Germany

Top Universities in Germany

German universities consistently rank among the best in the world, known for their high academic standards and research excellence. According to the QS World University Rankings, 46 German universities are globally recognized, with 12 ranked among the top 200.

Envision Overseas has partnered with several prestigious universities, including:

• Berlin School of Business and Innovation
• Cologne Business School
• EU Business School
• IUBH University of Applied Science
• Lancaster University, Leipzig

Popular Courses for Indian Students

Indian students in Germany prefer a variety of disciplines, including:

• Engineering
• Mathematics
• Natural Sciences
• Law
• Economics
• Social Sciences

Germany excels in these fields, with multiple universities ranked in the QS Top 200 for each discipline.

Career Opportunities for Students

International students in Germany are permitted to work while studying, with allowances of up to 120 full workdays or 240 half workdays per year. Students working as research or student assistants are exempt from these restrictions.

Internships outside the study curriculum count toward the permissible workdays unless they are mandatory as part of the degree program. However, non-EU students cannot work as freelancers or be self-employed.

Earning Potential

International students can earn up to €450 per month tax-free. Earnings beyond this limit are subject to taxation.

Working in Germany After Graduation

Students must actively seek job opportunities while studying, and proficiency in German increases employability. Non-EU students can extend their residency permit by 18 months after graduation to find employment. During this period, they can work without restrictions.

EU Blue Card & Permanent Residency

Graduates securing a job relevant to their field of study can apply for a German residence permit or EU Blue Card, provided they meet the minimum salary requirements:

• €53,000 annually
• €41,808 annually (for mathematics, engineering, medicine, natural sciences, and technical fields)

A candidate can apply for permanent residency two years after receiving an EU Blue Card.

Cost of Studying in Germany

Public Universities

Germany offers tuition-free undergraduate education at public universities, with students paying only administrative fees of up to €250 per semester. If a student exceeds the standard study duration by four semesters, they may incur additional fees of €500 per semester.

Additionally, students must purchase a Semesterticket, which covers public transportation costs for six months.

Private Universities

Private universities charge tuition fees, with bachelor’s programs costing over €20,000 per year.

Master’s Programs

• Consecutive master’s programs (related to a prior German bachelor’s degree) are tuition-free at public universities.
• Non-consecutive master’s programs cost around €20,000 per year at public universities and €30,000 per year at private institutions.
• PhD programs are generally free for up to six semesters, with a nominal €250 administration fee.

Scholarships for International Students

The German Academic Exchange Service (DAAD) provides scholarships for both German and international students. Indian students can apply for 87 different scholarships to fund their education and living expenses. The DAAD website helps students find scholarships based on their program, level of study, and subject area.

Cost of Living in Germany

The average annual cost of living for an Indian student in Germany is €10,200, though costs may vary depending on the city. Living in Munich is more expensive, with costs averaging €12,000 per year.

Accommodation

• Shared apartments: ~€280 per month
• Student halls: ~€234 per month

Additional Monthly Expenses

• Food: €168
• Clothing: €42
• Transport: €94
• Internet & TV license: €31
• Study materials: €20
• Leisure activities: €61
  (Source: DAAD)

Education System in Germany

Germany’s education system fosters intellectual engagement, independent decision-making, and social responsibility.

Higher Education Institutions

• Universities (“Universitäten”) – Research-focused institutions
• Technical Universities (“Technische Hochschulen”) – Engineering and technology-oriented
• Universities of Applied Sciences (“Fachhochschulen”) – Practical and industry-focused
• Art & Music Colleges – Specialized creative fields
• Dual Study Institutions (“Berufsakademie”) – Combining academic and vocational training

Higher Education Degrees

1. Bachelor’s Degree – 3 years (varies by institution type)
2. Master’s Degree – 2-4 semesters
3. Doctorate (PhD) – No fixed duration, typically 3-5 years

Student Visa for Germany

International students require a student visa, granted upon admission to a recognized German institution.

Visa Requirements

• Admission letter from a German university
• Proof of prior education certificates
• Health insurance (coverage of €30,000 for 3 months)
• Statement of purpose
• Visa fee payment proof
• English language proficiency test results

Student Visa Regulations

✅ Allowed:

• Apply for a residence permit if studies extend beyond visa validity
• Work up to 120 full days or 240 half days per year
• Stay in Germany for 6 months post-graduation to find a job

❌ Not Allowed:

• Work beyond 240 days per year
• Skip classes (risk of visa cancellation)

Visa Validity & Extension

A student visa is valid for 3 months, after which students must apply for a 2-year residence permit, extendable based on study duration