Study in Germany

Education System

The German education system differs in many aspects from those in other countries, and classes are conducted primarily in German. Public universities are funded by the government and either do not charge tuition fees or charge nominal amounts. Conversely, private universities are financed by student fees, which can be considerably higher. Germany boasts a higher number of public universities compared to private ones. German law stipulates that education should be accessible to everyone, thus either abolishing tuition fees or maintaining very low ones in certain areas.

Education in Germany is often more theoretical than in other countries, with professors delivering many lectures. At the end of each term, students receive grades for their final examinations, speeches, assignments, and practical projects. The composition of these evaluations varies depending on the subject. Practical education is also offered through internships, which are mandatory in some subjects.

Popular student destinations

The top universities in Germany include Heidelberg University, Technical University of Munich, Free University of Berlin, Ludwig Maximilian University of Munich, and Humboldt University of Berlin (in no particular order).

Berlin is the hub of renowned academic institutes in Germany. Most of the country's best colleges are located in cities like Munich, Baden-Wurttemberg, Frankfurt, and Heidelberg. Approximately 5,038 Indian students were studying in Germany during the academic year 2010-2011. Engineering, Business Studies, IT/Computing, Tourism & Hotel Management, and Visual Communications are among the popular courses pursued by Indian students in Germany.

Safety in Germany

Germany is generally a safe country, with low-scale crime rates. Violent crime is rare, and most Germans do not perceive terrorism as a significant threat to their safety. However, security measures in public spaces, including the use of security cameras, have increased in recent years to enhance safety.

Weather

German summers are hot, winters are cold and snowy, and rains are unpredictable and common throughout the year. The average winter temperature is 3°C, while summers average around 22°C. Maximum temperatures typically range from -10°C in winter to 35°C in summer. With its diverse landscape divided into 16 states, Germany's weather varies across regions.

Lifestyle tips

Germany is a multicultural country with a homogenous outlook. People from various backgrounds maintain their distinct customs and traditions, contributing to a globalised atmosphere. Germans enjoy socialising and engaging in stimulating conversations. Festivals are celebrated with enthusiasm throughout the year. Living expenses in Germany are relatively affordable, alleviating concerns about excessive spending for visitors or permanent residents.

Indians living in Germany

The Indian immigrant population in Germany numbers nearly 110,000. Cities like Berlin, Dresden, Hamburg, Cologne, and Munich host the largest Indian communities.

Accommodation

Firstly, you need to decide whether you want to live in university-managed accommodation or with a private landlord. University-managed accommodation may offer catered or self-catered options. Catered accommodation provides the benefit of cooked meals and a degree of certainty with meal costs.

If you have a preference, the accommodation office at your university can inform you about available accommodation. If you're considering renting from a private landlord or if your university doesn't offer residential premises, the accommodation office can provide a list of private properties and landlords in the area.

Regardless of where you choose to live, it's important to understand your contractual rights and responsibilities. You'll likely be asked to sign a tenancy agreement, which you should thoroughly read before signing.

Orientation

Orientation week is mandatory for international students, so it's important to arrive before it begins. During orientation, you'll be introduced to the university and its services, and you'll enroll in your classes. Be sure to read your guidebook, provided by the college, which explains each part of the admission process.

Activities

In addition to sports, colleges offer a variety of extracurricular activities. Music, drama, science, and literary societies are available in all colleges, providing opportunities for outdoor education and other leisure activities. College life also includes visits to theaters, concerts, art galleries, museums, religious centers, historical sites, scientific companies, and projects.

Requirements

Students applying for an undergraduate course in Germany often need to undertake a one-year bridge program to compensate for the additional year of schooling required in Germany compared to India. Basic knowledge of the German language is required for this bridge course, and international applicants must take a language test such as TestDaF or DSH before enrolling in a degree program.

Minimum academic requirements for Indian students typically include a 70% or above in Standard XII, although foundation and diploma programs may be available for those with slightly lower scores. Applicants are also required to submit various documents, including attested copies of mark sheets, academic reference letters, a statement of purpose, a resume, language test score reports, and proof of funds.

Timeline-wise, most colleges in Germany accept online applications, with application fees varying by institution and course. The application process involves steps like searching for colleges and courses, contacting schools for information, taking entrance exams, writing essays and SOPs, applying to colleges, and appearing for video interviews if shortlisted.

Intake Seasons

The primary intake season for German universities is in September, with deadlines typically from February to May for most courses and universities. Some universities may offer admissions in March as well, with deadlines from November to January.

Language Exams

TestDaF (Test of German as a Foreign Language) and DSH (German Language University Entrance Examination) are standardized language tests required for admission to colleges in Germany. While TestDaF can be taken at testing centers in India or Germany, DSH is only administered at German universities. These tests vary in format, structure, and result bands, and many colleges accept any one of the results.

However, for students applying to international degree programs taught in English, such as Bachelor's, Master's, or PhD programs, German language exams may not be necessary. Instead, English language exams like TOEFL or IELTS may be required.

General Exams

GMAT is the standard exam for admission to MBA programs in Germany, as most of these programs are conducted in English, with some German language elements. Multilingual candidates are often preferred, so knowing German can be beneficial.

While some universities recommend or require a GRE score for Master's programs, it is not mandatory for many options in Germany. Students can take the GMAT multiple times, up to five times a year with a gap of 30 days between tests.

Cost of Living

The cost of living in Germany varies depending on the location and social activities. Basic expenses for international students include accommodation rent, groceries, utilities, phone bills, textbooks, and airfare for travel back to India. Additional expenses such as dining out, travel, car rental, car insurance, cable TV connection, and school-related expenses may vary from person to person.

While education costs in Germany are generally low, some states charge tuition fees, while others do not. Private universities tend to have higher fees, sometimes up to €20,000 per year.

Living Expenses

On average, international students in Germany require approximately €670 per month. Prices vary between big cities and small towns across the country.

Health insurance from private providers in India may be recognized in Germany, but students must confirm this with their provider and obtain a letter of exemption from compulsory public health insurance coverage. Scholarships and loans are available for international students based on merit and financial need.

Loans

To be eligible for a loan, students must meet general criteria such as being an Indian national, having a strong academic record, seeking admission to a job-oriented course, and securing admission to a foreign university institution. Documentation requirements include an acceptance letter from the university, mark sheets, and confirmation of fees.

Repayment typically starts after the course period, with a maximum repayment period of 5-7 years. Extensions may be granted for course completion, and students usually have up to 10 years to repay the loan.

Residence Permit

To stay in Germany for more than 90 days as a student, you need a residence permit. You must prove to the visa officer that you have finances for one year, ranging from €659 to €7,908 per month. The permit is valid for a maximum of two years and must be renewed if your course duration exceeds two years.

The residence permit costs €60 and can take eight to 12 weeks to be issued, so students are advised to apply as early as possible.

Visa Application

Visa application must be done in person and requires a fee of €60 (to be paid in INR). You must provide two sets of application documents, including an application form, declaration, cover letter, letter of admission from a German university, university certificates and transcripts, proof of language proficiency, and proof of funds.

Work Permit

According to German visa rules, students can work 180 days part-time or 90 days full-time in an academic year. Germany allows students to do part-time technical jobs related to their industry. Some universities also offer on-campus part-time jobs known as Hi/wi, which students can access through the institute's student placement cell.

Visa for Spouse

Spouses and children may be permitted to reside in Germany while you study, provided they meet certain conditions such as sufficient financing and living space. Individual cases are decided by the Germany embassy, and special consideration may be given if you can effectively explain your situation to the Consulate.

Pre-departure List

• Book airline tickets
• Arrange accommodation in Germany
• Arrange transportation to/from the airport to your home in Germany
• Arrange your banking; consider buying traveller’s cheques
• Check baggage and customs limitations
• Clear all paperwork with your home educational institution
• Get your documents in order and make photocopies to store in your baggage and keep at home, including:
  • Passport
  • Airline tickets
  • Travel insurance certificate
  • Letter of Acceptance by the educational institution
  • Key addresses and phone numbers
  • A bank statement showing proof of funds
  • Prescriptions for any medication you are carrying
  • Traveller's cheques, if applicable
  • Medical and immunisation records
  • Academic history and university transcripts

Placements

Indian students are used to the concept of campus placements and on-campus recruitment for getting jobs where companies visit campuses and hire graduates. There is no concept of placements in Germany, like most other countries. Most German universities have a Career Services cell, which helps you get jobs and helps you prepare for interviews. They may refer you to companies or help you get in touch with HR managers. The job search is mostly self-driven in European countries, where it is considered your prerogative.

Work Visa

After graduating from a German university, international students are granted a residence permit for one year, in which they are expected to secure a permanent job which is relevant to their discipline. If a student finds a job within this one year, they can then apply for a residence permit with a work permit, at the local Aliens Department or Ausländerbehörde.