAQ for 8+ answered questions about studying in Germany.