Study in Germany – Your Gateway to Educational Excellence in Germany with Eduxpert

Hello and welcome to Eduxpert Ltd., your reliable guide to the German educational system. As a top student consulting company, we know that starting higher education is a big step in your life, and we’re here to help you every step of the way.

Country Summary

Germany is a country in central Europe that is known for its long past, wide range of cultures, and advanced technology. Germany is made up of 16 federal states, and each one has its own characteristics. Its big cities, such as Berlin, Munich, Frankfurt, and Hamburg, add to the country’s changing landscape.

Please, check the detailed information on studying in Germany.

Why Should You Choose Germany?

Germany stands out as an appealing location for international students because of its commitment to high-quality education, globally recognised universities, diversified English-language programmes, and numerous scholarship opportunities. The country’s strong economy, attractive scenery, and dynamic cultural scene add to its attraction.

At Eduxpert, we believe in giving students the information they need to make smart decisions. Germany is a great place to go because it has free tuition, world-class universities, and a high rate of job placement.

States in Germany

The state of Germany is made up of 16 federal states, such as Baden-Württemberg, Bavaria, Berlin, and Hesse. Each of these states has its own history and culture.

Capital

Berlin is the capital city of Germany.

Other Important Cities

Munich, Stuttgart, Frankfurt, Hamburg, and Cologne are among the major cities known for their cultural significance, economic prominence, and educational excellence.

Currency and Language

In Germany, the Euro (€ or EUR) is the national currency. German is the main language (95% of the population), English is spoken by most people (60%), and Turkish is also spoken by a lot of people (15%).

Available Intakes

Prospective students can plan their academic journey with two key intakes:

1. October/Winter (Admission Deadline: Apr – Jul 15)
2. April/Summer (Admission Deadline: Oct – Jan 15)

Average Tuition Fees

Germany, renowned for its tuition-free education system in public universities, may require fees for certain programs, particularly in private institutions, usually ranging from €2000 to €15000 per year.

World-Renowned Universities

Germany is home to many prestigious universities, such as:

• University of Stuttgart 
• University of Mannheim
• University of Bremen
• University of Cologne
• University of Hamburg 
• University of Cologne
• Ludwig Maximilians University Munich (LMU)
• Goethe University Frankfurt
• RWTH Aachen University
• University of Münster
• Ruhr University Bochum
• University of Duisburg-Essen
• Universität Hamburg
• FAU Erlangen-Nürnberg
• Technical University of Munich (TUM)
• University of Würzburg
• Freie Universität Berlin (Free University of Berlin)
• Heidelberg University
• Humboldt-Universität zu Berlin
• University of Munich
• RWTH Aachen University
• University of Bonn
• University of Freiburg
•  Rhine-Waal University of Applied Sciences
• Hamburg University of Technology
• Hamburg University of Applied Science
• Deggendorf University of Technology

University Rankings

Germany is known as a center for academic success, and it is home to many top-ranked universities.

Available Programs

Germany offers a diverse array of undergraduate (UG) and postgraduate (PG) programs, covering disciplines like medical, engineering, business, humanities, and sciences.

Entry Requirements for UG and PG

Entrance Criteria for UG and PG in Germany:

UG: Requires 13 years of schooling with a maximum 1.5-year study gap.

PG: Bachelor’s degree with a gap of 5 to 7 years, contingent on relevant experience.

IELTS Requirement

For UG: Minimum B2 Level (6.0)

For PG: Minimum B2 Level (6.5)

Some courses, and universities require higher IELTS scores.

Program Duration

UG: 3/3.5 years (6/7 Semesters)

PG: 2 years (4 Semesters)

Scholarship Opportunities

Aspiring students can explore scholarships offered by institutions like DAAD and Erasmus to support their academic pursuits.

Mandatory Documents Needed for Application

A comprehensive set of documents includes Passport, Photos, Academic Certificates, Transcripts, Recommendation Letters, SOP, CV, and Language Proficiency Certificates (German or IELTS).

Application Fee

Uni-Assist manages the application process, charging a fee of €75 (first application) and €30 for each additional application. Some universities may have their fee structures.

Uni-Assist and University Entrance Qualification

Uni-Assist evaluates academic documents, providing a university entrance qualification certificate. Hochschulzugangsberechtigung confirms foreign education equivalence.

DAAD and Scholarship

DAAD, a German governmental authority, offers various scholarships, including the popular DAAD and Erasmus programs.

Admission Letter (Offer Letter)

Upon fulfilling admission requirements, universities issue admission letters outlining conditions such as registration fees, language certificates, and health insurance.

Application Process

• Plan study early: Consider Germany as a destination early due to embassy waiting periods.
• Book visa appointment: Secure a visa appointment 18-20 months before the course start date.
• Find suitable programs: Explore tuition-free programs at public universities, aligning with career goals.
• Meet all requirements: Fulfill IELTS, language proficiency, and document notarization requirements.
• Learn German: Commence German language learning six months before the course to enhance language skills and job opportunities.
• Secure finances: Ensure financial resources, with a minimum of €11,208 per year, for living expenses.
• Apply for admission: Apply as soon as application portals open, considering a 6-8 week evaluation period by Uni-Assist.
• Transfer registration fees: After receiving admission, transfer required registration fees to the university’s bank account.
• Apply for German student visa: Initiate the visa application process following confirmation of admission.

Financial Overview

Cost of Living

Not only can you study for free in Germany, but it is also a pretty affordable country. The average costs of living for students range between 700 – 1,000 EUR/month, including accommodation.

Registration Fees/Semester Fees

Ranging from €100-€300, payable to the university.

Travel Health Insurance Fee

 Amounting to €110-€150, this is a prerequisite for enrolment.

Visa Application: Student VISA Fees 

With a fee of EUR 75 (EUR 37.50 for minors), processing takes about 6 weeks post-interview.

Blocked Account

To cover living expenses, students must transfer €11,208 annually to a German blocked account, with a monthly withdrawal limit of €934.

Visa Success Rate and Bank Statement

Book a visa appointment 15-19 months before application; while no bank statement is required for enrollment, it is necessary for visa applications.

Visa Appointment

Schedule a visa appointment at the German Embassy in advance at least 19 months before your course start date. So, plan early and book an appointment.

Documents and Requirement for Visa

Visa application documents include forms, passport, birth/marriage certificates, financial proof, admission confirmation, language proficiency, and health insurance.

Dependent Opportunities

Dependents can join in Master’s courses after the student’s arrival and with few conditions. Dependents are not allowed in Germany for a Bachelor’s degree.

Work Permit during Study

A student can work in Germany during term-time.

Duration: 20 hours/week during semesters, 40 hours/week during breaks with approval from the German Employment Agency.

Restricted working hours and types of employment may also apply.

• Important Notes

• Restricted working hours: You are only allowed to work 120 full days or 240 half days per year.
• Restricted employment: You are not allowed to undertake self-employment or freelancing.
• Special permission: If you want to work more than the hours allowed, you should ask for permission from the local employment agency and the foreigners’ registration office.
• Language course students: International students who are undertaking a language course or preparatory course are only allowed to work (during recess periods) with permission from the Federal Employment Agency and the Immigration Office. Typically, permission to work more hours is often granted to students living in areas with low unemployment rates.
• International students working as academic assistants are not usually restricted to a limit of working hours. Nevertheless, they will still have to let the foreigners’ office know about their circumstances.

• Note: The minimum wage in Germany: 12 Euro/hour. Range: 12-15 Euro.

Post-Study Opportunities

• Post-Study Work Visa:

Duration: 18 months.

• Enables graduates to work in Germany.
• Initiating job search during the final semester is advisable.

• Skilled Worker Visa:

After obtaining an extended residence permit, graduates can seek employment in their field.

Application for an EU Blue Card, with a salary threshold of €56,400, is recommended for non-EU graduates.

PR (Permanent Residence Permit)

• Settlement permit granted after 33 months for EU Blue Cardholders.
• Allows study, work, and family reunion in Germany.
• Naturalization possible after 8 years on a settlement permit.

Advantages and Disadvantages of Studying in Germany

• Advantages

• Free Education: Germany offers tuition-free education in public universities.
• Strong Economy: It is the fourth-largest economy globally.
• Top-Ranked Institutions: Home to globally recognized universities.
• Beautiful Landscapes: Rich cultural and natural diversity.
• High Salary Expectations: Graduates enjoy competitive salaries.

• Disadvantages

• Working Limits: Non-European students face restricted working hours.
• Language Barrier: Learning German is advantageous for daily life and job opportunities.
• Document Notarization: Requires meticulous notarization.
• 13 Years of Schooling Issue: A challenge for some international students.
• Learning German: While advantageous, it can be challenging.
• Visa Appointment Delays: Lengthy waiting periods at embassies can be a drawback.

Eduxpert makes the application process easier by helping you with planning, choosing courses, practicing your language, and thinking about money.

To sum up, Eduxpert Ltd. is not only a consultancy firm; we are also your partners in education. You can count on us to help you find an excellent educational institution in Germany. Your journey starts at Eduxpert. In this area, knowledge and education come together.