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Study in Germany
Germany has achieved an indefinite position in the list of top study abroad countries in the world. It is continuously evolving as the best country in Europe offering quality and affordable education for international students. Apart from the education, Germany is a country with exceptional history, lots of castles, trains and cities that holds a mix of modern and historic infrastructure.
Benefits of studying in Germany
1.Tuition Free education
Public universities in Germany offer education with no tuition fee at all except the state of Baden Württemberg.
2.Top Universities
Germany is home to top universities like University of Munich, Ruprecht Karls University, Heidelberg, Humboldt University of Berlin etc.
3.Study without knowing German
You can pursue your study program in English in most of the universities in Germany. You can then switch to German after learning.
4.Globally recognized degrees
Degrees earned from Germany universities are recognized globally which can enhance your academics for employment.
5.Work while study options
As an international student you can work part-time for up to 20 hours per week during studies in Germany must not exceed the limit.
6.Post study work visa
Once you graduate, you can apply for Post Study Work Visa with which you can work in Germany for a period of 18 months.
Types of Degrees in Germany
German universities offer different types of degree for international students to choose from just like any other study abroad destination.
Bachelor’s degree (3-4 years)
Universities in Germany offer almost every top-rated bachelor’s degree program that you seek for. The duration of a bachelor’s degree is usually 3-years with 6 semesters. These degree types let you choose two subjects- one major and a minor. Some examples of bachelor’s degrees are B. Sc, B.A, B. Ed etc.
Master’s degree (2 years)
Taking up a master’s degree in Germany is a perfect upgradation for your academic qualification. Right after bachelors or after few years of working, you could choose a master’s degree. German universities provide master’s program for 2-years under degree types like M. Sc, M.A, M. Ed etc.
Doctorate (2-5 years)
You can take up a Doctorate degree after a Master’s program if you wish to embark upon research studies. In fact, German universities offer excellent opportunity and support for students to support research-based studies.
State Examinations
Some programs in Germany directs you to a state examination (Staatsexam) which will be conducted by the Federal State government. Study programs that need you to take a state examination are:
- Doctor
- Pharmacist
- Dentist
- Lawyer
- Judge
- Teacher in the school
- Veterinary
Top Universities/colleges in the Germany
Germany has a mix of public, private universities and there are public funded private universities as well. There are 380+ universities that offer a plethora of programs for international students.
Top public universities in Germany
- Technical University of Munich (TUM)
- Ludwig Maximilians University Munich
- Heidelberg University
- Humboldt University Berlin
- Freie Universität Berlin
- Karlsruhe Institute of Technology
- RWTH Aachen University
- Technische Universität Berlin
- Technische Universität Dresden
- University of Freiburg
Top Private universities in Germany
- Berlin School of Business and Innovation
- SRH Hochschule Berlin
- Witten/Herdecke University
- WHU-Otto Beisheim School of Management
- Hertie School of Governance
- Munich Business School
- Jacobs University Bremen
- GISMA Business School
- Bard College of Berlin
- CODE University of Applied Sciences
Study in Germany with no tuition-fees
Public universities in Germany offer tuition-free education for domestic and international students. In 2014, the 16 states of Germany abolished tuition fee in all public universities. However, in 2017 only the state of Baden Württemberg reintroduced tuition fees in public universities.
Notably, you must pay for enrolment, administration and confirmation which is affordable and varies between universities. Additionally, every international student must buy a Semester Ticket for six months or more which covers your public transport expense. Hence, it is the tuition fee that is free, and the rest must be taken care of which is very affordable.
No Tuition Fees | Public universities |
Tuition Fees | Public universities in the state of Baden Württemberg Private universities |
Top cities to study in the Germany
There are 16 federal states in Germany with Berlin as the capital state. Here are the top cities for you to consider to study in Germany.
Cities | Top Universities |
Berlin | Freie Universitäet Berlin Humboldt-Universität zu Berlin Technische Universität Berlin |
Munich | Technical University of Munich Ludwig-Maximilians-Universität München |
Hamburg | Universität Hamburg Technische Universität Hamburg Hochschule für Angewandte Wissenschaften Hamburg |
Stuttgart | University of Stuttgart University of Hohenheim Stuttgart University of Applied Sciences |
Frankfurt | Frankfurt School of Finance & Management Goethe University Frankfurt Frankfurt University of Applied Sciences |
Dresden | Dresden University of Technology Dresden University of Applied Sciences Dresden Academy of Fine Arts |
Basic requirements to study in Germany
Here’s a breakdown of the basic eligibility requirements to study bachelors’ and master’s in Germany.
Eligibility requirements for bachelor’s degree
Eligibility criteria | Requirements |
Age | Must be at least 18 years old |
Academics | Must have completed 12th grade and provide marksheet |
Entrance examinations | ACT or SAT (if required by the university) |
German Language proficiency | DSH, TestDAF or DSD (If program taught in German) |
English language proficiency | IELTS, TOEFL (If program taught in English) |
Eligibility requirements for master’s degree
Eligibility criteria | Requirements |
Age | Must be at least 21 years old |
Academics | Must have completed bachelor’s degree from a recognized institution |
Entrance examinations | No entrance tests needed |
German Language proficiency | DSH, TestDAF or DSD (If program taught in German) |
English language proficiency | IELTS, TOEFL (If program taught in English) |
Documents Required to study in Germany
Entrance tests
Universities in Germany may require you to take entrance test such as the ACT and SAT. However, it depends on the universities and varies between institutions.
Academic transcripts
Academic transcripts are the marksheets that are a proof of your score in 12th grade (if you’re applying for under-graduation) and scores in bachelor’s (if you’re applying for post-graduation)
Proof of Language Proficiency
You must provide scores of language proficiency in German or English based on the language in which the program is taught.
Valid Passport Copies
Make sure you apply for a German passport well in advance and provide the copies when you apply for the university admission and study visa.
Letter of Motivation (LOM)
A letter of motivation (LOM) is like the Statement of Purpose (SOP) as called in other countries. You must demonstrate your purpose to study in Germany and your future goals.
Letter of recommendation (LOR)
An LOR is a letter that you get from your teacher, principal or professor that he/she recommends you study in a German university.
How to study in the Germany?
- Shortlist few universities with some research
- Prepare for the entrance and language proficiency tests (if it’s mandatory)
- Arrange your finances for your academics and accommodation
- You can start applying when the university admissions are open
- Wait until you receive the acceptance letter from university
- Start applying for the German study visa
- Now, you’re all set to begin your studies in Germany
Study Intakes in Germany Universities
Germany universities offer two intakes such as summer intake and winter intake. Unlike other countries like Canada, the UK and Australia that offer three intakes in a year, Germany universities offer only two intakes. Winter intake is considered a primary intake in Germany.
Summer intake (April – May)
Though the summer intake is a secondary intake in German universities, it still has its own pros. The summer intake starts by April -May and you must start planning a year in advance.
Pros: Low competition for admissions
Cons: Lesser programs and scholarships offered
Winter intake (September – October)
The winter intake is considered as the primary intake in German universities and chosen by majority of international students. The German winter intake commences by September- October of every year.
Pros: All programs and scholarships offered
Cons: More competition for admissions
Work while studying in the UK
Just like any other student destination, Germany allows international students to work on side jobs. You can work on part-time jobs such as waiters, academic assistants, tutors etc. Germany is very strict with the working hours limit for international students.
Work duration | Day limit |
Full day work | 120 days / year |
Half day work | 240 days / year |
Post-study work visa / Graduate visa
Germany has pathways for international students to get employed and work after graduation. All you got to do is, apply for a Job seeker visa which has a validity of 18-months.
Once you get employed in a qualified jobyou can apply for a temporary Employment residence permit or the EU blue card to work in Canada.
Type of permits | Validity |
Job Seekers permit | 18 months |
EU Blue card | 4-years |
Employment residence permit | 4-years |
How to get a PR in Germany after studies?
After completing your education, you can go for settlement Permit in Germany. A Settlement Permit offers you a Permanent Residence status in Germany.
Initially, after studies you must have worked in Germany for at least 2-years under the following work permits:
- Employment Residence Permit
- EU blue card
With necessary work experience, you can then apply for the Settlement Permit (Permanent Residence).
Once, you obtain PR in Germany you can apply for Naturalization (become a German Citizen) after 8 years of living and working in Germany.
Step 1 | Step 2 | Step 3 | Step 4 |
Extend your Residence Permit as you graduate | Work in Germany for at least 2-years with a Residence permit or EU Blue card | Apply for Settlement Permit which is Permanent Residence Permit | After 8-years in Germany, apply for a Naturalization (German Citizenship) |
Basic eligibility requirements for a Germany PR after studies
- Worked in Germany for at least 2-years after graduation
- Provide proof of German language proficiency B1 level certificate
- Provide proof of contribution to the Statutory Pension Insurance Fund
- Documents that establish proof of financial stability, housing, education in Germany, etc.
CanApprove services for Germany education
CanApprove has been offering quality study abroad services for the 25+ years now. The overseas education experts at CanApprove provide a legitimate assistance for studying in Germany. From course and university selection to German student visa process, CanApprove delivers it in the most professional way.
Our valued services include:
- FREE 1-to-1 consultation
- Course and college suggestion
- Admission process
- SOP and LOR assistance
- Germany Student visa process
- Pre-departure assistance
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Frequently Asked Questions
Is higher education free in Germany?
Well, not completely free. You are exempted from tuition fees in public universities in Germany except in the state of Baden Württemberg. However, you must pay for enrolment, administration, and confirmation expenses.
Can I study English-taught programs in German universities?
Yes. It’s a common myth that you can only study programs in the German language, but it’s not true. Most universities in Germany are now offering programs in English.
Can I work part-time in German as an international student?
Yes. Like other study-abroad destinations, Germany allows international students to work part-time for 120 full days or 240 half days.
Can I work after graduation in Canada?
As an international student, you can extend your residence permit for 18 months. You can find jobs and get employed during these 18 months.
What are the affordable cities to study in Germany?
Some affordable cities to study in Germany are Bielefeld, Frankfurt (Oder), Halle, Krefeld, and Passau.