5 Reasons Why You Should Study in Germany
Discover why you should consider studying at the University of Cologne in Germany!
by Sion Park and Eva Bosbach
Are you considering studying abroad? Have you thought about living and studying in Germany? We’re here to tell you why Germany should be a top choice for your studies!
1. Study and save: High academic and living standards with NO tuition fees
Did you know that students in Germany pay little to no tuition fees? German and international students at most public universities in Germany only pay a small semester social fee, known as the “Semesterbeitrag”. Only around $440 per semester! This fee grants access to university libraries, sports clubs, and the public transportation.
The German federal government supports free and accessible education for all, making university education affordable while still maintaining a high academic standard. Even the high living standards in Germany come with relatively low costs. Health insurance for students can cost around $165 per month, and student accommodation starts at around $500.
There are also many funding and scholarship opportunities available for international students, such as those listed on the University of Cologne’s website for international programs and the German Academic Exchange Service (DAAD) funding guide for students.
2. Benefit: Outstanding infrastructure and global recognition
Germany offers outstanding study and research infrastructure, with well-equipped research facilities located at universities, universities of applied sciences, other research institutes, companies, and federal and state institutions.
There are approximately 750 publicly funded research institutions in Germany, as well as other development centers funded by industrial corporations. Cooperation at European and international levels is an essential dimension of study and research in Germany, contributing to the international recognition of German degrees. You can find out more about Germany’s excellent research landscape.
The University of Cologne is an example of excellent study infrastructure. As one of the largest and oldest universities in Germany, it’s representative of the German university landscape. The University of Cologne is interdisciplinary and international in research and teaching. It’s home to six faculties, excellent graduate schools, and four research clusters of excellence. You can find out more about the University of Cologne and the city of Cologne in this video:
3. Enjoy: Home to many international students
Germany is home to more than 300,000 international university students! At the University of Cologne alone, out of around 50,000 students, there are about 5,000 international students from over 120 countries, with more than 1,000 exchange students coming to Cologne every year.
It’s remarkable how international, welcoming, and diverse the University and city of Cologne are! German universities have many international programs and study opportunities in place, and there are even liaison offices in North America such as the University of Cologne’s New York Office to support the recruitment of international students, showcase the research and study programs in Germany, work with North American partner institutions, and connect with international alumni.
4. Look outside the box: Diverse and international degree programs
Germany offers 21,000 degree programs and more than 2,000 international programs. The University of Cologne is a good example of this diversity, with a wide variety of degree programs, including over 150 undergraduate programs and more than 130 post-graduate programs divided among its six faculties:
- The Faculty of Management, Economics, and Social Sciences
- The Faculty of Arts and Humanities
- The Faculty of Law
- The Faculty of Mathematics and Natural Sciences
- The Faculty of Medicine
- The Faculty of Human Sciences
While most undergraduate programs require proficiency in the German language, there are many graduate programs entirely taught in English available at the University of Cologne and other universities. Examples at the University of Cologne include the Bachelor Management, Economics, and Social Sciences or the International Master of Environmental Sciences. You can find an overview of all the degree programs at the University of Cologne.
Do you want to study in Germany, but are unsure what program or which university? Check out the many available study programs and universities here:
5. Learn with support: Preparatory courses and fast-track programs for international students
As there are so many international students in Germany, there are programs in place that support your studies in Germany. If you want to study in Germany with a Canadian or non-EU high school diploma, there are different ways to kick start your studies:
General track with a preparatory course
This preparatory course, in German “Studienkolleg” is meant to serve as an academic bridge between your home country and Germany. Courses are tailored to international university applicants and the topics include German academic language, terminology relevant to your course of studies, individual strategies for learning, and social and intercultural competences. This preparatory course usually takes one year, so with the generally shorter three years of undergraduate studies in Germany, the total time to your bachelor’s degree can be 4 years.
Fast track program without the preparatory course at the University of Cologne
The University of Cologne offers a unique program called Studienstart International plus. This free-of-charge program only takes one semester and allows a seamless transition into the undergraduate degree program. Studienstart International offers individual language and orientation classes, selected courses from your chosen degree program, as well as a buddy program, informational events, and intercultural projects and workshops. You can earn a bachelor’s degree within 3.5 years with the Studienstart program!
What do I need to study in Germany?
Looks like Germany is a great place to study! But what requirements are there to apply at a German university as a Canadian student? Start planning your studies on the DAAD database admission requirements. You’ll need to check if your high school diploma can serve as a “University Entrance Qualification” for Germany and if you will need a Visa (check that with the German Consulate). Also needed is a proof of financial resources, valid health insurance and, depending on the chosen program, skills in German language. Look here for specific information on the application procedure of international students at the University of Cologne.
Do you have more questions? Find out how to contact us at the University of Cologne New York Office on our website. We hope to welcome you to Germany and Cologne!
Learn more about the University of Cologne
Some of the information for this article has been provided by Hanni Geist, Senior Manager, University Relations, German Academic Exchange Service (DAAD) San Francisco.