Studying in Germany is a great opportunity for any student. However, adjusting to the new culture and language barriers can be challenging for many international students. If you want to study abroad in Germany, here is what you need to know.
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| Studying in a German university |
How To Study In Germany: A Step-by-Step Guide For International Students
Studying in Germany is a massive opportunity for any student. However, adjusting to the new culture and language barriers can be challenging in another country. If someone wants to study abroad in Germany, here is what they need to know:
Studying abroad is a unique experience, but it can also be scary moving thousands of miles away from one's home country, especially young. The key is doing thorough research to know what resources are available and how best to prepare before arriving at the destination. Here is the guide to studying in Germany!
What is the difference between studying in Germany and studying in other countries?
There are many differences between studying in Germany versus studying in another country. The good news is that German universities generally offer excellent funding opportunities such as scholarships and grants, allowing students to cover some of their expenses.
What are the language requirements for German universities?
Language requirements vary by university and program; however, most degrees expect students to have a high proficiency in the German language. Suppose one is interested in studying at a German university. In that case, the first step is to check out language tests that one should take to demonstrate their proficiency.
What is the language of instruction in Germany? Is it difficult to learn?
The language of instruction in Germany is, as everybody's guess might, German. That may be a good thing because English proficiency among university professors and instructors tends to be high. English-taught programs are pretty popular with international students!
Many universities actively encourage international students to participate in their German language programs, even if they are not required. The DAAD has a list of German courses and programs to learn more about this option.
How long is a degree in Germany?
In general, bachelor's degrees at German universities are three years, and master's degrees range from 18 months to two years. Doctoral degrees take four to six years.
The number of years that the degree program takes depends on the significant subject of studies; however, some other factors can also affect the duration of a degree course in Germany. For example, suppose one chooses to do a consecutive master's degree while continuing to work full-time. In that case, this could cause the studies to extend up to three years beyond the original length. PhDs can take anywhere from four years to six years.
There are some exceptions, such as medicine and veterinary studies in Germany. The primary degree course takes five to six years to complete.
The cost of studies in Germany
The costs for studying in Germany vary by university and program. One may study free by not paying any tuition fees or approximately €1,500 per semester. However, international students should have enough money in their position to meet the cost of living, hostel accommodation, food, and other living expenses.
How can one find a scholarship for studying abroad?
There are many scholarships and financial aid available to international students who want to study in Germany. German Academic Exchange Service (DAAD) tops the list, which provides funding opportunities to students worldwide. Universities have their scholarships, which can be a great way to offset some of the expenses of international students who are lucky enough to qualify for it!
Is it possible to study abroad while working full-time?
Yes, it is possible to study abroad while working full-time. Dual studies in Germany have 50-70% of work. One can study for a degree or vocational qualification through this method. Universities collaborate with industries to provide job placements. One should apply for the placement first for admission from the universities for dual programmes.
Most non-EU students will find it difficult while applying from their home countries as the companies will look for a resident permit of the applicant before considering the application. Whereas a dual programme for a vocational qualification is much easier to apply for, the employer is legally permitted to offer a training contract to an eligible non-EU citizen. In contrast, they apply while in their home country.
What are important considerations for choosing a university?
The first thing to do is research the universities in Germany that offer the program of one's choice. While researching, one should consider what they want out of their study abroad experience - living in a big city, a small town or a rural area?
Do they prefer to study in German or English medium of instruction? In addition to finding the right program and university, one should also be sure to find accommodation when looking at universities. Ensure that the campus accommodations meet the needs so that they are convenient to stay in when classes are in session.
The benefits of attending a university in Germany?
Studying abroad in Germany offers excellent opportunities for personal and professional growth. After completing a degree course, one will be able to think globally and engage with people from around the world. Studying in Germany allows one to develop many essential skills that employers look for, such as cultural awareness and intercultural communication skills. Germany is a country with rich cultural traditions. One may cherish for the rest of their life the unique experiences in Germany.
What are the benefits of studying abroad in Germany?
Germany is stable, and technologically advanced, with an excellent university system and a country with an ever-growing need for workers in all fields. That means German companies will be happy to hire international students and graduates who speak German and English fluently while also understanding German culture.
Is Germany a safe country?
Germany is safe for international students. It was ranked the safest out of all the European countries in a study conducted by the OECD. However, as with anywhere else, one needs to be aware of their surroundings and take safety precautions when necessary.
What are the most common study abroad destinations in Germany?
The most popular cities for students studying abroad in Germany include Berlin, Munich and Cologne, or Aachen. Many smaller cities and towns with universities where international students can find a program to suit their needs.
How does Germany rank in terms of cost of living?
Germany ranks as one of the most expensive countries in Europe, coming in at number 12 on Mercer's Cost of Living Ranking. The good news is that one will offset some of these costs with scholarships and financial aid. However, it is essential to come with a decent sum of money as a bank deposit.
What type of visa requirements and paperwork does one need?
Unfortunately, there is no single visa that allows international students to study in Germany. That means that each student must apply for the appropriate visa based on their situation. Most students need a student visa (D) while arriving and a Residence Permit while attending a study programme.
The most famous universities in Germany?
The most popular universities for international students studying abroad in Germany include those listed below. This list is an individual suggestion; otherwise, all public universities offer high-quality education.
Still, the names famous among international students (the credit goes to the internet) are:
- Technical University of Berlin (Technische Universitaet Berlin)
- RWTH Aachen University
- University of Cologne (Universitaet zu Koln)
- University of Heidelberg (Universitaet Heidelberg)
- Justus Liebig University Giessen
- University of Bonn (Rheinische Friedrich-Wilhelms-Universitaet Bonn)
- Karlsruhe Institute of Technology (Technische Universitat Karlsruhe)
- Ludwig Maximilian University of Munich (Maximilianeum)
What are some tips for studying abroad in Germany as an international student?
1) Be open-minded! The people of Germany will appreciate one's willingness to learn about their language and culture.
2) Get a credit card and need to have it handy in case of emergencies. German merchants typically require a form of ID or proof of purchase before accepting a credit card as payment.
3) Make sure that travel and health insurance is in place and active! Germany is a safe country, but accidents do happen.
How difficult is it to find work opportunities as an international student in Germany?
Every university has a cultural and international affairs department that coordinates on-campus jobs for students with a residency permit. These include library positions, administrative tasks, Etc. Finding employment during semester breaks is a bit trickier. One will probably need a work permit to hold an off-campus job, which can be challenging to obtain if one is still a student.
Conclusion
There are many benefits to studying abroad, and Germany is an excellent place for international students. Germany offers an affordable cost of living and high-quality universities that offer excellent opportunities for study and research to international students. We hope this guide has been helpful- if not informative- on some critical points about studying in Germany!