Bachelor's or Master's in Germany? Difficulty, Language, Jobs, and the 3-Attempt Exam Rule

How hard is it to study in Germany as a non-EU student, and is a Bachelor's or Master's degree easier? German-taught Bachelor's often feel like "hunger games" compared to more relaxed English-taught Master's. Plus, there's the 3-attempt exam rule (which can ban you from a subject nationwide), freelancing restrictions, and the reality of blocked accounts/part-time jobs.

"How hard is it to study in Germany as a non-EU student?" and "Is a Bachelor's or Master's degree easier?" — these are two of the most common questions we hear. When you factor in the blocked account (Sperrkonto), part-time jobs, and language pressure, the answer really matters. This article compares both options based on real international student experiences and lays out critical rules nobody talks about enough.

#Quick Answer: Bachelor's (German) vs. Master's (English)

• A Bachelor's degree is mostly taught in German → fluent German is expected. The first semesters are often packed with "weed-out" courses, making it feel like "hunger games." Plus, integrating with local students can be tough (many international students end up living "parallel" lives). Juggling a part-time job with your studies is extremely exhausting.
• A Master's degree often offers English-taught programs → you'll find an international environment where no one expects you to speak German, integration is easier, and it generally feels more relaxed.

If your plan, like many others, is to "finish your Bachelor's in your home country, then come to Germany for your Master's, and learn German in the meantime" — this is one of the most balanced paths you can take.

⚠️ But be careful: Even if your Master's is in English, German language skills are 90% more important than your courses if you want to stay long-term. A B2 level is almost a must for finding a job, and C1 is practically required for professional roles (the truth about German for jobs). Don't get stuck in the English bubble.

#‼️ Critical Rule 1: The 3-Attempt Rule (Drittversuch)

In Germany, you generally get 3 attempts for an exam (first attempt + 2 retakes). If you fail the same course three times, you'll be exmatriculated (your enrollment will be canceled), and in most cases, you won't be able to study that specific subject anywhere in Germany again — which directly jeopardizes your residence permit. So, don't just "see how the exam goes"; every attempt counts. (Rules can vary by university and state; some places might have Härtefall/exception clauses — always read your specific examination regulations.)

#‼️ Critical Rule 2: Freelancing is (Generally) FORBIDDEN on a Student Visa

A student residence permit allows you to work as an employee for 120 full or 240 half days per year (or roughly 20 hours/week during the semester); however, self-employment/freelancing (selbstständige Tätigkeit) is generally not covered and requires separate permission, which is rarely granted. Don't rely on "I have an online freelance job" — confirm that your visa allows it (student work permit in Germany).

#The Reality of Money and Part-Time Jobs

• The blocked account (Sperrkonto) minimum isn't enough. The current minimum of ~€11,904 per year (≈€992 per month) is a bare minimum; it won't be enough in expensive cities. Come with a €3,000-€5,000 (or more) buffer.
• Typical monthly expense breakdown (example): health insurance ~€146, rent ~€320, phone ~€30, groceries €200+ → **€700-€750 per month.**
• A Minijob pays up to ~€556 per month (2025). Working 9-10 hours a week at minimum wage will leave you in the red every month if your expenses are €710. A waiter job with tips (tax-free) can make life easier — but it's physically demanding and exhausting.
• For most students, working more than 10 hours a week during the first 4 semesters and still graduating on time is not realistic. (Details: the real budget truth.)

#Honest Advice

If you don't have enough money to cover all your expenses and have to find a job to support yourself while studying, Germany might be risky: you might not be able to work enough, struggle with exams, and miss out on a social life. The most solid setup: a buffered budget + an English Master's + learning German in parallel (B2→C1).

#Conclusion

The answer to "How hard is it?" depends on your preparation. The German-taught Bachelor's path is the toughest; an English Master's with good German skills and a financial buffer is the most manageable. Know the 3-attempt rule and the freelancing ban from the start. Related: Are German universities hard · Werkstudent reality · post-arrival guide.

Compiled from international student/graduate experiences. Rules vary by university/state — always verify with official regulations.