Free Undergrad Degrees in Germany for International Students: Everything You Need to Know

All public universities in Germany offer free education or, in other words, they do not charge any tuition fees for international students.

Germans believe that education should not be considered a commercial product. They advocate that free access to higher education contributes to economic growth and the overall welfare of the population. In recent years, there was a push for universities to charge modest tuition fees of 1,000 euros annually. However, after extensive public protests, these fees were abolished in 2014. Today, only a few exceptions allow public universities to charge tuition fees.

Germany's Embracing of International Students

Recognizing the economic and social benefits of immigration, Germany aims to attract the brightest and most talented students. This is why international students, especially from India, do not face general tuition fees. Instead, they must apply for a semester fee or 'Semesterbeitrag', which is considerably less than the tuition fee and usually ranges from 300 to 400 euros per semester. This fee also includes a public transport ticket for the city and sometimes even the surrounding areas.

Living Expenses and Financial Planning

While most public universities do not charge tuition fees, international students still need to prove they have sufficient funds to cover their living expenses in Germany. The semester fee does not cover accommodation, food, and other living costs. The average living expenses range from 600 to 700 euros per month.

Apart from the semester fee, international students need to demonstrate their financial capabilities when applying for a student visa. One viable option is to open a blocked account at a branch of Kotak Mahindra Bank, for instance. This ensures that the funds are reserved for the duration of their studies and reduces the burden of proving financial stability.

Application Process in Detail

The application process for pursuing undergraduate studies in Germany involves several steps, including:

Picking the right university and program of study Preparation of required documents, such as transcripts, letters of recommendation, and motivation letters Opening and maintaining a blocked account to prove financial stability Applying for the Studiengaenge (study program) with the respective university Applying for a German residence permit (Dossier) Planning a visit to the chosen university for an admission interview and further discussions

Conclusion

Drawing international students, Germany offers a unique opportunity for free undergraduate degrees in public universities. With a well-planned financial strategy and comprehensive understanding of the application process, students from India and other countries can maximize their opportunities to study and potentially work in Europe. Explore the options available to you, and make the most of this exciting opportunity.

For further information and guidance, consider reaching out to educational advisors or visiting the official websites of German universities.