Requirements to Study in Germany for International Students

Study in Germany 

 

Demographics

Germany has the strongest economy amongst all the countries of the European Union. Germany shares its border with 9 countries, that has resulted into a diverse culture and a multifaceted population. Germany is home to some of the world’s most successful corporations such as BMW, Mercedes, Siemens, Adidas and Bosch. In recent year’s Germany has gained popularity as one of the most coveted study destinations. Germany ranks 10th in quality of living, 3rd in quality of education and 66 universities are in top universities of the world.

Courses in Germany

Engineering courses offered in German universities are one of the best in the world with automobile engineering virtually stealing the show. The other courses are business administration, media and communication management, psychology, world literature and modern language, bioscience and biotechnology, tourism and hospitality management, pharmacy and medicine, international relations, cultural diplomacy and many more.

Knowledge of German is Mandatory

While countries around the world ask for various English proficiency tests like TOEFL, IELTS, PEARSON Test, universities in Germany ask specifically for German proficiency test. Most of the courses in Germany are taught in German language only. Elementary level proficiency in German language can be attained in 1 year, while for advanced level it takes anything between 2-3 years depending upon efforts.

Work Permit

Students of non-EU countries who want to work in Germany after their graduation can extend their residence visa up to 18 months which helps them find work related to their studies.

 

Student visa

There are two categories and 3 types of visa. A student who has to stay in Germany for 3 months needs Schengen visa and one who has to stay more than 3 months requires German National visa. The papers and all documents should be in order and authentic failing which it will result in cancellation of visa.

 

Scholarships

Education in state funded universities is free in Germany. The competition though is very tough to be eligible for free tuition fees criteria of universities. Heinrich Ball Scholarship for graduate and under graduate students (based on merit), Gates Millennium Scholarship (based on case-to-case basis), Hani Zeini Scholarship (merit based) are some of the scholarships available for eligible candidates.

 

Enrolment Guide

The documents should be filled carefully, while providing information full transparency should be maintained. In case of fake/incorrect information the student would be banned from entering the country let alone studying there.

 

Accommodation

There are several options available as far as accommodation in Germany is concerned.

v  Provided by the university which have all the basic amenities

v  Home stay which is similar to paying guest system in which families accommodate students and provide them with an independent room with all the amenities

v  One can stay in independent flats though they are slightly expensive

In Germany the expenses of a student depend on accommodation, location and scholarship options. Germany provides a lot of short-term courses which are cost effective. But overall, the expense in any country depends on the lifestyle of the student.