Study in Germany: All you need to know

Quality education, scientific research and innovation are the key factors that attract thousands of Indian students to Germany every year. There are hundreds of universities in Germany that offer almost tuition-free education, so that international students don't have to get into loan to earn a degree. Internationally recognized academic staff and highly skilled professionals offer world class education in several disciplines including Science, Engineering, Medicine, Law, Business, and Arts.

Apart from studies, international students, more particularly Indian students, can explore the cultural diversity of the country that will make them see the world in a different way and can create a long-lasting relationships with other students from other parts of the world.

While studying in Germany, students can practice speaking the German language and can have real life conversations. There are endless opportunities for them in case they decide to stay in Germany after completing studies to live and work there. But before preparing to go for higher studies in Germany, Indian students need to keep somethings in mind.

Universities/colleges in Germany:

Germany is home to a number of world-class colleges and universities offering quality education. Known as international hub of education, Germany is increasingly becoming a student-friendly destination for Indian students. The prominent institutes in Germany are University of Freiburg, Technical University of Munich, Ludwig Maximilian University, Humboldt University Berlin, University of Heidelberg, Karlsruhe Institute of Technology, Technical University of Berlin, University of Konstanz, and University of Tübingen.

Educational/scholarship opportunities:

Housing many esteemed universities, Germany is one of the cheapest study destinations in Europe and also offers a number of scholarships for international students. Some of the scholarships offered by the country are HWK Fellowships for International Students in Germany; University of Mannheim Deutschland Scholarship, Germany; GSLS Fellowship, University of Würzburg, Germany; German Chancellor Fellowships for prospective leaders.

Application procedure:

The country emerges as a prominent choice for many international students to pursue technical education – both at graduate and post graduate level. Like any other European country, Germany, too, checks students’ eligibility criteria and application procedure on two parameters — Subject/ Scholastic Aptitude and Language Proficiency. Students wishing to study abroad should keep all necessary documents with them while applying or getting admission at any university in Germany. For most subjects, students can apply directly to the international office of the university. They can apply for numerous courses and universities separately to increase their chances of getting admission. It is better to submit applications at least six weeks before the deadline to ensure time for corrections or additions if any information is missing. Students should expect to receive a formal acceptance or rejection approximately one to two months after the deadline has passed.

Employment opportunities:

Germany is a land of opportunities for foreign students. The country has the largest economy in Europe and the fifth largest in the world, so there are plenty of job oppertunities for foreign students with special skills. Germany has one of the lowest unemployment rates in the EU, making a record low of 5.8 percent in March 2017, while in some parts of southern Germany such as Bavaria, the unemployment rate is significantly lower.

Getting student visa:

The requirements for getting a student visa for Germany depend on the country of origin of the students. If you need a student visa for Germany, you should apply at least three months before your move to the country. You need to contact the local German embassy or consulate in your home country to apply for a student visa. The documents you typically need include completed application form, valid passport, two photographs, letter showing you’ve been accepted by a German university, transcript of academic record, certificate of German language proficiency or proof that you intend on attending a language course in Germany (if studying in German), proof that you have sufficient funds to support yourself while living in Germany , and a certificate showing you’ve purchased health insurance.

Cost of living in Germany:

The cost of living in Germany is quite reasonable in comparision to other European countries. The prices for food, accommodation, clothing, cultural events are basically in line with the EU average. You will need around 850 euros a month to cover your living expenses. In large cities, costs can vary considerably depending on where you live.