Study in Germany

Studying in Germany can be a rewarding and enriching experience. Germany is known for its excellent education system, diverse range of programs, and affordable tuition fees.

• Research: Begin by researching the universities and programs that interest you. Germany has numerous universities offering a wide variety of courses taught in both German and English. Look into admission requirements, program details, and any specific criteria you need to meet.
• Choose a program: Once you have identified your areas of interest, select a program that aligns with your educational and career goals. Consider the curriculum, faculty, research opportunities, and career prospects associated with the program.
• Check admission requirements: Review the admission requirements for the chosen program and university. Generally, you will need to provide your educational transcripts, language proficiency test scores (such as IELTS or TOEFL for English-taught programs), a CV/resume, letters of recommendation, and a statement of purpose.
• Language proficiency: If you plan to study in German, you will need to demonstrate proficiency in the German language. You may need to provide a TestDaF or DSH certificate as proof of your language skills. For English-taught programs, you will need to provide proof of English proficiency through tests like IELTS or TOEFL.
• Finances: Consider the cost of living in Germany and ensure you have sufficient funds to support yourself during your studies. You may also explore scholarships and financial aid options offered by universities, the German government, or external organizations.
• Apply: Once you have gathered all the necessary documents, Index will submit your application to the chosen university within the application deadline. Some universities use an online application portal, while others require you to send physical copies of your application by mail.

• Admission to a German university: First, you need to secure admission to a recognized educational institution in Germany. You should research and apply to the universities or colleges that offer the program you are interested in.
• Financial requirements: You must demonstrate that you have sufficient funds to cover your living expenses and tuition fees during your stay in Germany. The exact amount required may vary, so it’s important to check the current financial requirements set by the German authorities.
• Health insurance: You will need to obtain health insurance coverage for your stay in Germany. It is mandatory to have health insurance in order to apply for a student visa.
• Visa application: Once you have received your acceptance letter from a German university and gathered all the necessary documents, you can proceed to apply for a student visa at the German embassy or consulate in your home country. You will need to fill out an application form, submit the required documents, and pay the visa application fee.
• Visa interview: In some cases, you may be required to attend an interview at the German embassy or consulate as part of the visa application process. The purpose of the interview is to verify the information provided in your application and assess your eligibility for a student visa.
• Visa processing time: The processing time for a German student visa can vary depending on various factors, including the time of year and the workload at the embassy or consulate. It is recommended to apply well in advance to allow sufficient time for processing.

It’s important to note that visa requirements and procedures can change over time, so it is advisable to visit the official website of the German embassy or consulate in your country for the most up-to-date and accurate information. Additionally, seeking guidance from your chosen university’s international student office or a qualified immigration advisor can provide you with detailed and personalized assistance throughout the application process.

• Tuition fees: In Germany, most public universities do not charge tuition fees for both domestic and international students. However, there might be small administrative fees ranging from €100 to €500 per semester.
• Accommodation: The cost of accommodation can vary significantly based on            the location and type of housing. On average, students spend around €300 to €600 per month on rent for a shared apartment or dormitory. Rent in major cities like Munich or Berlin can be higher.
• Food: The cost of food depends on personal preferences and eating habits. On average, students spend around €150 to €250 per month on groceries and eating out. Cooking meals at home is generally more cost-effective than eating in restaurants or cafes.
• Health insurance: Health insurance is mandatory for all students in Germany. The cost of health insurance for students is approximately €80 to €120 per month, depending on the provider and coverage.
• Transportation: Public transportation in Germany is well-developed, and many cities offer discounted semester tickets for students. The cost of transportation varies, but students typically spend around €30 to €80 per month on public transportation.
• Books and study materials: The cost of books and study materials can vary depending on the course of study. On average, students spend around €20 to €50 per month on books and supplies.
• Miscellaneous expenses: This category includes expenses such as mobile phone bills, internet, leisure activities, clothing, and personal care items. It is difficult to provide an exact estimate, as it depends on individual choices, but an average of €100 to €200 per month is a reasonable estimate.

Overall, considering these factors, the estimated annual expenses for a student in Germany can range from €8,000 to €12,000 or more, depending on the location and personal lifestyle choices. It’s essential to note that these figures are rough estimates, and individual circumstances may vary.

Foundation of German business: Academic study sponsorship

Maximum Value: 812 euros (till the end of study period)

Link: daad.de/go/en/stipa10000119

SBW Berlin scholarship (Rare)

Scholarship value

A full scholarship includes:

• the tuition fees (national average)
• a furnished room in our shared student apartments
• if required, a living allowance per month
• if required, assumption of costs for the required certification and legalisation of – documents
• travel expenses where required

Applicants must submit at least the following documents:

• complete application form (including curriculum vitae and proof of relatively low net household income, such as pay slips, pension notices, bank statements)
• letter of motivation (1-2 pages in which previous voluntary commitment, the future professional goal and a project idea for a charitable social project are explained in detail)
• copy of the last school or university certificate with overview of grades and average grade
• copy of the highest educational qualification (Abitur or university certificate) with overview of grades and average grade

If available, copies of the following documents should also be attached:

• university entrance qualification
• admission of the Berlin or Potsdam higher education institution at which the applicant wants to study (or is already studying)
• proof of the necessary language skills for the desired course of study in the form of an internationally recognised language certificate (must be submitted at the latest during the verification process)
• all work, training and internship certificates that have already been acquired
• all university certificates and other certificates of achievement (graded and ungraded)

We recommend that all applicants also submit the following, non-mandatory documents:

• 1 or 2 letters of recommendation from professors, school teachers, employers, etc.
• evidence of the net household income (If the application only contains information about the net household income, the evidence must be submitted in the verification process.)

Application deadline

31st December

Evangelisches Studienwerk: Scholarship for Students

Maximum value: 1112 euros per month (whole study period)

Deadline: 1st March

Link: daad.de/go/en/stipa10000117

Germany offers a wide range of job opportunities for students. Here are some options you can consider:

1. Working as a student assistant (HiWi): Many universities and research institutions in Germany hire student assistants to support professors and researchers in various tasks, such as data entry, literature research, laboratory work, or tutoring. These positions often provide flexible working hours and can be an excellent way to gain practical experience in your field of study.
2. Internships: Germany has a strong internship culture, and many companies offer internships to students. Internships can be paid or unpaid, and they provide valuable hands-on experience in a professional work environment. You can search for internships on online platforms, company websites, or through your university’s career service.
3. Part-time jobs: Working part-time while studying is a common practice in Germany. You can find part-time jobs in various sectors, such as hospitality, retail, customer service, or tutoring. Popular options include working as a waiter/waitress, barista, salesperson, or language tutor. Websites like Indeed, Monster, or local job portals can help you find part-time job opportunities.
4. Freelancing: If you have specialized skills, such as graphic design, web development, content writing, or translation, you can offer your services as a freelancer. Platforms like Upwork, Freelancer, or Fiverr connect freelancers with clients looking for specific skills. Freelancing allows you to work on your own terms and manage your schedule efficiently.
5. Work-study programs: Some universities in Germany offer work-study programs, where students can work part-time within the university or in cooperation with partner companies. These programs provide students with financial support and practical work experience related to their field of study.
6. Language teaching: If you are a native or fluent speaker of a foreign language, you can explore opportunities to teach your language. Language institutes, private tutoring, or language exchange programs might have openings for language instructors.

Remember to check the student visa regulations in Germany to ensure you comply with any restrictions on working hours or permit requirements. Additionally, your university’s career service or job placement office can provide valuable guidance and assistance in finding suitable job opportunities for students.

To obtain a German passport after completing your German degree, you need to fulfill certain requirements and follow a specific process. Here are the general steps:

1. Residence in Germany: To be eligible for a German passport, you generally need to have a legal residence in Germany. This typically means that you have a valid residence permit or have acquired permanent residency.
2. Completion of German degree: You should have successfully completed your German degree program from a recognized German educational institution. This can include completing a Bachelor’s, Master’s, or PhD program.
3. Language proficiency: Depending on your circumstances, you may need to demonstrate German language proficiency. The required level can vary, but for naturalization purposes, you usually need to pass the German language test, such as the “Test Deutsch als Fremdsprache” (TestDaF) or the “Deutsche Sprachprüfung für den Hochschulzugang” (DSH).
4. Fulfilling residency requirements: In most cases, you must have lived in Germany for a certain period of time to be eligible for a German passport. The standard requirement is at least eight years of continuous residence, although there are exceptions for individuals with special circumstances, such as graduates of a German degree program or individuals married to a German citizen.
5. Naturalization application: Once you meet the residency requirements and have all the necessary documents, you can apply for naturalization. This involves submitting an application to the competent authority, typically the local citizenship office (“Einbürgerungsbehörde”) or the immigration office (“Ausländerbehörde”).
6. Application documents: The exact documents required may vary depending on your individual circumstances and the specific requirements of the local authorities. However, you will generally need to provide proof of identity, proof of residence, evidence of completed education, language proficiency certificates, and any other required documents specified by the authorities.
7. Interview and citizenship test: As part of the naturalization process, you may be required to attend an interview to assess your language skills, knowledge of German culture, and integration into German society. You may also need to pass a citizenship test that covers topics such as German history, politics, and the legal system.
8. Oath of allegiance: If your application is successful, you will be invited to take an oath of allegiance to the German constitution and officially become a German citizen. This usually takes place at a ceremony conducted by the local citizenship office.

It’s important to note that the process and requirements for obtaining German citizenship can vary depending on individual circumstances, such as your country of origin, your parents’ nationality, or your marital status. It is advisable to consult with the local citizenship office or immigration authorities for detailed information and guidance specific to your situation.

In Germany, a block account, also known as a “Sperrkonto” or “blocked bank account,” is a financial arrangement that international students often need to set up to demonstrate proof of financial resources when applying for a student visa. The purpose of the block account is to ensure that students have sufficient funds to cover their living expenses while studying in Germany.

Here’s how a block account typically works:

• Choosing a bank: Select a German bank that offers block accounts for international students. Some of the popular banks include Deutsche Bank, Fintiba, Deutsche Kreditbank (DKB), or Expatrio.
• Opening an account: Contact the chosen bank and apply to open a block account. You will usually need to provide your passport, admission letter from a German university, and other identification documents.
• Depositing funds: Transfer the required amount of money into the block account. The minimum amount can vary, but it is generally around €8,640 (as of 2021) for one year of study. This amount may change, so it’s essential to check the current requirements with the bank or the German embassy/consulate.
• Account restriction: Once the funds are deposited, the bank places a restriction on the account, which prevents you from accessing the entire amount at once. Typically, a monthly installment is made available to you, ensuring a steady flow of funds throughout your studies.
• Living expenses: You can use the funds in the block account to cover your living expenses in Germany, such as accommodation, food, health insurance, and other necessary costs. Be mindful of your spending to ensure the funds last throughout your study period.
• Documenting financial proof: When applying for a student visa or extending your residence permit, you will need to provide documentation of your block account, such as a bank statement or confirmation from the bank. This serves as proof of financial resources to meet the visa requirements.
• Monitoring the account: It’s important to keep track of your block account balance and ensure that it meets the minimum required amount throughout your studies. Failure to maintain the required balance may affect your visa status.

It’s worth noting that some banks charge fees for opening and maintaining a block account, so it’s advisable to compare the fees and services offered by different banks before making a decision. Additionally, the specific procedures and requirements may vary between banks, so it’s recommended to contact the bank directly or visit their website to get detailed information on their block account services.

Universities list will be updated soon.

For updated  information, please call our expert counselor 03296777077