How to Study in Germany After 12th: Universities, Courses, Requirements & More

Why Should You Study in Germany? 

Here are some of the reasons why studying in Germany for Indian students after 12th can be a better option than studying in other mainstream countries:   

1.) Tuition fees: Most public universities in Germany charge very little or no fees from international students. However, the fees do not affect the quality of education at all.  

2.) Quality Education: German universities are renowned for their high-quality education and cutting-edge research facilities.  

3.) Renowned Universities: Many universities in Germany have been ranked in the QS World Ranking, which is a global ranking of universities that are known worldwide.  

4.) No language barrier: You will be surprised to know that most of the universities in Germany teach programs in both German and English. So, you can quickly grasp everything in your language.  

5.) Strong Economy: With a robust economy and numerous job opportunities, studying in Germany can enhance your career prospects.  

Read more: How to Prepare Ausbildung Courses in Germany from India?

Best Universities in Germany for Bachelor’s Degrees

Best Courses to Study in Germany for International Students

Regarding studying in Germany, the options are vast and varied, catering to diverse interests. Many courses are offered in English, making them accessible to students. Among the most sought-after fields of study are: 

Courses in Engineering: When we think of German engineering, some brands that come to mind are Audi, BMW, Mercedes, Volkswagen, and Porsche, which originated here.

Popular courses in Germany after 12th:   

• Bachelor/B.Sc. in Management & Technology  

• BA in Architecture  

• BSc in Electrical & Computer Engineering  

• BE in Business and Engineering  

• BSc in Robotics and Intelligent Systems  

• BSc in Bioengineering  

Courses in business and economics after 12th: Germany’s economy is the 4th largest globally. They know what students should learn from them. Some of the popular courses are:  

• BA Business Administration (International Management and Marketing/Organizational Psychology)  

• BA Digital Business & Management  

• BA in International Management  

• BA in Economics, Politics and Social Thought  

• BA Management in International Business  

• Bachelor’s in business studies  

• Bachelor’s in international business (BIB)  

• BA in Global Economics and Management  

Nursing Courses in Germany after 12th:

If you’re considering studying nursing in Germany after completing your 12th grade, you’ll need to apply for an apprenticeship, known as “Ausbildung,” at a hospital approved by the German government. Unlike traditional undergraduate (UG) or postgraduate (PG) degree programs, nursing education in Germany follows this apprenticeship model.  

Apart from nursing, Germany offers a range of courses in various fields after 12th, such as art, law, agriculture, and mathematics.  

• Sustainable Agriculture, BSc  

• Environment and Energy, BSc  

• Audio Design (BA)  

• BA in Product Design  

• Popular Music (BMus)  

• Expanded Realities (BA)  

• International Taxation and Law, BA  

• Applied Mathematics  

Read the important Article: What is Ausbildung in Germany?

Eligibility Criteria to Study in Germany After 12th 

To study in Germany after the 12th grade, you need to meet specific eligibility criteria:  

1. Age Requirement: You must be at least 18 years old to apply for higher education in Germany. 
2. Educational Qualifications: You must have a certified 12th-grade mark sheet with a minimum of 50% marks, showing that you have completed your secondary education. 
3. Standardized Test Scores: You might need to submit SAT or ACT scores depending on the course and university. These scores usually range from 400 to 1600, and the specific requirement can vary by institution. 
4. English Proficiency: If your chosen course is taught in English, you must prove your English proficiency. Universities generally accept scores from tests like IELTS or TOEFL. Make sure you achieve the required band score set by your chosen university. 

Documents Required  

When applying to universities in Germany, you need to gather several important documents:  

1. 12th Standard Certificate and Scorecard: This proves that you have completed your secondary education and shows your academic performance. 
2. Transcript of Grades: A detailed record of your grades throughout high school. It provides universities with a comprehensive view of your academic background. 
3. Proof of Language Proficiency: If you’re applying for an English-taught course, you’ll need to submit your English proficiency test scores. For German-taught courses, you’ll need to prove your proficiency in German; for that, you need to learn at least a B1 level of German.
4. ID or Valid Passport Copies: Your identification documents are necessary for verifying your identity.
5. Letter of Motivation or Statement of Purpose (SOP): This is your chance to explain why you want to study in Germany, your academic interests, and your future goals. It’s a critical part of your application, helping universities understand your motivation and commitment.

Requirements to Study in Germany After 12th  

To study in Germany after completing your 12th grade, you’ll typically need to meet the following requirements:  

1. High School Diploma: You must have completed your secondary education and obtained a high school diploma or equivalent qualification.  
2. Language Proficiency: Depending on the language of instruction of your chosen program, you may need to demonstrate proficiency in either German or English. This can be done through language proficiency tests like the TestDaF or IELTS.  
3. Entrance Exams: Some universities may require you to take specific entrance exams or aptitude tests for admission into certain programs.  
4. Visa Requirements: International students from non-EU countries must apply for a student visa to study in Germany. This typically requires proof of acceptance into a German university, proof of financial resources, and health insurance coverage.  
5. Additional Requirements: Individual universities or programs may have additional requirements, such as letters of recommendation, portfolios for art-related programs, or interviews.  

It’s essential to check the specific admission requirements of the universities and programs you’re interested in, as requirements can vary depending on the institution and course of study. 

Cost of Living in Germany for Indian Students in 2024

For Indian students, Germany’s annual cost of living ranges from approximately 10,200 to 12,000 EUR. This amount can vary based on the university’s location, with cities like Berlin and Munich being more expensive than other parts of Germany.

Additionally, most universities do not charge tuition fees as they are state funded, though students must pay enrollment and administration fees each semester. 

Tips for Saving Money in Germany: 

1. Apply for Scholarships and Grants: Find financial aid opportunities to reduce expenses. 
2. Work Part-Time: Consider part-time jobs to supplement your income. 
3. Student Discounts: Always use student discounts whenever available. 
4. Cook at Home: Preparing meals at home can save significantly compared to dining out. 
5. Use Public Transportation: Opt for public transport instead of taxis or ride-sharing services. 
6. Avoid Impulse Purchases: Be mindful of your spending and avoid unnecessary buys.

Scholarships to Study in Germany after 12th  

Studying in Germany can be more affordable with the help of various scholarships offered by both government and private universities. These scholarships provide financial support and enhance the overall academic experience for international students. Here are some scholarships available for studying in Germany:  

Global Study Awards:

Sponsored by ISIC, the British Council, and Study Portals, this scholarship is based on academic merit and offers up to GBP 10,000 per student. It aims to support students in their global study endeavors.  

Erasmus Scholarship Programs:

Sponsored by the European Commission, this scholarship is available for students already enrolled in a university. It provides 47,000 EUR for two academic years, facilitating students to study in Germany for one or two semesters through the Erasmus+ program.  

DAAD RISE (Research Internships in Science and Engineering):

Sponsored by the German Academic Exchange Service (DAAD), this scholarship is for students pursuing degrees in engineering or science. It offers a monthly stipend of 934 EUR and includes a two- to three-month internship with industrial exposure.  

EMS Undergraduate Scholarship:

Sponsored by the European Management School, this merit-based scholarship is for students with strong academic and social credentials. It awards a 50% discount on tuition fees for two students per year and offers global exposure and financial support.  

Financial Sumo Educational Scholarship Program:

Sponsored by Financial Sumo, this need-based scholarship is for undergraduate studies in Germany. It offers up to USD 1,000 (approximately INR 75,530), helping to reduce college fees for eligible students.  

Central Sector Scheme of National Overseas Scholarship:

Sponsored by the Ministry of Social Justice & Empowerment, Government of India, this scholarship is for candidates pursuing undergraduate studies in Germany. It provides up to USD 33,800, offering financial support for studying abroad.   

These scholarships offer significant financial assistance and opportunities for Indian students pursuing higher education in Germany. To fully take advantage of these opportunities, be sure to check the specific eligibility criteria and application deadlines for each scholarship. 

Conclusion

In the end, this article provides an in-depth exploration of the advantages of pursuing higher education in Germany after completing the 12th grade, particularly for Indian students.

Beyond its reputation for academic excellence, Germany boasts a rich cultural heritage and a desirable quality of life, making it an ideal destination for aspiring students. Moreover, the relatively low education and living expenses further enhance its appeal.  

While many universities in Germany offer courses in English, proficiency in the German language can significantly enrich your academic experience and facilitate seamless integration into German society. For those interested in learning German, Kochiva offers online German language courses designed to cater to various skill levels.   

Website: https://kochiva.com/language-course/learn-german-language-online/