In this article, you will know and understand the different higher institutions in Germany.
You will also know why the country is one of the most attractive and sought after countries in the world for international students to study. In addition, you will learn what you need to do if you wish to study in Germany.
Types of Institutions
Germany has three main types of higher education institutions, namely:
1) Universitäten (Universities): Universities are the formal higher education institutions in Germany. The main purposes of universities are (basic) research and teaching. We differentiate universities as traditional universities, technical universities, educational colleges, and theological colleges.
Traditional universities offer academic disciplines and study programs, whereas the other university types are more specialised. Principally, only universities can grant or award doctoral and Habilitation degrees.
2) Fachhochschulen (Universities of Applied Sciences): Germany introduced Universities of Applied Sciences between the 1960s/1970s as one criterion to deal with the growth in student numbers. Their primary missions are teaching and applied research.
Universities of applied sciences mostly specialise in specific disciplines (like engineering or social work). We can’t pursue disciplines like law, medicine, most natural sciences, and humanities at universities of applied sciences.
3) Kunst- und Musikhochschulen (Colleges of Art and Music): Colleges of Art and Music are highly specialized higher education institutions offering study programs in fine art, performing arts, and music. Their fundamental mission is teaching.
Higher education institutions in Germany are public or state-recognized private institutions. Most private higher education institutions are universities of applied sciences with specialised programs.
Why Germany ?
First, general tuition fees at public institutions are free. Since 2014, none of the 16 states in Germany has imposed general tuition fees at public institutions. Although some states started tuition fees between 2006 and 2007. But, they later revoked these. Therefore, public funds mainly fund Public higher education institutions. And even when there are fees to pay, it is affordable.
Thus, the Organization for Economic Cooperation and Development “OECD” ranked Germany as the third world’s most attractive destination for international students according to education at glance reports in 2014.
Also, flexible foreign student visa policies are a factor that has largely affected international students’ motivation there. Perhaps one reason considered by OECD for ranking Germany as the third most attractive destination for international students.
Indeed, affordable living costs and work opportunities are other reasons worth mentioning. Students consider this factor to be more important in Germany than in other places, as some would like to work while studying. After graduation, students also have 18 months to get a job. That is a great incentive that is offered by only a few Western countries to international students.
Germany makes the list as one of the most popular study destinations in the global education market. Because the country earns it in terms of education quality and affordability.
Here are the requirements for studying in Germany:
1. Study Programme
First, you need to have a determined mindset on the type of degree program and course you want to pursue. You can find more info about courses that fit your academic interest here.
2. University Admission Requirements
Once you chose the programme to study, you check out if the admission criteria fit your academic profile. To be admitted to a German university, the chosen institution must accept your qualifications. An applicant must have a recognized “higher education entrance qualification” also known as Hochschulzugangsberechtigung (HZB) or Abitur. Some institutions also require an aptitude test known as TestAS. It is a test specifically designed for international students from non-EU countries.
3. University Application Documents
Each institution has its own requirement, but in most cases, they expect or demand the following documents:
-A duly completed application form.
-Certified copy of high school diploma.
-Translated overview of your modules and grades.
-Relevant recognized academic certificates.
-Copy of your passport and a passport photo.
-Proof of language proficiency up to C1 level in some cases.
Financial Means
To get a student visa, an applicant has to show proof of financial means. As of 2021, international students need €10,332 per year to cater to their expenses during their time in Germany. A blocked account is the best way to provide proof of financial resources at the German Embassy.
Health Insurance.
Health insurance is also vital if you want to study in Germany. International students must register in the healthcare system while they are in Germany. Residents of one of the EU/EEA member states can use their health insurance from back home. However, they will need to get a European Health Insurance Card (EHIC).
On the other hand, residents of non-EU/EEA member states will need to provide proof of health insurance. It is necessary for their student visa application and university enrolment. Those over 29 years have to pay a monthly amount to the public or private health insurance providers.
Student Visa.
Applicants from countries that need a student visa to enter Germany would apply for one at the German Embassy/Consulate in their home country. They will have to assemble the needed documents, attend an interview at the embassy, and wait for the acknowledgement. The student visa processing time is normally two weeks in normal situations.
Accommodation.
An applicant can choose between different options, like German halls of residence, private apartments, or shared flats. It is necessary to get one’s address registered at the registration office in Germany.
Fear of unemployment while studying or after graduation? Don’t worry, as mentioned above, graduates from German universities have 18 months to find a job after graduation.
Moreover, Germany is one of the biggest employers of labour in Europe and presents a lot of opportunities for graduates.
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