Germany is one of the top countries where international students look to study abroad for their higher studies in 2023-2024. This is mainly because Germany has established itself as a top destination for international students by consistently providing excellent education at affordable or no cost. Its renowned academic tradition and esteemed reputation make German universities highly appealing to students with diverse interests and ambitions, as they offer a wide variety of study programs.
Benefits of studying in Germany
One of the key advantages of studying in Germany is the focus on practical learning. Unlike traditional lecture-based teaching methods, German universities emphasize hands-on experience and encourage students to apply their knowledge and theory in real-world scenarios. This approach not only deepens understanding but also prepares students for future careers. Whether it’s through internships, research projects, or industry collaborations, students gain invaluable practical skills that give them a competitive edge in the job market.
Additionally, studying in Germany provides access to world-class education at an affordable cost. Most public universities in Germany do not charge tuition fees, even for international students. This makes it an attractive option for those seeking quality education without the burden of massive student loans. Furthermore, the cost of living in Germany is relatively affordable compared to other European countries, allowing students to make the most of their academic journey without financial stress. Finally, upon the successful completion of studies in Germany, all the students have the privilege of an additional 18-month stay in the country, during which they can seize the opportunity to secure a long-term employment position.
In addition to the academic benefits, studying in Germany also offers numerous opportunities for personal growth. From exploring historical cities to immersing oneself in a new language and culture, the experiences gained while studying in Germany are invaluable and can shape an individual’s perspective on the world.
How important is learning German to study abroad in Germany?
Unlike the previous years, many of the universities in Germany have started offering English-taught courses for the bachelor and master programs in Germany, making it easy and giving more confidence for international students to apply.
Some of the advantages of learning German before you start your plan of studying in Germany are:
- Limited Program Options: Even though the availability of English-taught programs has increased in recent years, it is still more limited compared to the number of bachelor and master programs offered in German.
- Language Barrier: Although English-taught university programs eliminate the need for studying German language proficiency, it can still be advantageous to learn some basic German. This can help with daily life, social interactions, and even potential job opportunities in Germany.
- Higher Competition: English-taught programs tend to attract a larger pool of international students, leading to increased competition for admission. Hence it is very important to have strong academic credentials, prepare a compelling application, and apply well in advance to enhance your chances of acceptance. An experienced educational consultant can guide you through the university admission process and make the whole process easier.
Higher Chance for getting part-time or full-time jobs in Germany: It is said that if you don’t have the minimum A1 level in German language, you will be competing for 5% of the total jobs that are open for English-speaking.
Which university to choose in Germany for higher studies: Public or Private?
Public Universities in Germany are funded by the state government while private universities mainly rely on students’ tuition fees. According to a recent study, about 90% of admission to study abroad programs in Germany is happening in public universities due to reasons like practically no tuition fee, higher research options, world-recognized universities, etc. However many of the private universities in Germany have better services and facilities, smaller class sizes, and better hands-on learning. Public universities have higher admission requirements than private universities in Germany. Another study says, out of 500 top universities in the world, 43 universities are in Germany, out of which only 2 are private universities.
What are the different types of universities in Germany when considering higher education?
Applied Science University: These universities provide industry-based and practical courses that will help students who are focused on getting jobs. Some of the subjects that come under this category are applicable subjects including engineering courses, business and social studies, etc. The primary focus of these universities will be application-oriented, scientific, and practical.
Technical University / University: These universities focus on research-based studies. Subjects that come under this category include Medicine, Pharmacy, Teaching, Law, etc. The primary focus of these universities is research-oriented, scientific, and theoretical.
Academies of art, music, and film: These universities provide artistic training oriented, scientific, and artistic. Some of the artistic subjects include Fine arts, design, architecture, music, theater, etc.
What are some of the Top universities in Germany?
As mentioned above, Germany is home to several world-class universities that consistently rank among the top institutions globally. These universities offer a wide range of study programs across various disciplines, ensuring that students can pursue their academic interests with excellence. Some of the top universities in Germany include:
1. Technical University of Munich (TUM)
2. Ludwig Maximilian University of Munich (LMU)
3. Heidelberg University
4. Free University of Berlin
5. Humboldt University of Berlin
6. RWTH Aachen University
7. Karlsruhe Institute of Technology
8. University of Freiburg
9. University of Tübingen
10. University of Bonn
These universities are known for their exceptional faculty, state-of-the-art facilities, and strong research output. Studying at one of these prestigious institutions not only provides a world-class education but also opens doors to a global network of professionals and researchers.
To know about various options to study in Germany affordably, check out our blog Study in Germany with Frees. Tuition Fees
How to select the best university in Germany?
Some of the factors to consider while choosing your desired university are Fees, Eligibility, and Language.
No matter whether you are graduating from a high-ranked university or a low-ranked university, your opportunity to land a job depends entirely on your academics, experience, and overall understanding of the subject.
Fees:
Most of the public universities in Germany have no tuition fees except for the state of Baden-Wurttemberg where students outside the European Union (EU) have to pay tuition fees at public universities. But the students have to pay a semester contribution every semester which covers administrative fees, student services, transport tickets, public transport, etc which ranges from 150 Euro to 450 Euros depending on the university. If you choose a private university in Germany, then you have to consider its tuition fees as well.
Language:
If you are fluent and confident in the German language and have the minimum B2 or C Level of German Language proficiency you can opt for the programs in German as there is less competition compared to English taught courses. On the contrary, if you have a good academic score and work experience your chances of getting into English-taught programs are higher. The criteria for the English-taught courses in Germany is to clear IELTS/TOEFL examinations.
Eligibility Criteria:
When applying to universities in Germany, it’s important to take note of the eligibility criteria. While some courses, such as those offered at the Technical University of Munich (TUM) or RWTH AACHEN University, may require a GRE/GATE score, only a select few universities ask for these scores to assess applicants during the admission process. In most cases, your IELTS or TOEFL score, along with your academic marks, will be the main factors considered. It’s advisable to apply to a diverse range of universities to increase your chances of admission.
Another crucial aspect to consider when selecting your desired course of study in Germany is its relevance to your previous academic subjects. Admissions processes often heavily depend on your scores in relevant subjects studied in previous academic levels.
How an Educational Consultant can help you to study abroad in Germany?
Shortlisting universities and applying to various institutions in Germany can be a daunting and time-consuming process. However, seeking assistance from an experienced Education Consultant can make the process significantly easier. These consultants can help you prepare application documents such as the Statement of Purpose (SOP) or Motivation Letter, ensuring they are tailored to each specific course and university. They will guide the entire application process.
We are one among those Educational Consultants in UAE who support end-to-end for students to study in Germany. We also provide local support for the students once they reach Germany. It purely depends on the choice of the student or their parents whether to seek the guidance of an educational consultant.
In short, to prepare for your study abroad program in Germany, it is advisable to build a strong profile with excellent academic scores and begin your German language preparation in advance. Join the thousands of students who have had their education transformed by studying in Germany. Embrace a new way of learning, unlock endless opportunities, and broaden your horizons in this remarkable country.