Overview
Germany is different from other European countries because of the temperate climate it enjoys. The winters aren’t very harsh, nor are the summers. This helps international students adapt to the country easily.Â
Why study in Germany?
Well, primarily because the education here is free. For an international student, only an administrative charge of $250 per semester is levied. Public universities don’t charge anything else for undergraduate or master’s degrees.
German universities have a proven record of being ranked amongst the best universities in the world. Therefore, the education imparted by these universities is universally respected.
A student visa to Germany allows the students to travel to any of the countries in the Schengen Area without a visa.
Germany is regarded as one of the richest countries in the world. Yet, the living expenses here are reasonable and affordable. Students sharing dorms and renting apartments find the arrangements perfectly suitable for a range of pockets.Â
Germany is a world leader when it comes to capitalising on immigration benefits. This gives rise to immense after study work opportunities.
They adopt a dual learning system. Part-time studies along with part-time internships are encouraged.Â
German people are welcoming and warm. They are proud of their language and culture. Therefore, in Germany students get a fantastic opportunity to grow culturally.
Education System
The German education system is an eclectic mix of the oldest, reputed and established universities along with innovative thinking and newer universities. Both rank high in the quality of education they impart.
Different disciplines in Germany have different types of universities. They are classified as-
Technische Universität (Technical Schools) these universities teach technology, science, and engineering
Fachhochschulen (Universities of Applied Science) these universities focus on engineering, social science and business.
Kunst- und Musikhochschulen are universities that focus on media, communication, music and fine and performing arts.
The bachelor’s degree takes 3 years or 6 semesters to be completed.
The master’s degree takes 2 years or 4 semesters to be completed.
The PhD degree has no standardised time for completion of the program.
Eligibility
- Undergraduate admissions require 13 years of schooling. This means 12 years of schooling candidates must take up one-year bridge programs.
- If a student chooses the one–year bridge program, then they need to appear for Feststellungsprufung or a qualification assessment. This will enable them to get admission to German undergraduate courses.
- Â Students already undergoing undergraduate courses of more than two-year duration in other countries, can apply only on taking a German language proficiency test.
- TOEFL scores are mandatory admission.
- For the Master’s program, the 3-year undergraduate course must be completed.
- Admission tests specific to the course need to be undertaken- for eg, GMAT, GRE
- Scores from the following examinations may also be required by some universities
- TestDAF – Organised by TestDAF institute of Germany as a verbal and written test forÂ
The German language.
- DSH – DSH is the language proficiency test for the German language.
Popular Courses
While most of the courses here are well defined and researched, some of the popular fields of choices by International students are-
- Engineering-Â Industrial engineering, automotive engineering are some of the highly-rated courses.
- Medicine
- Mathematics and Computer Science
- Natural Sciences in the field of chemistry, biology, physics
- Business courses
Scholarships
There is a high number of opportunities available for receiving grants. Some require certain conditions to be adhered to. The more popular scholarships are-
These are offered by the German government-
DAAD Scholarships
This scholarship is offered by The German Academic Exchange Service (DAAD). The grant is available in various fields of education and research. The quantum of the grant varies from 147 Euros to 807 Euros per month. It can be increased or decreased on a need basis.
Erasmus+
 In collaboration with the European Commission, Erasmus+ is the biggest benefactor for educational grants. They provide international students with the required funds for further education in Europe. The quantum of grants for a student in Germany is 270 Euros per month.
There are non-government grants as well which benefit deserving and meritorious candidates.
Deutschland Stipendium National Scholarship Programme
This scholarship program supports over 22,500 students. It is commonly granted for 2 semesters but proving merit is extendable for the entire duration of the study. The quantum of the grant is approximately 300 Euros per month
Einstein International Postdoctoral Fellowship
This grant is location specific and is valid for students in Berlin only. Supported by Einstein Foundation, this is awarded to meritorious students undergoing their postdoctoral research. The quantum of the grant is 20,000 Euros per year.Â
Mawista Scholarship
This is awarded to those international students who are studying in Germany while taking care of a child. The quantum of this grant is 500 Euros a month.
Heinrich Boll Scholarships in Germany for International Students
Awarded to international students who are pursuing their Masters or post-doctoral program in Germany. The students must have completed their undergraduate course in a different country. The quantum of the grant is 850 Euros for the Master’s program and 1000 Euros for the PhD program.
Living Expenses
When you compare the cost of living in Germany with other European countries, you’d find Germany is relatively affordable than the rest.Â
- Accommodation costs- Euro 290 to Euro 560 per month
- Semester Contribution- Euro 70- Euro 250 as per the institute
- Heath insurance- Euro 110- Euro 160 per month
- Food and Drinks- Euro 150 – Euro 190
- Travel costs- Euro 94 – Euro 118
- Other Living costs- Euro 132- Euro 181
Visa Requirements
Germany Student Visa is of the following types:
- For Programs that are of 3 months duration, the student needs a Schengen Visa (short-stay visa)
- For courses that are of 3 months and more duration, students need to apply for a German National Visa
The National Visa also allows the candidate to stay for 3 months only. During these three months, he has to apply for a residence permit. The residence permit is granted for 2 years.
-  A statement of purpose with the reason for choosing the specific university, study program along with Master’s before career and prospects.
- A national passport that is valid till after 3 months of the completion of the course.
- Photocopies of the passport
- Â Birth Certificate
- Biometric Portrait Photographs adhering to the requirements * 3
- Health Insurance for at least 3 months and of Euro 30,000
- Letter of AdmissionÂ
- Proof of Payment to the college/university
- Certificates of education till date
- Original school-leaving certificate.
- Degree certificate. (If you’re entering Master or PhD studies).
- Proof of Finances
- Travel Health Insurance
Work Opportunities
- STEM- Science, Technology, Engineering and Management- skilled labourers are highly in demand. The demand doesn’t originate only from large scale industries, but also from Medium to Small-Medium industries.
- Banking and Finance- The sector here is highly developed and the opportunity for those skilled and educated in relevant courses are high.
- Medical and Healthcare- Germany is also one of the leading countries in primary and innovative healthcare. The medical fraternity is highly receptive to skilled professionals.
- Research and Development are promoted by the German government. So for research scholars and post-doctorates, the country has immense potential.
-
Transport industry- Since the automotive industry here is highly prevalent, it also gives rise to skilled labour demands from transport and allied industry.
For most international Master’s students, a major deciding factor for the country of choice is the possibility to work on the side. This helps to gain experience, some quick cash or functions as a stepping stone to their career.
The laws for part-time work in Germany are different from other European countries.
- Students are allowed to work a total of 120 full or 240 half days in a year. This restriction is relaxed in areas where manpower requirements are high. There, with the prior permission of the university, the number of days can be extended.
- Most universities limit work to 20 hours during the school week. There is no such restriction during holidays.
- The student needs to apply to “Agentur für Arbeit” (Federal Employment Agency) and the foreigners’ authority for a work permit. The permission slip will have the maximum number of hours allowed.
- For students studying language or preparatory courses, part-time work is governed by stricter regulations.
- Part-time work for less than 50 continuous days or with an income of fewer than 450 euros per month is exempt from taxation. In other cases, a social security number is required and taxes have to be paid.
-
Jobs at the University of the student are covered under university restrictions and regulations and are known to pay better.
Some of the part-time job sectors available for international students are:-
- Support staff or waiter staffs at café’s, bars, restaurants
- Tutors for English
- Teaching or research assistants at their respective university
- Industrial production assistants.
It should be noted that freelancing and self-employment are prohibited for Non-EU students.
PSW Visa
For students completing their education in Germany, the chances of obtaining an international residency permit are higher. This bolsters their scope in the job market.
Germany grants a temporary residence permit of 18 months for finding a job on successful completion of their education. To be eligible for the residence permit, the student must furnish proof of finances. The finances must be adequate to cover the living costs. There should also be a statement of the sincerity of the job search which needs to be submitted.
The period where a permanent residence permit is being sought, allows for part-time work, without any weekly hour requirement.
If within 18 months, the student can successfully land a job, they are permitted to continue working.
Germany also has a program called EU Blue Card
This is awarded to non-EU citizens. The EU Blue Card is awarded to extremely qualified candidates. This enables them to work and continue their residence in Germany.
Eligibility for the EU Blue Card:Â
- The applicant must have a degree from a recognized German university
- They must also have an employment contract, where their gross annual income is 55,200 Euros or more.Â
- For those working in mathematics, natural science, human medicine, IT or engineering sectors, their annual salary needs to be 43,056 Euros or more for a year.Â
EU Blue Card-Â Permits students to stay in Germany for 3 additional months. The maximum period allowed is 4 years of stay
An EU blue card holder for a period greater than 33 months becomes eligible for a settlement permit for Germany.
Life & Culture
Student life
Germany has an innate attraction amongst students. Mostly because of the quality of life, job opportunities, their interesting culture and traditions. The German weather is moderate and temperate. It enjoys all four seasons, none of which are extreme. German life is full of structure and punctuality. The student life is a unique experience because of an active nightlife and a variety of varied recreational activities. Traditional festivals like Oktoberfest and different carnivals make it one of a kind experience.Culture
It is a land of festivals, traditions and people. Germany is a land of poets and thinkers. Germans love their beer, are very particular about their time, adhere to rules and are hardworking. While German is a predominant language here, English is also widely spoken and understood. Basic phrases in German will help students sail through.Famous places
German places have an old-world charm, aesthetic natural vista and some inspired architecture. Few of the must-visit places in Germany are-- Berlin-Â This is a cultural city that has varied experiences. It has pulsating nightlife, world-class museums and galleries. Berlin has rumoured to be the host of the best Christmas and Halloween markets in the world.
- Cologne-Â This city is dominated by historic churches, cathedrals, a unique and inspired art scene and a boisterous local community. The USP is the various thermal baths present in the city. It is also the home to Cologne carnival, the iconic street festival.
- Romantic Road-Â This is a picturesque drive that showcases not the natural bounty of Germany, but also the medieval architecture and history.
Other Popular Countries
IKounselor is powered by VDIEC Global Connect (P) LTD. Our sole purpose is to provide factual information to benefit potential students for their study abroad programs. We does not own any information listed here, nor represents all listed institutions. If any student or institute has any subjective concern, feel free to write to us on connect@ikounselor.com.