Why Choose Germany as Your Study Abroad Destination?
When talking about Germany, we think of beer and luxury cars like Audi, BMW, Mercedes-Benz, Volkswagen, and Porsche, right? But there’s so much more to the country! With world-class universities, rich culture, and affordable education Germany is gradually climbing the ladder and ranks as the third most popular study abroad destination in the world, beating Australia. The public universities in Germany often charge zero to minimal tuition fees, making it one of the most affordable destinations in Europe for students. Despite German being the national language, the country also offers a wide variety of programs in English, making it a perfect choice for international students.
With over 367,578 international students in 2023 in Germany, India became the top country sending first-semester students to Germany, surpassing China with approximately 49,008 students in 2023-2024. All this and so much more adds to our list of Germany being a top favourite study abroad destination for 2025.
German Education System
With an amazing concept of Compulsory Education in Germany, the country ensures that every child receives an education once they reach the age of six until they complete 10 years of full-time schooling in general education schools.
The German School System is structured into 5 main stages:
- Early Childhood Education (kindergarten)
- Primary Education (grades 1 to 4)
- Secondary Education (grades 5 to 12)
- Tertiary Education (universities, colleges and vocational academies offering degrees and vocational qualifications)
- Continuing Education (non-degree courses and workshops for skill development and lifelong learning)
Popular Student-Friendly Cities in Germany
Being home to over 300 recognised universities, you are sure to find the perfect blend of culture, innovation, academic richness and whatnot in the best student cities of Germany. Here’s the list of the top 3 cities as per the QS Best Student Cities 2025:
| City | Number of International Students | Approx. no. of Universities | Top Public University |
| Munich | 55,291 | 20 | Technical University of Munich |
| Berlin | 39,595 | 33 | Free University Berlin |
| Stuttgart | 34,375 | 15 | Universität Stuttgart |
Top Universities to Study in Germany in 2025
International students have a plethora of university options to choose from throughout Germany. From Munich to Berlin, they are sure to find their dream university in Germany. Here’s the list of the top 5 universities in Germany as per the QS World University Rankings 2025:
| Rank (As per QS World University Rankings 2025) | University | City |
| 28 | Technical University of Munich | Munich |
| 59 | Ludwig-Maximilian’s-Universität München | Munich |
| 84 | Universität Heidelberg | Heidelberg |
| 97 | Freie Universitaet Berlin | Berlin |
| 99 | RWTH Aachen University | Aachen |
Top Courses to Pursue in Germany in 2025
Choosing the right course marks the most important step in your academics and career. Germany offers some of the best courses available throughout the world for students to excel. Some of these courses include:
- Engineering
Known for its top-notch engineering programs, Germany welcomes around 300,000 engineering students each year. These programs combine strong academic standards with hands-on training and offer excellent career prospects and competitive starting salaries of up to INR 12,00,000 per annum. Berlin International College and Dresden International University are the top picks for students aspiring to choose this program with a tuition fee of €1,500-€3,000/year.
- Business Management
Closely aligned with global business practices, the Business Management program in Germany welcomes almost 60,000 students every year. These internationally recognised programs offer real world problems and solutions enough to lead the way to the best companies in the world with packages up to INR 15,00,000 per annum. Berlin School of Business and Innovation, Munich Business School, and EU Business School in Munich are the top picks for students aspiring to choose this program with a tuition fee of €2,000-€4,000/year.
- Humanities and Arts
Wish to get some hands-on experience during your academic course? Well, no place like Germany! With hundreds of museums and galleries, art enthusiasts are surely in for a treat. Attracting thousands of international students eager to explore and shape the cultural landscape, these programs focus on critical analysis and creative expression and help students make up to INR 8,00,000 per annum. Berlin International College, Berlin School of Business and Innovation, Dresden International University, Munich Business School and EU Business School in Munich are the top picks for students aspiring to choose this program with a tuition fee of €1,500-€3,000/year.
- Computer Science and IT
Also referred to as a tech-innovation hub, Germany has over 120,000 students in computer science programs. Preparing students for high-quality courses like AI and cybersecurity, the country produces high-demand jobs in tech companies with salaries up to INR 14,00,000 per annum. Macromedia University of Applied Sciences, University of Europe for Applied Sciences and SRH Berlin University of Applied Sciences are the top picks for students aspiring to choose this program with a tuition fee of €1,500-€3,000/year.
- Social Sciences
Providing students with a deep understanding of societal issues and human behaviour, this program invites around 80,000 students to Germany every year. The country’s diverse society and strong academic resources make it an ideal place to study and help students earn up to INR 10,00,000 per annum. Berlin International College, Berlin School of Business and Innovation, Dresden International University, Munich Business School and EU Business School in Munich are the top picks for students aspiring to choose this program with a tuition fee of €1,500-€3,000/year.
Intakes in German Universities 2025
Following a more structured academic calendar unlike other countries, admissions in Germany are done for two intakes: Winter and Summer.
The Winter Intake is Germany’s most popular intake attracting the maximum students. Beginning in September or October, most German universities follow this intake. With undergraduate, graduate and doctoral programs accepting the maximum applications during this intake, the Winter intake stands as the most comprehensive option for students. The application deadline for this intake takes place in May/July, with some universities extending it to August.
The Summer Intake, usually referred to as the secondary intake at German universities, begins in March or April. Though this intake has fewer programs, it serves as a great opportunity for students enrolling for master’s programs, doctoral research, and specialised courses. With a smaller application set, this course promises a personalised academic experience and closer interactions with professors and peers. The application deadline for this intake takes place between the month of November and January.
Cost of Studying in Germany 2025
Being cheaper as compared to other top study abroad destinations in the world, studying in Germany is one of the best choices you can make. You would incur some expenses like health insurance and study material, but your education in Germany would still be much more affordable than any other country! Let’s have a look at the expenses you’d be required to incur for studying in Germany:
| Aspects | Fees for Undergraduate Degree | Fees for Graduate Degree |
| Cost of studying in Germany for Public Universities | INR 13k to 1L | INR 8k to 14k |
| Cost of studying in Germany for Private Universities | INR 8L to 17L | INR 7L to 20L |
| Cost of Living in Germany | INR 9L (per year) | – |
| Student Visa for Germany | INR 6k | – |
Cost of Living in Germany 2025
Since most public universities in Germany have zero or minimal tuition fees, the cost of living for students in Germany is a burden off their chest. But, for international students like us, an administrative cost of 100–350 EUR per semester has to be paid.
If you choose to study in towns like Berlin, Hamburg, or München, your living costs excluding rent would fall between 900 and 1,400 EUR/month. Moreover, if you plan to pursue your education in a university or a polytechnic in a small German student town, such as Wolfsburg, Duisburg or Siegen, then your living costs excluding rent will start at 630 EUR/month.
Some of the living costs that you will incur include:
| Aspects | Costs per month |
| Public Transport | € 49 |
| Accommodation | € 1,397 in Munich € 1,317 in Berlin € 996 in Hamburg € 1,156 in Frankfurt € 567 in Aachen |
| Utilities (Electricity, Heating, Cooling, Water, Garbage) | € 12-40 |
| Health Insurance | € 50-70 |
| Additional study material | € 30-50 |
| Food | € 250-400 |
| Internet | € 43 |
Scholarships Available for International Students in Germany
With world-class education opportunities in prestigious universities, Germany also offers numerous fully funded scholarships. Scholarships for Indian students aspiring to study in Germany make it the perfect choice for aspiring students seeking affordable education abroad. Let’s have a look at some of these scholarships for Indian students planning to pursue their education in Germany.
- DAAD Scholarship
Offered by the German Academic Exchange Service, these scholarships support international students planning to pursue their education at various academic levels, including undergraduate, postgraduate, and doctoral programs. The scholarship offers a monthly stipend of €934 for graduates and €1,300 for doctoral/PhD candidates along with travel and health insurance.
- Heinrich Böll Stiftung Foundation Scholarship
These scholarships focus on supporting international students pursuing master’s or doctoral degrees in Germany, who are committed to the idea of a green earth, sustainable development, and social justice. The scholarship offers a monthly stipend of €934 for non-EU Nationals along with health insurance.
- ERASMUS+ Scholarships
European Community Action Scheme for the Mobility of University Students (ERASMUS+) scholarships facilitate student exchange programs within Europe. It offers scholarships for both EU and non-EU students to study or complete internships in Germany, promoting cross-cultural understanding and academic collaboration. The scholarship offers a monthly stipend of €300 – €450 along with travel allowance and tuition fee waivers.
- Konrad-Adenauer-Stiftung (KAS) Scholarships
Offered to students pursuing their master’s or doctoral program, this scholarship supports future leaders committed to democratic governance and social justice. The scholarship offers a monthly stipend of up to €1200 along with health insurance and family allowance.
- Deutschland Stipendium
This scholarship is awarded to high-achieving students enrolled at German universities based on merit. This scholarship involved the government matching private donations to support talented students, regardless of their personal or financial background. The scholarship offers a monthly stipend of €300.
Eligibility Criteria for Studying in Germany
To fulfil your dream of studying in Germany, you need to ensure meeting all the eligibility criteria and requirements for admission to Germany’s recognised universities.
Just like any other country tests you based on your language proficiency and aptitude for the desired course, Germany is no different.
Since German stands as the country’s national language, they accept German proficiency test scores from exams like TestDAF and DSH. Germany also has a lot of programs being taught in English, and thus, they accept English proficiency scores for IELTS and TOEFL.
Talking about aptitude exams, Germany accepts your JEE Advanced exam scores Some universities might require you to clear the Feststellungsprüfung (FSP). For postgraduate courses, German universities accept scores from GRE and GMATs.
How to Apply for an Education Loan for Studying in Germany?
To secure an education loan from India to study in Germany, here’s a step-by-step guide to how you should proceed:
- Make sure you meet the eligibility criteria of the financial institution you choose.
- Research for a suitable lender, considering factors like interest rates, loan amounts, repayment terms,
and processing fees. - Choose a bank or financial institution that offers loans for international education at competitive rates. Some banks that offer these loans include State Bank of India, HDFC Credila, Axis Bank and many more.
- Prepare the required documents, which may include:
- Admission letter from a German university
- Proof of identity and residence
- Income proof and tax returns of your co-applicant
- Bank statements, academic records, and any relevant collateral documents
- Fill out the online application form and submit the required documents to apply for the loan.
- Once you receive loan offers from a couple of lenders, compare interest rates, repayment terms, and
any hidden fees. Feel free to negotiate with these lenders for a better deal. - Select the lender whose offer is the best and sign the loan agreement. Ensure understanding of all the terms and policies.
- After your application is approved, the loan amount will be disbursed into your account or directly to
the German university.
If this process seems too long and time-consuming, simply connect with Lorien Finance, where we do
all the hard work for you. We’ll take care of financing your education abroad while you focus on other
important things to fulfil your study abroad dream.
How to Apply for a Visa for Studying in Germany?
With a bustling academic scene, Germany is attracting international students from numerous countries every year. If you’re planning to pursue your higher education in Germany and wish to learn more about the visa process, this guide would be useful!
To understand better:
- If you plan to stay in Germany for up to 90 days or 3 months, you will require a Schengen or C visa.
- If you plan to stay in Germany for more than 90 days or 3 months, you will need a National visa or D visa.
There are three types of German national visa (D visa) issued to students that you can apply for depending on your circumstances:
- German Student Visa: If you have been admitted to a German higher education institution and are ready to start your studies in a higher education program, you should apply for this visa.
- German Student Application Visa: If you have applied to a state-approved higher education institution/state-approved provider of preparatory courses and have a good chance of getting admitted, but do not yet have a certificate of admission or confirmation of application. You should apply for this visa.
- German Language Course Visa: If you want to attend intensive German language courses in Germany without pursuing university studies, you should apply for this visa.
Documents Required for Applying for a German Student Visa
- Duly filled out and signed national visa application form
- Valid passport
- Two photocopies of your passport
- Birth certificate
- Marriage certificate (if applicable)
- Your child’s birth certificate (if applicable)
- Recent passport-style photographs (up to 3)
- Photocopies of previous German residence titles (if applicable)
- Proof of funds (Finanzierungsnachweis) in the form of a blocked account, parents’ income, education loan, scholarship
- Proof of purpose of stay in the form of an acceptance letter, or conditional offer letter
- Previous academic transcripts
- Language proficiency test scores
- Health Insurance
- Confirmation of paid visa fees
You should start your German Student Visa application process right after you receive an acceptance from your university and once your finances are in order. Many students who’ve applied for the German Student Visa process suggest applying about three months before your intended start date for your studies.
Once all these documents are collected, it’s time to begin your German student visa process. Here’s a step-by-step guide to what you’ll need to do:
Visit the German embassy website and navigate to the student visa section to examine your country’s
requirements and appointment procedures.
- Visit the German embassy website and navigate to the student visa section to examine your country’s
- requirements and appointment procedures.
- Make sure you carefully review all the information provided before you set up a visa appointment.
- Once prepared, schedule a visa appointment through your country’s German embassy website. Some embassies may have a high volume of applications, so applying a few weeks in advance is advisable.
- Once your visa appointment date is confirmed, you should double-check all of your documents to ensure everything is in order.
- Once you take the interview, it takes up to 25 days to process your visa.
How to Open a German Blocked Account?
A German Blocked account or Sperrkonto is a way of conveying to the German authorities that you have enough funds to support your stay in Germany for your education. It’s simply a bank account where you must deposit €11,904 before arriving in Germany. After arrival, you can withdraw €992 per month to cover your living expenses. This account confirms financial stability, an essential requirement for visa approval.
A blocked account must be open before you apply for a German visa from your home country. The process of opening a blocked account changes depending on which provider you choose, but generally, you have to:
- Connect with the German Embassy to check the amount required to transfer.
- Open a blocked account online with the provider of your choice. (The cost of opening a blocked account for a German visa ranges from €50 to €150, depending on the provider you work with. Certain providers can also ask you to pay a “buffer” amount – about €100 or less – to cover any fees charged from the bank. This amount is returned to you when you close the account.)
- Transfer the amount once the application process is complete. (Once the blocked account is open, your provider will share the account’s IBAN (International Bank Account Number), which you must send the money to. You can transfer through your local bank or through an international money transfer app or service.)
- Get a Confirmation Document for your Blocked Bank Account from your provider.
- Submit the confirmation to the German Embassy and wait for your visa.
On your arrival in Germany
- Apply for a German Resident Permit at the Ausländerbehörde (Immigration Office) within three months of arrival.
- Open a current bank account in any of the local banks. This account will be the destination of your monthly transfers.
- Activate your Blocked Account.
- Receive a monthly transfer from your blocked account to your current account.
To activate your blocked bank account on arrival in Germany, you must open a current account in a German bank, which means you must register your address and get the Registration Certificate beforehand. You can only access your money after opening a current account. The documents required to activate your account are:
- Proof of a registered residence in Germany, such as a lease agreement or the certificate of registration
- from the city hall.
- Proof of your current account.
- Your passport with the entry stamp.
- Your German residence permit (some banks may ask for it).
If you opened the account directly with a bank, you may have to personally go to the bank with your documents and activate it. You can activate your account online if you open your account with an intermediary.
Documents needed for opening a Blocked Account
To open a Blocked Account, the documents required vary as per providers or banks. The most commonly required documents include:
- Your Passport
- Proof of source of money, like bank statements
- Filled out application form (digitally or on paper)
- Proof of admission to a German university
- Your ID card
Some of the private providers that can help you with opening a Blocked Bank Account are:
- Fintiba
- Drop Money
- Expatrio
- ICICI Bank
- Coracle
- Studely
Although a blocked bank account can be directly opened with a bank, not all the branches of a German bank will offer this service, which may complicate matters. Some German banks which offer blocked accounts include:
- Postbank
- Commerzbank
- Deutsche Kreditbank
- Hypo Vereinsbank
- Targobank
- Volksbank
- Sparkasse
Kotak Mahindra, an Indian-based bank, is the most popular choice of Indian students when transferring funds to a blocked account. However, the German embassy/consulate may not accept it because the bank is not registered in Germany. In the best-case scenario, you get the student visa, but when you travel to Germany, you still have to transfer the money from Kotak Mahindra to a German bank before getting the residence permit.
To avoid the extra steps and prolonged wait times, it is best if you open an account directly with an approved provider or with a German bank
FAQs
Are there tuition fees for Indian students in Germany?
Many public universities in Germany do not charge tuition fees for both domestic and international students. However, international students have to pay an administrative cost every semester that varies according to the university. Moreover, some federal states may have tuition fees for international students pursuing a second degree or enrolling after a specific study period.
What are the options for student discounts and benefits in Germany?
As a student in Germany, you can enjoy various discounts and benefits on public transportation, cultural events, museums, cinemas, and even some stores. The International Student Identity Card (ISIC) is recognised worldwide and offers discounts on travel, accommodation, and attractions.
Can I work while studying in Germany?
International students in Germany are allowed to work part-time during their studies. However, there are restrictions on the number of hours you can work per week, typically up to 20 hours during the semester and full-time during semester breaks.
Do the lenders give money for the German Blocked Account?
Lenders can provide funds for a Germany Blocked Account, which is required to obtain a student visa for Germany. Education loan providers understand this requirement and can disburse the specified amount directly into your blocked account to meet visa application requirements.
