Unarguably, Germany is in the league of best study abroad countries. The German education is captivating with much emphasis on practicals. Its schools are adjudged to be among the best in Europe and the world at large-conducting teachings in a student-friendly environment. Ever wonder why international students include Germany in the lists of best study abroad countries? A study in Germany comes with tons of benefits. You’ll know everything about studying, living and working in Germany.
Why study in Germany?
Germany is a fun place to study in. A variety of reasons comes into play when choosing a study destination. Some of the plusses foreign students recognize Germany in the popular study destinations include the following:
• Free tuition and cheap tuition fee universities
The tuition fee in German public schools is free, while some offer very low tuition fees. International students can study in Germany on a free tuition fee university, however will need to open a student blocked account.
• A good wage system
Germany has a very decent wage system. Students studying and working in Germany earn more than their counterparts in other European regions.
• Work while studying, and a chance of getting a permanent residence after studies.
Just like another top study abroad countries, Germany permits foreign students to engage in part-time jobs. Interestingly, working while studying in Germany, can settle virtually all your needs depending on your lifestyle.
• World-class education
The country is known for its technology prowess, a study in Germany ensures that students are given world-class education through class and field-based teachings.
• Chance of becoming bilingual
Most German universities offer lessons in German and a few in English. Your choice of program, level of study, and school may determine the mode of instruction.
How to study in Germany
The application process to study in a German institution is simple. If you’re planning to study in Germany, these are steps to follow.
1. Search for a study program
Usually, prospective candidates are to search for a study program before any further action can be taken. Once this has been achieved, the next step is to check the list of universities that offers the course.
2. Select a school
After you’ve found the program you want to study, check the university you wish to study at. You can narrow your search by checking university rankings for the course and the tuition fee.
3. Check the course requirements
You must check the requirements before clicking the apply button. Make sure you provide all the documents listed on the school website.
4. Apply for admission
If satisfied with the requirements and they seem feasible, go ahead and click the apply button to begin the application process.
5. Get Your German Student Visa
After your application has been approved, the next step is to get your study visa. Your school must send you an offer letter, which is among the study visa requirements.
Documents needed for a German student visa?
The documents required to apply for a visa to study in Germany may differ for nationals in some countries. Generally, students are expected to provide the following.
Offer letter
Proficiency test (German or English test scores as indicated by your school)
Academic credentials
Receipt of health insurance card
Block account
6. Find Accommodation.
You can only do this if your German study visa is approved. Finding accommodation in Germany can be daunting, but if you are not on a budget, that won’t be an issue.
Germany University Admission Requirements
Most German universities will request these documents listed below:
A completed application form
Certified copy of high school diploma
Academic certificates from a recognized institution
Copy of scanned passport
Passport photograph
Proof of language proficiency
Means of subsistence
Please note: If you are coming from any of the countries that will need a visa to study in Germany, you‘re expected to have the sum of €10,332 as proof of funds in your account. International students are mandated to create a blocked account for this. The blocked account is where students are to deposit the required measure of cash to meet their everyday costs for one year, and fills in as proof of funds for students who want to study in any German university. International students can open a Blocked Account at https://www.fintiba.com/moving-to-germany/studying/requirements/blocked-account-for-studen
or Deutsche Bank.
Can I study in English medium in Germany?
Although, German is widely used in German universities. There are English-taught programs in Germany with many of them offered at masters and Ph.D. levels.
Visit: https://www.daad.de/deutschland/studienangebote/international-programs/de/ and choose your course.
Tuition/funding
Public universities offer free tuition, while some other universities demand students pay tuition fees. Despite that there are free and affordable universities in Germany, also, there are scholarship programs for students.
Top scholarships in Germany for international students
1. DAAD Scholarship Programs
The German Academic Exchange Service is a well-known scholarship provider in Germany. The DAAD scholarships are given to students who intend to pursue a degree in a full-time program. Applicants must have finished their bachelor’s degree within the last six years and have at least two years of relevant job experience.
The DAAD scholarships are awarded to students who want to get a qualification in a full-time course of study. The applicants should have completed their Bachelor’s degree not more than in the last 6 years and they should have at least two years of proven work experience. postgraduate students are paid 850€ per month, while for doctorate students it is 1,200€ per month.
2. Erasmus Scholarship Programs
Erasmus is also an excellent option for international students who want to study in Germany full-time. Erasmus is a one-year exchange program for overseas students at German universities that is supported by the European Union’s member states.
3. Heinrich Böll Foundation Scholarship
Every year, the Heinrich Böll Foundation is one of the top scholarships for international students. it provides over 1,200 scholarships to deserving undergraduates, graduates, and doctorate students from many disciplines and countries. Eligible students should be registered students in a German university.
4. Konrad-Adenauer-Stiftung Scholarship
The Konrad-Adenauer-Stiftung Scholarships is for students pursuing a postgraduate, doctoral, or research degree. Ph.D. students from third-world countries are usually given preference. It is a two-year scholarship program, master’s and postgraduate students will be paid 850€ a month. For three years, doctoral candidates and those who come to Germany for research will get a monthly payment of 1,100€.
5. The Friedrich Ebert Stiftung Scholarship
International students who are studying or completing their doctorate in Germany at a recognized institution of applied sciences are eligible for the award. These students are projected to perform academically above average. If you are planning to study any art program in Germany, you may consider this favorably.
To apply for this scholarship, one of the requirements is a German proficiency test. You must show evidence of German language skills to be considered for this award. Undergraduate scholarship recipients will receive an allowance of 830€ a month, while applicants enrolled in master’s degree programs will be paid 850 euros per month, plus the cost of health insurance.
Are international students allowed to work while studying in Germany?
Yes of course. EU/EEA and non- EU/EEA students are allowed to work in Germany. Students must make sure that they do not exceed the work hours. Student part-time job in Germany is open for 20hours.
Working in Germany After Graduation
Germany allows students to stay back after their studies. Working in Germany after graduation is open for EU and non-EU students. There are different conditions. Graduates from non-EU/EEA countries can work in Germany after completing their studies if their residence permit is extended for up to 18 months after graduation. These 18 months only take effect after you’ve finished your studies in Germany. To extend your residence permit, you must provide the following documents:
Passport ID
Passport photos
Proof of Graduation from a German University.
Proof of Funds
Evidence of health insurance
When you’ve already received your extended residence permit, you’ll have 18 months to look for work.
What should you do once you’ve found a job?
You should apply for an EU Blue Card when you’ve found a job you like that has a minimum one-year term. The EU Blue Card is a four-year residence card given by the European Union. This is the primary residence permit for university graduates from non-EU countries who wish to stay and work in Germany after graduating from a German institution.
You must graduate from a German institution and earn at least €45,000 per year to be eligible for the EU Blue Card.
The card’s validity can be increased. After 33 months of residency in Germany, a settlement permit can now be obtained. The settlement visa is a long-term residence permit that allows internationals to live, work, and bring their family (spouse and children) to Germany.
Conclusion
Studying in Germany offers a variety of advantages, ranging from globally renowned certificates to world-class universities. The country allows foreign students to stay back after completing their studies. For you to stay legally, you must extend your residency permit.