Germany
Germany, officially known as the Federal Republic of Germany, stands as a federal parliamentary republic situated in west-central Europe. Comprising 16 states, its capital and largest city is Berlin. The nation experiences a predominantly temperate seasonal climate. As the most populous member state in the European Union, Germany holds significant political influence on the continent and is a leading force in various technological sectors. It boasts the largest national economy in Europe, ranking as the world’s fourth-largest economy by nominal GDP and the fifth-largest by purchasing power parity. Renowned for its robust export industry, Germany is the second-largest exporter and third-largest importer of goods globally. The country prides itself on its high standard of living and extensive social security system. Notably, Germany is home to globally recognized brands such as Mercedes-Benz, BMW, SAP, Siemens, Volkswagen, Adidas, Audi, Allianz, Porsche, Bayer, Bosch, and Nivea. Furthermore, it is distinguished for its thriving ecosystem of specialized small and medium enterprises (SMEs).
Good Reasons to Study in Germany
- Exceptional Services Catered to International Students
- Diverse Range of Degree Programs Available
- Prominence in both Research and Teaching Endeavors
- Established Connections between Academic Learning and Practical Application
- Emphasis on Global Perspectives
Education in Germany
In most German states, there are no tuition fees for higher education. German universities and colleges welcome students from all over the world. However, students are responsible for their own living expenses, as well as any additional miscellaneous costs. Various programs are offered, including:
- Bachelor’s Programs
- Master’s Programs
- Doctoral Programs
Admission to Bachelor's Programs
English-Taught Courses
Several programs are conducted in English, providing students with internationally recognized degrees.
German-Taught Courses
Prospective students seeking undergraduate studies in German may need to undergo a one-year bridging program. This compensates for the 13 years of schooling required in Germany compared to 12 years in India; although some institutions accept students with 12 years of schooling. To qualify for this bridging course, Indian students must have an outstanding academic record up to the Senior Secondary Level (10 + 2) and possess basic knowledge of the German language (G III Level of Max Mueller Bhavans) if pursuing bachelor’s degrees taught in German. Upon completion of the bridging program, Indian students are required to pass an assessment test for admission to a German institution equivalent to a Bachelor’s degree. Those who have cleared the IIT Joint Entrance Examination (JEE) are exempt from the assessment test.
Students who have completed two years of undergraduate studies are also exempt but must demonstrate proficiency in the German language.
Admission to Postgraduate Programs
German universities now offer international courses leading to a Master’s degree, some of which commence with English as the medium of instruction. Students must hold an Indian undergraduate degree to be eligible.
Admission to PhD Programs
Similar to other countries, international students must possess a Master’s Degree and have identified a professor in Germany willing to supervise their doctoral studies.
Admission Requirements
Admission to German programs is primarily based on academic records. However, some management courses may require a GMAT, while certain engineering programs necessitate a GRE score. Additionally, students must meet the IELTS or TOEFL requirements set by the university and selected course (Bachelor’s, Master’s, or PhD).
Semester Schedule
The winter semester begins in October, while the summer semester starts in April.
Student Visa Benefits
1.5-Year Post-Study Stay
Upon graduation, students can remain in Germany for up to 18 months to seek skilled employment. Highly qualified individuals with a job offer in Germany may obtain a Settlement Permit (Niederlassungserlaubnis) without labor market checks or approval from the Federal Employment Agency (Bundesagentur für Arbeit).
Foreign Academics with an employment contract and earning a minimum of €44,800 (US$59,000) annually (or €35,000 for certain professions) are eligible for a Blue Card, allowing them to apply for permanent residency after two to three years. Their dependents do not require approval from the Federal Labor Agency when seeking employment.
Part-Time Employment
Students can work up to 120 days per year to support themselves. There are no restrictions on employment while searching for permanent positions, and approval from the Federal Labor Agency is not required.
Residence Permit
Under specific circumstances, students may qualify for a settlement permit, granting them indefinite residency after two years.