Germany
Studying abroad in Germany is a great opportunity for Indian students due to its high-quality education, low or no tuition fees at public universities, and a wide range of academic programs. Here’s a detailed guide for Indian students planning to study in Germany.
Why Study in Germany?
- HighQuality Education: Germany is home to some of the world’s top universities and is known for its academic excellence, especially in engineering, technology, and sciences. The country’s education system is highly regarded, offering a wide variety of undergraduate, postgraduate, and doctoral programs.
- Low or No Tuition Fees: Public universities in Germany typically do not charge tuition fees for undergraduate programs, even for international students. Students may only need to pay a small semester fee (around €150€300), which covers administrative costs, student services, and public transport. Private universities may charge tuition, but these fees are still generally lower compared to many other countries.
- Opportunity to Learn a New Language: While many programs are offered in English, especially at the postgraduate level, learning German can enhance your experience and career prospects in Germany and other Germanspeaking countries.
- Strong Economy and Career Opportunities: Germany is Europe's largest economy and offers strong career prospects, especially for graduates in engineering, IT, business, and other technical fields. Many German companies actively recruit international students for internships and job opportunities after graduation.
- Cultural Experience: Germany offers a rich cultural history, a high standard of living, and diverse cities, from the historical charm of Berlin to the modern vibrancy of Munich. Students get the chance to experience a unique blend of old world tradition and cutting edge innovation.
Eligibility Requirements for Indian Students
1. Academic Qualifications:
- Undergraduate Programs: You must have completed your 12th grade education from a recognized Indian board. Typically, German universities require a higher secondary score of around 75% to 90%, depending on the program and university.
- Postgraduate Programs: You should have a bachelor's degree from a recognized Indian university. The degree must be equivalent to a German bachelor's degree, and some programs may require a minimum percentage or grade.
2. Language Proficiency:
- English Proficiency: Most master’s programs are offered in English. A good score in IELTS (6.57.0) or TOEFL (90+) is usually required.
- German Proficiency (for some programs): If your program is in German, you must demonstrate proficiency in the German language. The TestDaF or DSH exams are commonly accepted. For undergraduate programs, B2-level German proficiency is typically required.
3. Visa Requirements:
- Student Visa: To study in Germany, you need to apply for a German student visa through the German Embassy or Consulate in India.
Requirements include proof of admission to a German university, proof of sufficient funds to cover living expenses (around €10,000 per year), health insurance, and accommodation details.
You must also show proof of language proficiency and your academic qualifications.
4. Financial Proof:
You must provide evidence of financial resources to cover living expenses in Germany. The blocked account system is a common way to prove this, where you deposit around €10,000 (about ₹9 lakh) for a year’s living expenses in a German bank account.
5. Health Insurance:
Health insurance is mandatory for international students in Germany. You will need to either register with a German public health insurer or get private health insurance.
Application Process
1. Research and Choose a Program:
Start by researching the available programs at German universities. Websites like DAAD (German Academic Exchange Service) and university portals are great places to explore options.
2. Prepare Documents:
- Academic transcripts (12th grade for undergrad, bachelor’s degree for postgrad)
- Language proficiency certificates (IELTS/TOEFL/TestDaF)
- CV/Resume
- Letters of Recommendation (LORs)
- Statement of Purpose (SOP)
- Passport copy
- Financial proof (blocked account or scholarship award letters)
3. Apply to Universities:
Apply directly to the universities via their online portals. Some universities may also accept applications through UniAssist, a service that helps streamline the application process for international students.
4. Wait for Acceptance:
Once your application is submitted, universities may take anywhere from 68 weeks to review and issue an acceptance letter.
5. Apply for Visa:
After receiving your acceptance letter, you can begin the student visa application process at the nearest German consulate. Make sure to submit all required documents, including proof of admission, financial resources, and health insurance.
6. Accommodation and Travel:
Look for student accommodation either oncampus or through private landlords. Popular student cities like Berlin, Munich, and Frankfurt have many options, but it’s a good idea to book early.
You can also apply for student housing through university services or external accommodation platforms.
Top Universities in Germany for Indian Students
- Technische Universität München (TUM)
- Ludwig-Maximilians-Universität München (LMU)
- University of Heidelberg
- University of Mannheim
- RWTH Aachen University
- Humboldt University of Berlin
- Freie Universität Berlin
- Karlsruhe Institute of Technology (KIT)
- University of Stuttgart
- University of Freiburg
Cost of Living in Germany
The cost of living in Germany depends on the city and lifestyle, but on average, it can range from €700 to €1,000 per month. This includes:
Accommodation: €300 to €600 per month
- Food: €200 to €300 per month
- Health Insurance: €80 to €100 per month
- Transport: €50 to €100 per month
- Miscellaneous Expenses: €100 to €200 per month
Note: You may also be eligible to work part-time in Germany (up to 120 full days or 240 half days per year) to supplement your income.
PostGraduation Opportunities
1. Stay Back Option: After completing your degree, you can apply for an 18-month post-study work visa to search for a job related to your field of study. This is a great opportunity to gain international work experience.
2. Job Market: Germany’s strong economy, particularly in industries like engineering, IT, automotive, finance, and healthcare, offers plenty of job opportunities. Many German companies, like BMW, Siemens, Bosch, and SAP, actively recruit international graduates.
3. Permanent Residency: After working in Germany for a certain period, you may be eligible to apply for permanent residency (PR), typically after 23 years of employment.
University List
IU International University
North Rhine-Westphalia, Germany
SRH University Berlin
Berlin, Germany
European University germany
Bavaria, Germany
GISMA Business School - Hannover Campus
Breukelen, Germany
Cologne Business School
North Rhine-Westphalia, Germany
Macromedia University
Bavaria, Germany
New European College
Bavaria, Germany
International School of Management | University of Applied Science
North Rhine-Westphalia, Germany
UE | University of Applied Sciences Europe
Berlin, Germany
Accadis Hochschule Bad Homburg
Brandenburg, Germany
EBS University of Business and Law
Hessen, Germany
Berlin International College
Berlin, Germany
Berlin School of Business and Innovation (BSBI)
Berlin, Germany
Schiller International University germany
Baden-Wumlttemberg, Germany
BBW University of Applied Sciences
Berlin, Germany
PFH Private University of Applied Sciences
Lower Saxony, Germany
Chappe Institute | ICT Engineering and Management
Saxony, Germany
International Graduate Center - hochschule bremen
Bremen, Germany
FOM University of Applied Sciences
Hessen, Germany
GISMA Business School - Potsdam Campus
Berlin, Germany
Schiller International University - Heidelberg Campus
Baden-Wumlttemberg, Germany
Media Design University of Applied Sciences
Brandenburg, Germany
Hamburg University of Technology
Hamburg, Germany
Northern Institute of Technology Management
Hamburg, Germany
Fresenius University of Applied Sciences
Hessen, Germany
GISMA Business School - Berlin Campus
Berlin, Germany
SRH - Dresden
Saxony, Germany
BAU International Berlin
Berlin, Germany
EU Business School, Munich
Bavaria, Germany
SRH University Heidelberg
Baden-Wumlttemberg, Germany
SRH Hamburg
Hamburg, Germany
Arden University Germany
Berlin, Germany
FHM
North Rhine-Westphalia, Germany
Steinbeis School of Management and Innovation
Berlin, Germany
SRH - North Rhine Westphalia
Nordrhein-Westfalen, Germany
Conclusion
Studying in Germany offers Indian students a unique opportunity to receive world-class education, experience a new culture, and access strong career prospects. With a growing number of English taught programs, affordable education, and an array of scholarships, Germany is a top destination for students looking to study abroad. Make sure to plan ahead, research your options, and follow the application process carefully to make the most of this amazing opportunity.
