Germany
"Discover Germany: Your Ultimate Guide to Studying Abroad"
Study in Germany
How to apply yourself?
Research and select universities
The first step is to research and select German universities that offer the desired graduate programme. A good starting point is to check the DAAD (German Academic Exchange Service) database, which lists all the universities and programmes available in Germany. Students can also use other search engines such as Study-in-Germany, Uni-Assist, and Mastersportal to find suitable universities and programmes.
Example : If you want to pursue a master’s degree in engineering, you can search for universities that offer programs in that field, such as the Technical University of Munich, University of Stuttgart, RWTH Aachen University, and many others.
- You can use websites like DAAD (https://www.daad.de/en/) or Uni-Assist (https://www.uni-assist.de/en/) to find information on universities and programs.
- DAAD also offers an online database of international programs in Germany (https://www.daad.de/en/study-and-research-in-germany/plan-your-studies/international-programmes/).
Check the eligibility requirements
Once you’ve identified a few programs and universities, review their admission requirements carefully. German universities have specific requirements for each program, and it’s essential to meet them to be considered for admission. The requirements can include transcripts, language proficiency tests (German and English), entrance exams, and letters of recommendation.
Example : The Technical University of Munich requires applicants to have a bachelor’s degree in a related field, a minimum GPA of 2.3, and a German language proficiency test score of at least B1 level. They also require GRE or GMAT scores for some programs.
Take standardized tests
Many German universities require standardized tests such as the TestDaF or DSH for German language proficiency and GRE or GMAT for specific programs. Register for the tests and take them as early as possible to meet the application deadlines.
Example : To apply to RWTH Aachen University’s Master’s program in Mechanical Engineering, you need to provide a GRE test score along with your application.
Prepare application documents
Prepare and submit the required application documents. The documents may include transcripts, CV, recommendation letters, statement of purpose, language proficiency test scores, and other programme-specific requirements.
Example : Mr. Kumar prepares his CV, obtains his transcripts, and writes a statement of purpose explaining his motivation to pursue the programme. He also obtains two recommendation letters from his professors.
Submit application
Submit your application and required documents by the deadline. Many German universities have an online application process, and you can submit your application online.
Example : The deadline to apply to the Technical University of Munich’s Master’s program in Electrical Engineering and Information Technology is 1 December 2022. Submit your application and all required documents before the deadline.
Wait for admission decision
After submitting the application, wait for the admission decision. It may take several weeks or months for the university to review your application and make a decision.
Example : The University of Stuttgart will inform you of their admission decision within six weeks of the application deadline.
Apply for a student visa
Indian students need a student visa to study in Germany. You can apply for a student visa at the German embassy or consulate in India. The visa application process can take up to 8-12 weeks, so make sure to apply well in advance.
The required documents for a student visa application are:
- Valid passport
- Letter of acceptance from the university
- Proof of financial resources to cover living expenses in Germany
- Health insurance
- Visa application form
The visa application fee is approximately INR 8,500. For more information on the student visa application process, visit the website of the German Embassy in India.
Example : Priya has been accepted into a master’s program at Technical University of Munich. She applies for a student visa at the German consulate in Mumbai. She submits all the required documents, including her passport, letter of acceptance, proof of financial resources, health insurance, and visa application form. After a waiting period of 8 weeks, Priya’s student visa is approved.
Arrange for Accommodation
After getting admission and visa, you will need to find suitable accommodation in Germany. Many universities have student housing facilities, so check with your university to see if this is an option. You can also look for private accommodation such as shared apartments, rooms, or homestays.
The cost of accommodation in Germany varies depending on the location, type of accommodation, and amenities provided. On average, a room in a shared apartment can cost INR 25,000-30,000 per month. It is advisable to arrange for accommodation before arriving in Germany.
Example : Rohit has been accepted into a Ph.D. program at the University of Hamburg. He decides to look for private accommodation and finds a shared apartment near the university through a local rental agency. The rent for his room is INR 28,000 per month.
There are several websites that can help you find accommodation in Germany, such as:
- Websites like Studentenwerk (https://www.studentenwerk.de/en) and WG-Gesucht (https://www.wg-gesucht.de/en/) can help you find accommodation.
- https://www.studenten-wg.de/
- https://www.immobilienscout24.de/
Plan for Living Expenses
Living expenses in Germany can vary depending on the location, lifestyle, and accommodation. As an international student, you will need to show proof of financial resources to cover your living expenses during your stay in Germany.
On average, a student in Germany spends around INR 40,000-50,000 per month on living expenses. This includes accommodation, food, transportation, health insurance, and other miscellaneous expenses.
Example : Akshay is an international student at RWTH Aachen University. He has budgeted INR 45,000 per month for his living expenses. This covers his accommodation in a student residence hall, food, transportation, and health insurance.
The cost of a single room in a student dormitory in Munich can range from INR 25,000 to INR 35,000 per month.
Look for Part-Time Jobs or Internships
International students in Germany are allowed to work part-time for up to 120 full days or 240 half days in a year. You can look for part-time jobs or internships to support your living expenses and gain work experience.
You can find part-time job and internship opportunities on job portals, university career centers, or through networking. It is important to check with your university and the German embassy for any restrictions on working while studying.
Example : Smita is a student at the University of Mannheim. She wants to gain work experience and earn extra money, so she looks for a part-time job on the university job portal. She finds a job as a research assistant at the university’s business school and works 10 hours per week, earning INR 18,000 per month.
The DAAD offers information on finding part-time jobs and internships in Germany: https://www.daad.de/en/study-and-research-in-germany/plan-your-studies/working-and-career/
German Language Proficiency
Although many graduate programs in Germany are taught in English, learning German can be beneficial. Knowing the German language will help you in your daily life, including interactions with locals and navigating German culture. It can also increase your chances of finding a part-time job or internship while studying. For programs that are taught in German, you will typically need to provide proof of German proficiency, such as a TestDaF or DSH certificate. The required level of proficiency can vary depending on the program and university, but generally, a B2 level is required.
There are several ways to learn German, including language courses offered by language schools, universities, and online platforms. Some popular options include:
Goethe-Institut : The Goethe-Institut is a global organization dedicated to promoting the German language and culture. They offer German language courses both in Germany and online. You can find more information and course prices on their website.
Language schools : There are many language schools in Germany that offer German language courses for international students. Some popular options include the Carl Duisberg Centren and the Humboldt-Institut. Costs vary depending on the program and duration of the course.
University language courses : Many universities in Germany offer German language courses for international students. These courses are often included in the tuition fees and can range from beginner to advanced levels.
Online language courses : There are also many online language courses available, such as Duolingo, Babbel, and Rosetta Stone. These courses can be more affordable than in-person courses and allow for flexible scheduling.
Attend orientation and start classes
- Attend the orientation program offered by the university to get familiar with the campus and academic environment.
- Start attending classes and enjoy your academic journey in Germany.
When it comes to scholarships, German universities and foundations offer a variety of scholarships for international students. You can find more information on scholarships through the DAAD scholarship database (https://www.daad.de/en/study-and-research-in-germany/scholarships/).
Best Wishes
CEO, LearnPlusPlus
Top German Universities
The Technical University of Munich
Ranked 50th in the QS World University Rankings 2022
Ludwig-Maximilians-Universität München
Ranked 63rd in the QS World University Rankings 2022
Heidelberg University
Ranked 64th in the QS World University Rankings 2022
Humboldt University of Berlin
Ranked 117th in the QS World University Rankings 2022
Freie Universität Berlin
Ranked 130th in the QS World University Rankings 2022
List of universities in Germany
- RWTH Aachen University - Aachen
- University of Augsburg - Augsburg
- University of Bamberg - Bamberg
- Free University of Berlin - Berlin
- Humboldt University of Berlin - Berlin
- Technical University of Berlin - Berlin
- Berlin University of the Arts - Berlin
- Bielefeld University - Bielefeld
- University of Bonn - Bonn
- University of Bremen - Bremen
Frequently Asked Questions
German universities offer a wide range of programmes at the undergraduate, postgraduate, and doctoral levels. These include subjects like engineering, natural sciences, social sciences, humanities, business, and law, among others.
Yes, there are a number of scholarships available for Indian students who wish to study in Germany. Some of these scholarships are specifically designed for Indian students, such as the DAAD (German Academic Exchange Service) scholarships. Additionally, many universities in Germany offer their own scholarships and financial aid packages.
Most universities in Germany are publicly funded and operated by the federal government or the states. However, there are also a number of private universities in Germany.
Germany is a welcoming and inclusive country that values diversity and international exchange. Students can expect to find a vibrant and lively student culture, with plenty of opportunities to socialize and get involved in extracurricular activities.
Tuition fees are generally low or non-existent for international students in Germany, as most universities are publicly funded. However, students will still need to budget for living expenses such as accommodation, food, and transportation.