Study in the Germany

Global uncertainties and shifting policies are leaving students stressed and worried about their study in Germany plan. They are weighing their options between the aspired destination and the safer alternatives. Many students are worried about the recent surge in the immediate funds requirement however, this decision was taken in response to the rising inflation. However, the policies of student visas are still friendly and flexible offering a welcoming environment for Indian students. Thus, we have highlighted the top universities and courses, along with scholarships in Germany for Indian students to manage their financial burden effectively.

Germany is known for its affordability but, when preparing to study in Germany they have to review the top universities in Germany fee structure, and living expenses to finalize their study plans. The table below will help you get a clearer picture of expectations. 

Germany offers a high-quality education at affordable rates however, many public universities in Germany are free for all international and domestic students. Most of the students are interested in pursuing engineering, IT, business, and also MS in Germany. Additionally, various scholarships can help you ease your financial burdens.

 

For students who want to pursue a subject that involves research, Germany is an excellent choice. As it supports an innovative and welcoming environment for international talent. However, if you are planning to stay in Germany for a long term consider learning the German language to not only improve communication with locals but also enhance your networking opportunities. 

Students have plenty of options to choose from and to study in Germany public universities alone have around 240 universities. Still, you can find the best universities along with eligibility criteria of universities in Germany for masters and bachelors. Hope you find your perfect university match!

To study in a German university several eligibility criteria apply, although every university has its own criteria. We have mentioned the general requirements below:

Age Requirement:

There is no strict age requirement and if all eligibility criteria are met, age will not be a barrier.

Academic Qualification:

Every university expects at least 50% in secondary examination and to pursue a masters in Germany you should have a 2.5 GPA in bachelor’s. Students who fall short can consider taking a preparatory course to meet the eligibility criteria. 

Academic Evaluation Centre (APS) Certificate:

Indian students must verify their educational credentials through the APS portal, which involves submitting the documents and an interview to confirm their authenticity.

English Language Proficiency:

Many courses in Germany can be pursued in the English language and applicants must meet the university-specific English proficiency score requirements (such as TOEFL or IELTS).

Statement of Purpose (SOP):

A well-written SOP is important for admissions, as it allows professors to evaluate your personal growth, motivation, and strengths beyond academics. Get some SOP writing tips, here!

Letter of Recommendation (LOR):

Most universities require at least one LOR from teachers, mentors, and supervisors, however, many universities have not mandated it. Family and friends are not considered valid recommenders.

Entrance Exam

Some universities require entrance tests to evaluate applicants:

 

1. 

   TestDAF:

Test Deutsch als Fremdsprache (Test of German as a Foreign Language) or TestDAF is conducted by the TestDAF institute. This test is to ensure that the applicant has a basic understanding of the German language. The score requirement varies from university to university.

 

1. 

   DSH:

Deutsche Sprachprüfung für den Hochschulzugang or DSH is an independent test but an external DSH score is not accepted everywhere. Therefore, confirm once from the university before appearing for the DSH.

 

1. 

   Feststellungsprüfung (FSP):

An aptitude test for undergraduate students who need to meet missing academic criteria.

 

1. 

   Graduate Record Examination (GRE):

Some postgraduate programs, especially in technical fields, require GRE scores to assess aptitude.

 

1. 

   Graduate Management Aptitude Test (GMAT):

GMAT is required for the applicants applying for the management/ business/ finance courses. But, check the university website before preparing for the GMAT.

To study in Germany every student needs to get approval on their study visa. You can apply for the study visa after getting the Letter of Acceptance from the university. This document affects the other documents. Below is the list of essential documents:

 

1. 
   Passport
2. 
   Photographs
3. 
   Academic Evaluation Centre (APS) Certificate
4. 
   Proof of Funds
5. 
   Letter of Acceptance
6. 
   English Proficiency Test
7. 
   Curriculum Vitate(CV)
8. 
   Travel Insurance Certificates

The study in Germany costs approximately EUR 842 (INR 80,000) per month which includes only your living expenses. Refer to the table to know the nearby estimation of the funds. 

If you excel in your studies or lack sufficient funds to finance your study in Germany then you can apply for the following scholarships in Germany for Indian students. Some scholarships even provide coverage for living expenses.

German Chancellor Fellowship Program:

The fellowship which is funded by the Alexander von Humboldt Foundation, is to promote and support future leaders in Germany. 

• 
  Benefits: Monthly stipend between EUR 2,000 – EUR 2,500 for German language courses.
• 
  Eligibility: Applicants need a project plan and a host in Germany.
• 
  Courses: Masters
• 
  No. of Students: Around 50 fellows per year.
• 
  Scholarship Type: Project-based fellowship.

Unimoni Student Stars Scholarship:

This is a privately funded scholarship to support international students who want to pursue higher education abroad. 

• 
  Benefits: Covers part of tuition fees and living expenses.
• 
  Eligibility: Students must demonstrate academic excellence and financial need. 
• 
  Courses: Undergraduate and Postgraduate.
• 
  No. of Students: Varies annually based on funding availability.
• 
  Scholarship Type: Merit-cum-need-based.

Konrad-Adenauer-Stiftung Scholarship:

This scholarship is to support international students who wish to pursue master's and doctoral programs. 

• 
  Benefits: Monthly stipend of EUR 850 (for master’s students) and EUR 1,200 (for PhD students).
• 
  Eligibility: Applicants must have a strong academic background and basic German language skills.
• 
  Courses: Master’s and Doctoral programs.
• 
  No. of Students: 60–70 new scholarships per year.
• 
  Scholarship Type: Merit-based 

Many students prefer working part-time to earn and support their studies in Germany. However, students in research can take advantage by taking up on-campus jobs and internships. Just ensure that you follow the rules and regulations mentioned in your study visa. Refer to the German study visa guide to learn the terms and conditions. 

Permanent Residency (PR) in Germany is also known as Settlement Permit (Niederlassungserlaubnis). Being a non-EU national, the applicant should have lived in Germany for 5 years with a valid residence permit and proof of income. However, if you are a graduate of a German university or an individual working on the EU Blue Card, the waiting period to apply for PR is reduced to 2-3 years.