Study Options in Germany

Study in Germany

Germany is Europe's seventh-largest country. The economy of Germany is a well-developed social market economy. It has the largest economy in Europe, as well as the fourth-largest nominal GDP and fifth-largest GDP in the world (PPP). German educational standards are relatively high in both local schools and higher education institutes. In truth, the German educational system produces some of the world's most brilliant pupils precisely because it is so tightly structured and rigorous. Technische Universität München, Ludwig-Maximilians-Universität München, Ruprecht-Karls-Universität Heidelberg etc. are some of the top universities in Germany.

Popular destinations within the country

• Berlin: Berlin, Germany's capital, is also a popular destination for international students. This is because this vibrant city is a great place for individuals of all ages and backgrounds to visit. Many cultural events are held in Berlin, and overseas students can learn more about Berlin's culture and history by visiting a range of war museums and cinema houses. Every nook of Berlin is steeped in history, and no one leaves without learning something about the city's interesting past.

• Stuttgart: This city, being one of the strongest industrial regions, provides a great atmosphere for students (especially those in the field of engineering) to study and enhance their careers. If you've heard of Stuttgart, it's probably because of the two worldwide corporations that have their headquarters here: Porsche and Daimler. But you've heard about its world-class universities, which provide students with the practical and theoretical skills they need to succeed.

• Frankfurt: Frankfurt is an excellent study destination, particularly for students interested in finance or business. It boasts a high concentration of business and tourism centers, which help to boost the national economy while also making it easier for students to get the experience and expertise they need in the corporate sector. Frankfurt is well-known for its various skyscrapers and unusual structures, which give it the appearance of a futuristic metropolis in all its splendour.

• Dresden: Dresden is home to world-class universities that provide ideal learning and advancement environments. Students can obtain their education and practical skills at the prominent Dresden universities. Students get the opportunity to put their abilities to work in a variety of modern technology enterprises in Dresden through a variety of internships.

• Aachen: Universities in Aachen are known for their high academic standards and excellent education. Students interested in science and technology will find this city to be a valuable resource. The RWTH Aachen University, one of the most prestigious institutions in the world, is located in Aachen. Students like the friendly atmosphere combined with the undoubted expertise provided by Aachen's higher education institutions. When it comes to picking this charming location to study in, affordability is certainly a huge bonus.

• Bonn: Although Bonn is not a large city, there are many activities to do here in your spare time. Visiting popular museums, hiking, or taking a walk in the park are all soothing activities that allow students to meet new people while learning about the city's history. 

• Hamburg: Numerous prestigious universities may be found in Hamburg, attracting thousands of students from all over the world. In general, you may choose a degree program in Hamburg in any topic of interest, including social sciences, art, music, engineering, and design. Universities provide cutting-edge equipment and facilities, and students learn from world-class professors and teachers.

• Cologne: Because it is the largest city in the western state of North Rhine-Westphalia and the fourth largest in Germany, Cologne is a popular destination for international students. This city is noted for its diverse musical, cultural, and mediatic trends, as well as its bright and active atmosphere. This historic city is particularly appealing to international students due to its low cost of living, good universities, and high quality of life.

• Leipzig: For international students, Leipzig is an excellent destination to live and study. This city has grown from a little hamlet to a business and cultural center noted for its beautiful scenery and musical and artistic influence. In Leipzig, life is highly dynamic, and students can always find something to do to have fun and relax. Its rich culture draws many tourists, but its professionalism and opportunity draw international students from all over the world.

Popular Courses & Colleges in the Germany

• Mathematical and computer sciences: Mathematical and computer sciences are another area where Germany excels. Nearly 30,000 international students study mathematics or computer science in Germany, making it one of the most popular subjects. One of the best aspects of studying computer science in Germany is that, as a technologically advanced country, overseas students have access to high-tech labs and computer stations to pursue their interests. Universities such as the Technical University of Munich and the Technical University of Berlin make a mark in the rankings once again.

• Fine and Applied Arts: It's unusual for Fine Arts to be ranked among Germany's top courses to study. The course is popular in a country where technology reigns supreme, with 24,000 international students enrolled. Surprisingly, in Germany, arts and design are not taught in a theoretical framework. Students are permitted to work alone in their studios, and classes are structured around student conversations in which they can present their products for evaluation. Professors become more of feedback givers than lecturers in this situation.

• Engineering, Mathematics, Natural Sciences, Law, Economics, and Social Sciences are the most popular academic programs for present Indian students in Germany. 12,188 Indian students were studying for an Engineering degree in Germany as of the Winter Semester 2017/18.

Popular Colleges in Germany

The following are some of the top German colleges that offer these courses with a high likelihood of employment:

• Ludwig Maximilians University Munich

• Technical University of Munich

• Free University of Berlin

• RWTH Aachen University

• Humboldt University of Berlin

• Technical University of Berlin

• University of Mannheim

• University of Cologne

• Heidelberg University – Germany

• IU International University of Applied Sciences

Entry essentials 

Documents needed to enter Germany for a student:

• two completely completed national visa application papers

• a valid national passport 

• two completely completed national visa application papers 

• Confirmation of enrollment in a German educational institution• Proof of knowledge of the German language

• Proof of fluency in the English language.

• Authenticated certificates of prior education.

• A curriculum vitae (CV) 

• Proof of financial stability (you can afford to pay your bills)

• Health coverage for students

• A letter of inspiration

• The requirements for student visas.

• Verification of payment of the German student visa application fee.

After completing your course, you can stay in the nation for up to 18 months. To hunt for a suitable job, you must apply for an 18-month residence permit from your local foreign nationals' registration office (relevant to your qualifications).  

Exams required to enter Germany:

Germany Language Proficiency Tests:

• TEST DEUTSCH ALS FREMDSPRACHE (TESTDAF): TestDaf is an acronym for Test Deutsch als Fremdsprache, which translates to "Test of German as a Foreign Language." It's a German language competency test that's accepted all around the world. The four language skills are assessed independently by the TestDaF. (Listening, Reading Comprehension, Written, Oral). It is now provided six times a year in around 450 test sites in 9690 nations throughout the world.

• DEUTSCHE SPRACHPRÜFUNG FÜR DEN HOCHSCHULZUGANG (DSH): Another German proficiency exam is the DSH. The DSH examination pattern resembles that of TestDaF. It consists of two parts: a written and an oral exam. DSH-1, DSH-2, and DSH-3 are the three levels at which the test results will be rated. Except in Germany, there are no test centers for the DSH exam.

English Language Proficiency Tests:

English proficiency is required for admission to a Master's program in Germany. The TOEFL and IELTS are two internationally recognized English language tests.

• TOEFL: The TOEFL (Test of English as a Foreign Language) is a standardized test administered by ETS that assesses non-native English speakers' English competence for them to attend English-speaking universities. More than 10,000 universities around the world accept the TOEFL score.

• IELTS: IELTS is another widely accepted English proficiency test accepted by many English-speaking universities. The test result was recognized by almost all German universities. The average IELTS score required to study in Germany varies depending on the university. Some universities, on the other hand, do not require IELTS. So, it all depends on the program and university that you are interested in.

Academic Exams required to pursue a course in German Universities:

To study MS in Germany, you do not need to take the GRE or GMAT. Since some of the universities accept these tests following are its details:

• GRADUATE RECORD EXAMINATION (GRE): Many graduate and business institutions in Germany recognize the Graduate Record Examination. This exam is essential for admission to a variety of higher education institutions, particularly if you want to study engineering. Various German colleges accept GRE scores as a requirement for admission.

• TEST FOR GRADUATE MANAGEMENT ADMISSION (GMAT): Graduate Management Admission Test is preferred by several German business and management schools. Analytical writing assessment, integrated reasoning, quantitative reasoning, and verbal reasoning are the four sections of the test. The GMAT is an aptitude test that assesses individuals' abilities, particularly those interested in pursuing an MBA in Germany. Thousands of students take this test each year to be considered for various management courses.

Intakes in Germany:

Students should apply to universities at least 2 months before the application deadline.

• Summer:

Summer admissions are for the summer semester, which runs from March to August or April to September; deadlines are usually in the month of January.

• Winter:

The winter semester runs from September to February or October to March, with deadlines typically falling before July. 

ROI

List of Germany Scholarships, Grants, and Fellowships for International Students for Bachelors and Masters:

• DAAD (Deutscher Akademischer Austauschdienst) Scholarships: Scholarships from the DAAD are available for undergraduate, postgraduate, and doctoral programs in Germany. There are also various scholarships available to study and do research in Germany. These scholarships are open to students of all nationalities and are awarded based on academic performance. The amount and duration of DAAD scholarships vary based on the universities and the scope of the chosen study program.

• ERASMUS+ (European Community Action Scheme for the Mobility of University Students) scholarships: These funds are available to students of all nationalities who are enrolled in the Erasmus study program and are chosen based on their academic ability. This includes students from India.

• Heinrich Böll Scholarships for International Students: Heinrich Böll Scholarships are available to both German and international students who plan to study Bachelors, Masters, or Ph.D. programs in Germany. For the Master's program, eligible students earn €750 per month, and for the Doctoral Program, they receive €1000 per month.

• Bayer Foundation Scholarships: In biology, medical science, agricultural science, non-academic professions, and chemistry, there are five fellowship programs. These scholarships are open to students of all nationalities who have excelled academically. Scholarship amount: € 6400 per year for up to two years following graduation.

• Deutschland Stipendium: The German government, private organizations, or public-private partnership corporations grant a scholarship worth € 150 per month to students (of all nationalities). Under this scholarship program, the most talented student receives € 300 each month. Funding is usually provided for at least two semesters, however, it can be extended until the student's studies are completed.

• Jacobs University Scholarships: This scholarship covers annual tuition of € 20,000 as well as housing and board expenses of € 6,000 (for a 9-month academic year) and is only available for study at this university.

• ESMT Women’s Academic Scholarship: This scholarship is available to female students applying to the European School of Management and Technology (EST) for a full-time MBA program. Females having a GMAT score of more than 700 from all around the world are encouraged to apply. The scholarship is awarded based on the essay that was submitted as part of the application process. The scholarship is worth up to € 15,000 in total.

• Goethe Goes Global Scholarships: For Master's programs. Every year, approximately 20 scholarships are given to international students. As a result, foreign students with a Bachelor's degree are eligible to apply. Students can receive €1,000 per month as a scholarship from the university till the end of their Master's program.

• EMS Undergraduate Scholarship: This scholarship is offered by the European Management School (EMS) to overseas students who intend to pursue a Bachelor's degree. Candidates who have excelled in both academics and extracurricular activities at their schools are eligible to apply. They would be able to obtain top business positions in Germany and other countries as a result of this scholarship. The program offers a 50% tuition discount as well as global exposure that will help the scholar develop his or her personality.

• WHU-Otto Beisheim School of Management, International Scholarships: International students interested in pursuing an MBA at the WHU-Otto Beisheim School of Management are encouraged to apply. Proof of English proficiency is also required for the scholarship. The program has a value of up to €10,000 but is not limited to that amount. Students have the option of choosing from a variety of disciplines offered by the university.

• Master Scholarships at the University of Stuttgart: Scholarships that are fully sponsored for students from developing countries who wish to pursue higher education in Germany. Infrastructure Planning, Integrated Urbanism, and Sustainable Design are all topics covered in the program.

• DLD Executive MBA Scholarship: The DLD scholarship is offered in conjunction with the digital innovation conference by the Berlin School of Creative Leadership. Selected candidates will be able to pursue an MBA in Creative Leadership through this program. The curriculum is designed for top executives in the industries of digital, media, advertising, technology, and entertainment. One winner will earn €23,000 in tuition assistance, while three other finalists will receive up to €10,000 in tuition assistance.

Living Expenses

As a student in Germany, you will need an average of 867 euros (74,862 in INR) a month to meet your living expenses. You should budget for the following: a charge for the semester the expense of living (rent, food, clothing, books, telephone, etc.)

Part-Time Jobs

Students can work 20 hours per week and 120 full or 240 half days per year, according to German legislation. As a result, the average hourly wage is between 9 and 11 euros. If you're working legally, the minimum wage is between 9 and 10 Euros per hour. These are the general guidelines that you must follow while working part-time. The maximum working hours per day are 8, with the possibility of going up to 10, but no one, including German employees, is authorized to work more than that.

120*8*9 =8640 or 120*8*10=9600 Euros per year can be earned.

The following are some of the most prevalent part-time occupations in Germany for overseas students:

On-campus jobs

• Academic assistants

• Library supervisor

• Literature researcher

• Tutorial assistant

Off-campus jobs

• Waiter/Waitress

• Trade Fairs

• Courier

• Babysitter

• Bartender

• Cashier

• Filing office documents

• Media (Journalism students)

• Tutoring (Students in teacher training)

Post-study Visa

Your student visa expires when you finish your studies, but students can seek an 18-month work visa after receiving their German university diploma. Otherwise, you will have to return to your home country if you do not apply for this permit before your student visa expires.

There are many career opportunities in Germany. The ten most sought jobs in Germany:

• Software developer and programmer

• Electronics engineer, electrician

• Healthcare worker and nurse

• IT consultant, IT analyst

• Economist, business administrator

• Account manager, client consultant

• Production assistant

• Sales representative, sales assistant

• Sales manager, product manager

• Architect, structural engineer

Earning Potential

Master graduates in Germany earn an average salary of 76,000-103,000 EUR per year (INR 66,27,743 to 89,82,336 per year).

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)

There are many questions regarding studying abroad. Germany is one of the finest destinations to study and work. We are going to answer some of the frequently asked questions related to study in
Germany.