Since overseas education gained popularity among international students, Germany is one of the top performers in providing high-quality global education. Low tuition, standard curriculum and academicians, career opportunities, and affordable living costs are some of the factors that drive international students who study in Germany to extend their stay.

As per reports published by the Organisation for Economic Co-operation and Development (OECD), the German economy is estimated to experience a growth rate of 1.7% in 2023, cementing its position as the fourth-largest economy in the world.

Around 400,000 international students enrolled in various universities in Germany in 2022 to acquire relevant skills and fill up shortages in the workforce. With several statistics suggesting a hike in the number of international students who study in Germany and later opt to stay in the country, let’s look at some of the possible reasons for this.

Why do students prefer to stay in Germany?

According to the Federal Statistical Office, around one-third of the students who obtained residency permits while studying in Germany between 2006 to 2021 have stayed in the country after applying for employment permits. The Central Register data reports that 48% of international students remained in Germany for five years and 38% for ten years after the duration of their studies. Out of these 28% of international students who still lived in the country also obtained German citizenship.

The high numbers revealed in reports make us wonder what makes Germany an attractive destination for international students. Here are some of the factors that place Germany in the top spot among foreign students.

 Cost of education

People in Germany believe that education is a basic human right which should be available for all. This has led to significantly low-cost education in private and free education in public universities. Germans consider education as a tool to upskill and improve the number of skilled candidates in the country.

All these benefits are provided to international students making it a favourable destination to study. So, even if you want to pursue higher education after completing your initial programme, the cost is low and the education system is accessible, unlike many developed countries that charge hefty amounts.

Low cost of living

Compared to the average cost of living in major European countries or even the US, Germany is less expensive. The city you live in, and your lifestyle requirements have a huge effect on your total expenses. Traveling in Germany is affordable and you will find the food and drink prices also average. The only thing you need to make sure you have is a health insurance policy. Once you have that, any medical expenses you have will be covered. It might be surprising that Germany’s leading tech hub, Berlin, is one of the cheapest places in the country to live.

 Career opportunities

Being the largest economy in Europe, Germany presents ample opportunities for skilled graduates. Currently, there is a shortage of skilled graduates in the country which means that with the essential qualifications and skills, it’s easier to get selected for lucrative job roles.

Berlin is one of the main tech hubs in Germany where all leading multinational corporations (MNCs) have established their offices. Tech giants like Amazon, Deloitte, KPMG, Accenture, EY, etc. have their branches in Berlin and are constantly hiring skilled graduates. Data science, cybersecurity, digital marketing, UI/UX design, and software engineering are some of the popular sectors in demand in Germany. Students also have the option to stay on for 18 months after their studies to find a good role.

Why is Germany a top study destination?

Whether a student decides to stay in Germany long-term or not, Germany is a top study destination among international students, due to the low cost of education, the availability of scholarships, part-time jobs, practice-oriented pedagogy, and the English-based curriculums.

Unlike many other countries, German universities approach education in a practice-oriented manner and tie up with companies to provide internship opportunities to students. This helps them in developing skills necessary for a workplace and increases their employability. The fact that the medium of instruction is English at most universities also comes as a relief for many foreign students.

Students also have access to several scholarships and grants to ease their financial concerns. As an international student, you can work up to 120 full days or 240 half days during studies or semester breaks.

Additionally, the country has a rich heritage and culture and is welcoming to foreigners, making it easier for any international student coming here to study or work.

If you wish to be a part of the German culture and experience career growth with leading organisations, enrol in any program at the University of Europe for Applied Sciences, Germany. UE offers various bachelor’s and master’s programmes in art, business, technology, and psychology that open pathway to lucrative job roles in the marketplace.

The programmes are structured in such a way that you will learn the most in-demand skills in the job market under the guidance of expert academics. Both theoretical and practical approaches to learning are followed here enabling you to meet the challenges of the workplace and take critical decisions.