Do you wonder why studying in Germany is a such a popular choice among students seeking overseas education? Germany is an acclaimed global higher education hub, with numerous globally ranked universities and numerous courses to choose from. Moreover, Germany is one of the popular non-Anglophone study destinations. The burgeoning demand for German universities is due to the fact that students have to pay low (or no) tuition fees. Germany offers prestigious and highly valued degrees, which enhance overall employability greatly.
The country offers world-class education facilities as the norms and regulations of the German education system are based on the “Grundgesetz,” or Basic Law. For international students who have completed 10+2 years of secondary education, it is indispensable to complete a year of “StudienKolleg” or a bridge course before they can embark on their undergraduate degree in Germany.
A bachelor’s degree in Germany usually consists of 180 credits, whereas a master’s degree consists of 120 credits. If students choose a structured program, they will have to finish multiple mandatory units to get the 180-240 ECTS credits that are usually required by PhD students.
Country Overview
Language of instruction
English, German
Average cost of study
Public universities: €500-€700/year
Private universities: €25,000 – €40,000
Average cost of living
€10,500/year
Exams required
IELTS/TOEFL, Test Deutsch als Fremdsprache (TestDaF)/DSH, GMAT/GRE
Intakes
Two intakes in a year – Summer and Winter
Funding sources
The German government aids the education of students at public universities. Still, there are part-time jobs and scholarships to offer extra support to the students.
Types of degrees
Bachelor’s, Master’s, Doctoral, Diploma or Magister, Work-study degrees
Top courses
Engineering, Business Management, Humanities, Maths and Computer Science
There are several compelling reasons to study in Germany which have been outlined below for your benefit.
1.Low or Negligible Tuition Costs
Education in Germany proves remarkably affordable compared to many other countries, often featuring very low or even non-existent tuition fees for higher studies, making it a prominent global study destination. The decision was implemented in October 2014, stating that international students attending public universities in the country would not have to pay regular tuition fees. They will have to pay just some administrative charges like student union fees, student contributions, and public transport tickets. Collectively, they may touch the EUR 250 per semester mark.
counselling/">Study and settle in Germany – Consult Experts Now!
2.Popular Courses in Germany & Average Tuition Fee
Popular courses
Duration
Average annual tuition fees
BSc Mechanical Engineering
3 years
€10,000
MBA
1 year
€35,000
BBA
3-3.5 years
€6,000
MSc Economics
2 years
€5,000
Bachelor of Medicine
5+1 year of internship
€3,000
MSc Computer Science
2 year
€12,000
MS Data Analytics
1-1.5 years
€1,500
M.Eng
1-2 years
€12,500
3.Highly Ranked Universities
When it comes to education in Germany for international students, a big draw is the presence of numerous highly ranked prestigious universities. This is one of the biggest reasons to study abroad in Germany. There are approximately 380 officially recognized universities throughout Germany, and they offer a total of over 17,000 study programs.
German universities adhere to the highest global education standards in terms of quality. Some of them have been ranked consistently amongst the best in the world. Students value these top-ranked institutions for their education quality, staff members, opportunities for research and academic growth, hands-on experience and stimulating environments. The worldwide teaching and research systems employed by Germany have gained recognition over several years. There are numerous new universities from Germany making it to rankings and lists every year as well. Some universities are also amongst the oldest in all of Europe.
If you are studying in Germany, you will have the same rights as EFTA/EU and German citizens with regard to free entry, the opportunity to study and work without any extra permits. If you are not a European citizen, you will have to get your visa. Unless you are enrolled in a summer school language program, you will have to apply for a student visa enabling residence in Germany for more than 90 days while also obtaining a residency permit for living and moving around the whole country. This residency permit will enable travel throughout the entire Schengen Area for free, enabling you to visit several countries within this duration. Once you get your letter of acceptance from your German University, you should apply for the student visa at least 3 months before departure. The documentation will be dispatched to the Immigration Office of the German region for the residence permit, where the University is located and after completion of all necessary procedures, you will receive your residency permit. However, you have to fulfil specific criteria for getting your student visa.
6.Multiple Degree Courses
One of the key Germany education facts is that the country has innumerable degree courses that suit every interest. Germany has invested in several universities and colleges, and the results are visible today. The list of courses is expanding swiftly at most German universities, and newer fields are also emerging as a result, with top-of-the-line scientific improvements in store. There are programs tailored to suit every interest and field of expertise in Germany. Moreover, there are 1,852 study programs available in the English language at 236 schools and universities in Germany. Some of the popular courses in Germany are art and design, psychology, education, nursing, dentistry, business and management studies, law, social studies, psychology, and biosciences.
Type of University
Characteristics
Academic universities
These are research-driven institutions offering a degree in all types of disciplines. These universities focus on developing theoretical rather than practical ones.
Universities of Art/Science
Students with artistic talents in photography, architecture, design, etc. are deemed fit to be a part of this institution.
Universities of Applied Sciences
Students are required to conduct research on projects in association with companies. The curriculum also encapsulates teachings from industry experts and mandatory internships.
Study programs and modules at leading German universities are highly contemporary in terms of their structure and the method of delivery to learners. They are tailored to meet the most stringent and updated global requirements while reflecting the latest global developments and upgrades likewise. They also help in educating people and making them ready to face challenges at a global level. The curriculum is continually evolving to create better and more extensive approaches to research and teaching. The degree you get in Germany will be highly acclaimed and valued globally while increasing your employability considerably at the same time. Employers will have the highest respect for a German degree since the quality of education in the country is legendary, to say the least.
With smart financial planning and some discipline in terms of their lifestyle, costs of living will be quite affordable for international students in Germany. They will naturally have higher prices to contend with in urban zones as compared to rural or peripheral areas. Rent is the key aspect that they should consider while studying in the country although numerous affordable options will always be available. It is not as expensive as in some countries. They can share accommodation for halving the financial burden as well. The costs of food, public transportation, and other services are on the lower side.
While many students can study in Germany for free, they will have to pay for their living expenses. The average cost of living in Germany is around €10,200 (US$11,800) per year.
Average monthly rent:
Type of Accommodation
Average Monthly Rent
Shared Flat
€335
Halls of Residence
€280
Other typical monthly costs are:
Factors
Average Monthly Cost of Living
Clothing
€50
Transportation
€112
Food and Groceries
€201
Household bills (including phone, internet and television license)
€37
Study materials
€23
Recreational activities
€73
9.Working Opportunities while Studying
Germany has clearly stipulated laws stating that international students have permission to work part-time for a maximum of 20 hours every week or 120 full days every year. More than 60% of present international students are working part-time while studying in the country as per estimates. You will not require any extra qualifications since there are abundant employment opportunities available, ranging across fields like hospitality, retail, administration, and more. Working part-time while studying will help you earn more money for meeting and handling living costs while also increasing your employability and work experience at the same time.
A degree from a German university will be highly respected and valued. This qualification means huge employability in the global job market. You will get several attractive job offers from employers after you gain the requisite professional credits and experience while studying in Germany. Graduates at German universities are some of the highest-paid employees in the world.
There are numerous types of jobs in Germany for international students that they can take a closer look at. Here is taking a look at salaries (annual) and various job sectors in the country:
Right from making yourself more employable to emotional and creative satisfaction, there are innumerable reasons why a student should learn the beautiful German language. Germany is one of the most powerful economies worldwide, making the German language widely spoken throughout Europe and other parts of the world. With numerous German companies being global market leaders, they have huge networks of branches across the world. By learning to speak German, they will find themselves in an advantageous position where they will get more offers from the biggest and best German multinationals. The widespread use of German enables individuals to travel the world and communicate with confidence.
12.Germany is a Safe Country
Students would be surprised to know that ‘why study in Germany’ makes up the most searched questions on Google. While considering an ideal study destination, students try to keep certain factors in mind. In this section, we will try to specify one of the main attributes, ‘safety,’ which makes it the prime study destination for students. Knowing that they are moving to a safe country gives them peace of mind, so they don’t have to worry about the security of the area they will be residing. Germany falls under one of the safest countries for international students.
Best Student Cities in Germany
Rank
City
=2
Munich
6
Berlin
88
Stuttgart
Source: QS Best Student Cities 2022
13.English – Taught Programmes
Generally, international students believe that studying in Germany means that their courses are taught in German. However, this is not the case. Most German universities provide courses that are completely taught in English. So, students who are not so familiar with the German language can also study in German universities with English-taught programs in their curriculum, which comes under the benefits of studying in Germany.
14.Practice-Based Learning
Education in most German universities is mostly practice-based. Some of the courses demand practical learning more than theoretical aspects. For example, the University of Applied Sciences mostly focuses on practice-oriented programs that allow students to apply their theoretical knowledge to practice areas.
These are some of the top reasons why international students should consider Germany as their higher education destination. The country is a mixture of academic, industrial, business, and research/scientific excellence with a fascinating potpourri of culture, history, tradition, and creativity. This makes it a great place to live and work, especially for international students seeking a diverse and stimulating environment to build their careers.
Germany or UK, Which Country is Better for Studying
To evaluate which country makes for the right choice, a student should draw a parallel on a gamut of factors.
Costs for Undergraduate Courses
Particulars
Undergraduate course in the UK
Undergraduate course in Germany
Tuition
£8,000-£15,000 per year
€150 (public uni) – €20,000 (private uni) per year
Room and Living expenses
£12,000-£15,000 per year
€8,640 per year
Duration of course
3 years
3-4 years
Total
£20,000-£30,000
€8,790 – €28,640 per year
Costs for Postgraduate Courses
Particulars
Postgraduate course in the UK
Postgraduate course in Germany
Tuition
£10,000 and £20,000 per year
€2,000 (public uni) – €30,000 (private uni) per year
Room and Living expenses
£12,000-£15,000 per year
€8,640 per year
Duration of course
1-2 years
1-2 years
Total
£22,000-£35,000 per year
€10,640 – €38,640 per year
Moreover, students living in Germany for five years on a German residence permit, they can apply for a German permanent visa. There are exemptions for shorter stay time requirements. After eight years of living here, they become eligible to apply for German citizenship.
In a nutshell, both countries have their pros and cons, a student should consider the following factors before deciding which country to choose.
Canada or Germany, which Country is Better for Higher Education
Both Canada and Germany offer an excellent educational infrastructure for students from across the globe. Even though they are both good options for a foreign education, students should consider their goals and ambitions before applying to colleges in these countries. Many factors will determine a student’s entire learning experience when applying to foreign universities. These would help students to make prudent decisions.
Factors
Canada
Germany
Tuition Fee
€11,167- € 22,335
€150- €300 Public Universities
Living Cost
Toronto – €5,136
Vancouver – €5,285
Montreal – € 4,243
Berlin – €4,169
Munchin – €4,764
Stuttgart – €4,020
Part-Time Jobs
20 hours (during term time)
40 hours (during vacations)
120 full days/ per year
240 half days/ year
Post Study Work Visa
1–3 years
18 months
Canada has an edge over Germany in offering permanent residency. Moreover, the former offers pathways and nomination programs to students, which makes it easier for students to settle down. Moreover, the students need to pay an administrative fee in Germany for public universities.
Study Abroad with upGrad Abroad
upGrad Abroad has started uniquely designed programs that enable students to save money on tuition fees and other expenses. Students enrolling in these programs will be studying a part of their program online and completing the course on-campus.
No, most German universities provide courses that are completely taught in English. So, the students who are not so familiar with the German language can also study in German universities with English- taught programs in their curriculum, which comes under the benefits of studying in Germany.
Which are the best cities in Germany for international students?
Berlin, Munich, and Stuttgart are among the top cities in Germany for international students.
Is studying in Germany a good idea?
Studying in Germany is a good idea for international students. There are numerous benefits of studying in Germany. To list a few, it has low-cost education, rich cultural diversity, affordable living, globally-ranked universities, and endless degree courses. All of these factors make Germany a diverse hub for students from all over the world.
Is Germany a safe country to study?
Yes, Germany is a safe country for international students. It is ranked 22nd among one of the most peaceful countries globally. Safety is one such quotient that makes up for the concern that falls under the question,’ why study in Germany for international students.’ Apart from this, there are many fascinating things like rich art & culture, low-cost education, world-class universities, and absolutely low level or no unemployment.
Is studying in Germany expensive?
Even though public universities offer free education in Germany, living in certain cities of Germany is more expensive than in others. For example, Munich is considered the most expensive city in Germany with living expenses of around €12,255 per year. As opposed to this, the average living cost in Germany is €5,189 – €6,000.
Why is a study in Germany free?
Germany provides free-to-cost education to international students from different parts of the globe to boost their economic growth. Due to the nominal tuition fees charged by public universities and affordable cost of living, many international students enroll for admissions in German universities.
How good is Germany for international students?
Germany is a perfect destination for international students who wish to get high-quality education within an affordable budget. It provides countless degrees in globally recognized universities and gives the students a chance to be a part of a rich cultural heritage.
What should be known before deciding to study in Germany?
Before a student decides to commence their studies in Germany, there are some important factors that they should keep in mind. Starting with the basic step, it’s always better to know about the place they are moving to. Therefore, make sure that they research how things work in Germany. There are also certain factors which they should take into account. For example, education is only free at public universities; there’s a lot of paperwork required to get into a university, and accommodation is not available at every university.
Akansha Semwal is a content marketer at upGrad and has also worked as a social media marketer & sub-editor. Experienced in creating impressive Statement of Purpose, Essays, and LOR, she knows how to captivate the attention of Admissions Committee. Her research-driven;study-abroad articles helps aspirants to make the prudent decision. She holds a bachelor's & master's degree in Literature from the University of Delhi.
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