Why study in Germany?
Experiences from an Indian student pursuing higher education in Germany
I have been living in Germany since the past few years pursuing my graduate studies. My background is in engineering, therefore, most of my blog posts would draw from my experiences in this field of study. Although I would be still try to cover other fields of study to the best of my knowledge.
Coming to the very important question — Why study in Germany? Is it the best option for you?
Some key points which make Germany attractive for grad students from abroad are as follows:
- It’s cheap!
Yes. Most German Universities, with an exception of those in the state of Baden-Württemberg, don’t have tuition fees for non-EU students. Which means students don’t have to worry about hefty semester fees (earlier anywhere between 600–1500€ per semester). You only need to finance your living expenses such as housing, food, insurance, etc. and a small administration fee for University facilities such as library, sports, public transport, etc.
For more information on living costs as a student in Germany, click here.
2. Quality of education
German universities are well-known around the world for their excellent and up-to-date research facilities and academic contribution in almost every field of study. There are English study programs for diverse fields such as Management, Economics, Sociology, Engineering among others. In addition, several research institutes such as Max Planck Institutes, Leibniz Institute, Fraunhofer Institutes, Helmholtz Institutes which offer excellent research opportunities for a funded PhDs, Post-docs and research stays and collaborations for scientists.
For engineering students, there are two categories of universities in Germany: (1) TU or technical university and (2) FH (Fachhochschule) or university of applied sciences.
TU focus more on research-oriented programs. While FH focus on vocational degrees geared at preparing students to enter the workforce directly. Most international students study in TU as it gives them a MSc degree (as against MEng). However, both these degrees can be used to pursue a PhD, albeit with additional courses when you have an MEng.
To find a study programs (Bachelor, Master) in English in your field of interest, click here.
For more information on research institutes in Germany, click here.
For more information on pursuing a PhD in EU, click here.
3. Opportunities after graduating in Germany
Many students, on completing their Masters or PhD either find a job in industry or pursue an academic career. Germany has many relaxed criteria for highly educated foreign citizens with regard to long-term visa and citizenship policies.
For information on working in German industry, click here.
5. German culture and living in Germany as a foreigner
In comparison to United States, I found Germany or EU in general to be a better fit for me for several reasons. One of them is that I always wanted to travel in Europe — mountains, parks, beautiful cities, history, food, metal/rock concerts — are some of the key reasons. Second is that in comparison to US, I found German culture more compatible for me. Germany has a huge focus on renewable energy, a good network of public transportation and proximity to Asia. Although I feel a basic knowledge of German language in needed for living comfortably in Germany, it didn’t feel like a big hindrance. Most German universities have a good left-wing political scene where you can participate as well as organize several community initiatives. There are of course cases of racism and xenophobia in Germany, which I think would be similar to most other Western countries.
