(By KC Raj of KCR Consultants) Since 2016, the number of students from the United States studying in Germany has increased by 17%. Many international students choose to study in Germany to take advantage of its excellent universities and quality of life. However, even more appealing is that students can attend college for free in Germany.
Students seeking opportunities to study in Germany can choose from a large pool of top-notch institutions. Students can choose from a number of undergraduate (UG) or postgraduate (PG) majors. One thing to keep in mind is that most degrees will be 3-year programs. You need to be certain of your major since students in Germany don’t change their majors mid-way through their degree.
Who Is Eligible to Get Free Education in Germany?
International students can qualify for free education in Germany among its public universities. Yes, you read that right. There are over 300 public universities in Germany that provide education either for free or at a very low tuition fee. However, the eligibility criteria for it may vary depending on the UG/PG major you choose. Furthermore, as non-EU/EEA students, American students will need a residence permit before entering Germany.
The Application Process to Study for Free in Germany
Students interested in studying in Germany must follow these steps for college admissions:
1. Choose Your Major
First of all, you need to decide which major you want to pursue. Then you need to choose a university. US News ranks over 70 German Universities in its Best Global Universities.
2. Understand the Requirements
Once you have decided on your preferred major and university, you need to check if you are eligible to pursue the program. To do that, you can visit the official site of the university and check the eligibility criteria. The eligibility criteria can vary across different universities and majors. So, check the eligibility criteria carefully.
3. Learn the German Language
You have to learn to speak German (moderate to advanced level) if you want to study in Germany. Even if you choose to pursue your program in English, you need knowledge of the German language for interacting with the university and daily living. Your success at most German universities relies on your proficiency in the German language. Make sure you start learning it before the start of your program.
4. Find Financial Resources
You need to find resources to finance your stay in Germany during your major. Under the current law, every non-EU or non-EEA student needs to support their expenses until their course is complete.
To get a free education in Germany, an international student must possess 10,332 EUR. This amount is enough for students to support themselves financially for one year. Students need to deposit this amount into a German blocked account.
5. Application
Once you satisfy all the requirements, you need to complete the application form. Some universities accept applications only in person or by post. These universities do not allow students to apply online. Therefore, you need to double-check that before submitting your application form. You can also contact the officials to get a brief idea of the application process.
6. Get Your Student Visa
You will need a student visa to study in Germany! You must get your visa once you receive the admission letter from your university. Foreigners from non-EU and non-EEA countries need to get a German student visa. You can contact the German Embassy to obtain accurate and updated information about the application process.
7. Find Accommodation
After receiving your letter of admission and visa, you should search for a place to stay since German Universities do not provide on-campus housing. There are many places in Germany where you can stay at affordable rates. You can conveniently search for apartments online. Make sure you choose an area that has good transportation facilities.
8. Enrollment
The final step is to enroll in the university. The enrolment procedure transforms you into a registered student of the university. To enroll yourself, you need to be physically present at the administrative office to submit the necessary documents. Some of the documents that you may need to provide are:
- A valid passport
- A passport-size photograph
- Residence permit
- Application form
- Original certificates
- The letter of admission
- Health insurance
Wrapping Up
Initially, it will be difficult for international students to leave their hometown and study abroad. However, the attractive environment and the warm nature of Germans will make you feel at home.
Are you planning to study in Germany? At KCR Consultants, we have a team of experts who can help you find top universities in Germany. They can also help you complete the application process. Contact us if you have any questions or to get detailed information about the application process.
Author Bio
KC Raj is a career counselor and recruiter with many years of experience. Interested in topics like human development, education, immigration, inequality, and many other international issues.
