WHY GERMANY?

Germany has been one of the frontrunners in setting benchmarks for technological advancements for the better part of the last century. Germany lays a key focus on research and education. The speed with which Germany has set itself up as a superpower on the world stage after the destruction of World War 2, is a testament to their unwavering resolve and technical prowess.

Germany has been able to build its knowledge base through the educational values it imparts to its people. Historically, Germany ranks 3rd on the list of countries with the most Nobel laureates, out of which, 56 are from the University of Heidelberg alone. Germany boasts of several renowned universities, many of which regularly feature in the Top 100 of world university ranking. Take for instance the Technical University of Munich (world university ranking – 25th in Technology and 20th in Natural Sciences) or the RWTH Aachen University (world university ranking – 31st in Technology and 36th in Natural Sciences), both of which come under the fold of the prestigious TU-9.

These universities have been able to reach such lofty heights, primarily through a wonderfully structured and publicly funded education program. The latter means that students, both domestic and international, can pursue their MS at public universities in Germany, for 0 or extremely nominal tuition fees. Also, most of the courses in high demand at top universities in Germany are taught in English, making Germany one of the most promising destinations for non-German speaking students both from the European Union as well as overseas students. After the completion of the Master’s program, students are allowed to stay back in the country for up to 18 months and search for jobs. It is quite easy for graduates to find employment, as the demand for skilled individuals is quite high in fields related to engineering, medicine, and Information Technology.

TOP GERMAN UNIVERSITIES FOR PURSUING MASTERS IN GERMANY

1) TU Munich

TU Munich is ranked 1st in Germany and 61st in the World. TU Munich is one of the most research-focused universities in Germany and Europe. In terms of research output, Germany ranks 4th in all of Europe as the most innovative university.

TU Munich

TU Munich – Courses & Admissions Details

Check out the Definitive Guide for IELTS Here

2) LMU Munich

LMU Munich is the largest university in Germany. There are approximately 44,000 students engaged in various courses. Historically, LMU is one of the most successful universities in the world with 42 Nobel laureates affiliated to it, which includes stalwarts like Max Planck, William Rontgen and Werner Heisenberg. LMU ranks 2nd in Germany and 62nd in the world.

LMU Munich – Universities in Germany

LMU Munich – Courses & Admissions Details

3) Heidelberg University

Located in Baden-Württemberg, Heidelberg University is the oldest surviving university in the world. It is also Germany’s second largest university by size, with 32,000 students enrolled here. It is home to a rich academic background and boasts 56 Nobel laureates affiliation, the most of any German educational institution. Heidelberg university ranks 3rd and 64th in Germany and the world, respectively.

Heidelberg University – Universities in Germany

Heidelberg University – Courses & Admissions Details

4) Karlsruhe Institute of Technology

KIT is one of the largest universities in Germany formed from the merger of Karlsruhe University and Karlsruhe Research Center in 2009. It is ranked 6th in Europe in terms of citation impact of published research. It ranks at 116 in the world university ranking. It is home to many well-known inventors and entrepreneurs such as Heinrich Hertz and Karl Friedrich Benz.

Karlsruhe Institute of Technology – Universities in Germany

Karlsruhe Institute of Technology – Courses & Admissions Details

5) RWTH Aachen

RWTH Aachen University is ranked 6th overall within Germany and 144th overall in the World. It ranks 31st among the best engineering colleges in the world (12th in Mechanical engineering). Apart from Mechanical, RWTH has one of the best faculties in Germany in chemical and electrical engineering. RWTH Aachen maintains very close links to industry, setting itself apart from other German universities through its strong alumni network. One in five board members of German companies such as Volkswagen, Daimler, Allianz, BMW, etc., are from RWTH Aachen.

RWTH Aachen – Universities in Germany

RWTH Aachen – Courses & Admissions Details

Other notable institutions

The SRH University Heidelberg, located in the evergreen forests of Baden WĂĽrttemberg, is another top university in Germany. A 91Čȱ¬ score of around 300, an IELTS score of 7 and GPA above 8 (or 2.5 out of 4) would be enough to secure a seat here.

A similar score would be enough for other universities in Baden WĂĽrttemberg like Deggendorf Institute of Technology, Technical University Ilmenau, University of Siegen. For the more management inclined students, an admit in MS in Technical Management in University of Applied Sciences Emden / Leer would require the candidate to have a GPA of 7 and IELTS score of 7. However, students should still strive to get a better score than the minimum mentioned here as the rejection rates are higher in Germany than in the USA.

WORKING WHILE STUDYING IN GERMANY

International, non-EU students, can work during their studies for 120 days or 240 days as half days as a way of supporting themselves. However, this does not include the work done as a teaching or research assistant. In such a case, the Alien Registration Office must be notified of such an arrangement. Students can earn as much as 450 euro per month, which is not tax deductible. Any amount over the limit will result in automatic tax deduction from the salary.

Internships, paid or unpaid, are counted as work and are deducted from the 120 days limit. Courses requiring mandatory internships are not counted as working days. Further, non-EU students are not allowed to work in a freelance capacity.

WORK AFTER STUDY PROGRAM IN GERMANY

The work after study program is unique and accommodating, and helps a student with the German student visa extension process so that students can continue their search for jobs. After graduating, students can seek an extension of 18 months to continue the search for jobs. The extension in the residence permit will be granted provided that the seeker has a passport, degree obtained from a German university, health insurance and proof of financial support. The 18 months period starts as soon as the course is complete. Thus, it is advisable to start searching for jobs from third semester onwards.

If the student has returned home after graduation, he/she can apply for a Jobseeker visa which allows the student to apply for work in the related field of graduation. The student can apply for this visa from the nearest German embassy.

DAAD FELLOWSHIP

The expense associated with completing an MS in Germany involves a lot of additional expenses, even when the tuition fees are waived. In the absence of funding, a student will have to shell out at least Rs. 14,00,000 for the entire duration of his stay in Germany. Financial support in the form of a monthly stipend or a research fellowship over a specified period of stay relieves a lot of stress from prospective students. The DAAD or Deutscher Akademischer Austauschdienst (German Academic Exchange Service) is one of the major contributors supporting research efforts of around 2 million scholars in Germany ever since its conception in 1925. DAAD is at the forefront of Germany’s effort of internationalization of universities in Germany. Just having good grades in academics is often not enough to secure funding from DAAD. Universities in Germany usually look for a well-rounded individual who has been civically engaged. Further, DAAD has certain target groups, e.g., grants may be awarded according to the person’s social and familial background. The fellowship involves covering the cost for a certain period of the applicants’ studies. Funding for the entire duration of the study is only awarded under exceptional circumstances. The rate of approval of scholarship is quite high. About a third of all applicants can secure some other form of funding from DAAD.

GERMANY VS THE UNITED STATES OF AMERICA

A cost comparison:

The biggest advantage of pursuing an MS in Germany over other popular destinations such as the USA would be the relatively less financial pressure on the prospective student. Being a publicly funded institution, the tuition fees at top universities in Germany are very low. Consider the case of two universities with similar worldwide rankings – RWTH Aachen in Germany (31st rank) and Cornell University in the USA (28th rank). For graduate research degrees, the average tuition at Cornell University would cost Rs. 42,00,000 ($29,500 [4]) while there are no tuition fees at RWTH Aachen, even for international students! Now, compare the cost of living in either of the two places. In Aachen, the total cost including accommodation, food, health insurance, university fees, books, etc. is Rs. 62,000 per month. In Ithaca, the living cost without accommodation is Rs. 52,000 per month [6]. Thus, over the entire course of a Master’s degree, an average student at Cornell will have to spend a whopping Rs. 40 lakhs more (excluding accommodation) than what a student would have to spend at Aachen while studying at an institution of comparable metrics.

Alone in a foreign land:

The foremost thought that comes to our mind when it comes to education in Germany is the language barrier. However, on a closer look, the barrier seems like a mental block on our parts. A recent report from German government estimates that there are about 1.1 lakh people of Indian descent residing in Germany [1]. Out of which about 70,000 hold the German passport. Since 2008, the number of students pursuing their higher education in German universities has increased almost five folds. Every major city in Germany now has a large diaspora of people of Indian descent. A special mention must be made of the Indian cuisine which is held in adoration almost throughout Europe, and Indian restaurants are quite easily found in most German cities.

The German foreign population has been steadily increasing and is at an all-time high. As a result, there is a huge cultural influence from around the world in major cities like Berlin, Munich, Frankfurt, Hamburg, etc. Further, there are many multinational companies in Germany meaning that the majority of work is done in English. Similarly, Universities in Germany have policies for internationalization for attracting bright people from around the world. And that means offering major courses in English. Of course, most of the legal work is done in German, e.g., rental agreements and legal documents.  However, there are many experts to help students out with translation. So, knowing German is not a necessity for job applicants, but is still recommended.

MS in the USA vs. Germany – The Final Verdict

Germany offers a lot of social safety nets in the form of little to no tuition fee, relaxed work and academic environment, relatively easy visa procedure, and considerate work after study programs. However, the acceptance rates in Germany are quite low, as are the number of universities on offer. As things stand, the USA remains the better option. This is primarily because significant number of universities in top 100 of the world are from the USA, along with more job opportunities for graduates with it being the world’s largest economy.
Moreover, when it comes to language, even though English is understood widely in Germany, some universities and workplaces require applicants to have at least a working knowledge of German, whereas in the USA, English is all you need.

In any case, it is very important to be fully aware of one’s prospects and long-term aspirations before selecting a university and country for your MS abroad. Germany can indeed be a great place to study abroad on a budget, with high-quality education and post-study work opportunities, but then again, a master’s degree from one of the Top US universities is a lifetime asset, is recognized all over the world, and can really open up opportunities around the globe.

All the best!

The post Top universities in Germany – Ultimate Guide for Study in Germany appeared first on 91Čȱ¬ Blog.

In fact, what makes the prospect of studying in these countries more attractive is the wonderfully low costs of living, high-quality social welfare, access to cutting-edge scientific innovations and developments, and most importantly, world-class higher education for free!

Yes, you read that right – most of the European countries have made higher education free in order to encourage young people to enroll in their universities, a benefit that has increasingly been reaped by Indian students too.

In that aspect, here’s a detailed expert review of one of the most popular universities in Germany, RWTH Aachen.

RWTH Aachen, located in the picturesque city of Aachen, Germany, was established in 1870 and is today one of the finest research-driven universities in Germany.

With more than 42,000 students across 144 programs and disciplines, it is also the largest technical university in the country.

What Is a Technical University?

• Technical Universities (Hochschule)
• University of Applied Sciences (Fachhochschule)

What’s the difference?

Technical University (TU) or Hochschule is a higher education institution that offers a highly research-centric Master’s degree. It is ideal for students who are looking to become subject experts or academicians in their respective fields of interest. Students who are looking to pursue their PhDs are also usually advised to target TUs.

On the other hand, University of Applied Sciences (UAS) ´Ç°ůĚýFachhochschule offers a Master’s degree with a more hands-on approach, with a deeper focus on practical, real-world application and is not as theory-oriented as the Technical University. Usually, students enrolled in the university have to compulsorily undertake an industrial training/internship as part of their curriculum.

Generally, Universities of Applied Sciences only offer bachelor’s and master’s degree, as they do not undertake any research. However, Technical Universities offer PhDs too, as they are more academically inclined than Applied Sciences. Students who apply to Technical Universities are of a more academic bent of mind; those applying to Applied Sciences are usually desirous of vocational training and aim to secure employment.

Admissions Eligibility

With an acceptance rate of about 10%, RWTH Aachen is one of the most selective schools in Europe, with a strong emphasis on academic excellence. Therefore, a stellar academic record is a definite prerequisite, but in addition to that, there are several other criteria you must fulfill in order to qualify for admissions.

#1: A qualifying undergraduate degree: You must have, at the time of applying, successfully completed an undergraduate degree from a recognized university, with a good CGPA. Because the Master’s degree at RWTH Aachen is consecutive, that is, it enhances the knowledge developed in your undergraduate degree, your degree must be in a relevant field.

According to the official website, “…Most of the Master’s courses of study at RWTH Aachen are consecutive. This means that the Bachelor’s degree provides the subject background and preparation for the Master’s. Thus, it is not possible to have completed a Bachelor’s in philosophy but then pursue a Master’s in Mechanical Engineering.”

#2: Demonstration of language skills: The language of instruction for most courses at RWTH Aachen is German, therefore the applicant must be able to demonstrate a strong command over the language by furnishing the necessary language certificates. If you are not fluent in German, however, don’t fret! You may enroll for German language courses at the Goethe-Institute in your city of residence, or you can opt to study through the Deutsch-Uni-Online or DUO, which offers recognized online language courses.

Additionally, you may also choose to undertake the German language course offered at RWTH Aachen, which prepares you for several German language tests for a nominal fee. For further information on language requirements, please visit the official .

#3: Completion of application: The online application form must be duly filled and sent to the Admissions Office before the deadline date for your application to be considered for admissions. There are also copies of several supporting documents that must be furnished in addition to the application form. They include:

a) A comprehensive resume, which covers all your prior academic and professional experiences, including internships, study abroad programs, volunteer work, projects, awards, recognitions, etc.

b) A letter of motivation, which must answer the following questions satisfactorily:

What perceptions do you have when thinking of studies in Germany?

Why do you want to study at RWTH Aachen?

Why do you want to study this specific subject?

Please mention your past academic or university experiences.

Where did you receive information about RWTH Aachen and your desired subject?

What career prospects do you hope to obtain by studying at RWTH Aachen?

c) Official university transcripts that detail the courses that were undertaken and the grades obtained in them. If your transcripts are in any language other than English or German, they must be translated into English or German before being mailed.

[Read]: How to Convert Your CGPA to Match German University Standards!

d) If applicable, a copy of the degree certificate obtained upon the successful completion of your undergraduate degree.

e) Several Master’s programs, such as MS in Mechanical Engineering, require the completion of an additional form. Therefore, while applying, do take cognizance of any additional documents that you may be required to submit.

f) German language test scores, if the test has already been taken.

Popular Courses 

1. Automotive Engineering
2. Biomedical Engineering
3. Electrical Engineering, Information Technology, and Computer Engineering with specialization in Communications Engineering, Micro- and Nanoelectronics or Electrical Power Engineering
4. Media Informatics
5. Metallurgical Engineering
6. Physics
7. Software Systems Engineering
8. Simulation Sciences
9. Sustainable Management

Application Deadlines

The application deadlines for

• Winter ’18 intake is July 15th, 2018,Ěý
• Summer’18 intake is January 15th, 2018.

However, most Master’s programs only have a winter intake, so make sure you apply on time!

Life at RWTH Aachen

Life at RWTH is an exciting, dynamic one, with students from over 130 countries living and studying on campus. With a sprawling, 620-acre campus located in the heart of the city, RWTH Aachen is a truly global campus, bringing to you the best of cutting-edge infrastructural facilities to make your stay a breeze.

Facilities

The campus is fully equipped with world-class facilities, including the Main Building, the SuperC Students’ Center, the Audimax, and the main refectory. The campus also boasts of a scenic botanical garden.

In 2017, the construction of Central Auditorium for Research and Learning (CARL) was completed. The auditorium, which houses a number of lecture halls, has a capacity of 4000 students and is the very symbol of RWTH’s glory and pride.

Accommodation

Unlike the American universities, campus accommodation is not available in most German universities. Therefore, it is the responsibility of the student to search and apply for housing around the campus. To make your apartment hunting easier, please visit the to find further information about how and where to apply for accommodation. 
If you are still stuck, you can email the International Office Housing Service, who will be happy to help you out.

Fees

Although tuition at RWTH is free, there are several other financial obligations you will have as a student at the university. Please find below a comprehensive tabulation of the fees you will be required to pay every month:  

Source: University Official Website

We hope you found this university review helpful!

To find out how ready you are for Fall ’18, just take this short 4-minute quiz and learn the step-by-step process to top university admits!

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