Germany

Germany is a top choice for Indian students because of affordable education (even free at public universities), excellent research opportunities, and a strong job market.

Why Study Non-Medical Courses in Germany

• Very low or zero tuition at public universities
• Globally top-ranked universities (QS, THE Rankings)
• 18-month post-study work visa
• No mandatory German language for many master’s programs
• Strong STEM, Business, and Arts programs
• Affordable living costs compared to UK/US
• High demand for skilled workers (Engineering, IT, Business)

Non-Medical Courses Offered

UG:

• BSc (Computer Science, Data Science, Mechanical Engineering, Physics)
• BA (Economics, International Business, Design, Political Science)
• LLB (International Law)

PG:

• MSc (AI, Robotics, Renewable Energy, Big Data, Finance)
• MBA (various specializations)
• MA (International Relations, Communication, Urban Planning)
• MEng (Mechanical, Electrical, Civil, Automotive)

Course Duration

Medium of Teaching

• English-medium programs widely available for PG courses
• Bachelor’s mostly in German (some English-taught available)
• Learning basic German (A2/B1) is highly recommended for daily life & jobs

Intake & Deadlines

• Main Intakes: September/October
• Some Universities: March/April (Summer intake)
• Apply: 8–10 months before course start

Eligibility Criteria

• UG: 10+2 with 65–85% (depending on university)
• PG: Bachelor’s degree with 60–75%
• IELTS/TOEFL required (IELTS 6.0–6.5+ usually)
• No GRE needed for most courses
• German language certificate (optional but helpful)

Documents Required

• 10th & 12th Mark Sheets
• Bachelor’s Degree & Transcripts (for PG)
• IELTS/TOEFL score
• SOP
• LORs (2–3)
• Passport
• CV/Resume
• APS Certificate (mandatory for Indian students from Nov 2022)
• Proof of funds (blocked account: approx. €11,208/year)

Admission Procedure

• Verify eligibility (especially for bachelor’s: Studienkolleg if needed)
• Prepare IELTS/PTE/TOEFL
• Apply directly to universities or via Uni-Assist portal
• Submit APS certificate (mandatory)
• Get Admission Letter
• Apply for Student Visa
• Book Blocked Account and Health Insurance
• Travel to Germany

Recognition

• Highly valued globally, especially Engineering and Business degrees
• Member of the Bologna Process (European degree system)

Fee Structure (Annual)

Living Cost: ₹70K–₹1.2L/month depending on city

Key Considerations

• Learn at least basic German for better job prospects
• Public universities have very high competition
• Private universities cost more but easier admission

Visa Requirements

• Admission Letter
• Proof of funds (~€11,208/year in Blocked Account)
• Health Insurance
• APS Certificate
• Visa Application Form
• Passport, Photos

Scholarships

• DAAD Scholarships
• Erasmus+ Scholarships
• University-specific merit-based scholarships
• Deutschlandstipendium (for outstanding students)
• Motivation Letter

Education Loans

• SBI, ICICI, Axis, HDFC: Up to ₹30L
• NBFCs offer customized loans for Germany
• GyanDhan, Leap Scholar financing available

Safety

• Very safe, low crime rate
• International student communities
• Emergency services widely available

Career Opportunities

• 18-month post-study work visa
• Strong demand in Engineering, IT, Finance, Renewable Energy
• PR opportunities after 2 years of work
• Average starting salary: €45,000–€60,000/year (~₹40L–₹55L)

Germany vs India for Non-Medical Courses