medical doctor

HOW TO BECOME A DOCTOR IN GERMANY

medical doctor

In Germany, over 409,100 doctors are employed. As of 2020, the rate of medical doctors increased to 4.90 per 1000 people. Hence, the competition for getting admitted to medical universities is usually high. This article will help you know how to become a doctor in Germany. Let’s get right into it.

Get a Degree
To become a doctor in Germany, getting your medical degree is important, especially from a German university. Students with the highest grades were the only ones accepted till that was changed.
You can apply to a medical program directly if you graduated from an EU secondary school but if you are a non-EU student, you can apply to a public institution, which provides foundation courses for international students (Studienkolleg) for a period of one year, which leads to a university qualification assessment examination (Feststellungsprufung). Kampus Konnekt is here to put you through this process without stress.

Learn the German Language
Set your priority right by choosing to learn the German language. It is a very important requirement in studying and practicing medicine in Germany, as medicine is taught in German. Here at Kampus Konnekt, we offer German language training for international students who want to get into Germany. Find out more here.

Attempt to take the TestAS
International students are required to take the TestAS. TestAS improves the chances of foreign students of being admitted to a German University. It is both in digital and paper-based form.

Apply to your desired Medical School
Apply to Stiftung fur Hochschulzulassung for your desired university. As soon as you register on the website, begin to monitor your application for updates.
For international students, they would have to ensure the University is part of the uni-assist, before applying. Uni-assist evaluates the applications of foreign students for 180 German Universities.

Here are some Universities in Germany where you can study Medicine:

  • The University Of Lubeck
  • The Tubingen University Hospital
  • The University of Heidelberg
  • The University of Freiburg
  • The University of Charite
  • The university of Herdecke

Reaching your Medical School Goals
For medical programs, it takes over 6 years to complete. Your school medical program starts as soon as you get admitted, so buckle up.

Passing the State Examination and Earning your License.
The state examination is a very important examination that marks the concluding part of your final year in medical school. As soon as you pass this examination, you are qualified for earning your License to practice medicine.
This state examination takes place in three(3) stages.

  • The M1 Stage: it takes place after 2 years of studying medicine. It has to do with anatomy, biochemistry, and physiology. This is both in written and oral practical form.
  • The M2 Stage: this is a written case-related exam that takes place after 5 years of studying medicine and the success of the first exam
  • The M3 Stage: the third stage takes place after one year of the success of the second examination.

For more information about what you need to study medicine in Germany, get in touch with Kampus Konnekt.

WHAT YOU SHOULD KNOW AND LEARN BEFORE TRAVELLING TO GERMANY

Germany has to be one of the most beautiful countries in Europe, enriched with its unique arts and culture, history, people, and beautiful cities. However, there are a few things you should know and learn before traveling to Germany. Let’s go over some of them.

  • Don’t talk about wars: Before travelling to Germany, know that talking about the Germany war is a very sensitive topic of discussion to talk about to the Germans, as they happen to be blunt people; they’re not so big on humor. So, it’s important to be culturally polite.
  • Be time-conscious: Being late is seen as being ill-mannered, not just by the Germans. Always stick to the time you fix, when meeting someone or visiting a friend. If you wouldn’t be arriving at the fixed time, let them know.
  • Learn German: Speaking German to German people will probably go a long way and do you good. You would find it easy to read road signs and other necessary instructions. Visit Kampus Konnekt to book your German lesson class.
  • Always have some cash: Not all shops have ATM machines in Germany and you wouldn’t probably know till you get there, so it is safer for you to get some cash before heading out.
  • No shopping on Sundays: In Germany, shops and supermarkets of all kinds are usually closed on Sundays. So, it’s better and easier to get the necessary things before Sunday.
  • Take care of your kids: If you are in public and your child refuses to behave him/herself, then get ready for neighboring grandmas and grandpas to do that for you. This could turn out really embarrassing, so it’s good that you do the needful.

STUDY ABROAD PROGRAMS WHILE STUDYING IN GERMANY

Studying in Germany is a great opportunity. Depending on the level of tertiary education, there are different things you need to know before you decide to study. In this article, we will look at the study abroad programs in Germany respectively, and what to expect of them.

Applying for a Bachelor’s Degree

This is the degree for anybody fresh out of high school and looking to expand their education further. It is the foundation of all other university qualifications, and can lead you on to higher, specialized degrees in your industry. A certain level of German language proficiency is required of each prospective student, and standard German degrees are tuition-free, except for a few administrative costs (between 200 to 350 euros) and take approximately three years to complete. From there, you are free to study a second bachelor’s degree, or proceed with a master’s degree. Here at Kampus Konnekt, we can help you with language training as well as helping you find the perfect school for your needs. With almost 400 officially recognized universities in Germany, you will be assisted in no time.

Applying for a Master’s Degree

This is the second highest degree a university graduate can obtain, after receiving their initial bachelor’s degree in the same educational field. It takes approximately two years to finish, but can be longer or shorter depending on the subject being studied. Like a bachelor’s degree, they are almost tuition-free, and there are also much more opportunities to study courses in English. A basic language proficiency may still be required by some universities, but most programs can be taught fully in English.

Applying for a PhD

Contrary to popular belief, PhDs can be one of the longest qualifications to obtain in Germany. It takes between 3 to 6 years to complete, varying from discipline to discipline. Furthermore, pursuing a PhD is only free for the first three years of study, after which tuition fees are charged, and can vary depending of the educational institution.
Over 50,000 degrees are awarded to international students in Germany annually, and the figures are growing each year. Kampus Konnekt is growing the international community in Germany one student at a time. No matter the degree, we are here to help.

FINDING AFFORDABLE ACCOMMODATION IN GERMANY

As an international student, getting comfortable and affordable accommodation in Germany, in a reserved environment is something you should importantly put into consideration.

First of all, you should ensure you find a very safe environment to stay in and ensure that the apartments are cheap and quite comfortable. You should also make sure that the apartment is quite closer to your school campus to avoid lateness to class.

How to find affordable accommodation in Germany

  • Search for a flat you can share with someone: If you seem to be the outgoing and tolerant type of person, free to live with other people, then you can consider sharing a flat with someone else. To easily find a roommate, you could look some up on www.wg-suche.de, where you’d see several roommate requests, you could choose from. With this, you can save money and also socialize with other new people, making friends with them.
  • Living for help: Living for help occurs mostly between a younger person and an older person. You get to live with older people for free and in exchange, you help with their daily chores.
  • The quality of your desired apartment: One thing you should put in mind when finding accommodation in Germany is what quality or characteristic of an apartment you want. When you know this, it helps you to set a budget you can comfortably work with.
  • The students’ hall of residence: The students’ halls of residence are always located within the university or closely beside the university. With this, you wouldn’t have a lot to spend and it can be easy for you to commute in and out of school.
  • Private accommodation for students: If you are a student who prefers to live alone, adoring your privacy, then you can opt-in for private accommodation by renting your own apartment which is of course quite expensive. But as this is your own choice, you get to have your own privacy and make your own rules and regulations.
  • Student Housing Leads: In case you find it difficult to find affordable accommodations in Germany, here are some leads that could help in finding apartments:
  • The University Notice Board: Always tend to look out for the notice boards at school. Accommodation ads are placed on the university notice boards and you could also personally place your housing advert on the board too. Whichever way works for you.
  • Online Platform: You can find lists of your desired apartments you wish to live in on these online platforms. Some of them are: Nest pick, WG-GESUCHT, immobile, Kalaydo, and Wohnungs Boerse etc.
  • The Local Student Union: They are always in charge of the housing applications of the residents. You can get help from them if you are finding it difficult to get an apartment for yourself, they’ll help with the process of getting you a flat. Almost every university in Germany has this union. They can also be called the Studentenwerk.

HOW TO ACE YOUR GERMAN STUDENT VISA INTERVIEW

While admittance into a German university is one of the first steps to getting your degree, successfully processing your German student visa interview is another.

Before you can relocate to Germany, you are required to have an interview with the German embassy in your country for assessment of competency regarding your studies in Germany.

In this article, we will review a few common questions and tips that are likely to come up in your interview, should you require one.

Questions Regarding your Decision to Study in Germany

Most of the questions asked will revolve around your choice to study in Germany – why you picked a specific place, and why you picked your course. Answering this question does not require any specific information.

Generalized answers regarding the quality of education and your passion for your desired course is good enough. The following questions may be asked:

Why do you want to study in Germany?

Why did you pick that specific university/ city?

Why are you interested in the course you applied for?

How did you find out about this university?

Isn’t this course offered by any college or university in your country?

What other universities have you applied to?

Questions Testing your General Knowledge of Germany

Questions in this category are asked to test your familiarity with Germany and its culture. It is advisable to do research on lifestyle and all things German to ace this section. These kinds of questions include:

What tourist places do you know and what are they famous for?

Can you speak German?

Where is Germany located and what are its neighboring countries?

What are the most expensive cities to live in, and what are their average living costs?

How many states are there in Germany and can you name some of them?

Questions Regarding your Study Plans

Seeing as you are going to Germany for scholarly purposes, it is very common for the embassy to ask for details about your studies. Here are a few questions that could come up:

How long is your course and what does it entail?

What is your highest level of education?

What have you done since your last graduation?

Questions to Ascertain your Financial Stability

Although German tertiary education is relatively not costly, the German embassy might question you on your financial security and how you intend to sustain your stay in Germany. Here are some questions they may ask:

How are you funding your education?

How much will you be able to earn after your studies?

Where will you stay in Germany?

What will be the total cost of studies per year?

Questions about your Plans for the Future

Study plans aside, the embassy is very likely to ask about your life after your degree. This section includes:

What are your plans after studying?

Where would you like to work after studying?

What are your career aspects?

Advice For the Interview
Alongside these questions are a few tips that may help you to give the best impression possible. Take note that it is not mandatory, only suggested.

Dress smart. As you prepare to answer the questions in the interview, it is good to also prepare your appearance to depict professionalism and seriousness.

Be punctual. Whether it is a few minutes early, or right on time, make sure not to be late as this may create a negative start to your interview. Try as much as possible to be a pleasant client.

Make sure you have all documents. An interview may prove to be useless if you do not bring all of the required documents needed to process your student visa. It may result in you having to re-sit the interview a second time, or even having your student visa denied.

Applying for a student visa may sound challenging or daunting, but it is a smooth transition if you can prep yourself beforehand. The entire process will feel lighter in the moment, and it will be easier to complete, as you know what to expect.

Learning German

Learning German can be done in six stepping stones, each one harder than the next. If you are planning to live in Germany, you should learn as much as you can before you arrive. It will serve you for ease of communication during your time in the country. You can learn German worldwide. But it requires special certificates certified by renowned language institutions such as Goethe, Telc, and many more. Speaking, reading, writing, and Listening are tested to assess your language proficiency.

Elementary Use of Language

The first two levels, A1 and A2, introduce beginners to the German language. With A1, learner understands and communicates simple sentences and familiar expressions, connected to basic wants and needs. There are also basic questions and self-introduction, with the use of slow and clear speaking for maximum understanding.

For A2, the learner now understands regularly used expressions outside their basic needs. They can talk about their surroundings, such as shopping, work, and social surroundings. They can have direct exchanges, and can elaborate more complexly on the topics they learned in A1.

Independent Language Use

Levels B1 and B2 are for intermediate language speakers. In B1, learners can hold a conversation on more than just basic topics. They can construct long and bulky sentences, and can communicate in reference to past and future tenses. They are also able to use accurate grammar and pronunciation of words.

For B2, learners can have complex conversations on specialized topics and communicate with native speakers with little to no problem. They can express their thoughts and feelings in a detailed and fluent manner. Also, they successfully hold concrete opinions on abstract topics.

Autonomous Language Ability

Levels C1 and C2 are the most senior language levels, and present the outmost understanding and manipulation of the language. C1 speakers can understand even implicit text, and can communicate fluently and spontaneously without having to think about it. They can communicate professionally and socially, with diverse vocabulary and almost limitless boundary of conversation.

C2 speakers can practically understand everything read or heard. They can logically analyze information in German with precision, as well as differentiate between dialects.

You can learn German in a classroom or online, where different proficiency levels are for different speaking purposes. You can visit your local German embassy for information on any teachers or German programmes around, or check this website. Even if it’s just for leisure, German is a great language to practice. If you are interested in learning German, check out our page!

education germany

The Education System in Germany

Basic German education consists of pre-school, primary school, secondary and tertiary education. The first three generally lasting up to the age of eighteen years of age. Unlike most countries, the individual states in Germany decide their own route when it comes to administration of education. But with the condition that school is mandatory for all children of six to fifteen, and that public school is free. However, parents are free to enroll their children in private fee-costing schools, or international schools. Let’s take a look at the education system in Germany.

Pre-school Education in Germany

Pre-school is optional, and provides education for children aged one to five years old. Some are public, some are private, and the community’s churches run some others. Its main objective is to enhance communication and language skills through social interaction between students themselves or with teachers. Moreover, an additional objective is developing motor skills, such as self-awareness, self-acceptance, and self-confidence. To achieve that, they sing, read, do physical activities, and are in public environments. At this stage, they do not assess children depending on their academic achievements, but rather their learning activities and overall involvement.

Primary Education in Germany

German primary school generally has four years/grades. But it is not unusual to have schools in some regions that continue to six years. Children have between 20 to 30 school hours a week, increasing as the children get older. Content usually includes German literacy, numeracy, science, a foreign language, art, religion and ethics.

In one education system, students have 5-day school weeks with 188 learning days every year. In another German education system, children have 6-day school weeks with 208 learning days annually. It includes lessons two Saturdays every month.

German primary schools have a 6-mark grading system, ranging from 1 as ‘very good’, and 6 as ‘very poor’. Furthermore, there are no exams administered upon leaving primary school.

Private primary schools include religious schools, international and bilingual schools, Waldorf schools, and Montessori schools. Some of these options are funded by the state, while others are fully private. Therefore, the last option tend to be more expensive.

Secondary Education in Germany

Most states have two phases of secondary education. The first phase, between ages 10 and 15, is a mandatory lower secondary level (Sekundarstufe I). The second upper secondary phase (Sekundarstufe II), between 16 and 18, is optional.

German secondary schools mainly focus on engaging children intellectually, emotionally and physically. They teach children decision making, personal, social and political reasoning and responsibility, as well as helping them reach their academic goals.

There are at least five different kinds of German public schools that cater to different academic needs and abilities. But they are quite similar in terms of what they teach. German secondary schools also use a 6-mark grading system.

Then, we have Gymnasium, or grammar school that lasts up to the age of eighteen. It provides in-depth education and administers exams needed to get into German universities.

Also, we have Realschule that offers generalized education up to the ages of 15/16. Students receive a diploma that allows them to take up vocational qualifications or apprenticeship. They could even transfer to Gymnasium, to continue the second phase of secondary education.

Hauptschule is a basic secondary school for less academic students, lasting up to 15/16. Students there will usually continue with vocational qualifications or apprenticeship.

Gesamtschule is a mixed school offering intermediate level education up to the ages 15 or 16. They promote inclusivity among students, and have become more common recently.

Schularten mit mehreren Bildungsgangen is a specialized school that usually offers two to three different study subjects.

Lastly, Berufsschule are vocational schools mostly for students from first phase schools that wish to continue to the second phase.

Private schools are also categorized into two main groups:

Substitute schools offer the same education as state schools, with the same qualifications. Exemples are international schools, religious schools, and Waldorf/Montessori schools.

Supplementary schools offer education that is different from public schools’, and are usually private vocational schools.

Tertiary Education in Germany

After secondary education, students have the option to continue with university. Just as the prior educational levels, state universities are free, and are also categorized into different groups:

  • Universities
  • Technical Colleges
  • ‘Padagogische Hoschule’
  • Theological colleges’
  • Universities of Applied Sciences
  • Art and Music Colleges
  • Higher Education Institutions for Federal Armed Forces
  • Higher Education Institutions Offering Dual Studies
  • Institutions of Continuing Vocational Education

Each institution specializes on a specific branch of tertiary education. They offer a bachelor’s or an equivalent as the first German Higher Education Qualification, a Master’s as the second, and a PhD as the third. Bachelor’s degrees require a Higher Education Entrance Qualification (Abitur), and an admission exam. As well as Proof of German language proficiency for international students.

Other Education in Germany

Parents that have children with special educational needs (SEN) have the choice of sending them to regular school or enrolling them in specialist schools. Both facilities will provide support for the children that need it. But they put in greater effort and focus, at specialist schools.

Homeschooling in Germany is currently illegal. Furthermore, it requires extensive reasoning and evidence to justify why a child should not attend an educational institution. Only approximately 400 children across Germany are legally homeschooled.

Truly, German education is thorough and branches out to many different specializations at all levels of learning. This is perfect for the ease of students on a wide spectrum of educational ability. There is something for everyone, creating as much inclusivity as possible, for integrated achievement nationwide. If you are looking for support to apply for a higher education degree, ckeck out our services.

jobs students germany

Jobs For Students In Germany

Working while getting a degree in Germany is the most common way for students to make money for themselves, but there are some rules and limits that apply to different kinds of students. Because of this, we cannot rely on part-time jobs only to make enough money to get by every month. This article is designed to lay the basic principles of having a job as a student in Germany. If you want to avoid getting a job while studying, click here to learn how to study in Germany for free!

JOBS FOR EU/EEA STUDENTS

International students from within the EU/EEA are allowed to work up to 20 hours a week during study semesters, tax-free. Earning anything above 450 Euros a month requires you to join the German social security system for mandatory tax deductions, and could also significantly change your health insurance, as well as other bills.

JOBS FOR NON-EU/EEA STUDENTS IN GERMANY

Students from outside the EU/EEA can work during 120 full days or 240 half days per year. Optional internships contribute to work hours, even if the work is unpaid. Mandatory internships for study programmes don’t count. International students also cannot be self-employed, neither can they freelance.

GENERAL JOBS FOR STUDENTS IN GERMANY

A job provided by the university, such as a research assistant, does not count on total hours worked. You may check with the HR department of your university when looking for this kind of job. Your regional employment agency (Bundesagentur fur Arbeit), or online job websites may help you find any forms of external work. Additionally, students studying a language or preparatory course can only work during lecture-free timeframes.

WHAT KINDS OF JOBS ARE AVAILABLE TO STUDENTS IN GERMANY?

Students may take up open positions at the universities they’re studying at, or outside the institution. Job opportunities such as those at cafés and restaurants are quite popular among students, as well as retail jobs. Working online is also an easy job as it will not require commuting from place to place every work day.

Working while study is a great way to make money and socialize at the same time, as well as gain extra credit and knowledge for your studies, if you work in a field relevant to your programme. Whatever the case, Germany is a great place to start your adult life.

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What Is It Like To Live In Germany?

Life outside our home country can be quite different from what we have grown around. Different languages, food, and much more. Experiencing such contrasts can be such a culture shock to somebody who has lived differently their whole life. Moreover, it can be uncomfortable sometimes. This article explores the lifestyle and culture of modern-day Germany, sharing things that you may experience or see there. Let’s see together how it is like to live in Germany.

Food

The German diet is nutritious and heavy. It consists mainly of bread, potatoes, and meat, as well as cake, coffee and beer. Pork is one of the most commonly eaten meats, as sausage or otherwise. Their bread also has a variety of taste and appearance to it, with an abundance of cafes and restaurants. Each one filled with their own unique recipes and twists to popular European food. Common meals may differ from town to town. But there is no shortage of hearty meals and flavorful drinks and desserts. While you live in Germany, you can travel to experience lots of new food.

Weather and Climate

Germany has a temperate climate all year round, with relatively cold winters and moderately warm summers. Although the country experiences four distinct seasons, German weather can often be unpredictable. This is due to different types of currents coming into the country from contrasting regions.

Leisure

In German lifestyle, we normally spend free time doing some sort of physical activity. You can spend your time jogging, skating and cycling, as a casual weekly hobby. More relaxing pastimes include meeting friends at cafes, appreciating different forms of visual art and literature, as well as playing board games. Modern-day hobbies like watching television and surfing the internet are also greatly prevalent, with reading as one of the most common hobbies.

Architecture

German infrastructure is very historical and diverse. They preserved all European architecture styles within Germany, differing from city to city. The disintegrating of the country through centuries of history caused this. Major events such as the damages brought about by the world wars have greatly contributed to the architecture that Germany has to offer today. We can see the country as a building of all shapes and sizes. Without forgetting about the famous Berlin Wall.

Tradition

German traditions vary in size and atmosphere, but all have the same prospect of food involved. A good example is the quaint act of ‘Kaffee und Kuchen’, which is translated to coffee and cake, that is to be often enjoyed in the afternoon among family and friends. In another light, we see the Oktoberfest, where multitudes come together to enjoy and celebrate beer and fellowship throughout the entire month of October. One contemporary tradition that does not involve food is Germany’s love for international travel and sightseeing, with Italy Spain and Austria as the most common destinations.

Culture and Etiquette

Among the German people are values that the country holds dear, and one such value is punctuality. Germany is known for thriving off of order and structure, where things such as punctuality and formality are respected to a higher degree than most countries. Family and community is also a big part of German culture, as well as being conscientious and hardworking. This often induces an environment where familiar peers and neighbors alike invest in quality time and building each other up, creating a place where everyone builds the capacity to hold traditional German values, and keep the cycle going.

In Germany, all genres of life are accepted, and the very concept of life itself is celebrated and enjoyed, as seen by the many efforts of the German to create and maintain zeal in their everyday life. The modern lifestyle of Germany is one that promotes health, happiness, and constant improvement of the environment. Who doesn’t want that? If you want to live in Germany, check out our services for support!

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Why Choose Germany?

With almost 200 countries worldwide, picking a suitable destination for your tertiary education is a hard decision to make. One place for some of the most important years of your career. As we dive into some factors to consider, this article brings you a few reasons you should choose Germany.

High Quality Education

With well-established institutions that date back as far as the fourteenth century, Germany has created a well-respected community of universities. Indeed, they are famous for working and striving to bring the best education to prospective candidates worldwide. With over 40 internationally recognized universities, and over 17,000 study programmes nationwide, Germany has more than enough options. It is perfect for a high school graduate looking for a potential university match. Germany serves high-quality education with a prestigious degree that will guarantee you a job. Choose Germany and you will not stress about employment opportunities continuously depleting.

Affordable Education

Many countries in the world have respectable universities and greatness to offer. But the difference between them and Germany is gaining that education will not create a financial strain on their students. As a nation, Germany is strong enough to support its universities through state finance. Moreover, it does not require any high amounts of tuition fees to deliver their education. The idea of affordable yet high-quality degrees presents an opportunity to bridge the wealthy and the less wealthy together. It gives a greater audience the chance to better themselves through knowledge and educational growth.

Rich Culture and Lifestyle

As a first world country with old roots and a great economy, Germany is perfect if you are looking for more than just a school and books. Within this beautiful country is rich history, culture and lifestyle. With incredible architecture and classic art and music, Germany stands to give students an enriching experience. This may broaden their minds and challenge their perspective, creating the bright young leaders that we need to direct today’s world.

Advantageous Location

Positioned fairly close to the center of Europe, Germany seems the perfect place for a student to live. It is very easy for one to travel to other countries for leisure trips places far and wide. Whether by train, plane or sea, travelling around the continent becomes conveniently cheaper because of Germany’s central location. With abundant job opportunities for students, university becomes an opportunity to not only study but explore the world.

The opportunity to study tertiary education is valuable, and its requirement in the modern world has grown considerably fast over the last century. Germany offering it at such a beneficial cost is all the better. Choose Germany, choose opportunities.