Study in Germany
Overview
Germany attracts many international students with its top-notch education, reasonable tuition costs, and robust economy. Public universities in Germany offer low tuition fees for international students, with most states even waiving them entirely for undergraduate programs. Exceptions include select master’s programs and those offered by private institutions.
Quick Facts
Germany is a federal republic consisting of 16 states (Baden-Württemberg, Bavaria, Berlin, Brandenburg, Bremen, Hamburg, Hesse, Lower Saxony, Mecklenburg-Vorpommern, North Rhine-Westphalia, Rhineland-Palatinate, Saarland, Saxony, Saxony-Anhalt, Schleswig-Holstein, Thuringia).
- Capital: Berlin
- Population: 83.2 Million
- Official Language: German
- Currency: Euro (€)
- Largest city: Berlin
- Universities: 426
- Weather: Temperate
Why Study In Germany?
- Germany boasts world-renowned universities like Heidelberg, Humboldt, and Munich, offering internationally recognized degrees.
- Focus on Research and Innovation
- Low or No Tuition Fees
- Compared to other Western European countries, Germany offers a relatively inexpensive living standard.
- Strong Economy
- Easy A post-study work visa allows you to gain valuable work experience in Germany after completing your studies
- Globally Recognized Degrees
- Cultural Experience
- Rich History and Culture
- Safe and Stable Country
- Studying in Germany is a fantastic opportunity to learn the German language, a valuable skill that can enhance your career prospects and cultural understanding.
Education System
- Germany is a popular choice for international students due to its high-quality education system, affordable tuition fees, and strong economy.
- The German higher education system is divided into three types of institutions: universities, universities of applied sciences, and colleges of education.
- Universities offer a wide range of academic programs, including traditional subjects such as humanities, social sciences, and natural sciences, as well as professional programs such as engineering, medicine, and law.
- Universities of applied sciences focus on vocational training and offer programs that are more practical and career-oriented than those offered by universities.
- Tuition fees at public universities in Germany are very low for international students. In fact, most states in Germany have abolished tuition fees altogether for undergraduate programs.
Qualifications Offered
Germany offers a wide range of academic programs, including traditional subjects such as humanities, social sciences, and natural sciences, as well as professional programs such as engineering, medicine, and law. Universities of applied sciences (Fachhochschulen) focus on vocational training and offer programs that are more practical and career-oriented than those offered by universities.
Test Requirement
The specific test requirements will vary depending on the university and program you are applying to. However, some common test requirements include,
- German Language Proficiency Test: You will likely be required to demonstrate proficiency in German by taking a test such as the DSH (Deutsche Sprachprüfung für den Hochschulzugang) or the TestDaF (Test Deutsch als Fremdsprache)
- Standardised Tests: Some programs may also require you to take standardised tests such as the GRE (Graduate Record Examinations) or the GMAT (Graduate Management Admission Test).
Education Cost
Tuition fees at public universities in Germany are very low for international students. In fact, most states in Germany have abolished tuition fees altogether for undergraduate programs. There are however some exceptions, such as for certain master’s programs and for programs offered by private universities. The living costs in Germany are also relatively moderate compared to other Western European countries.
Work Rights & Stay Back Post Study
International students in Germany are typically allowed to work part-time for up to 20 hours per week. After completing your studies, you may be eligible for a post-study work visa that will allow you to stay in Germany and look for a job. The length of the visa will vary depending on your program of study.
Intake
Germany offers two intakes for international students. winter intake (October to March) and summer intake (April to September). Winter intake is the most popular intake, with a wider range of programs available. Application deadlines are usually between July and September. The summer intake is the smaller intake with some universities offering fewer programs. Application deadlines are typically in February or March.
Scholarships
Germany is a popular destination for international students due to its high-quality education system and relatively low tuition fees. There are a number of scholarships available for international students in Germany, including the DAAD scholarships offered by the German Academic Exchange Service (DAAD) and scholarships offered by individual German universities.
Comparison Of Overseas Education Costs for Bachelor and Master Programs
Earn your bachelor’s degree in Germany in 3 years. Strong academic performers may be exempt from English language testing. Expect living expenses between €45,000 to €50,000, with part-time work potentially earning €15,000 per year to reduce net education costs to €33,000. Processing time for visas is 9 to 12 months, and graduates can apply for an 18-month post-study work visa.
For masters Germany offers programs ranging from 1 to 2 years. To qualify, you’ll typically need a TOEFL/IELTS score and strong academic background (above 55%). Factor in tuition (around 15 Lakh rupees) and living expenses (approximately 20 Lakh rupees). Part-time work is allowed (up to 120 full or 240 half days per week), potentially offsetting some costs (average earnings around 5 Lakh rupees). The processing time for a student visa can take 9 to 12 months, and successful graduates may be eligible for an 18-month post-study work visa.
Top Universities
Do You Have Questions?
Yes. After completing your studies in Germany as an international student, you’re able to apply for a residence permit to stay in the country and seek work for an additional period of 18 months.
Scholarships to study in Germany can be obtained in several ways. The German government offers some funding to international students through the DAAD or the European Commission’s Erasmus+ scheme.
Whether you need a German student visa depends on your country of origin. If you are from a country within the EU or the EEA or from Switzerland, Norway, Iceland or Liechtenstein, you do not need a student visa. If you are from the US, Canada, Australia, New Zealand, Israel, Japan or South Korea you still do not require a student visa.
Yes, many universities offer Bachelor’s and Master’s programs in English, particularly in business, engineering, and some humanities subjects.
While some programs are in English, knowing German is a plus for daily life, finding accommodation, and potentially for job prospects after graduation.
EU/EEA citizens don’t need a student visa, but will need to register for a residence permit upon arrival. For others, a student visa is required.
Public universities in Germany typically don’t charge tuition fees, but there are administrative fees (semester contributions).Private universities do charge tuition fees, which can vary.
Study In Germany Now
Benefit from free or very low tuition fees at public universities in Germany, a powerhouse in engineering, science, and technology education. German universities are known for their rigorous academics and strong emphasis on research and practical training, ensuring you graduate with the skills and knowledge employers seek.