Over the last few years, Germany has solidified its position as one of the most popular educational destinations for international students, including Indian students. According to the research, the country has witnessed around 18.44% of education growth. As a result, Indian students are the second-largest enrolling group in German universities.
So, if you too are planning to fly to Deutschland, you need to know the basics about studying abroad in Germany.
This blog will do just that for you. Read on to find the answers to your queries regarding why Germany is a brilliant choice, the requirements you have to meet and the top universities to aim for.
Top 4 Reasons for Studying in Germany
- Free Education: Most German universities are funded by the Government. As a result, students can acquire their studies for almost zero or low tuition fees.
- Top universities worldwide:Germany is known for excellent universities per the QS world ranking. These public universities enjoy a good reputation worldwide, and students value them. The degrees are globally recognised and open doors for all students worldwide.
- Quality job opportunities: Germany also offers part-time jobs for international students. Either student can work 20 hours a week or 120 full days a year. Working part-time is an excellent way for international students to cover their expenses. Also, Germany has a well-developed economy. That’s why it is easier for students to find jobs.
- Low-cost living:In Germany, the cost of living is quite affordable compared to other nations. The additional costs for food, activities and public transport aren’t that high. Therefore, you can easily handle your finances with part-time jobs and make a better career.
This is why so many Indian students plan to study abroad further in Germany. Now, if the reasons seem compelling enough to you, it is time you start applying for colleges there.
Now, what is the procedure to apply? Read on to know!
8 Steps to Apply to German Universities
The steps that you have to follow to get through a Germany university are –
- Select the proper course and university
Germany offers various courses to choose from. So, choosing a particular university and a course can be a little challenging.
Furthermore, the courses offer both German and English languages. Out of almost 2000+ courses, you’ll find 1300+ courses in English. So, before you decide on choosing the course and university for undergraduate, master’s, diploma or PhD programmes, you need to keep these points in mind:
- Look for universities according to your subject
- Choose your course programmes
- Evaluate the university’s rankings
- Compare your course content with other universities
- Evaluate the admission and employment opportunities
- Check for the tuition, application fees and scholarships
Once you meet these requirements, you’ll be able to choose and select the right course for your studies.
- Evaluate the admission requirements and apply
Before applying to a selected university, you must evaluate whether your current qualifications are acceptable or not. For an undergraduate student, a high-school diploma and school-leaving certificates are sufficient. Also, the language requirement is an important checkpoint. Even if the universities offer courses in English or any other language, knowing German is mandatory as the language proof acts as a bonus for better livelihood. Plus, most of the professors or classes will stick to German. That’s why you need to sit for language proficiency tests. There are four types of German language proficiency tests –
- Zertifikat Deutsch or ZD
- DSH (Deutsche Sprachprufungfur Den Hochschulzugang)
- Telc Gmbh
- TestDaf or Test Deutsch ALS Fremdsprache
Alongside, you need to put certain documents while applying to the university, which are –
- Copy of your passport
- Certified copy of your degrees
- A statement of purpose
- Proof of language proficiency tests as required by the university
- Receipt of application fee payment
After you have submitted your application form along with the documentary evidence, it’s time for you to wait for the acceptance letter.
- Be ready financially
To meet the visa and university requirements, you must show financial proof of having finances of a minimum €8,700 per year (approximately 811,304.72 INR). This is because the university administration checks whether the students can cover living costs.
Here are a few financial sources to rely on –
- Your savings
- Parental income
- Education loan
- Scholarships and grants
Despite having low tuition fees, you might face some difficulties covering living expenses. So, use these financial aids to gather your finances.
- Invest in health insurance
Health insurance is another essential aspect that every German institute checks. This insurance is required to meet health emergencies during your stay in Germany. If you do not have any particular health insurance or med claims, you’ll likely pay between €80 and €160 per month. Therefore, get connected with some notable health insurance agencies to get proper health insurance. Your budget may extend a little to cover your health emergencies. But it’s all worth it.
- Apply for a German student permit
After receiving the acceptance or offer letter from your university, it’s time to seek for staying permit from the German Government. For example, if you’re an Indian student, you need to have certain documents, which include-
- A valid passport
- Filled form for German national visa application
- Institute’s acceptance letter
- Visa photos
- Background certificates and resume
- Financial and health documents
- Declaration forms
Once you’ve gathered these documents, connect or schedule an appointment with the German immigration office or German Embassy. After you apply for a visa, you need to pay visa fees through demand drafts or net banking. Once you’ve completed your payment, you can submit and enter for a visa interview.
- Look for accommodation
Most German universities do not offer accommodation. So, you have to find suitable accommodation once you’ve completed your visa and application. Also, you need to make registrations at the residents’ registration office (Einwohnermeldeamt) or the citizen’s bureau (Burgeramt) to get an accommodation as per your budget and location.
- Enrol into your dream university
For German universities, the enrolment takes place after you get the student permit. While enrolling, you must make the payment for your first semester. Also, you must include certain documents for completing the process –
- Acceptance letter
- Your passport with visa
- Multiple passport photos
- Admission notices
- Proof of language proficiency test
- Proof of health insurance in Germany
- Receipt of semester fee payments
After the enrolment, you’ll receive the registration certificate. This certificate is a provisional student ID, residence permit, and class registration.
- Prep up for your journey
With the approval of the visa, enrolment ID and other registration, you’ll get permission to enter the country. However, you cannot enter before the permit date. So, plan your journey accordingly and get tickets to avoid any last-minute rush. Once you land in the country, the immigration officers will check your permit and other necessary documents. If you face any trouble in between, you can immediately seek help from the university’s office or advisory services which your university’s student committee offers.
Thus, these eight steps summarise the process of applying to German universities. Now, I’ll list the top three universities you must look at before you apply.
Top 3 Universities in Germany You Can Study In
- LMU Munich: It is one of the oldest universities in Germany. The university is affiliated with 42 Nobel laureates, including Otto Hahn and more. With this extended reputation, the university offers courses in science as well as in arts discipline. You can check it out on their website to learn more about them.
- Heidelberg University: Another reputed and old university in Germany is Heidelberg University. Founded in 1386, the university offers 160 study programmes. Alongside, many influential politicians, philosophers and others are alumni of this university. The university is known as the home of German Romanticism. It is also one of the famous tourist attractions in Germany. You can check their website to know the requirements for admission.
- Technical University of Munich: This University is entirely dedicated to science and technology. Since 1927 the university initially focused on engineering. Now it has expanded and included other natural sciences, agriculture and food technology subjects. Visit the websiteto know their admission procedures.
Parting thoughts
Studying in Germany can be a life-changing one. Here, students can enjoy the perks of working, a proper lifestyle, quality education and diversity across the culture. Alongside, with job opportunities, you can earn in one of the topmost currencies of the world – EUROS. Also, the country’s lands are enriched with history and multiple cultures. So, go and follow your dreams!
Author Bio
Simon Park is a professional student working with AbroadVice.com. He writes various articles and blogs regarding admissions to overseas universities. In his free time, he likes to work out.
