Study in Germany: Universities, Courses, Visa, & Scholarships

Germany is known as the land of ideas. It is a top study destination because of the quality of higher education, research infrastructure, over 380 high-ranking universities, 20000 courses and programs, teaching approach, affordable education, and career perspective. Germany is a well-developed nation with top-notch infrastructure and ample opportunities to study in Germany for international students and Indians. 

These are some of the reasons why many internationals continue to choose Germany as the best place to pursue their higher education. International students who want to study abroad in Germany for more than 90 days should apply for a German student visa in their home country.
 

The German student visa process is straightforward, and the success rate of German student visas is 90-95%. Studying in Germany is one of the most transformative and life-changing experiences.
 

Being the top study in germany consultants with more than 25 years of experience, Y-Axis helps you to make the most of this huge investment in time and cost with its proven strategy, which will help you gain admission to universities in Germany.

Top Reasons to Study in Germany

• Cheap and affordable country: Affordable tuition fees and a nominal administrative fee. There are various funding and scholarship options. Germany has a high standard of living at low costs for International students. Public universities in Germany are free of any tuition cost.

• Diversity: Germany has a multi-ethnic and international ambiance where Most courses have English as a mode of instruction
   
• Wide range of study programs: Various outstanding universities in Germany offer various courses and programs.

Key Highlights

• More than 1000 scholarships are granted annually for international students to study abroad in Germany.
• It takes approximately 12-14 weeks to process a Germany student visa.
• The average starting graduate salary in Germany is €44,000 per year.
• Germany has an impressive graduate employment rate of 91.5%, one of the highest in the world.
• More than 3,50,000 Germany student visa applications are processed every year.
• Nearly 49,483 Indian students are enrolled in German universities and colleges every year.

Germany Student Visa

The Germany student visa process is straightforward once all the eligibility requirements are met. The acceptance rate for a German student visa is as high as 95%. Below are the types of student visas available in Germany:
 

Different Types of Germany Student Visa

• Germany Student Visa:
  This visa caters to students who want to pursue a Bachelor’s or Master’s degree in Germany. The primary requirement is a letter of acceptance from a recognized German university.

• Germany Student Applicant Visa:
  This visa is for international students who have applied for a study program in Germany but have not yet received a letter of acceptance. It increases the chances of arriving in Germany exactly on time.

• German Language Course Visa:
  This visa is for international students who wish to attend an intensive German language course.
   

Germany Study Visa Requirements​:

To apply for a German student visa, you will need to provide the following:

• A valid passport
• €30,000 for health insurance coverage
• Transcripts from previous institutions
• A fully updated resume
• Language proficiency scores (IELTS 6.0 overall and 550 on the TOEFL)
• German language proficiency certificate
• Two recent biometric portrait photographs
• Fully completed Germany student visa application form
• Fee payment receipt for the student visa application
• Letter of acceptance from a recognized institution in Germany
• A letter of motivation clearly stating the intention to leave Germany after completing studies
• €10,332 deposited in a German blocked account as proof of financial resources
   

How to Apply for a German Student Visa?

1. Get a letter of acceptance from a prestigious university in Germany.
2. Prepare and gather all required documents for the German student visa application. Ensure you have enough financial resources to cover the duration of your course.
3. Apply for the Germany student visa and submit all required documents.
4. Set up an appointment with the visa consulate.
5. Prepare for the Germany student visa interview and pay the non-refundable visa processing fee of €75.
    

Germany Student Visa Processing Time and Fees:

• Processing Time:
  The average processing time for the Germany student visa is 4 - 12 weeks. Students are advised to apply well in advance, as the process can take several weeks. Start the process as soon as you receive your university acceptance letter.

• Visa Fee:
  The German visa fee is €75, which is non-refundable. International students who have received a scholarship from a German institution are exempt from paying the Germany student visa processing fee.
   

Validity of Germany Student Visa

The validity of the German student visa is three months. During this period, the student must arrive in Germany and complete the necessary bureaucratic procedures to apply for a residence permit.

Top Universities in Germany

Germany boasts a renowned higher education system, home to over 400 universities offering a wide range of academic courses and programs. Many of these universities consistently rank highly in international rankings, making them attractive study destinations for students worldwide.
 

One key advantage of studying in Germany is that many public universities offer free or low tuition fees, combined with an affordable cost of living, providing excellent value for international students. Additionally, German universities offer high-quality research opportunities, making them an ideal choice for those interested in advanced academic studies.

Many programs in German universities are taught in English, ensuring accessibility for international students.

Top 10 QS Ranking Universities in Germany:

Here is a list of some of the top-ranked universities in Germany for international students:

Name of the University	QS Ranking	Administrative Fees for International Students (per semester)
Technical University of Munich	37	€129.40
Heidelberg University	87	€160
Ludwig Maximilians University of Munich	54	€129.40
Freie University of Berlin	98	€168
Humboldt University of Berlin	120	€312.5
Karlsruhe Institute of Technology	119	€168
Technical University of Berlin	154	€168
RWTH Aachen University	106	€261.5
University of Freiburg	192	€168
Eberhard Karls University of Tübingen	213	€162.5

Public vs. Private Universities in Germany
 

Aspect	Public Universities	Private Universities
Funding	Government-funded	Funded by tuition fees and donations
Tuition Fees	Cheaper, more affordable	Expensive
Admission Requirements	High competition, stricter admission criteria	Easier admission, fewer restrictions
Examples	Technical University of Munich, Heidelberg University, University of Bonn	Constructor University, Munich Business School, Hertie School

Top Courses to Study in Germany

There are more than 17,432 study programs offered at German universities (public and private). Some of the best courses to study abroad in Germany are Engineering, business management, Humanities and art, Social sciences, and others. These courses are designed to meet international standards and train students according to the German Job market. Here is a list of the top in-demand courses to study in Germany.
 

Name of the Programme	Annual Tuition Fee	Duration	Top Universities
Engineering	€10,000	3 - 4 years	University of Munich, Karlsruhe Institute of Technology, Technical University of Berlin
Business Management	€8,000 - €50,000	1 – 2 years	Mannheim Business School, EBS Business School, TUM Business School
Humanities and Art	€300 – 500 per semester	3 years	University of Berlin, University of Hamburg, University of Cologne, Heidelberg University
Computer Science and IT	€10,000 - €40,000	2 years	Technical University of Munich, Technical University of Berlin
Social Sciences	€10,000 - €20,000	2 – 3 years	Humboldt University of Berlin, Technical University of Berlin
Law	€8,000 - €18,000	1 - 3 years	Wismar University of Applied Sciences, University of Leipzig, Saarland University
Natural Sciences	€5,000 - €20,000	2 – 3 years	University of Düsseldorf, University of Freiburg, University of Münster, Technical University Dresden
MBBS	€100 - €10,000	6 years	Heidelberg University, Technical University of Munich, Hannover Medical School, University of Hamburg

Choose the Right Course to Study in Germany

Choosing the right university course is essential as it can affect future career prospects. The correct course can provide the skills and knowledge you need to pursue a specific career. Selecting a program that aligns with your interests and abilities is very important.

Here are some critical factors besides interest to consider before selecting the right course and university in Germany.

• With more than 400 recognized universities to study in Germany, Researching your options is very important. You should consider program offerings, reputation, location, and affordability.
• Even though you don't have to be fluent in German to study abroad in Germany, there may be an essential German language proficiency requirement.
• Check if there are scholarship opportunities and financial support to finance education.
   

Tuition Fees at German Universities

The public universities in Germany for international students have no tuition fees for international students. However, every semester has a nominal enrollment fee, ranging from €250 to €350. Below is a list of tuition fees for public and private universities in Germany for international students.
 

University Name	Annual Tuition Fee
Ludwig Maximilian University of Munich	€300
Technical University of Munich	€258
Humboldt University Berlin	€685
Technical University of Berlin	€308
Free University of Berlin	€311
RWTH Aachen University	€1095
University of Applied Sciences Europe	€1400
GISMA Business School	€20,000
SRH Hochschule Berlin	€10,000
Code University of Applied Sciences	€9800
Munich Business School	€24,000
EBC Hochschule	€10,000

 

What's the Admission Process and Timeline for Germany?

Germany is the most sought-after destination today. It is important to be informed about the expected eligibility conditions and requirements for admission to Germany's recognized universities.

Here is a checklist for the German student visa, including the general admission criteria and documents required for admission to German universities.
 

Documents Required For Admission

• Valid passport
• The application form must be filled out completely and correctly. 
• Educational documents.
• Transcripts and certificates of previous institutions.
• Language Proficiency test scores (TestDaF or DSH).
• Statement of purpose. 
• Letters of recommendation.
• Up-to-date CV/Resume.
• Bank statement passbook.
   

IELTS requirements to study in Germany

Most German universities accept an IELTS score that is either 6 or more. Here is a list of universities with their IELTS scores.

Name of the University	Required IELTS Scores
Technical University of Munich	6.5
University of Cologne	6.0
University of ULM	6.5
Ludwig Maximilians University	5.5
Heidelberg University	6.5
Humboldt University of Berlin	6.5

Cost of Studying in Germany

Germany is a budget-friendly study destination for International students. The cost of studying in Germany is not high, provided you are enrolled in one of the public universities in Germany. There are many expenses to consider when discussing the cost of living in Germany. These include tuition fees, administrative costs, and living expenses. German universities are primarily affordable for international students.
 

However, there are still some financial matters to consider when International students studying in Germany are only required to pay a nominal administration fee at the start of every semester. The cost of studying in Germany across private universities ranges from €10,000 - €20,000 depending on the degree level and course/program.
 

Cost of Studying in Germany: Course, Tuition Fee

Courses like Bachelors and Masters are affordable even at private German universities. Other courses like MBA and medical degrees can be expensive. The cost also depends upon the type of university the student is enrolled in. Here is a list of different types of programs and their tuition fees:
 

Course	Annual Tuition Fees
Vocational or Diploma Courses	€300
Bachelor’s courses	€30,000
Master’s course	€40,000
PhD	€3000

Scholarships for Indian students to Study in Germany

Each year, Germany attracts around 3 50,000 international students to study abroad in Germany. Germany is cheap in terms of tuition. However, many students worldwide find it challenging to cover the financial costs in Germany, which can cost around €1200 per month.
 

Hence, there are plenty of financial aids like scholarships for international students through which they can cover their living costs. Below are some details of the scholarship for Indian students in Germany
 

Government scholarships in Germany

The government of Germany offers scholarships for international students to study so that they can do so without worrying about the cost and other financial burdens. Here are government-sponsored scholarships for studying in Germany.
 

Name of the Scholarship	Amount Offered	Eligibility Criteria	Deadline
DAAD Scholarship	€850 - €1200	Must have excellent academic record	July 31, 2024
Deutschland Stipendium	€300	National and International students are eligible	June 30, 2025
Erasmus Scholarship Programs	€350	All international students are eligible	January 15, 2025 (Tentative)

Non - Government scholarships in Germany

These scholarships are not funded by the government but by other private entities. Here are some non-government-sponsored scholarships for studying in Germany.
 

Name of the Scholarship	Amount Offered	Eligibility Criteria	Deadline
Friedrich Ebert Foundation Scholarship	€850 - €1200	Must have good academic record	April 30, 2025
Konrad-Adenauer-Stiftung Scholarship	€300	All PG & PhD students under 30 with excellent academic record are eligible	September 21, 2024
Heinrich Boll Foundation Scholarship	€10,200 - €12,000 + allowance	All PG & PhD students admitted to a German university	September 2, 2024 – March 1, 2025
Bayer Foundation Awards	€30,000	Must have good academic record	May 6, 2024
Mawista Scholarship	€500	For applicants planning to study in Germany with a child	January 15, 2024
Marie Curie International Incoming Fellowships (IIF) for developing countries	€15,000	International students planning to pursue PhD in Germany	September 11, 2024

Steps to Apply For Scholarships

Step 1: Find the exemplary scholarship that suits your needs and check if you are eligible for the same

Step 2: Collect all the enlisted documents and translate the documents if required

Step 3: Apply and wait for a decision
 

Intakes in Germany & Academic Calendar For Indians:

Germany has some of the best programs particularly in science, technology, engineering, and mathematics (STEM), making it the most favored choice for students looking to pursue undergraduate, postgraduate, and doctoral degrees.

Study Intakes in Germany has long been the best opportunities for Indian students looking to study abroad in Germany.

The German education system and German universities for foreign students are renowned for providing world-class academic programs. Many universities in Germany are tuition-free and highly affordable compared to other top study destinations.

• Summer Intake in Germany (April – September): The summer intake in Germany which starts in April and ends in July/August. It is the secondary intake with a minimal course opening in fewer colleges. Mostly those international students who miss admission in winter intake apply for the summer intake. Lesser number of international students apply for the Germany summer study intake which also leads to more focus and better interaction for the student.
   
• Winter intake in Germany (October - March): In Germany, winter intake is chosen as the major intake for all major universities, so there are more seats available. The winter intake begins in September/October to February/ March. Most of the top German universities offer admission for a wide range of degrees during this winter intake giving the students more choices. International Students who wish to study Master’s in Germany generally apply for this winter intake.
   

Education Loans for Studying in Germany

Germany is among the top choices and the most affordable countries for international students. No matter how cheap a country is, there are some students who always face certain living expenses.

Students choose different aids to cover their costs while they study in Germany. Some students choose scholarships, while some select education loans. Students can study abroad in Germany without worrying about college expenses by opting for a study loan. Availability of a loan is an independent and intelligent decision.
 

Eligibility Criteria to Avail an Education Loan

• The applicant must be accepted by a recognized German university.
• The applicant must be 18 years of age.
• The applicant must be enrolled in a job-oriented course, ensuring the ability to repay the education loan.
• The applicant must have a sum of €8,640 per year deposited into their bank account as part of the education loan.
   

Documents Required for an Education Loan:

• Copy of the letter of acceptance from the university.
• Completely filled loan application form.
• Mark sheets and passing certificates.
• Aadhar card, PAN card, and passport.
• Fee schedule documents.
• Income proof of the guarantor.
   

Where to Get Education Loans to Study in Germany?

Education loans to study in Germany can be availed through various sources, including German universities, government or private organizations, and NBFCs (Non-Banking Financial Companies) in India. Another primary option for international students is BAföG (Bundesausbildungsförderungsgesetz, or the Federal Training Assistance Act). BAföG offers zero-interest education loans to international students wishing to study in Germany.
 

To avail of BAföG, students need to meet at least one of the following eligibility criteria:

Eligibility Criteria to Avail BAföG

• The student must have been a resident of Germany for at least 5 years.
• The student must be permanently residing in Germany, with at least one parent holding German or EU nationality.
• The student must be permanently residing in Germany, with one spouse or partner holding German or EU nationality.
• At least one of the student's parents must have lived in Germany for the past 6 years and been employed for at least 3 years during that period.
• The student must have lived in Germany for 5 years prior to pursuing education and must have financed their living expenses independently.
   

Study Loans for Germany: Top Lenders in India

Bank	Education Loan	Interest Rate	Expenses Covered (Excluding Academic Fees)
SBI Global Ed Vantage Scheme	₹10 L - ₹1.25 Cr	10% - 12%	Limited living expenses, accommodation, and travel only
HDFC Credila Study Abroad Loan	₹10 L - ₹50 L	13% - 16%	100% of living expenses covered
Avanse Student Loans	₹4 L - ₹1.25 Cr	12% - 16%	75% of living expenses (capped at 20% of the sanctioned loan amount)
ICICI Bank Education Loan	₹4 L - ₹36 L	11% - 14%	Insurance, travel, and accommodation covered
PNB Udaan Education Loan	₹20 L - ₹1 Cr	10% - 12%	No living expenses covered

Work Opportunities After Graduation

Germany has one of the lowest global unemployment rates, with well-trained and skilled professionals, drawing remuneration and excellent benefits. Securing a job in Germany becomes considerably more achievable after completing your education as an international student. Germany offers a smooth transition to work, granting graduates 18 months to look for job opportunities.
 

This duration may be reduced to six months if students return to their home country after completing their studies. Germany is the number one country in European research and development, providing ample scope for involvement in cutting-edge projects.
 

The German work culture enables workforce productivity while maintaining a healthy work-life balance. The standard working hour is 35 hours per week with a maximum of 8 hours daily. Here is a list of jobs in Germany that are in demand for international students.
 

Job Field	Average Salary	Top Hiring Companies
IT	€45,000 - €60,000	Siemens, SAP, BMW
Engineering	€50,000 - €70,000	Bosch, Daimler, VW
Business and Finance	€55,000 - €80,000	Allianz, Deutsche Bank
Healthcare	€45,000 - €65,000	Bayer, Fresenius
Research and Development	€50,000 - €75,000	Max Planck, Fraunhofer
Education	€35,000 - €50,000	Various universities and schools
Arts and Culture	€30,000 - €45,000	Various cultural institutions
Logistics	€40,000 - €55,000	DHL, Deutsche Bahn
Energy	€50,000 - €75,000	E.ON, RWE
Biotechnology	€45,000 - €70,000	Bayer, BASF

 

Post-Study Work Permit in Germany:

International students who have completed their education in Germany are eligible to work in the country under Germany's post-study work visa guidelines. This period is in addition to the study duration specified in the German student visa.

To find employment in the field of study, graduates can apply for an extended 18-month post-study work visa or a temporary residence permit. The 18-month timespan starts when the student completes their education in Germany. This allows gaining work experience without restrictions on the type of job you can apply for.  

The Germany post-study work visa typically takes 1-3 months to process.
 

Eligibility Criteria:

• The student must have completed a degree program at a recognized German university.
• Must have proof of accommodation, such as rental contracts or hotel reservations.
• Good knowledge of German is usually assessed through standardized tests such as TestDaF or DSH.
• Must have a valid personal ID and passport.
• Must hold an insurance policy with a medical coverage of at least €30,000 either from a Private company in India or in Germany.
• Must have sufficient funds of at least €934 per month to support the cost of living in Germany.
   

Documents Required:

• Completed and printed application forms for Germany Post Study Work Visa.
• Recently clicked passport-size photos.
• Valid National passport with a minimum 6 months validity remaining beyond the date of application.
• Proof of residence.
• Contract of Employment.
• Cover Letter explaining the reasons for seeking a Post-Study Work Permit.
• Document stating clean criminal record.
   

Steps to Apply for a Post Study Work Visa

1. Step 1: Receive a job letter of appointment from an employer in Germany.
2. Step 2: Collect and prepare all the necessary enlisted documents.
3. Step 3: Fill the application form completely.
4. Step 4: Pay the Germany post-study work visa fee and submit the application along with the application and the documents.
5. Step 5: Appear for the Germany student visa interview and wait for their response.
    

Cost of living in Germany

The approximate average cost of living in Germany is €1000 per month. This cost of living includes accommodation, utility, food and transport.

• Accommodation cost: The housing cost of living in Germany depends upon the city in Germany and the type of accommodation chosen. The lowest priced housing can cost around €450 - €550 while in expensive cities it might cost €900 - €1200.
   
• Transportation: All the cities in Germany have great connectivity with a well-built extensive network of public transportation. With a wide range of trains, bus and trams travelling is not difficult. The cost of transportation ranges from €3 - €30.
   
• Food: For an international student in Germany the monthly grocery expenses will be around €50 - €75. To save the cost in food it is always better to cook at home.
   

Category	Erfurt	Hamburg	Munich	Berlin	Leipzig
Accommodation	€300 - €400	€750 - €1000	€450 - €800	€350 - €700	€350 - €500
Food	€150 - €200	€200 - €300	€200 - €400	€150 - €350	€180 - €250
Transportation	€49	€80	€50 - €120	€60 - €100	€50 - €70
Other expenses	€100 - €200	€200 - €300	€100 - €300	€100 - €300	€150 - €200

Part-Time Work Options for International Students in Germany

Germany is among the top 10 destinations for international students because of its excellent education system. The cost of living for an international student in Germany is approximately €800 - €1200 per month. To cover these financial costs, international students can also work while they study in Germany.

75% of international students in Germany have part-time jobs.

Part-time work in Germany also helps international students earn valuable experience, which they can add to their resumes and use to land better jobs in their professional careers. The German government has set a minimum wage of €12 - €13 per hour.
 

Rules and Regulations for Part-Time Work for International Students

• Students can only work for 140 full days or 280 half days per year.
• They must not undertake self-employment or freelancing.
• If students want to work for extra hours, they must seek permission from the local employment agency (Agentur für Arbeit) and the Ausländerbehörde (foreigners’ registration office).
• International students taking language or preparatory courses are only allowed to work (during recess periods) with permission from the Federal Employment Agency and the Immigration Office.
   

Tips to Manage Part-Time Work in Germany While Studying

• Plan and schedule accordingly
• Communicate with prospective employers
• Choose jobs that require fewer working hours to allow adequate study time
• Prioritize rest, exercise, and nutrition
• Network through the part-time job
   

Job	Expected Salary
Student Assistant	€10 - €17 per hour
Tutor	€12 - €15 per hour
Courier / Delivery Services	€9 - €12 per hour
Waiting Tables	€7 - €10 per hour
Office Assistant	€12 per hour
Industrial Production Assistant	€12 per hour
Salesperson (Shopping Assistance)	€9 - €10 per hour
Babysitting	€10 - €15 per hour
Call Centre Operator	€15 per hour
Field Interviewer	€18 - €20 per hour

How to Obtain Permanent Residency in Germany?

For international students (Indian Students In Germany), obtaining a Permanent Residency in Germany offers numerous opportunities to settle and build a long-term future in the country.

The Permanent Residence permit is a key document in this process. It allows individuals to establish a permanent home in Germany and enjoy the benefits of living and working in the country.

The cost of applying for Permanent Residency in Germany ranges from €115 to €150.

 

Eligibility Criteria PR in Germany

• Must demonstrate financial independence to support themselves and their family
• Must have contributed to the statutory pension insurance fund while living and working in Germany
• Employment should align with the qualifications
• Must have at least B1 level proficiency in Germa

» Read about Germany PR Visa And Apply Here!

 

 

German Education System

The German education system is quite distinct from those in other countries, primarily due to its strong emphasis on public institutions. Education in Germany is considered a public good, which is largely funded by the government. Alongside public universities in Germany, private universities operate independently but are accredited by the state. These private universities in Germany offer students the same high-quality education as their public counterparts, providing excellent opportunities for those wishing to study abroad in Germany.

Depending on their academic interests, students can choose from a variety of state-recognized universities and higher education institutions in Germany. With over 400 accredited institutions, students have access to more than 20,000 different study programs in Germany, many of which are taught in English, making them ideal for international students. Whether opting for a public or private university, the German higher education system provides an exceptional education that prepares students for global success.

Structure of Higher Education in Germany

The German education system is quite distinct from those in other countries, primarily due to its strong emphasis on public institutions. Education in Germany is considered a public good, which is largely funded by the government. Alongside public universities, there are also private universities that operate independently but are accredited by the state.

These private universities in Germany offer students the same high-quality education as their public counterparts, providing excellent opportunities for those wishing to study abroad in Germany.

Depending on their academic interests, students can choose from various state-recognized universities and higher education institutions in Germany.

With over 400 accredited institutions, students have access to more than 20,000 different study programs in Germany, many of which are taught in English, making them ideal for international students. Whether opting for a public or private university, the German higher education system provides an exceptional education that prepares students for global success.
 

• Academic Universities (Universitäten): Focus on research and academic training across various subjects, including law, medicine, and teaching. Degrees offered include bachelor’s, master’s, and doctoral programs. Technical universities specialize in specific fields.
   
• Universities of Applied Sciences (Fachhochschulen): Emphasize practical training with internships and industry experience, offering mostly bachelor’s and master’s degrees in fields like engineering, economics, and media. Some programs (e.g., law, medicine) are not available.
   
• Universities of Art, Film, and Music: Focus on developing artistic talent in fields like design, film, and music. Requires an entrance exam and portfolio. Degrees awarded are typically bachelor’s and master’s.
   
• Academic Year Structure: The academic year is divided into two semesters—Winter (October to March) and Summer (April to September). Some universities also have a trimester system.

Related Articles:

• Explore Master’s Programs in Germany for international students.
• Learn about Bachelor’s Degrees in Germany and your opportunities.
• Interested in an MBA in Germany? Find more details here.
• Find out how Germany allows foreign students to work 9 months ahead of the course and 2 years after the degree.
• India ranks #1 for international students in Germany—learn more.