Germany emerges as the top choice for studying abroad; nearly 50,000 Indians enrolled last year

Germany is fast becoming a popular destination for Indian students looking to study abroad. For the second year, Indian students form the largest group of foreign students in Germany. Over the last five years, the number of Indian students studying in Germany has more than doubled.

The number of Indian students studying in Germany has increased by 15.1% in the last year, per the latest figures released by the Federal Statistical Office of Germany. During the 2023-2024 Winter Semester, 49483 Indian students studied in Germany.

Indians make up the largest group of international students at German universities. Most of them study engineering, which accounts for 60% of their enrollment. Law, management, and social studies follow with 21%. Mathematics and natural sciences represent 13%, while other subjects make up 5%. Overall, engineering remains the first choice for Indian students pursuing career options in Germany.

Enrollment at higher education institutions is divided between universities and universities of applied sciences. Universities account for 56% of the total enrollment, while universities of applied sciences make up 44%.

Germany’s over 200 universities of applied sciences, primarily focus on applied research and teaching and are a significant part of the country’s higher education and research landscape. Germany’s universities of applied sciences have close ties with regional and international companies, their graduates have good job opportunities. A higher education entrance qualification is required to enroll at any of Germany’s universities of applied sciences

Germany’s public universities typically waive tuition fees for both domestic and international students, requiring a nominal semester fee to cover administrative costs, transportation, and student services.

However, whether you are going to study in universities or universities of applied sciences, you need to be aware of the new rules implemented by Germany for the issuance of study visas.

Starting September 2024, Germany increased the amount that must be provided as proof of income, from 934 euros per month or 11,208 euros per year to 992 euros per month or 11,904 euros. In addition, you will need to pay for living expenses, books, and housing.

As an international student on a study visa, you are allowed to work while studying. You may work up to 140 full days or 280 half-days per year without prior approval from the Federal Employment Agency. During semester breaks, there are no restrictions on how many hours you can work.