If you want to study in Leipzig, knowing about its education system is essential. The school system of the city is in sync with that of Saxony state, meaning that all children have to legally attend school. The various levels include primary (grades 1-4), upper (till grade 9), and secondary (grades 5-12 or 11-12). The city is also home to ten higher education institutions, including six universities.
Why Study in Leipzig- 6 Top Reasons
Here are some reasons to study in Leipzig:
Leipzig has a high population of international students, with more than 4,500 currently studying here.
It also has top companies like Porsche, Amazon, BMW, DHL, and more, thereby offering attractive employment prospects.
Leipzig offers a tolerant and culturally diverse environment.
Leipzig is easily navigable with a reliable public transportation system.
Living costs in Leipzig are comparatively more affordable than in several German metropolises.
Those studying in Leipzig do not have to pay any tuition fees.
Best Universities to Study in Leipzig
The city of Leipzig has several reputed universities, including the University of Leipzig, which is ranked number 479 in the QS World University Rankings 2024 list. Some other top institutions include the following:
Leipzig University of Applied Sciences
The University of Telecommunications Leipzig
Lancaster University Leipzig
University of Music and Theatre
Leipzig Academy of Visual Arts
HHL Leipzig Graduate School of Management
FOM University of Applied Sciences
State Academy of Learning
Leipzig School of Media
Best Courses to Study in Leipzig
There are several popular courses in Leipzig, including the following:
Computer Science
Mathematics
Economics
History, Art and Area
Humanities and Linguistics
Medicine
Law
Cost of Living in Leipzig
Here is a guide to the cost of living in Leipzig.
Accommodation
€250-900 per month
Utilities (electricity, water, heating, garbage)
€200 per month
Fitness Membership
€30-40 per month
Transportation (Monthly Pass)
€78.90 per month
Internet
€33 per month
Cost of Studying in Leipzig
There are no tuition fees required to study in Leipzig for any student, irrespective of their nationality or origin. However, you will have to pay €193.5 each semester as the semester contribution. At the same time, new students will have to pay around €10 for their student IDs upon starting their classes at the university. Health and insurance costs are usually around €50-80 per year.
Top Scholarships for Students to Study in Leipzig
Here are some scholarships that you can consider for studying in Leipzig.
Scholarship
Benefits
Eligibility
Lancaster University Scholarships for Undergraduate Students
€2,000 in the first year of study
A*AA (IB 38) and above
Lancaster University Scholarships for Postgraduate Students
€4,000-4,500 as scholarship amount which is deducted from the tuition fees
Fee-paying international applicants
Deutschland Stipendium
€300 per month with networking events, internships, and mentoring programs (two semesters)
Eligible talented students who meet their institution’s admission requirements, while demonstrating academic achievements and overcoming hurdles in family/social background
Student Life in Leipzig
Choosing to study in Leipzig is a great decision, with the city offering a cosmopolitan atmosphere and playing host to around 40,000 students annually (11% of them are international students). There are several attractions on offer beyond the campus, including top restaurants, nightlife hubs, galleries, museums, live events, and venues offering special events for students.
There are numerous parks including the massive Clara-Zetkin Park and waterways and canals. A big part of the city is walkable and students can also cycle to and from campuses. There are several sports and recreational options available, including hockey and football teams, gymnasiums, walking groups, woodlands, gardens, recreation and sports grounds, and more.
You will find almost 400 sports facilities in Leipzig, including 150 halls and 80 fields along with 28 bowling alleys, 21 tennis courts, 20 swimming pools, and more. Students can also enjoy 400 kilometers of cycling pathways throughout the city while there are several festivals held throughout the year like the Bach Festival, Highfield Festival, Wave Gothic Festival, and others.
Career Prospects for Students in Leipzig
Leipzig offers excellent career opportunities for students. According to PayScale, the average salary is around €42,000 per year. Here are some of the top jobs and their salaries.
Job
Average Annual Salary
Mechanical Engineer
€48,000
Translator
€27,500
Software Engineer
€45,000
Quality Assurance Manager
€60,000
Front End Developer/Engineer
€40,000
Postdoctoral Research Assistant
€33,000
Software Developer
€44,800
Choosing to study in Leipzig will be a wise decision for its welcoming ambience, vibrant student life, reputed educational institutions, excellent employment opportunities, and more. Do your homework on the available courses and their deadlines beforehand.
Frequently Asked Questions
How do I apply for a student visa to study in Leipzig?
You will require a student visa if you wish to stay in the country for longer than three months. Once you arrive in the country, you have to provide a three-month visa to the Leipzig Foreigners’ Authority and apply for your student residence permit. You can apply at the German Consulate General/Embassy nearest to you with your valid passport, confirmation of place at university, proof of funds, and other documents.
Can I work and study in Leipzig?
If you have a residence permit, then you may work for up to 140 full or 280 half days every year while studying. This applies for a calendar year and the earlier number was 120 full/240 half days. This rule also applies to voluntary internships although it does not cover compulsory internships which are part of your course.
Which course is best to study in Leipzig?
Some of the popular courses to study in Leipzig include mathematics, law, medicine, and computer science. A few other options also include economics, history, art and area, and humanities and linguistics.
What support services are available for international students in universities in Leipzig?
Universities in Leipzig offer various support services to their international students, including furnished accommodation in/near the institution, spokespersons of student halls of residences for contact purposes, tutors, buddy programs for uniting international students and local citizens, social counseling, psychological counseling, career and placement services, cultural funding, and student advisory services.
What cultural experiences and attractions can I explore in Leipzig outside of my studies?
There are numerous cultural attractions and experiences that you can explore beyond your studies in Leipzig. Explore the Distillery Club and try the coffee at the oldest retailer in the area, Arko, while also going on riding, walking, or city tours. The Leipzig Book Fair, Bach Festival, and Bieborse are festivals that you should enjoy, along with the Christmas Market every year. Bagel Brothers is a must-stop for breakfast, while Karicartoon Leipzig is ideal for those who love art.
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