Study in Germany: Best Universities, Courses, and Scholarships

Germany is referred to as the ‘land of poets and thinkers’ for it has produced gems like  Kant, Adorno, Bach, Beethoven, and more than 90 Nobel Laureates, including Robert Koch, Max Planck, and Albert Einstein. These personalities it has produced directly reflect on its able education system and culture. No wonder, in recent times, aspirants from all over the world want to study in Germany. As per official data, there were roughly 458,210 international students in Germany’s higher education institutions in the 2022-23 academic year. Studying in Germany for Indian students is a popular choice as well

Why Study in Germany

Excellent Educational Infrastructure and Staff

German higher education institutes are categorized into:

• Universities
• Applied Sciences Universities
• Technical, Film, Music, and Art colleges

Most of the top-notch German public universities have a rich history and tradition of educational excellence. Other institutions, that were founded after WWII or even recently, follow in the footsteps of these legacy institutions while making the curriculum relevant to the modern age. Beyond the curriculum, German universities excel in infrastructure facilities and in terms of skilled professors and trained staff. This combination enhances the overall All of this adds to the entire college experience for students and sets them up for a promising future after graduation, regardless of their discipline. The German education system emphasises practice-oriented studies, innovation, and international cooperation to offer the best education to the students. 

Internationally Recognised Degrees

German universities operate under the Bologna reform, ensuring that all students receive internationally recognized degrees at all levels – from undergraduate to doctorate and beyond. 

Overall, the international recognition of German degrees underscores the quality of education offered by German universities and facilitates mobility for students and professionals seeking opportunities or an education abroad.

Degrees in Germany are structured semester-wise as follows:

• Bachelor’s in Arts or Science: 6 semesters
• Master’s in Arts or Science: 2-4 semesters, depending on the program
• PhD: 4-6 semesters, depending on the program. 

This structure applies to all fields of study except for law, pharmacy, and medicine, which require a few more semesters than a regular bachelor’s course.

English as Language of Communication

While German is the native language, professional and higher education degrees are English-taught for the benefit of international students who want to study in Germany.This allows international students to pursue degrees without needing to be proficient in German, enhancing accessibility and attractiveness to a global student body.

While German remains the official language of instruction for many programs, universities often provide support such as language courses and integration programs to help international students adapt to living and studying in Germany.

No Tuition Fee at Public Universities

The state funds most of the higher education in Germany. This is the reason both domestic and international students can study in Germany for free. Though public universities offer free education, they have limited English taught courses and required B1 Level German language proficiency as well as a good GRE score. This is where the University of Applied Sciences make more sense for students looking to study high-quality education in Germany without learning the German language. While the tuition fee is waived, you will still need to cover additional costs including living expenses, transportation, etc. As per various surveys, €710 to 1,410 867 a month is the average living cost for international students in Germany. 

List of Public Universities in Germany

Germany boasts a number of highly respected public universities that offer a range of programs across various disciplines. These institutions are known for their strong emphasis on research, high-quality education, and affordable tuition fees. Below is a list of some of the prominent public universities in Germany:

Working After Graduation and Job Opportunities

Non-EU students who graduate from German universities need a work permit that allows them an 18-month stay back to find a job in their field. To find work, it’s very useful if you have a good knowledge of the German language. Meanwhile, in these 18 months, you can take any employment to support yourself.

As soon as you’ve found a job role you’d like to accept, you should apply for a German residence permit or EU Blue Card. Germany is a business hub that fosters new-age job roles and innovations. You can bag a lucrative job, provided you have the right qualifications and skills.

Practice-based universities (University of Applied Sciences) in Germany have agreements with large organizations to help students with internships. These internships will set a good foundation for your professional life in Germany.

Important Resources to Read About Germany:

Best Universities in Germany for International Students 

Eligibility to Enrol in German Institutes

Indian aspirants who want to enrol in Germany for higher education must check if their previous qualifications are recognized at German universities. Every school-leaving certificate  obtained in the home country must be compared and translated into German qualification terms. In India, the 10+2 education is recognized for admission to bachelor’s courses. However, Germany has a 10+3 education system. Indian students who want to enrol in bachelor’s programs in Germany will have to undertake a one-year preparatory course known as Studienkolleg. Depending on the field of study you want to pursue in Germany, you’ll be required to attend one of the following Studienkolleg courses:

• T-Kurs: German, Mathematics, Physics, Chemistry, and Informatics
• M-Kurs: German, Mathematics, Physics, Chemistry, and Biology
• W-Kurs: German, Mathematics, Economics, Business, and Sociology
• G-Kurs: German, History, German Literature, Sociology, and Statistics

For master’s admissions, one must have a recognized bachelor’s degree and work experience (if needed). 

Scholarships in Germany for International Students

Germany generous scholarships for international students, including grants offered by DAAD (German Academic Exchange Service) across all levels of education. These scholarships cover various fields of study and are offered by different organizations, providing financial support to international students studying in Germany.

More Resources to Read About Germany:

Cost of Studying in Germany 

Germany is an attractive destination for international students due to its affordable education and high-quality institutions. Below is a detailed breakdown of the costs associated with studying in Germany:

The cost of studying in Germany is quite reasonable compared to other popular study destinations. With the majority of public universities offering tuition-free education, students mainly need to budget for living expenses and other associated costs. Proper financial planning ensures a smooth and enriching educational experience in Germany.

Visa Requirements to Study in Germany 

To study in Germany, international students generally need a student visa. Specifically, you will need a "National Visa (Category D)." Below are the detailed requirements:

• Acceptance Letter: Obtain an official letter of admission from a recognized German university.
• Proof of Financial Resources: Show evidence of sufficient funds to cover living expenses in Germany. This can be demonstrated through a blocked account, scholarship award, or a financial guarantee from parents or sponsors. The blocked account is a popular option, where the money is deposited and only a certain amount can be withdrawn each month.
• Health Insurance: Provide proof of health insurance coverage that is valid in Germany. For students under 30, public health insurance is usually recommended. If you are over 30, you may need private health insurance.
• Academic Records: Submit certified transcripts, certificates, and any other documents that prove your educational background. These documents need to be translated into German or English if they are in another language.
• Language Proficiency: Depending on the language of your course (German or English), you need to provide proof of language proficiency. For German, tests like TestDaF or DSH are accepted, while for English, tests like IELTS or TOEFL are required.
• Passport and Photos: A valid passport with at least six months' validity and recent passport-sized photographs. Ensure your passport has enough blank pages for visa stamps.
• Visa Application Form: Complete and sign the student visa application form available on the German consulate or embassy website in your country. Make sure all information is accurate and matches your supporting documents.
• Motivation Letter: Write a motivation letter explaining why you want to study in Germany, your academic and career goals, and how the course aligns with these goals. This letter should be clear and concise, typically one page long.
• Curriculum Vitae (CV): Provide a detailed CV outlining your academic and professional history. Include any relevant work experience, internships, and skills.
• Visa Fee: Pay the visa application fee, which is generally around €75. This fee is non-refundable, so ensure all your documents are in order before applying.
• Proof of Accommodation: Show proof of accommodation in Germany, such as a rental agreement, a letter from the university confirming a place in student housing, or an invitation letter from a host.
• Declaration of Authenticity: A signed declaration stating that all the documents submitted are genuine and true to the best of your knowledge.

Additional Notes:

• Interview: You may be required to attend a visa interview at the German embassy or consulate. Prepare to discuss your study plans, financial situation, and post-study plans.
• Processing Time: Visa processing can take several weeks, so apply well in advance, preferably three months before your intended departure date.
• Residence Permit: Upon arrival in Germany, you need to apply for a residence permit at the local Foreigner's Office (Ausländerbehörde).

Job Opportunities in Germany 

Germany is renowned for its robust economy and vibrant job market, making it an attractive destination for international students seeking employment opportunities post-graduation. Here’s a detailed overview of the job opportunities available and what you need for jobs in Germany:

1. High Demand Sectors

• Engineering and Technology: High demand for mechanical, electrical, and civil engineers.
• Information Technology: Growing need for IT professionals, software developers, data scientists, and cybersecurity experts.
• Healthcare: Medical professionals, including doctors, nurses, and healthcare administrators, are highly sought after.
• Renewable Energy: Opportunities in solar, wind, and other renewable energy sectors.
• Business and Finance: Significant opportunities in banking, finance, marketing, and business administration.

2. Internships and Part-Time Jobs

• University Partnerships: Many German universities have partnerships with large organizations to provide students with internships, which often lead to full-time positions.
• Part-Time Work: International students can work up to 20 hours per week during the semester and full-time during breaks. Common part-time jobs include research assistants, administrative roles, and jobs in the service industry.

3. Industry-Specific Opportunities

• Automotive Industry: Opportunities in engineering, design, and production.
• Chemical and Pharmaceutical Industries: Roles in research, development, and production.
• Academia and Research: Opportunities in scientific research and development at numerous research institutions.

4. Entrepreneurial Ecosystem

Cities like Berlin and Munich have vibrant start-up ecosystems, providing opportunities for innovation-driven careers and entrepreneurial ventures.

Study abroad with upGrad

Pursue a Master in Data Science in Germany with upGrad Abroad, jointly offered by IIIT-Bangalore and IU-Germany. Get a dual alumnus status upon completion of the course, providing double the connections and networking opportunities. upGrad handles of most of the documentation work for you and offers relaxed English proficiency requirements while providing specialized training and curriculum. To enrol, get in touch with our counsellors.