About Germany
The country is surrounded by nine countries around it, including the Baltic Seas in the North, the Alps in the south, Netherland, Belgium, and Luxembourg in the west, France in the south-west, the Czech Republic in the Southeast and Poland in the east.
With 81 million population, Germany is the most populous country in the European Union. Berlin is the capital and also the largest city of Germany. It has 16 constituent autonomous states and spreads across more than 357000 sq km.
The climate is moderate and seasonal and comfortable as a study abroad destination.
Quick Facts
Germany is the founding member of the European Union and Eurozone was the first to introduce Euro currency to the European Union. It has the most competitive and innovative industry in the world which is the automotive industry. Because of the highly innovative index, no wonder Germany is called the Land of Ideas!
Admission Process in Germany
The admission process requirements and the list of application documents and dates for initiating the admission process depend on the University. However typical requirements per course, same as in India are:
UG: valid school Leaving Certificate, level of English or GermanPG: valid Bachelor's degreePhD: valid PG degree The application period can be either for the winter or summer semester enrolment.
Winter semester enrolment: application period is May-July 15; acceptance letter is received between August- September, and reject letter may be received between September- OctoberSummer semester enrolment: The application period is December-January 15; the acceptance letter receiving period is February-March; while the reject letter may be received between March-April.Language requirements:
German language proficiency: It is a Test of German as a Foreign Language for foreign students. TestDaF exam can be given over the world while DSH exam can be given only in Germany as per specific University entrance requirementsEnglish language proficiency: Some universities require GRE for Engineering admission while others TOEFL (check university requirement). GMAT score is required in some universities for Management admission.
Admission document checklist
The admission documents are one of the most important set of documents and one critical first steps for going abroad. Check the list with that mentioned in the application form:
Entry test score card Degree certificate Degree marksheetsLetter of Recommendation (from University staff)Attested transcripts photocopiesStatement of Purpose SoP Covering Letter Transfer Certificate if applicableAwards of DistinctionLetter of AppreciationPassport Copy Photos Resume/ CVForeign Language certificate :German/ English proficiency: GRE, TOEFL, IELTSStudent Visa Application Process
As per the German Consulate norms: A Schengen visa is required for any period greater than 90 days. For students going to study in Germany, this is called the Long Term Visa. Application form and norms for application are available on the German consulate website, it is regularly updated.
A small list if FAQ with answers is here:
When to apply: three months prior to departure Book an appointment online/ call center or on phone? During the personal interview, all documents are verified. Security procedures indicate that no battery operated gadgets, no bags, only file folder are allowed in the interview venue. Follow all other standard security rules.
They will need your digital photo and biometric fingerprint data. In case you have an injury then you will need to wait until the injury is healed before applying for Visa.
Once the Visa is through the consulate sends an approval letter. You need to send passport, and the approval letter to Visa issuance office – VFS.
What does the Visa office check?
Document checklist Financial status proof of having at least having more than 7999+ euros per year Application form declaration, filled and duly signed Valid passport : The passport s valid on two conditions. First: that the passport should be issued in the previous ten years and should have at least two blank pages. Second: that the passport should be valid for three months beyond your planned date of stay in Germany. Handwritten passports are not acceptedTwo passport size photographsPersonal covering letterIT Return or Form 16Personal/ parent's bank statement Proof of accommodation in GermanyFlight reservation copy Travel health insuranceLifestyle
Germans are known to spend time with family and explore new ventures. Hence local tourism is prevalent.
Food: Germany is a place for enjoying world-class wines and beers. It has had an external culinary influence but the cuisine varies across regions. You can enjoy a variety of eating experiences across the cities of GermanySports and leisure: The country has diverse landscapes from Alps to the Baltic Sea, and the North Sea. There are ample places for touring including theme parks, inland waterways, vibrant cities, beaches, mountains. Germany has it all! Nowadays the trend of spa towns is in vogueThere are ample opportunities for sports, leisure, and cultural engagements in the cities and the countryside. In the Rhine valley you can enjoy golf, walking or cycling while the inland waterways: are suited for swimming, boating, fishing or water sports. The Eastern Alps are haven for skiing, snowboarding hiking and mountain biking.
Evenings can be fun in the cities and towns. For entertainment in both German and English, you can check out events and program announcements regularly on newspaper, radio and TV.
Cost of Living for Students
The cost of living is about 180% higher than in India. Let this number not be a shock to you! It is quite reasonable as compared to another study abroad destinations.
The living expenses are about 800 to 1000 euros which include monthly rent, clothing, food, books, telephone, internet and TV, leisure activities like recreation and sports, and transport – cars and public transport. The rental is 200 to 360 euros a month- a major portion of living expenses. You can spend less by sharing a flat with others or use a student hall of residence. Health insurance is necessary, and you will incur about 80 euros per month since home country insurance is not permissible. Possible tuition fees , depending on the university
Semester contribution depends on the university/college 250 euros for services offered for student expenditures like the student hall of residence, dining hall, sports facilities and administrative services. May also include public transport tickets at no charge per semester and about 25 to 160 euros per semester Social contribution is about 50 to 75 euros per semester. On showing student ID a student can avail concessions on entrance fees for cultural events, theatres, museums, opera house, cinema, public swimming pool. You can get information about current costs at this link which gives the cost per city in Germany: Expatistar.com/costofliving/ country/ Germany