Study in Germany: Unleash your Career

A hub of cutting-edge technology and research, Germany is a land of opportunities. Over 25,000 students choose to study in Germany last year, out of which Indian students formed a significant component. Traditionally, German universities date back to the 14th century, but they now offer a range of courses that are entirely or partly taught in English.
Situated in the heart of Europe, it is a highly sought-after study destination that hosts few of the top ranked institutions globally.
Popular courses to study in Germany
Some of the most sought-after streams include:
● Business
● Engineering
● Natural Sciences
● Computer Science
● Biotechnology
● Pharmacy
● Mathematics
● Architecture
● Urban Planning

Intake
International students looking to study in Germany should initiate their application process a year in advance. There are two major intakes in summer and winter in the month of March and October respectively.
Application deadlines for summer intakes are in March followed by winter intakes in July.
Eligibility criteria
Students looking to pursue an undergraduate course require 13 years of education. Which they can attain by completing a 12+1 programme from the university or pursue a one-year foundation course.
Students are required to give the IELTS or TOEFL, along with a German Language B2 Level.
Some students also choose to undertake 10 years of education, followed by 3 years of Diploma.
On the other hand, Master's programmes require students to have 15 or 16 years of education. However, this differs depending upon the programme under consideration.
Entry requirements include IELTS or TOEFL or GRE, German Language A1 Level. Certain MBA programmes require GMAT and work experience.
Type of curriculum
Curriculum at German institutions are well-structured and based on intensive guidance. Students are expected to work in small groups and make the most out of the university experience.
With over 650 international degree programmes, a major chunk of them are offered in English. The education structure in Germany comprises of 13 years of higher secondary school, after which students can progress to a Bachelor’s programme for three years. Certain students also complete 12 years of education and undertake a foundation programme for a year, before progressing to a bachelor’s programme.

Costs to study in Germany
As an undergraduate student studying in private institutions in Germany, students can expect to approximately pay €20,000 a year.
Public universities are essentially free for undergraduate studies, but charge a fee per semester of enrollment.
If students have pursued their Bachelor’s from Germany, they are required to pay a minimal charge per semester to study a Master's programme.
If you have pursued your Bachelor’s degree from study abroad destinations other than Germany, then studying a Master's programme in public universities is easier as 80% of the universities are free. Private universities may cost €30,000 a year.
Apart from academic costs, living expenses can indicatively cost €350-€400 per month.
Visa
International students looking to study in Germany through a full time university programme require a German student visa.
While applying for the same, students have to furnish documents like visa application form, passport and birth certificate.
Along with this, students are required to provide financials approximately worth €10,200 per year.
The entire process takes 25 days on an average, so students should apply immediately upon receiving acceptance.
Accommodation
Dormitories are available through student services outside the university.
Student halls of residence, rented flats are also means of accommodation. These may approximately cost €234 and €280 per month respectively.
Scope of career
If students find relevant jobs they can stay for 5 years on a work visa. Following which, they can express interest in permanent residency through the advent of the Blue Card Bill.
Students can work part time for 20 hours per week and expect to earn €500 to €600 per month.
Certain courses include internships which present an excellent opportunity to students to augment their skills. Upon completion of graduation or Master’s, students get 18 months of job search visa.
Candidates can also avail special student discounts while travelling and at college to make studying in Germany an economical affair.