Study in Germany
December 22, 2023 2024-05-22 12:57Study in Germany
Study in Germany ..
Why Study In Germany?
Germany stands out as an exceptional destination for international students seeking top-notch education and an exciting urban lifestyle. With its inclusive culture and open doors to immigrants from all corners of the world, Germany offers unparalleled opportunities for those holding a German study visa.
- Universities in Germany, notably, either charge minimal tuition fees or none at all. This financial relief is further enhanced by the wide array of funding and scholarship options they provide for overseas students, ensuring a secure and worry-free educational journey.Â
- Many programs are taught in English, enabling students to broaden their horizons in a diverse and international environment.
- Moreover, thanks to the vast German economy, graduates from German universities are greeted with a multitude of job prospects, instilling a sense of hope and optimism for a successful career.Â
- The universities themselves offer a rich multi-ethnic ambiance, and students have the freedom to choose from a wide range of universities and courses while enjoying a high standard of living at a low cost.Â
Additionally, the central location in Europe provides students the freedom to travel and explore other European countries.
- Top-ranked universities worldwide
- 1.5 years of post-study work permit
- Low tuition fees (0 to €3500 per year)
- Various scholarships are available for graduate and undergraduate students, ranging from EUR 1200 to 15,000 euros
Germany study visa types
Before embarking on your journey to study in Germany, it’s crucial to understand the different study visas available for international students.
German Student Visa:Â This Visa is for international students who have been admitted to study at a German university. After being admitted, this Visa enables students to study and work limited hours in Germany.
The German Student Applicant Visa is necessary if you need to apply in person for admission to a university course. However, it’s important to note that you cannot study in Germany with this Visa. It’s a stepping stone toward your academic journey.
German Language Course Visa:Â This Visa is issued to students interested in learning German Language course in Germany.Â
Type of Universities in Germany
In Germany, you have the opportunity to choose from a variety of state and private higher education institutions. These include universities, universities of applied sciences, and schools of art, film, and music. The choice of institution should be based on your field of study, with all institutions maintaining a similar level of quality.
Germany boasts over 400 state-recognized higher education institutions, offering an extensive range of approximately 20,000 study programs.
The following types of higher education institutions are available in Germany:
Public universities impart theoretical knowledge and offer various subject groups. Some specialize in specific areas such as technology or education, and students can pursue bachelor’s, master’s, and doctorate degrees. Ex: Heidelberg University, Leipzig University, Technical univeristy of Berlin, Technical university of munich etc.Â
Universities of Applied Sciences emphasize practical orientation and cater to professional requirements. They offer bachelor’s and master’s degrees; some also provide doctorate programs. Subject areas include technology, business, social services, and media, with internships or projects forming part of the curriculum. Ex: Frankfurt University of Applied Sciences‎, Fachhochschule Dortmund, Hochschule Düsseldorf, Merseburg University of Applied Sciences etc.Â
Universities of Art, Film, and Music:Â These schools offer programs in creative subjects and often require passing an entrance examination for admission.Â
State-funded and private universities:Â While most universities and colleges in Germany are state-funded, there are also over 120 private universities with state-recognized degrees. State-funded universities are the predominant choice for students, with private universities possibly charging higher study fees.
Note:Â Education in Germany is decentralized, with each of the 16 states having its own higher education laws and regulations. This decentralization allows for a diverse educational landscape but also necessitates students to be fully aware of their chosen university’s specific rules and regulations.
Intakes in Germany
Please take note of the following Germany intakes and application deadlines:
Summer Intake:Â The summer semester takes place between March and August. The application deadline is January 15th every year.
Winter Intake:Â The winter semester runs from October through February or October through March. The application deadline is July 15th every year.
Germany offers regular study intakes for Graduate and Masters Courses, ensuring a secure and consistent academic journey. Here are the details for higher study options:
Germany Study Intakes for Graduate and Masters Courses
Higher Study Options | Duration | Intake Months | Deadline to Apply |
Bachelors | 4 Years | October (Major) & March (Minor) | 6-8 months before the intake month |
Masters (MS/MBA) | 2 Years | October (Major) & March (Minor) |
German university admission general requirements
German university admission general requirements:Â
- Transcripts and certificates of your academics
- An interview with the corresponding university if applicable.
- Any of the English language proficiency tests, IELTS, TOEFL, if applicableÂ
- German language proficiency certificate (Goethe, spache diploma), if applicableÂ
- Go through the university’s official portal for information regarding the additional requirements.
Bachelors study:
- 12 Years of Education (10+2) / 13 years of educationÂ
- Official transcripts in English/German
- English language proficiencyÂ
- German language skills (few public universities)
- Passport Copy
- CV
- Motivation letter
- Reference letters
- Health insurance
- Entrance exam or interview (if any)
- Medical certificate (if applicable)
- Proof of finances
Masters study:Â
-   An accredited bachelor’s degree in a related field
- Official transcripts in English/German
- English language proficiencyÂ
- German language skills (if required)
- Passport
- CV
- Portfolio, internship, or work experience (preferable)
- Motivation letter
- Health insurance
- Medical certificate (if applicable)
- Reference letters
- Visa
- Proof of finances
Doctoral study:Â
- Master’s degree in a relevant field from an accredited university
- Official transcripts in English/German
- English language proficiencyÂ
- German language skills (if required)
- Passport
- CV
- Motivation letterÂ
- Portfolio of published papers or research articles
- Reference letters
- Health insurance
- Medical certificate (if applicable)
- Proof of financial support
Checklist for German student visa application
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- Application form
- Declaration for additional contact and legal representation information
- Statement of Purpose
- Proof of admission to the study courseÂ
- Certificated of all academic qualificationsÂ
- Curriculum vitae
- Financial cover proof
Germany student visa validity
Once you have your German study visa, you can feel secure knowing it is usually issued for 3 to 12 months. This gives you ample time to migrate to Germany and complete the official educational formalities. After that, you can apply for a German resident permit, which is issued for the duration of your course. And if needed, the resident license can also be extended, providing you with a stable stay in Germany during your studies.
The processing time for a German study visa can range from 12 weeks to 6 months, depending on the number of applications at the German embassy. After you apply, it is possible to track your visa status.
Scholarship to Study in Germany
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Name of the Scholarship | Amount | Number of Applications | |
DAAD scholarships | Graduate:€ 750/per month, Doctorate: € 1000/per month | 1,00,000 | |
Heinrich Böll Foundation Scholarships | Graduate:€ 934/per month, Doctorate: € 1200/per month | 1500 applications | |
DeutschlandStipendium National Scholarship Program | € 934/per month | Approximately 30,500 | |
Konrad-Adenauer-Stiftung Scholarship | Graduate:€ 934/per month, Doctorate: € 1400/per month |
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Friedrich Ebert Foundation Scholarships | Graduate:€ 830 /per month |
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Bayer Foundation Fellowships | € 10,000 for research projects |
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StipendiumPlus | Graduate:€ 812/per month, Doctorate: € 1400/per month | Approximatly 30,000 | |
Humboldt Research Fellowship | Post doctoral researchers € 2670 and exp erienced researchers € 3,170 |
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TUM Linde / MDSI Master Scholarship | Graduate:€ 1000/per month, Doctorate: € 1400/per month |
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Heidelberg University HAUS Scholarships | Bachelor‘s:  $3,000; Master‘s: $5,000 |
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University of Hamburg Merit Scholarships | Doctorate: € 1000/per month |
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Federal German State-Specific Scholarships | €600 to €1,400 per month | 1,500 applications | |
Bavaria – Max Weber-Program | semester allowance of €1,290 for under 23 years old age | 400 scholarships per year | |
The Lower Saxony Scholarship | one-off payment of €500. |
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Berlin – Elsa Neumann Scholarship | €1,350 per month |
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ESMT MBA Scholarships | Scholarships can cover tuition fees, ranging from €1,000 to €24,750 |
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WHU Otto Beisheim Scholarships | Scholarship upto at €10,000 |
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Frankfurt School of Finance and Management Scholarships | Upto €3,000 | —— | |
Mannheim Business School Scholarships | Upto €4,000 | —— |
Work permit for students in Germany during studies
Students from non-EU countries can work up to 140 full days or 280 half-days per year in Germany without needing approval from the Federal Employment Agency (BA). A working day of up to four hours is half a working day. This allows you to plan your work schedule effectively within the permitted limits. If the applicant has a partner, then the partner gets the same rights  to work up to 140 full days or 280 half-days per yearÂ
Requirements:
– Confirmation from the university as a student
– Residence permit
– At least 18 years of age
Work permit possibilities in Germany after studies
After completing their studies, individuals can obtain an 18-month job seeker visa to find a job in Germany. Once their student visa expires, they have 18 months to secure a work visa to stay in the country. They can apply for an EU Blue card if they find a job with a minimum gross annual salary of at least €45,300 (as of 2024).
The gross salary threshold, which is a key consideration, is lower in occupations facing a shortage of skilled workers (specific list), approximately at least €41,041.80 (as of 2024). It’s important to note that their employment must be approved by the Federal Employment Agency (BA). This €41,041.80 salary threshold also applies to university graduates within three years of graduation, providing a beneficial exception for recent graduates.
The EU Blue Card is typically issued for four years. However, if the job contract is shorter, the card will be issued for the contract duration plus an additional three months, provided all requirements are met. After 33 months of residing in Germany with an EU Blue Card, individuals can apply for a settlement permit, which allows them to settle in Germany permanently.
Ways in which AcademicsGate supports students
Academicsgate consultancy reduces the complexities of international education. We provide expert guidance on selecting the ideal destination and university, assist with the application process, offer valuable insights on visa requirements, and address any other academic or logistical concerns associated with studying abroad.
Our support extends to sharing skills required to make cultural adaptations easier and providing insights about possible internships and the possibility of securing a job in the desired destination country. Ultimately, we are dedicated to ensuring a seamless and stress-free experience for students pursuing international education, leaving no aspect of their journey unattended.
Frequently Asked Questions
Germany’s student visa success rate is higher because universities maintain higher standards for admission and filter students during the admission process. Individuals with university admission and proper financial documents have a high chance of visa success.
Indian students applying for a German study visa must demonstrate a bank balance of at least €11,208 (as of 2024). To meet this requirement, they must open a blocked bank account in a German bank and transfer the necessary funds into that account. Additionally, they must provide evidence of their financial resources to support themselves while living in Germany.
If you are a native English speaker, you will not be required to provide either TOEFL or IELTS. However, you must take TOEFL or IELTS to apply for a program entirely taught in English at a German university. Additionally, if you are applying for a postgraduate degree program and already have an undergraduate degree from an English-taught course, you will not need TOEFL or IELTS.
Fachhochschulen, or Universities of Applied Sciences, are institutions designed to provide maximum practical experience. They are ideal for individuals seeking hands-on learning opportunities. These institutions primarily offer degree programs in engineering and hard sciences at the Bachelor’s and Master’s levels but do not typically offer PhD programs.
Studentenwerk is a state-run non-profit organization that assists with student affairs in Germany. Each Studentenwerk is organized locally to serve one or more universities. This organization works in students’ interest by managing cafeterias, restaurants, and accommodations. Additionally, it provides the BAföG program, offering grants and loans to finance studies.