Study in Germany: Find Universities, Costs, Courses, and Visa

Germany is a popular destination for Indian students and among many international students who are seeking quality education and unique cultural experiences. The country has some of the world-class universities, affordable tuition fees, and wide range of courses, that creates the opportunity for students looking to study abroad.

But, planning and research are crucial when considering studying in Germany. Finding the right university and course and understanding visa requirements and costs, there are many factors to consider. But worry not!

We at Shuraa Education are here to assist you and will explain everything you need to know about studying in Germany, including how to find universities, costs involved, available courses, how to get scholarship for a Free education, the visa application process, and more.

But first let’s understand why studying in Germany is among the popular choice among international students.

Why Study in Germany?

Germany is among the favourite destination for Indian students looking for high-quality education at an affordable cost. Compared to other popular study-abroad destinations, Germany offers very reasonable tuition fees, with some public universities charging close to nothing.

Also, there’s a wide range of programs to choose from, at both undergraduate and postgraduate levels. Here are some of the other benefits that makes Germany a top destination for Indian student seeking affordable study abroad.

  • Top-notch Education

  • German universities are popular for their academic excellence and research. You'll get a world-class education at a very affordable cost (compared to other options).

  • Affordable Living

  • Compared to other European countries, Germany offers a relatively affordable cost of living. Student accommodation, transportation, and other expenses are manageable.

  • Low or No Tuition Fees

  • Public universities in Germany famously charge very low or no tuition fees, even for international students. This makes it a highly affordable option compared to other popular study destinations.

  • Strong Job Market

  • Germany has a booming ecnomy with a high demand for skilled professionals. This creates an excellent job prospect after graduation.

  • Post-study Work Visa

  • Germany offers a post-study work visa that allows graduates to stay and find employment after completing their studies.

Popular Courses to Study in Germany

Here are some of the most popular courses for International or Indian students to pursue in Germany:

  • Engineering

  • Engineering is a clear favourite field among Indian students, especially for disciplines like:

    • Mechanical Engineering
    • Automotive Engineering
    • Electrical Engineering
    • Biomedical Engineering
    • Chemical Engineering
  • Germany's reputation for innovation and its powerhouse automotive industry makes it a natural fit for Indian students strong in these areas.

  • Business Administration

  • A business degree from Germany is an asset for a successful career in business. Programs in International Business, Management, and Finance are popular choices for Indian students looking to gain a strong foundation in business practices.

  • MSc in Aerospace Engineering

  • For those interested in the design, development, and testing of aircraft and spacecraft, Germany offers excellent postgraduate programs in Aerospace Engineering. These programs will provide you with a strong foundation in aeronautical principles, aerodynamics, propulsion systems, and flight mechanics.

  • Masters in Management

  • This is a specialized postgraduate program that focuses on leadership, business skills, and strategic decision-making. It's a great option for students looking to fast-track their careers in business.

  • Medicine and Healthcare

  • Germany has a world-class healthcare system and a strong focus on medical research. If you're interested in pursuing a career in medicine, dentistry, pharmacy, or another healthcare field, Germany offers excellent opportunities.

  • Computer Science

  • The IT sector is booming in Germany that are creating a high demand for skilled computer science professionals. Indian students with a background in computer science can find many program options, including those that focus on software development, data science, and cybersecurity.

  • Data Science

  • Germany is a leader in technological advancements and research, and data science is a field that is rapidly growing in demand.

    A postgraduate program in data science will equip you with the skills and knowledge to collect, analyse, and interpret large datasets, which is a valuable skillset in a variety of industries.

  • Artificial Intelligence (AI)

  • Closely related to data science, AI is another field that is experiencing tremendous growth. A postgraduate program in AI will teach you about the development and application of intelligent systems, which can be used in a variety of fields, such as robotics, healthcare, and finance.

  • Entrepreneurship and Innovation

  • If you have a dream of starting your own business, Germany can be a great place to do it. There are a number of postgraduate programs available in entrepreneurship and innovation that will provide you with the skills and knowledge you need to turn your ideas into reality.

  • Mathematics and Statistics

  • No doubt, Germany is a leader in mathematical research and innovation. With a degree in Mathematics or Statistics from a German university, you'll be well-positioned for a career in research, finance, data analysis, or other quantitative fields.

  • Master in Automotive Engineering

  • The German automotive industry is a global leader in innovation, and a master's degree in automotive engineering from a German university will equip you with the skills and knowledge to develop the next generation of vehicles.

  • Fine Arts and Design

  • Germany has a rich cultural heritage and is a hub for the arts. If you're creative and passionate about art, design, or music, Germany offers excellent programs to help you upgrade your skills and prepare for a career in the creative industries.

    These are only some of the popular field or courses among Indian Students. There are many other programs offered by top universities in Germany. Talking about top universities here’s a list of top 12 universities in Germany for International students.

Top 12 Universities in Germany

University Name Location Estimated Annual Fees (INR) Course Specialization
Technische Universität München (TUM) Munich 1,20,000 – 1,80,000 Engineering, Computer Science, Management
Ludwig-Maximilians-Universität München (LMU Munich) Munich 80,000 - 1,20,000 Humanities, Social Sciences, Natural Sciences
Heidelberg University Heidelberg 80,000 – 1,20,000 Medicine, Law, Humanities
Karlsruhe Institute of Technology (KIT) Karlsruhe 1,00,000 – 1,50,000 Engineering, Natural Sciences, Economics
RWTH Aachen University Aachen 1,00,000 – 1,50,000 Engineering, Natural Sciences, Medicine
Technische Universität Berlin (TU Berlin) Berlin 80,000 – 1,20,000 Engineering, Natural Sciences, Humanities
Eberhard Karls Universität Tübingen Tübingen 80,000 – 1,20,000 Medicine, Humanities, Social Sciences
Albert-Ludwigs-Universität Freiburg Freiburg 80,000 – 1,20,000 Medicine, Humanities, Natural Sciences
Technische Universität Dresden Dresden 80,000 – 1,20,000 Engineering, Natural Sciences, Humanities
University of Erlangen-Nürnberg Erlangen (Semester fees)
12,000 – 18,000
Humanities, Social Sciences, Natural Sciences
Universität Stuttgart Stuttgart 80,000 – 1,20,000 Engineering, Natural Sciences, Humanities
Humboldt-Universität zu Berlin Berlin 80,000 – 1,20,000 Humanities, Social Sciences, Natural Sciences

Explore more universities – Get in touch today!

This list contains mostly the German public universities, the fees for private universities tend to be higher ranging from €10,000 to €20,000 or more per year, which is roughly around ₹8 lakh - ₹16 lakh per year.

Also please note fees are estimated and can vary depending on the specific program chosen and living expenses. Public universities in Germany generally do not charge tuition fees, but there are administrative costs.

Public vs. Private Universities - What Should You Choose?

Choosing between public and private universities in Germany depends on various factors, including your academic goals, financial situation, personal preferences, etc.

Affordability

Public universities in Germany typically have lower tuition fees compared to private universities. Many public universities charge only administrative fees, which are relatively low, while private universities may have higher tuition fees. If you're concerned about costs, attending a public university might be more budget friendly.

Also, public universities often have more funding available for scholarships and financial aid compared to private universities.

Smaller Class Sizes & Specialized Programs

Private universities typically have smaller class sizes. This helps with more personalized attention from professors and a more interactive learning environment.

Private universities may offer more specialized programs or programs taught entirely in English.

Language of Instruction

Most public universities in Germany offer programs taught in German, although there are also many programs taught in English, especially at the master's level. Private universities may offer a wider range of programs taught entirely in English that are convenient to international students.

Campus Life and Community

Both public and private universities in Germany offer vibrant campus communities and extracurricular activities. Consider factors such as location, campus facilities, and the overall atmosphere when choosing between institutions.

Still unsure which university would be right for you? Consult our expert at Shuraa Education for a personalized profile evaluation and recommendations.

Application Process for Admission in German University

Getting admission to a German university involves several steps. Here's the typical application process for international students:

  • Step 1: Research and Choose Your Program & University

  • Germany offers a wide range of universities and programs. You must utilize resources like the DAAD website, and university websites, or consult overseas education experts to search for programs matching your interests.

    Its' also essential to consider factors like program curriculum, faculty expertise, research opportunities, and university location.

  • Step 2: Check Eligibility/Admission Requirements

  • Each university has its own admissions requirements. Carefully review the specific requirements for your chosen program. This may include:

    • Official transcripts from your previous educational institutions
    • Standardized test scores (GRE, GMAT, or TestAS)
    • German language proficiency (TestDaF or DSH for German programs)
    • English language proficiency (TOEFL or IELTS)
    • Strong recommendation letters from professors or employers
    • Additional documents (portfolios, work experience certificates, etc.)
  • Step 3: Application Process

  • Pay close attention to application deadlines. Most universities in Germany have application deadlines in September for winter semesters and March for summer semesters.

    The application process can vary. Most of the universities have online application portals. Compile all the required documents as per the university's instructions.

  • Step 4: Admission & Visa Process

  • Once you submit your application, the university will review your documents and qualifications. If successful, you'll receive an admission offer letter from the university.

    After receiving your admission letter, you can apply for a national visa at the German embassy. You'll likely need to show proof of financial resources by opening a blocked account in Germany. This account holds a specific amount (currently around €11,208) to cover your living expenses during your studies.

    Also, the study visa costs in Germany generally range from €75 to €120 (around ₹6,000 - ₹9,500) for visa application fees. This fee needs to be paid during the application process and is non-refundable.

    However, there might be some additional minor costs associated with the visa application process. For a complete visa cost evaluation consult a study abroad education consultant.

  • Step 5: Arrival & Enrollment

  • Upon arrival in Germany, follow university instructions to complete the enrollment process and register for courses.

    Once you have a residence permit, you can usually unblock your blocked account and access the funds for monthly living expenses.

    We recommend seeking expert assistance from Shuraa Education for application assistance. This will ensure a seamless application process and documents free of errors and typos.

What is the Cost of Studying in Germany?

Public universities in Germany are a major draw for international students due to their very low or no tuition fees. You'll typically pay a semester contribution that covers administrative costs, ranging from €150 to €200 per semester (around ₹12,000 - ₹16,000). This is significantly cheaper compared to many other popular study destinations.

Private universities charge tuition fees, which can vary depending on the program and university. The range can be anywhere from €10,000 to €20,000 or more per year (around ₹8 lakh - ₹16 lakh).

Additional Costs

Besides the tuition fees, there are additional costs such as accommodation, living expenses, food, transportation, health insurance, entertainment, etc. Here’s a general overview of the monthly expenses:

  • Accommodation: This can be your biggest expense. Student accommodation costs vary depending on the city you choose. In larger cities like Munich or Frankfurt, expect to pay €365 to €390 per month (around ₹30,000 - ₹32,000) for a shared apartment. Smaller cities tend to be more affordable.

  • Food & Groceries: Groceries and eating out can cost around €250 to €350 per month (around ₹20,000 - ₹28,000).

  • Transportation: Public transportation passes for students can range from €50 to €80 per month (around ₹4,000 - ₹6,500). Bicycles are a popular and affordable way to get around in many German cities.

  • Health Insurance: All international students need to have health insurance. This typically costs around €80 to €100 per month (around ₹6,500 - ₹8,000).

Please note that the overall costs can vary depending on city, lifestyle, and program choice. For better understanding of tuition fees & costs, we recommend getting in touch with one of our experts at Shuraa Education.

Scholarship Options for International Students

Germany is a leader in affordable education, but scholarships can make studying there even more accessible for international students.

The German Academic Exchange Service (DAAD) is the prime organization for funding German academic exchange programs. They offer various scholarships for international students at all degree levels, including undergraduate, postgraduate, and doctoral studies.

Some German states also offer scholarships through their own ministries of education. Many German universities offer their own scholarships for international students. These scholarships can be merit-based, need-based, or program-specific.

Can You Work Part-time as an International Student in Germany?

International students in Germany are generally allowed to work part-time alongside their studies. However, there are some restrictions to be aware of. For students from non-EU countries (including India), you can typically work up to 20 hours per week during the lecture period or semester. There are no restrictions on working hours during semester breaks.

There are many part-time job opportunities available for students in Germany, such as working in cafes, restaurants, shops, tutoring, or as research assistants at the university.

Do You Need to Learn German to Study in Germany?

You don't necessarily need to learn German to study in Germany. Many universities in Germany offer postgraduate programs taught entirely in English, particularly at the Master's level.

However, if you choose a program taught in German, then you will need to demonstrate proficiency in German. This is typically proven by achieving a minimum score on exams like TestDaF or DSH. But keep in mind, even if your program is in English, basic German language skills can be very beneficial.

Many universities offer German language courses for international students, so you can improve your proficiency while you study.

So, you’re now well aware of how to get admission into a German university, but, what now? You’ll be needing an expert assistance that’ll make your study abroad journey seamless. This is where Shuraa Education comes in!

Shuraa Education Makes Studying in Germany Simple

Studying in Germany can be a great opportunity for international students, especially when it comes to affordability. However, it's essential to do thorough research and find the right university for your academic interests. We highly recommend seeking consultation from experts like Shuraa Education can make the process smoother and more efficient.

We can assist you with profile evaluation, finding the right university, application process, visa assistance, and even accommodation. We have years of experience in assisting students in their study abroad journey, we can help you too.

So, don't hesitate to reach out to us at info@shuraaeducation.com or through call or WhatsApp at +91 931 999 8924 for an absolute FREE consultation.

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