Germany is a Western European country which borders Denmark, Poland, the Czech Republic, Austria, Switzerland, France, Luxembourg, Belgium, the Netherlands, the Baltic Sea, and the North Sea. Due to its high academic level and free public universities, it is one of the most popular destinations for international students. Over time, it has also been known to be the most industrialized country in the world and a forerunner in industry and technology.
As an international student, below are the major things you need to know about studying in Germany:
1. Research a study program: this is the baseline step, and it would not be a major problem because there are many universities and countless study programs available. However, finding a university and a study program may take time if you have not given much thought to starting your application process to study in Germany. Immediately after you find the German universities of your choice, you can either decide to focus on just one university or apply to several that you like best to increase your chances of securing admission.
2. Entry requirements: Entry requirements are different depending on the university and the type of course you choose. It is therefore highly recommended that you read the requirements extensively for the university of your choice.
3. Language: In Germany, most undergraduate courses are taught in the native language, whereas many study programs at higher academic levels are taught entirely or partially in the German language. Which simply means a student’s success at university highly depends on the skills you have in the German language, as this would help you comprehend study materials, understand what is taught in lectures and also be able to express your thoughts properly.
4. Finance: Every foreign student from the EU or outside the EEA must have adequate financial resources to finance their stay in Germany during their studies, with a minimum of €10,322, which is estimated to be enough to cover the cost of living for the first year of studies. This sum of money would be deposited into a German blocked account, which is a special type of bank account to prove you have enough funds to live in Germany for one year before you apply for a German internship visa.
5. Admission application: Depending on what level of studies you are willing to pursue in Germany, the application procedures vary. However, because application screening takes time, it is very much advised that you need to submit your application as soon as possible.
6. Accommodation: Accommodation is usually not expensive, but it is recommended that, as a foreign student, you should strive to find the most financially suitable place for you to live. Some universities that do offer student accommodation usually have affiliated dormitories or student housing arranged through their partner institution, while some universities offer single-person accommodation. It is therefore important to create a budget in advance so that you are prepared and not caught unaware.
7. Enrollment: the enrollment process takes an applicant from a successful applicant stage to a registered student in Germany. You would therefore be required to pay a registration fee between the range of €150 and €250 and also pay for your semester ticket to use public transportation free of charge for 6 months.
After studying in Germany, students can apply for an 18-month residence permit to look for a job after graduation, during which they can do any kind of work. However, to do this, they would be required to provide a passport, proof of completion of studies, health insurance documents, and proof that they have the means to support themselves financially.