Germany presents an ideal opportunity for students from India to acquire a world-class education free from tuition fees after passing out from the 12th class. The country emphasizes research, innovation, and practical experience, with its institutions as an aid. So, with this happening in Germany, you are highly placed to go out there and excel both as a scholar and a professional. In this guide created by Successcribe, top-rated foreign consultancy gives you insights and you will learn how to study in Germany for free after 12th by exploring the various bachelor’s courses available and preparing your application.
You will be able to start that life-changing educational journey in one of the most advanced countries in the world by using this guide about top bachelor’s free courses, eligibility criteria, application into German public universities, and other important aspects.
Why Germany after 12th Class
Germany is considered one of the best places to learn for reasons of their fabulous education system, mainly in academics related to engineering, technology, or science. Indian students particularly consider the higher education system in Germany to be very attractive for all kinds of reasons.
Tuition-free: The cost of living is reasonably priced as compared with the rest of Europe. Leipzig, Dresden, and Aachen are student-friendly cities in terms of accommodation as well.
Cultural Exposure: Germany is the complete hub for international students from all over the world, and hence, will face cultural diversity and global perspectives.
Excellent Career Opportunity: Germany, has a growing economy and skill shortages in the fields of engineering, IT, and the health sector, making the job search relatively easier for graduates after graduation from the universities.
Post-Study Visa: After completing studies, international students can spend up to 18 months in Germany looking for the right job. The day they get a job, they apply for a long-term residence permit.
Eligibility Criteria to study in Germany after 12th
To understand how to study in Germany for free after 12th, students should familiarize themselves with the required qualifications, language tests, and the application process for German public universities.
- Completion of class 12th: You must have had higher secondary education with successful completion of 12th grade.
- Recognition of Qualifications: The qualification you obtained after your 12th must be recognized in Germany. Indian students usually require to enter a preparatory year called Studienkolleg followed by the Feststellungsprüfung examination before they can pursue a bachelor’s degree.
- Language Proficiency: Depending upon the course, you may need to demonstrate your proficiency in German, as with TestDaF or Goethe or in English, such as IELTS or TOEFL. Most undergraduate courses are taught in German so students have to learn the language.
The Top Free Bachelor’s Courses for Indian Students
Germany offers free bachelor courses in a whole range of fields from engineering and business to humanities, and many others. The most popular free bachelor programs among students from India are as follows:
- B.Sc. in Computer Science
- B.Sc. in Mechanical Engineering
- B.A. in Business Administration
- B.Sc. in Physics
- B.Sc. in Medicine (German language proficiency)
How to Apply for German Universities After 12th
The procedure of application for University in Germany may differ a little with each university, but it is as follows in general:
Research and Choose Universities
First of all, search for public universities in Germany that provide the courses you are interested in. For Indian students interested in how to study in Germany for free after 12th, here are some of the top universities offering free education for bachelor’s programs include:
University Name | World Ranking | Popular Programs | Semester Contribution |
Technical University of Munich (TUM) | 37th | Computer Science, Mechanical Engineering, Electrical Engineering | €140 |
Ludwig Maximilian University of Munich (LMU) | 33rd | Business Administration, Physics, Medicine | €144 |
Heidelberg University | 87th | Biology, Philosophy, Mathematics | €171 |
Humboldt Univesity of Berlin | 126th | Psychology, History, German Literature | €320 |
RWTH Aachen University | 147th | Mechanical Engineering, Electrical Engineering, Computer Science | €299 |
Admission Requirements
Admission requirements vary at each university. Ensure that your 12th-grade qualification meets the specific requirements for the selected university. If it does not, you may need to enter a Studienkolleg.
Language Requirement
To study in most courses, you will need to prove your proficiency in a specific language, such as:
- German language skills (Goethe Certificate, TestDaF) in case the course is lectured in German.
- English skills (IELTS or TOEFL) in case the course is lectured in English.
Prepare Application Documents
Common documents to be prepared to make an application include:
- Transcript of records from universities (translated into German or English)
- Proof of language proficiency
- LOR
- LOM
- Curriculum Vitae
- Copy of passport
- Medical insurance proof
Apply via Uni-Assist
For most public universities in Germany, there is a standard application procedure via the Uni-Assist portal, which verifies whether your foreign qualification is adequate for the German standards. However, in some faculties, you can apply directly.
Studienkolleg and Feststellungsprüfung
For students with qualifications not sufficient for direct admission to Germany, it is mandatory to attend a Studienkolleg.
- Studienkolleg: One-year course and preparation course that is supposed to arm international students with the knowledge, expertise, and skills required to pursue studies in Germany. Free, at public universities.
- Feststellungsprüfung: After you complete the Studienkolleg, you need to pass this assessment test to be admitted into the bachelor’s degree course.
Living Costs and Other Expenses
While the entire education is free, all living expenses are paid by the students. So, here’s an approximate idea of the monthly living expenses in Germany:
Living Expense | Approximate Monthly Cost (Euros) | In INR (₹) |
Accommodation | €300-€500 | ₹27,816 – ₹43,360 |
Food and Groceries | €150-€250 | ₹13,908 – ₹23,180 |
Medical Insurance | €90 | ₹8,345 |
Public Transport | €70-€100 | ₹6,490 – ₹9,272 |
You need to save around €850-€1,000 per month. You will also have to cover a semester contribution of around €150-€300 which covers administration fees and charges for public transport.
Scholarships to Finance Living Expenses
Many students from India ask how to study in Germany for free after 12th, and the answer lies in taking advantage of the tuition-free programs offered by German public universities.
All the tuition fees in public universities and you can have a scholarship to cater to your expenses such as living costs. Some of the most commonly recognized are:
The most prominent scholarship organizations that give funding to international students include DAAD Scholarships, Erasmus+, or Deutschlandstipendium, which is merit-based and will grant up to €300 per month in total to promising students.
Visa and Blocked Account
Germany will demand a student visa and proof of at least sufficient funds to meet your living costs. The amount is usually around €11,208 for one year which has to be kept in the blocked account.
Documents for German Student Visa
To get admitted to German universities, you’ll need to obtain a student visa. Here is your check-list of documents required:
- Valid Passport
- University Admission Letter
- Proof of Financial Resources, for example a blocked account with adequate means to cover living expenses
- Insurance for health
- Application form for visa
- Transcripts and certificates for Class 12th academic
- Proof of Language Proficiency (if required by the university)
The visa application procedure may take a month or two. So, therefore application should be made good before.
Preparing for Life in Germany
Here are essential tips if you are planning to study in Germany after your 12th. These tips will really help you to adapt to the culture and make your difficulty in living in a new country easier.
Learn Basic German – Even though you’re enrolling into a German taught program, having knowledge of the German language will make life in Germany much simpler. Start learning the language from online courses, language apps, or local language schools in India.
Understand German Culture – Germany has a very different cultural landscape, starting from punctuality, efficiency, and respect for privacy. Knowing the cultural differences before you arrive will help you adjust quickly.
Join Student Communities – Many universities have international student offices which help newcomers not only to find accommodations and sort out other practical matters, but also to integrate into student and academic life.
Tips for a Successful Application Process
- Begin Early: Application procedures for German universities are usually long. Begin scouting through universities and getting prepared for documents at least 6-12 months in advance.
- Learn Basic German: No matter how English is the medium of your course, German will come in handy in other modes of life in Germany. Then, you will be more employable also as compared to those who do not know German.
- Apply for Scholarships: One must not bypass the opportunities lying in scholarships. Scholarship is financial support and therefore can reduce the financial burden of staying in Germany.
Conclusion
The country is known for tuition-free public universities; so, the ideal place of study in Germany for free after the 12th standard for Indian students is that you do not have to pay tuition, but still do all the preparation necessary for other expenses: living, health insurance, and semester contribution. By following the steps outlined here on how to study in Germany for free after 12th, Indian students can secure a place in one of the top German universities without worrying about tuition fees. Here, you can open the doors to an incredible world of opportunities in Germany’s higher education system, which is recognized worldwide, if you meet all the academic and language requirements and apply through the right channels.
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