How to study in Germany for free: Key tips for students
Germany has emerged as one of the most popular international education destinations for students across the globe. The country is known to offer a combination of prominent universities and a superior quality of life
Germany has emerged as one of the most popular international education destinations for students across the globe. The country is known to offer a combination of prominent universities and a superior quality of life.
What’s even better is that prospects can not only study in some of the best institutions in Germany but also study for free. Read this article to learn more.
Eligibility to study for free in Germany
Any prospect from any part of the world can study in Germany for free. Yes, the option is not limited to any country. However, there is a mandatory requirement. If the student is from outside of the EU, they will need to secure a resident permit before arriving in Germany and will have to complete their studies in the country itself.
In which universities can students study for free in Germany?
In Germany, students can study for free in public universities. Close to 300 public universities are offering 1000+ study programs in total.
Some of the most known public universities offering free study opportunities are:
- University of Cologne
- RWTH Aachen University
- Goethe University, Frankfurt
- Ludwig Maximilians University, Munich
- FAU Erlangen- Nürnberg
- University of Münster
- University of Würzburg
- Universität Hamburg
- Technical University of Munich (TUM)
- University of Duisburg- Essen
- Goethe University Frankfurt
- Ruhr University Bochum
What are the requirements to study in Germany for free?
After students have selected the course they wish to pursue in Germany, the next step involves choosing the university and enrolling in it. Although it is important to note that each institution has different admission eligibility, prospects need to have their transcripts, work experience (depending on the program), GRE/GMAT scores, English eligibility test proofs, SOP, and LOR ready beforehand.
Talking from the perspective of studying for free in Germany, students must have a basic understanding of the German language as applicants would require it during their tenure in Germany and also during their visa process.
There are certain standardized language tests of German proficiency needed for non-native German speakers, for instance, TestDAF as well as university-level DSH exams, for which applicants may be required to prove their German Language skills.
Other costs to consider when studying in Germany
While there are no tuition fees at public universities, students may be required to pay a semester fee also known as “semesterbeitrag”. However, this is a nominal amount which is approximately € 300 to € 400 for the entire semester. This also includes public transport tickets within the surrounding city.
For a European country, Germany is relatively affordable. Here’s an overview of the cost of living as a student in Germany:
Rent and utilities : € 350 to € 500
Food and drinks: € 200 to € 250
Health insurance: € 100
Phone and internet: € 30
Leisure and hobbies: € 500 to € 100
Please be aware that the expenses listed here are for reference purposes only. The actual amount may vary. The cost of living in Germany varies from city to city. Whereas, studying in Munich, Frankfurt or Hamburg will be more expensive as compared to the smaller towns in the country.
Applying for a German student visa
To study in Germany for free students are required to secure a resident permit or student visa in case they plan on staying for more than 90 days. Prospects are required to prove to the visa officer that they carry adequate finances for one year in a blocked account. The estimated amount is €934 per month or €11,208 per annum.
A resident permit visa once issued to the student is valid for a maximum of two years. It has to be renewed if in case the duration of the course is no longer than the mentioned two years. Once the applicant receives the university admit letter and the German student visa, the next step involves going to Germany to live the study abroad dream.
Staying in Germany after graduating from university
International students pursuing their studies in Germany can stay back after completing their studies and look for a job. This is applicable to all students, regardless of their nationality. In case the student is from outside the European Union, one can apply for an 18-month residence permit after graduating. For more information on this, it is advisable to read official statements by the German Federal Government.
Today, Germany is widely chosen as an international education destination by students globally. Be it the various course choices it offers or the post-studies work opportunities, the Government of Germany is also enhancing its education solutions to meet the diverse education needs of students.
With public universities offering free education in the country, there is something for everyone in Germany who wants to live the study abroad experience.