Why study for a Master's Degree in Germany as an International Student?

Pursuing a master's degree in Germany can open up a world of possibilities for ambitious students looking to make their mark on the global stage.

Do I have to speak German to study in Germany?

Many master's degrees in Germany are taught in English, and many people in Germany speak English proficiently, especially in major cities such as Berlin, Frankfurt, and Munich. However, picking up an understanding of German will help you integrate with local culture as well boost your career prospects. Most universities offer language courses alongside their degree programs or during summer holidays which is a great way to start your postgraduate journey in Germany.

You may not need to pay tuition fees if you study for a master's degree in Germany.

Many universities in Germany do not charge tuition fees for master's degrees regardless of nationality. You need to remember twice yearly semester fees known as Semesterbeitrag, which range between €100 and €350. Semesterbeitrag covers your university's costs towards subsidizing student accommodation and canteens. It also gives you membership to the students' union, a travel card for public transportation, and access to university sports facilities. You are unlikely to pay more than €700 per year, meaning Germany remains one of the most affordable destinations for international master's students.

Funding options for international master's students in Germany

Although postgraduate study is relatively affordable for local and international students, the country offers various financial support options.

The Deutscher Akademischer Austausch Dienst (German Academic Exchange Service) promotes funding to students from most countries; it's one of the biggest international study agencies in the world.

The Deutscher Akademischer Austausch Dienst offers scholarships for international students wanting to study for a master's degree in any field. Successful recipients receive a monthly €934 for the duration of their program, plus a one-off study allowance of up to €460.

There are two types of master's degrees in Germany.

In Germany, there are consecutive and non-consecutive master's degrees.

Consecutive master's degrees:

They are formatted to follow from an undergraduate degree in a related field of study and the most common master's degree in Germany.

Non-consecutive master's degrees:

A non-consecutive master's degree will allow you to specialize in a field unrelated to your undergraduate degree's subject area. This degree typically requires professional experience; unlike most consecutive master's degrees, they may charge tuition fees.

You may not need a visa if you decide to study for a master's degree in Germany as an international student.

Visas can be a headache when applying for a master's degree abroad; however, you may not need one if you choose to study in Germany.

International students from the following countries can study for a master's degree in Germany without a visa:

• The EU, Switzerland, Liechtenstein, Norway, and Iceland

• Brazil, Andorra, Monaco, San Marino, and El Salvador; however, you can't seek employment before or after your master's degree

• The UK, Israel, Japan, South Korea, New Zealand, Australia, Canada, and the USA, though a resident's permit is required to enable you to stay more than three months.

Students from all other countries need a visa to study for a master's degree in Germany.

A master's degree from Germany is an excellent opportunity for international students to gain valuable skills and knowledge in an internationally recognized educational system. Especially with affordable tuition fees and comprehensive visa options coupled with no language barriers as many programs are taught in English.