German Academic Exchange Service

Why Germany?

1. First-class education 

Studying in Germany is a great way to break into the international labour market. Germany’s higher education institutions are highly regarded globally. Qualifications gained in Germany have a good reputation in companies, too.

LEARNING THE LANGUAGE

You think German is too difficult? Don’t worry if you’re a just beginner. Many study programmes at German universities are offered in English, too.

A LOT OF EDUCATION FOR LITTLE MONEY

Even though education from Germany is among the best in the world, it costs less than in many other countries. In most German states, you do not have to pay any tuition fees at all. You only need to pay a small charge the semester contribution: This payment varies between higher education institutes and is between 100 and 350 euros. At many higher education institutions, it also includes a semester ticket that allows you to use public transport in the region.

2. A Practical Approach

A SHORTCUT ON YOUR CAREER PATH

Being able to study and gain work experience at the same time is one of the advantages of the German educational system. At universities of applied sciences, theory and practice go hand-in-hand. Some offer dual (work/study) programmes, too. They enable you to acquire extensive theoretical knowledge and practical experience at the same time. Some models even offer you the opportunity to gain a bachelor’s degree and vocational qualifications.

3. Safe Environment

Whether you are in the city or the country, you can travel freely and feel secure. Internationally, Germany is a byword for stability. The same goes for life here. Citizens exercise power over the government via Germany’s parliamentary democracy. Today people trust in fair elections and the rule of law.

After years of division between East and West, the German Democratic Republic (DDR) and the Federal Republic of Germany (BRD) were unified in October 1990. Since then, the entire country has been called the Federal Republic of Germany.

Germany’s turbulent history is seared deep in people’s memories. That’s why they appreciate the security nowadays. As the world’s fourth biggest economy, international relations are also important. Some 10.6 million people from all over the world live in Germany. Cities and villages also offer a safe environment for foreign students.

4. Open Society

RELIGIOUS FREEDOM

The Basic Law guarantees religious freedom, for example, and equality before the law.

FREEDOM OF EXPRESSION AND THE PRESS:

The freedom of expression is also one of the basic rights. In addition, everyone in Germany has the right to inform themselves from generally accessible sources of information (press freedom).

COLORFUL, COSMOPOLITAN AND DIVERSE:

In Germany, you can be, or become, who you want to be regardless of your sex, your origin, your sexual orientation, your religion or your personal preferences in your free time or at university. Germany will welcome you with open arms – at university, in bars and clubs, museums, cinemas and theaters. Here you can focus on your goals free from worry.

5. Your Way

Germany provides the opportunity to try things out and discover where your strengths lie. Your degree will open up great opportunities on the job market – internationally and in Germany. The economy offers diverse career opportunities that match you and your goals.

FINDING THE RIGHT COURSE

THE CHOICE IS YOURS

You can pick and choose among 400 state-accredited higher education institutions. And if that weren’t enough, there are over 20,000 courses, most of which are full time.

Part Time Jobs

TYPES OF PART-TIME JOBS FOR STUDENTS

One place to start looking for a job is at your own school or college. Then there are the classic jobs like waiting in restaurants and cafés, trade fairs, and babysitting.

The best is often a job related to your major at school. People learning to be teachers can become tutors, and art history students can work in museums. Fluency in German is obviously an advantage.

EARNINGS, TAXES AND INSURANCE

Your part-time earnings depend very much on what you can do, and the region and the industry in which you want to work. In expensive cities like Munich, Hamburg or Cologne you may earn more, but you also have to pay more for rent or food.

TAX RULES

You can earn up to 520 euros a month on a student job without paying taxes. But if you regularly earn more than 520 euros, you need a tax number. A certain amount is then deducted from your wages every month, which you get back when you file a German tax return at the end of the year.