FAQs

It is difficult to rank universities in Germany since different universities offer very different specialized courses. Though there is no official ranking, there are 9 technical universities (the TU9), known for their excellent research and teaching. These have world-class reputations and strong connections with international companies.

Since most universities are funded by the state government they do not charge any tuition fees. They only charge a semester enrollment fee which can range between 150 to 250 Euros per semester. In universities where tuition is charged, the fees may range between 4,000 to 5,000 Euros per semester.

If you have not found a job immediately after graduating, you can still apply for a renewal, providing that you can show evidence of your ability to support yourself financially, or that you have a sponsor who can support you. The permit can then be renewed for a maximum period of 18 months, and during this period you can look for a job.

There are two types of universities -- Universities and Universities of Applied Sciences: (1) Universities (Technische Universität)- these universities focus on theoretical and academically-oriented degree programs. They offer a wide range of programs of study under Bachelor’s, Master’s and Doctoral (Ph.D.) degree courses. Students interested in research and academics should apply to these universities. (2) Universities of Applied Sciences (Fachhochschulen)- at these universities, the degree programs combine a research-based approach with practical training. All degree programs include internships, and most classes are taught by lecturers with several years of experience in the industry. They offer only Bachelor’s and Master’s degrees.

There are two semesters for admission, the Winter (October) semester and the Summer (April) semester. Most programs begin in the Winter semester. There are only a few that begin in the Summer semester. The general deadlines for the Winter semester are in May, and those for the Summer semester are in November.

The duration of the program depends on the number of credits the program includes. Some programs consist of 90 credits and can be completed in 18 months (3 semesters). Other programs consist of 120 credits to be completed in 24 months (4 semesters).

Indian students are required to submit either a TOEFL or IELTS score. The minimum score required may differ for different universities. But most universities require a TOEFL score of 85 and an IELTS band score of 6.5.

Only a few universities require a GRE score. But taking the GRE is recommended as you will then be eligible to apply to all universities offering courses in your field of interest.

Not generally. But a few universities do require at least one year of relevant work experience. Internships during your Bachelor’s program do not count as work experience.

A Letter of Motivation (also called a Statement of Purpose) is a statement in which you write about your professional goals and how doing a course in your field of interest will help you achieve your professional goal. It should include your relevant achievements and experiences.

Living expenses come to approximately 600 Euros (Rs. 54,000) per month. This cost is further reduced for Indian students as they share apartments and cook their own meals. Generally, the cost does not exceed Rs. 10,00,000 for two years.

You will be granted a visa for three months (90 days) only. Within ten days of arriving in Germany, you must register at your university, and then apply for a residency permit at the local registration office (Einwohnermeldeamt). The residency permit is granted for the duration of the course.

Since the German economy is the strongest in Europe, there are plenty of job opportunities, particularly in fields like mathematics, information technology, natural sciences and engineering. If you are fluent in German, it will certainly increase your chances of getting a job.