12 Facts About German Universities

World-class diplomas, free education, integration into European society, and covering living expenses are just a few of the advantages German universities offer to students. Here are some reasons why studying in Germany is a great option for US students.

1. German universities award world-class diplomas

“Made in Germany” represents quality, including in education. A German diploma can open doors to job opportunities throughout Europe, the United Kingdom, and the United States. With an average salary of around €40,000 per year, graduates can choose to stay in Germany, move to another EU country, or return to the US.

It is up to the student to stay in Germany, move to another EU country, or return to US. The average salary of graduates of German universities is about €40,000 a year.

Important: after completing their studies, foreigners can look for a job in the country for up to 18 months.

2. German universities offer free education

Education at public German universities is free. Students only pay a fee of €150-750 per semester. Some programs with tuition fees are also available, such as international double degree programs and specialized training programs.

3. Admission to German universities is relatively easy

Key prerequisites for admission include proven knowledge of German and 12 years of education. For master’s programs, you’ll also need motivation and reference letters and a CV. Volunteering can be an advantage.

4. Low cost of living

Germany has moderate prices for rent, food, and clothing. Average student expenses:

• Accommodation – €600,
• Meals €350,
• Insurance €55,
• Transport: €50,
• Study materials – €10.

Students receive benefits for attending cultural events, theaters, museums, and other institutions.

An additional way to save money is to rent a place together with other students.

5. Scholarships

There are many scholarships for excellent students. The most famous support fund is the German Academic Exchange Service DAAD. Its funding covers the costs of transportation, health insurance, and accommodation.

The amount of the scholarship depends on the academic program. The average scholarship for master’s students is €934 per month. 

Most scholarships are valid for one year. They are automatically renewed if the student’s academic results are good.

6. A wide choice of fields of study

There are more than 450 universities and, 17500 study programs in Germany. It is possible to get a bachelor’s, master’s and doctoral degree.

The average duration of the Bachelor’s degree is 3 years, the Master’s is 1-2 years, and the Doctoral degree is 2-3 years. There are non-baccalaureate programs: medical, pharmacy, law, and teaching. A medical degree lasts 13 semesters, and a law degree 9.

Types of educational institutions:

• Universities – academic research centers with a wide range of fields.
• Universities of applied sciences with an emphasis on internships and apprenticeships.
• Universities of education.
• Theological universities.
• Universities with programs of study in technical, natural science, and economic fields.
• Creative universities, where designers and architects are trained.
• Music universities.
• Administrative universities.

About a quarter of German and a third of foreign students choose universities of applied sciences. The most sought-after areas are engineering and natural sciences.

7. Teaching in English

Most public universities in Germany teach in German. Teaching in English and French is common at private universities. However, the number of courses in English at public institutions is increasing every year. There are already many master’s programmes in English in areas such as IT, business and management, marketing, natural sciences 

8. Integration of international students

In Germany, 12 percent of students are foreigners. Universities facilitate their seamless integration through newcomer mentoring programs. The most popular program is Buddy.

Education in Germany is a quality approach to teaching combined with the freedom to choose educational areas.

9. Security

According to the Global Peace Index 2022, Germany is the sixteenth safest country in the world.

10. Center of Europe

Germany is a uniquely scenic country in the heart of Europe. Here you can admire both natural landscapes and medieval castles.

A change of scenery is possible in a few hours. Other capitals nearby are Paris, Vienna, Prague and Rome.

11. German – the language of perspective

German is one of the most widely spoken languages in the world. It is spoken by approximately 185 million people. Knowing German is a plus on any resume.

12. Part-time job opportunities

German university students can earn extra money. There is a work limit of 120 eight-hour days per year for non-EU students. To get a job you have to get permission from the Federal Employment Agency and the Office for Foreigners.

The average salary of a student is €385 per month. There may be several part-time jobs, but they add up. Income above €450 is taxed.

In summary, free education, a high level of safety, affordable accommodation, and a central European location make studying in Germany an attractive option for US students. Prepare for your studies by researching fields of study, universities, and scholarship programs, learning the language, and gathering necessary documents.