Germany has over 400,000 international students, and many of them are Indian students. This is because Germany offers some of the best education opportunities in the world with low or no tuition fees.
So, why study in Germany for Indian students after 12th?
Most public universities in Germany don’t charge tuition fees, which means you can save a significant amount on education costs. You’ll just need to cover a small semester fee and living expenses.
Germany is home to some of the best universities, particularly renowned for engineering, technology, and business programs.
With its strong economy and job market, Germany offers excellent opportunities for graduates, especially in industries like engineering, IT, and healthcare.
Many universities offer programs in English, so you won’t need to learn German to study.
Let’s take a look at the top courses you can pursue in Germany, the application process, and how to secure funding and scholarships.
Best Courses to Study in Germany for Indian Students After 12th
Germany is known for its top-tier education system and strong job market. It is one of the most popular destinations for international students, including many from India. According to Statista, around 350,000 international students were enrolled in German universities in 2023, and this number continues to rise every year.
If you're an Indian student looking to study in Germany, there are certain courses that are in high demand.
1. Engineering and Technology
Engineering is one of the most sought-after fields in Germany, with high demand for skilled professionals in industries like automotive, construction, and energy. Germany is home to some of the world’s best engineering schools, known for offering practical and research-driven programs.
Academic Requirements:
12th-grade education with a strong focus on physics, mathematics, and chemistry.
A minimum percentage of 60%-70% in 12th, depending on the university.
Some universities may require proof of German language proficiency, while others offer English-taught programs.
Career Prospects:
High demand in fields such as mechanical, electrical, and civil engineering.
Average starting salary: €45,000 - €55,000 per year (₹37 lakhs - ₹46 lakhs).
Popular Universities:
Technische Universität München (TUM)
Karlsruhe Institute of Technology (KIT)
University of Stuttgart
2. Business and Management
Business and management programs in Germany are highly regarded, particularly due to the country’s strong economic influence. Germany offers a variety of specializations in business, including international business, marketing, and supply chain management.
Academic Requirements:
12th-grade education with good scores in mathematics and business-related subjects.
60%-75% in your 12th exams, depending on the program.
English language proficiency (IELTS/TOEFL), and sometimes a GMAT score for MBA programs.
Career Prospects:
Opportunities in finance, marketing, and consulting industries.
Average starting salary: €50,000 - €70,000 per year (₹42 lakhs - ₹59 lakhs).
Popular Universities:
University of Mannheim
Frankfurt School of Finance & Management
WHU - Otto Beisheim School of Management
3. Computer Science and IT
Germany is a hub for innovation in technology and IT, which makes it one of the best places to study computer science. The country has a growing demand for software developers, data scientists, and cybersecurity professionals.
Academic Requirements:
Strong performance in mathematics and computer science in your 12th grade.
60%-75% in 12th exams.
English proficiency (IELTS/TOEFL), and some universities may require a technical test.
Career Prospects:
High demand for professionals in software development, data science, AI, and cybersecurity.
Average starting salary: €45,000 - €65,000 per year (₹37 lakhs - ₹55 lakhs).
Germany is a leader in medical research and healthcare education. It is one of the top countries for studying medicine, biomedical sciences, and public health. With a robust healthcare system and renowned research institutions, Germany offers excellent opportunities for students pursuing a career in medicine and life sciences.
Academic Requirements:
Strong performance in biology, chemistry, and physics during your 12th grade.
60%-75% in 12th, depending on the program and university.
Language proficiency in German is usually required for medical programs, though some universities offer English-taught programs for certain life sciences fields.
Career Prospects:
Demand for professionals in medicine, healthcare management, biotechnologies, and pharmaceuticals.
Average starting salary: €45,000 - €60,000 per year (₹37 lakhs - ₹50 lakhs).
Popular Universities:
Charité University of Medicine Berlin
Ludwig Maximilian University of Munich
Heidelberg University
5. Arts, Humanities, and Social Sciences
Studying arts, humanities, and social sciences in Germany offers students a chance to delve deep into history, philosophy, literature, sociology, and international relations. These programs are widely available and provide a strong foundation for careers in education, research, policy-making, and cultural management.
Academic Requirements:
Good scores in English, history, sociology, and other related subjects in 12th grade.
55%-70% in your 12th exams.
English language proficiency is generally required, especially for programs taught in English.
Career Prospects:
Opportunities in education, research, media, public policy, and non-profit organizations.
Average starting salary: €35,000 - €50,000 per year (₹29 lakhs - ₹42 lakhs).
Top Universities in Germany for Indian Students After 12th
As an Indian student, you’ll find top-ranked institutions that offer programs in fields like engineering, business, and computer science.
1. Technical University of Munich (TUM) – Ranked #37 Globally
TUM is Germany’s highest-ranked university, especially for engineering, technology, and applied sciences. It is known for strong industry collaborations with BMW, Siemens, and Google.
Popular Programs:
Computer Science
Mechanical Engineering
Business Administration
Electrical Engineering
Why Choose TUM?: Offers cutting-edge research facilities and strong job placements in tech and engineering.
2. Ludwig Maximilian University of Munich (LMU) – Ranked #43 Globally
LMU is one of Europe’s most prestigious universities, known for its academic excellence in humanities, social sciences, and business.
Popular Programs:
Arts and Humanities
Political Science
Psychology
Business Administration
Why Choose LMU?: Strong focus on research-based education and global exchange programs.
3. Heidelberg University – Ranked #87 Globally
Germany’s oldest university, Heidelberg is renowned for medicine, life sciences, and law. It attracts international students due to its strong academic reputation and global research collaborations.
Popular Programs:
Medicine
Natural Sciences
Mathematics
Law
Why Choose Heidelberg?: Leading medical research hub with top-tier faculty and funding opportunities.
4. University of Freiburg – Ranked #108 Globally
The University of Freiburg is one of Germany’s top research universities, with a strong emphasis on sustainability, environmental sciences, and interdisciplinary studies.
Popular Programs:
Environmental Sciences
Business Administration
Computer Science
Political Science
Why Choose Freiburg?: Excellent for students interested in climate change, sustainability, and research-focused careers.
5. RWTH Aachen University – Ranked #111 Globally
RWTH Aachen is a leading technical university in Germany, specializing in engineering, industrial technology, and applied sciences.
Popular Programs:
Mechanical Engineering
Electrical Engineering
Computer Science
Industrial Engineering
Why Choose RWTH Aachen?: Strong industry partnerships with automotive, energy, and robotics companies.
6. University of Stuttgart – Ranked #274 Globally
The University of Stuttgart is highly respected for its engineering and technology programs, with a particular focus on automotive and aerospace engineering.
Popular Programs:
Automotive Engineering
Aerospace Engineering
Mechanical Engineering
Architecture
Why Choose Stuttgart?: Ideal for students aiming for careers in Germany’s automotive and aerospace industries.
7. University of Mannheim – Ranked #298 Globally
Mannheim is Germany’s top-ranked university for business, economics, and social sciences. It follows an American-style academic calendar and has a strong international reputation.
Popular Programs:
Business Administration
Economics
Social Sciences
Business Informatics
Why Choose Mannheim?: Consistently ranked as Germany’s best business school, excellent for finance, consulting, and management careers.
8. University of Hamburg – Ranked #204 Globally
One of Germany’s largest universities, Hamburg offers a wide range of programs in humanities, economics, and natural sciences.
Popular Programs:
Law
Economics and Business Administration
Political Science
Natural Sciences
Why Choose Hamburg?: Strong international student community and English-taught bachelor's programs.
Career Opportunities After Studying in Germany
Germany has a well-structured job market, and certain sectors have a growing demand for skilled professionals. If you’ve studied in Germany, you have a good chance of securing a job, especially in fields like engineering, IT, healthcare, and finance.
Software Developer, Data Scientist, Cybersecurity Analyst
€55,000 – €85,000 (₹49 – ₹76 lakh)
Healthcare
Doctors, Nurses, Medical Researchers
€45,000 – €80,000 (₹40 – ₹72 lakh)
Finance & Business
Financial Analyst, Investment Banker, Accountant
€50,000 – €90,000 (₹45 – ₹80 lakh)
Automobile Industry
Automotive Engineer, Robotics Specialist
€60,000 – €90,000 (₹54 – ₹80 lakh)
More than 80% of international graduates find jobs within six months of completing their degree.
STEM (Science, Technology, Engineering, Mathematics) professionals have excellent job prospects.
Post-Study Work Visa and PR Pathways
If you want to stay in Germany after graduation, you’ll need to apply for a work visa or permanent residency (PR). The process is straightforward, and Germany makes it easy for skilled workers to settle.
Post-Study Work Visa (18-Month Job Search Visa)
After finishing your degree, you can apply for an 18-month post-study work visa to find a job.
Once you secure a job, you can switch to a German Work Visa or EU Blue Card for long-term employment.
Path to Permanent Residency (PR) in Germany
If you work in Germany for two years on a work visa or Blue Card, you can apply for permanent residency (Niederlassungserlaubnis).
Knowing German at B1 level or higher can speed up the PR process.
Tip: Learning basic German (B1 level) will improve your chances of getting a job and settling in Germany permanently.
How to Apply for Bachelor’s Programs in Germany?
If you’re an Indian student looking to study in Germany after 12th, the admission process may seem confusing. But once you break it down, it’s pretty straightforward.
Step 1: Choose Your Course and University
Check universities that offer English-taught or German-taught bachelor’s programs. Use platforms like DAAD (German Academic Exchange Service) to explore available courses.
Step 2: Check Admission Requirements
For Indian students: Most universities require 12+1 years of education (which means an extra preparatory year or a Studienkolleg course). If you’ve completed IB (International Baccalaureate) or Cambridge A-Levels, you may be eligible for direct admission.
Step 3: Prepare Your Application Documents
Academic Transcripts (10th & 12th mark sheets). Statement of Purpose (SOP) – Explain why you want to study in Germany. Letters of Recommendation (LORs) – From teachers or school authorities. Language Proficiency Test – IELTS (6.5+) for English programs or TestDaF/DSH for German programs.
Step 4: Submit Your Application
Many public universities require applications via Uni-Assist, while others accept direct applications.
Application Deadlines:
Summer Intake: Apply by January
Winter Intake: Apply by July
Step 5: Apply for a German Student Visa
Once you receive an admission letter, apply for a German Student Visa (National Visa – Type D). You need to show proof of financial resources (€11,208 or ₹10 lakh in a blocked account).
Cost of Studying in Germany for Indian Students
Germany is one of the most affordable study destinations for Indian students, especially when compared to countries like the USA, UK, or Canada. Public universities offer tuition-free education, except for administrative and semester fees. Private universities, however, have higher tuition costs.
Public universities in Germany do not charge tuition fees for undergraduate and many master's programs (except in Baden-Württemberg, where non-EU students pay around €1,500 per semester).
Private universities are costlier but offer specialized courses in business, management, and technology.
Cost of Living in Germany for Indian Students
Your monthly expenses in Germany depend on the city you live in. Major cities like Munich, Frankfurt, and Hamburg are more expensive, while smaller student cities like Leipzig, Aachen, and Dresden are more affordable.
Breakdown of Monthly Expenses for Students
Expense Category
Average Monthly Cost (EUR)
Cost in INR (₹)
Accommodation
€300 – €800
₹27,000 – ₹72,000
Food & Groceries
€150 – €300
₹13,500 – ₹27,000
Public Transport
€30 – €90
₹2,700 – ₹8,100
Health Insurance
€110 – €150
₹9,900 – ₹13,500
Internet & Utilities
€50 – €100
₹4,500 – ₹9,000
Entertainment & Miscellaneous
€100 – €250
₹9,000 – ₹22,500
A student in Germany spends an average of €850–€1,200 (₹76,500–₹1.1 lakh) per month on living expenses.
Munich and Frankfurt are among the most expensive cities, while Leipzig and Dresden offer a lower cost of living.
How to Reduce Your Expenses While Studying in Germany
Live in Student Dorms – Rent in university dormitories is 30–50% cheaper than private housing.
Apply for Student Discounts – Many public transport systems, restaurants, and entertainment spots offer student discounts.
Use a Part-Time Job – International students can work 120 full days or 240 half days per year to cover living costs.
Buy a Semester Ticket – Public transport in Germany is significantly cheaper for students with a semester pass.
Studienkolleg: Preparatory Course for Indian Students in Germany
Germany’s education system requires 13 years of schooling before entering a bachelor’s program. Since Indian students complete 12 years, most applicants need to take a Studienkolleg, a preparatory course designed to bridge the gap before enrolling in a German university.
Structure and Duration of Studienkolleg Programs
Duration: 1 year (2 semesters) Taught in: German (Minimum B1/B2 proficiency required) Final Exam: Feststellungsprüfung (FSP) – Must pass to qualify for a bachelor’s program.
Types of Studienkolleg Courses Based on Field of Study
Where to Apply?: Studienkolleg is available at both public and private universities in Germany.
Admission Requirements: 12th-grade certificate, German language proficiency (B1/B2), entrance exam (if applicable).
Scholarships for Indian Students to Study in Germany
Germany offers several scholarships for Indian students, covering tuition, living expenses, and travel costs. These can be government-funded, university-specific, or external organization grants.
Government-Funded Scholarships
DAAD Scholarships – Covers tuition, living allowance (€861/month or ₹77,500), and travel expenses.
Erasmus+ Scholarships – Available for students pursuing exchange programs and master’s degrees in Germany.
Deutschlandstipendium – Merit-based funding of €300 per month (₹27,000) for top-performing students.
University-Specific Scholarships
RWTH Aachen University Scholarship – Available for engineering students.
Heidelberg University Scholarships – Financial aid for international undergraduates and postgraduates.
TU Munich Scholarships for International Students – Supports students with outstanding academic records.
How to Apply for Scholarships in Germany?
Check Eligibility – Each scholarship has specific academic and financial requirements.
Prepare Documents – SOP, LORs, transcripts, proof of German/English proficiency.
Apply Early – Deadlines for most scholarships are 6-12 months before the intake begins.
Search on DAAD Portal – The DAAD Scholarship Database lists available scholarships for international students.
How upGrad Abroad Can Help Study in Germany for Indian Students After 12th
Thinking about studying in Germany? We help you with applications, language preparation, and course selection—so you can focus on your future.
Step-by-Step Application Support
A strong application increases your chances of admission. We guide you through:
Can I study in Germany after 12th without knowing German?
Yes, you can study in Germany after 12th without knowing German, as many universities offer English-taught programs. However, learning some basic German can help with day-to-day life outside of the classroom.
What are the best English-taught bachelor’s programs in Germany?
Germany offers various English-taught bachelor’s programs in fields like Business, Computer Science, Engineering, and International Relations. Some of the top universities include:
University of Mannheim (Business)
Technical University of Munich (Engineering)
University of Heidelberg (International Relations)
Do I need to take Studienkolleg to study in Germany?
If your 12th grade education is not equivalent to the German Abitur (high school diploma), you may need to attend a Studienkolleg, which is a preparatory course to help you meet the academic requirements for university admission.
What is the minimum percentage required in 12th to study in Germany?
Typically, a minimum of 50%-60% in your 12th-grade exams is required to apply for undergraduate programs in Germany, but this can vary based on the university and course.
Can I study medicine in Germany after 12th?
Yes, you can study medicine in Germany after 12th, but it is highly competitive. You will need to pass the numerus clausus (NC) for medicine, which is a grade-based selection process.
How much does it cost to study in Germany as an Indian student?
Germany is known for its affordable education. Most public universities charge minimal semester fees (approximately €150–€350 per semester, ₹13,000–₹30,000). Private universities may charge higher fees, ranging from €5,000–€20,000 per year (₹4,50,000–₹18,00,000).
Do I need IELTS/TOEFL for English-taught programs in Germany?
Yes, most universities require proof of English proficiency through exams like IELTS or TOEFL. However, some universities may waive this requirement if you completed your education in English or if the program has an alternative evaluation.
What is the application process for German universities?
Choose a program and university.
Check the eligibility requirements (including language proficiency).
Submit your application via UniAssist or directly through the university.
Wait for an offer, and apply for a student visa.
Is studying in Germany better than in Canada or the UK?
Germany offers low or no tuition fees and a high-quality education, especially in engineering and sciences. Canada and the UK, while offering excellent education systems, can have higher tuition fees. Germany may be a more cost-effective option for many students.
Can I work part-time while studying in Germany?
Yes, international students can work up to 120 full days or 240 half-days per year. This is a great way to support your living expenses.
What are the job prospects after completing a bachelor’s in Germany?
Germany has a strong job market, especially in fields like engineering, IT, healthcare, and business. Graduates can expect to earn competitive salaries, with some fields offering starting salaries upwards of €40,000 per year (₹35 lakhs).
Is PR easy to get in Germany after graduation?
Yes, Germany offers a Residence Permit for Job Seekers for up to 18 months after graduation, allowing graduates to search for a job in Germany. Once employed, you can apply for Permanent Residency (PR).
Are there fully funded scholarships for Indian students in Germany?
Yes, scholarships such as the DAAD Scholarship are available for Indian students to cover tuition, living expenses, and travel costs.
Can I switch universities in Germany after getting admission?
Yes, you can switch universities after admission, but you will need to apply for a transfer and ensure that the new university accepts your credits.
How long does it take to complete a bachelor’s degree in Germany?
A Bachelor’s degree in Germany typically takes 3 years to complete, depending on the program and university.
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