Study in Germany: 6 Compelling Reasons For International Students

Thinking about studying abroad? Germany could be the perfect choice. Known for more than pretzels and castles, Germany is quickly becoming a top-choice destination for international students, thanks to its high-quality education, affordability, and rich cultural experience. According to Study in Germany, a comprehensive information portal, International student numbers in this European country have increased from 301,350 in 2014 to 469,485, showcasing a 55.7 percent growth within a decade. This surge is driven by the country’s focus on academic excellence and global career opportunities. Due to restrictions on student visas and post-graduate work opportunities in other popular destinations, these numbers are expected to rise in the coming years. Let’s explore six compelling reasons why studying in Germany is an ideal choice for undergraduate students.

1) Germany offers a world-class undergraduate education system

Germany’s undergraduate education system and some of the world’s finest universities are globally recognised for their academic excellence and innovative approach. Its higher education system provides academic freedom, fostering critical thinking and independence with various institutions tailored to different educational and career aspirations. Traditional universities, or Universitäten, emphasise theoretical and research-oriented education, making them ideal for students aiming for academic or research careers. Universities of Applied Sciences (Fachhochschulen) focus on equipping students with industry-relevant skills through a more practical approach, ensuring strong employability. Technical Universities (Technische Universitäten) specialise in engineering and technical disciplines, often maintaining close ties with industries to provide cutting-edge knowledge and opportunities. For those with creative pursuits, Colleges of Art, Film, and Music offer specialised training with a hands-on approach, catering to future artists, filmmakers, and performers. This diverse array of institutions ensures that students can find the right fit for their goals and interests. German universities are divided into private and public universities, with the latter dominating the educational landscape. The key difference between the two lies in their funding structure. Public universities are primarily funded by the government and typically charge little to no tuition fees, focusing on providing accessible education to a broad student population. In contrast, private universities rely on tuition fees as their primary source of income, often offering smaller class sizes and specialised programmes with a more personalised learning experience.

2) Germany provides an affordable education and cost of living

Germany is globally renowned for its affordable education, offering high-quality programmes at minimal cost. In 2014,  Germany abolished tuition fees for undergraduate students at all public universities for EU and non-EU students. Therefore, domestic and international students can pursue bachelor’s degrees at public universities at a nominal fee ranging from €100 to €350 per semester. The fee covers administrative costs and student services, including public transportation passes. 

However, exceptions exist. Certain federal states have introduced tuition fees for non-EU students. For instance, Baden-Württemberg charges non-EU citizens €1,500 per semester for undergraduate programmes. Additionally, starting from the winter semester of 2024-25 onwards, The Technical University of Munich (TUM) will implement tuition fees for international students outside the EU/EEA, amounting to €2,000 or €3,000 per semester for bachelor’s degree programmes.

In contrast, private universities in Germany set their tuition fees, which can be significantly higher. Undergraduate programmes at these institutions may cost up to €35,000 per year.

Beyond tuition, students should budget for living expenses, including accommodation, food, health insurance, and other personal costs. The average single person spends around €968.35 monthly in Germany, without including rent.

Here’s a comparative table highlighting the affordability of studying and living in Germany versus other popular study destinations for international students:

Disclaimer: Costs are subject to change every year. 

3) Germany offers diverse undergraduate programmes taught in the English language

Germany provides a wide range of undergraduate programmes in English, appealing to international students who may need to improve in German. The DAAD search tool cites 226 English-taught undergraduate programmes in Germany. 

These programmes span diverse fields, including engineering, medicine, data science, and international business. Most undergraduate courses in Germany take three years to complete. Fields such as computer science and business typically adhere to this timeline, whereas engineering programmes may extend to four years to include mandatory internships or research components. 

The increasing prevalence of English-taught programs is evident in the growing number of international students choosing Germany as their study destination. A 2023 DAAD report reveals that  80 percent of higher education institutions in Germany reported a stable or rising number of international students. 

4) Germany offers multiple job opportunities for international students

Germany is the largest economy in Europe, followed by the United Kingdom, France, Italy, and Russia. These five together hold a 59 percent share of the European economy. With industries spanning automotive, healthcare, technology, and renewable energy, Germany’s demand for skilled professionals is ever-growing. In 2023, 43.6 percent of German companies reported a shortage of skilled workers, particularly in sectors like technology, manufacturing, engineering, and healthcare. This makes Germany an ideal country for international students looking to stay back after graduation. 

Additionally, the country’s visa policies are student-friendly, making it easier for international graduates to integrate into the workforce. 

According to QS Top Universities, Students in Germany can earn up to €450 per month tax-free by working 120 full days or 240 half days per year. Voluntary internships during their semester break are counted as part of the 120-day credit allowance for work, regardless of whether it is paid or unpaid. However, mandatory internships, part of the academic programme, do not affect this credit balance. However, non-EU students are also not allowed to engage in self-employed or freelance work. After graduating, students can extend their residence permit for up to 18 months to find work relating to their studies. The 18 months begin as soon as they receive their final exam results. 

Once students have landed a job, they can apply for a German residence permit or EU Blue Card (similar to the US Green Card). The EU Blue Card also enables students to live and work in other EU states. Those applying for the Blue Card must have a job offer that pays at least  €58,400 a year or at least €45,552 a year in STEM-related jobs. 

5) Germany’s stable political climate offers security

As a leading member of the EU, Germany plays a pivotal role in shaping European policies and global trade. Its influence extends across economics, environmental sustainability, and international relations. Germany’s commitment to EU trade policies has been instrumental in positioning the EU as a leading global trading power. The country’s active engagement in international affairs allows students to interact with pressing global issues. Germany’s renewable energy and sustainable development leadership provides valuable insights, particularly for those interested in environmental studies and policies. 

Additionally, Germany consistently ranks highly in political stability according to the World Bank’s Worldwide Governance Indicators, with minimal instances of violence or terrorism. This provides a secure and predictable environment for international students, allowing them to focus on their academic pursuits without concerns about political unrest.

6) Germany is a multicultural, vibrant country offering a high standard of living 

Germany is a hub of cultural diversity, offering a rich blend of traditions and global influences. With international students making up nearly 13 percent of the student population, universities are vibrant melting pots of cultures, fostering an inclusive and collaborative atmosphere. 

Cultural richness is woven into the fabric of German life. The country’s historic landmarks, such as the Brandenburg Gate, Neuschwanstein Castle, and Cologne Cathedral, stand alongside vibrant modern attractions like Berlin’s street art scenes and world-class museums. Festivals such as Oktoberfest in Munich and the Berlinale Film Festival offer students opportunities to experience German traditions while connecting with people from diverse backgrounds. 

The country is also celebrated for its high standard of living, efficient public services, and cultural diversity, making it an attractive destination for international students. Its world-class infrastructure includes a highly efficient public transportation system, such as the Deutsche Bahn, which connects cities seamlessly. Subsidised public transport passes, often included in student fees, make commuting affordable and convenient. Healthcare in Germany is another highlight. As of October 1, 2024, public health insurance costs in Germany range from €130 to €150 per month.

Germany isn’t just a study destination—it’s a gateway to global career success. With world-class education, affordable living, and unparalleled opportunities for international exposure, it equips students with the skills and connections needed to thrive globally. If you need assistance with applying to undergraduate universities in Germany, get in touch. Meanwhile, read our blog, Beyond the US, UK and Canada: Unique Study Abroad Destinations.