GERMAN EDUCATION SYSTEM

DUAL STUDY OPPORTUNITIES IN GERMANY

Dual study is an important aspect of consideration when one thinks about Overseas education. Dual studies basically means to interconnect theoretical studies at the university with practical experience by working part time simultaneously. In this case, students are spending a specific number of hours on studying and they give the remaining time to their part time job or internships. Students can choose to work on campus or off campus as per their needs, availability and choice of jobs.

The concept of dual studies exists greatly in most of the western and European countries. It is largely spreading in Asian countries such as China, India and so on though it may not be as well developed as the western countries. Most of the students thinking of study abroad go for the dual study option as it helps them to earn their living in Germany cost and at the same time give them a wide exposure at quite a young age which helps them to explore new career options and personally experience the working environment of the country, skills required for their future jobs, their suitability to the work assigned and much more. It is observed that students who are into dual study options are more developed and advanced in academics, sports, interpersonal development, emotional and various other aspects.
 

Universities offering dual Study in Germany

A wide range of universities in Germany as well as some colleges and business schools in Germany offer dual study programs. Dual study in German universities is in 3 main forms. They are as follows:

  • Integrated dual study program in which training and studies take place simultaneously. This leads to students acquiring an academic diploma through the exam designed by the specific professional quarters. The exam requires both, the professional training as well as theoretical studies.
  • Unified dual study program in which practical training and studies each are given 50% points in the overall assessment which makes both these aspects equally important and the student needs to excel in both in order to pass the exam.
  • Integrated professionals dual study programs are meant for people who already have a job. The main reason for this model of study for students is to motivate them to reach another milestone of life at an early period.
     

Dual Study in Germany for international students

Dual studies for international students may differ in some aspects when compared to that of local students. The university module for dual studies remain the same for international and local students but international students need to think about many other things which the locals can be totally cool about. Germany is one of the best countries in the world to offer dual study programs due to a huge variety of uniquely developed programs, flexibility, ample job opportunities, offering paid internships, on campus internships specially designed for international students and much more.

Universities in Germany believe in practically building up one’s personality according to their field of choice and giving them loads of self -learning and exploring opportunities which has helped many students reach the top level in many MNC’s across the globe. Also, it reduces the financial load on the parents and makes their journey smooth and memorable! One needs to do a good amount of research on the dual study opportunities offered by Germany. Keep all the required documents ready before the deadlines mentioned on the university web page.
 

Post Study Benefits

Most of the German well- known companies support the dual study system. They believe in novelty, new approaches, new innovations and great support to young students. It is generally safer to start applying 12-14 months prior to the personal shortlisted choice of companies. German companies go through all the documentation, signing contracts and other formalities with students just in the same way as other employees. Students are treated equal to all the employees. They are not given special benefits. This gives them an authentic insight into the system and policies of that company. At times, a return offer after graduation is received by some students. They are placed in the company at a higher post then.
 

Basic Documents required for application

Various documents required for application are as follows:

  • Curriculum Vitae (CV)
  • Motivation letter
  • Photo IDs
  • Diploma or High school degree certificate
  • Acceptance letter given by the German university
  • Proof of sufficient German language skills.

Some companies might require a few more documents while some might require a few lesser in comparison so it is always better to be in direct touch with the companies that one is going to apply to. Above documents are some of the basic one’s. Also, various documents, mark sheets, certificates, letters are required for dual studies in Germany and it is extremely important to get all the university and company specific information directly from the university or company respectively and organize all the required documents well in time for submission.
 

Studying in Germany [Overview]

From an academic point of view, German education is one of the best for education. University of Germany is among the top German universities which are famous worldwide. There are some of the other best universities in Germany also. Many students prefer to study medicine in Germany. There is a huge availability of scholarships in Germany. Scholarships are available for MBBS in Germany as well. Study in Germany for international students was always a great option. But now, there is an MBA that allows management students to study in Germany for free. Study in Germany for Indian students is also gaining popularity.

One must make it a point to study German up to a certain basic level of recognition before applying before applying to any of the top German universities. German universities ranking is on a very large scale due to a huge list of universities in Germany and a high level of progress by each of them. Studies in Germany is very different from studies in India. There are many universities in Germany for MS as people have realised that German universities for MS are as good as or in some cases better than most of the universities in the world. Along with the increase in the number of people who wish to study MBBS in Germany, Engineering in Germany is also very famous. Due to this, the number of engineering universities in Germany are on a rise since the past few years.
 

Financial Benefits of Dual Study in Germany

When we talk about finances related to dual studies in Germany, students have a huge number of benefits such as when a company signs a contract with them, they are promised a certain paycheck for your contribution. The salary depends on different subjective factors. There are several international study funds which support dual Study in Germany.
 

To-Do List for International Students

In order to guide international students to a systematic application, arrival, work and study, there is a to-do list designed. It has been a great help to international students in planning their applications. It is as follows:

  • Choosing the College/University as well as the relevant company in Germany
  • Acknowledged certificates required from the designated office of acceptance in a German University
  • Proof of German Language Skills and the relevant certificates (i.e. the language exam from TestDaF from the place it was taken)
  • Visa clearance, residency permit, health insurance coverage (especially for students who come from non-EU countries)
  • Clarification of financing your studies through the company.
  • Booked accommodation and dislocation
     

SEMESTER ABROAD IN GERMANY

There have been continuous changes related to people’s attitude and approach towards overseas education. In the recent years, there is a new upcoming trend among students to do a semester abroad. It depends on the country, stream and study program. 70% of the students wish to do a semester abroad during their undergraduate program. This gives them an opportunity to study at their home country and study abroad during the same program. This gives young adolescents a great exposure and is a wonderful system. It makes students more independent and capable. They can compare their experience of stay and study in two different places. It will help them choose the one which is the most suitable for their further studies.

This system has started developing in India as well. Various Indian colleges have affiliations with foreign colleges and universities. Students are given opportunities to go to those universities and spend one whole semester there. There can be an addition of a few other subjects and activities. Students from all the streams in India are opting for these programs on a large scale.
 

Why semester abroad in Germany?

Germany is one of the very few countries which has the most well developed semester abroad system which takes care of all the needs and requirements of international students when they come in and various efforts are taken by universities in Germany to make their experience memorable! There is a wide list of top universities in Germany that encourage the semester abroad system. When one goes to Germany for one semester, he/she can know that Germany has a very important position not only in the European Union but also in the world in economic, political, social and cultural aspects.
 

Semester abroad in Germany for international students

Germany has a very strong trading background. Due to this, various top German have their headquarters in other countries. It is very beneficial for international students who are doing an internship. Internship during their semester abroad program is also possible. They can continue with their internship in the same company after going back to their home country. Also, many students prefer to learn German language when their doing their semester in Germany. Learning a foreign language is always a bonus and Leaning German can be very beneficial. This is true for students who want to study international business.

A semester at any of the universities in Germany involves going to different German cities or even nearby countries in case of a longer stay. German has an interesting history, various landscapes and loads of opportunities for students who love sports and adventures and every German city has something unique to offer. Students can plan weekend getaways and small trips during holidays with a bunch of locals as it will make their experience better and help them build a good relationship with other local and international students.
 

Financial Benefits of semester abroad in Germany

Students from European countries mostly opt for the ERASMUS program. This program basically offers scholarships and other financial aid for students who want to go for Semester Abroad programs. For students from other countries, there are college affiliations as in case of India or other partnership programs that exist between countries which provides a base for such programs. One has to systematically plan well in advance and research well on where they wish to spend their semester and its related information. In case of college affiliations, it is a very hassle free process and most of the application is done by college itself. Also, it is a much safer option and is convincing to Indian parents.

The total cost of spending a semester abroad in Germany with various grands, aids and scholarships available is very cheap and affordable for all international students so finance is not much of an issue. Also, due to the prevailing credit system in Germany, the grades from the semester completed in Germany can be added to the final mark sheet when the student comes back home and thus, its important to perform well academically irrespective of which country one is studying at and this proves to be a motivation factor for them to not take things lightly and do well in every way may it be Germany, India or any other country.
 

Things to include while planning a semester in Germany

Apart from application and other documentations, one needs to plan how they wish to spend their time in Germany such as doing a part time internship or getting into the sports team of the German University, do another short term course simultaneously, Learn German language, participate in college activities and build new relations, travel and much more. One should successfully organize and include each and every activity that they wish to do because apart from the study experience, these extras are what will make the experience that they will cherish for life! This helps us conclude that doing a semester abroad in Germany and precisely the option of Study in Germany for Indian students is the best option available especially for those who wish to study in Europe.
 

Studying in Germany [Overview]

From an academic point of view, German education is one of the best for education. University of Germany is among the top German universities which are famous worldwide. There are some of the other best universities in Germany also. Many students prefer to study medicine in Germany. There is a huge availability of scholarships in Germany. Scholarships are available for MBBS in Germany as well. Study in Germany for international students was always a great option. But now, there is an MBA that allows management students to study in Germany for free. Study in Germany for Indian students is also gaining popularity.

One must make it a point to study German up to a certain basic level of recognition before applying before applying to any of the top German universities. German universities ranking is on a very large scale due to a huge list of universities in Germany and a high level of progress by each of them. Studies in Germany is very different from studies in India. There are many universities in Germany for MS as people have realised that German universities for MS are as good as or in some cases better than most of the universities in the world. Along with the increase in the number of people who wish to study MBBS in Germany, Engineering in Germany is also very famous. Due to this, the number of engineering universities in Germany are on a rise since the past few years.
 

Government Universities vs Private Universities

German study at the Government universities in Germany is way more practical, rational and realistic in nature. From the huge list of German universities, some of the best German universities are on the number 1 position across the globe. Study in Germany cost is quite affordable for its quality and system. Along with doing MS from Germany, international students prefer to study masters in Germany in any of the subjects. One must research well and make a list of the top 10 universities in Germany.

Public universities in Germany have minimal or no tuition fees on a general basis. Universities in Berlin come under the top universities in Germany for MS. There are many universities in Germany for PhD as well. MS in Germany cost at the technical universities in Germany is not very expensive. Medical universities in Germany are available in abundance. The cost of studying in Germany at any of the German colleges and universities depends on many different factors.
 

The first approach towards Germany

One must visit a good overseas consultancy and handle things in a professional manner. There are many good education consultants in Delhi. Apart from overseas consultants in Delhi and Mumbai, one of the best consultancy in Hyderabad also exists which focuses on Study in Germany as the core program. One needs a tremendous amount of research on this topic in order to make a wise decision with no regrets.

In recent times, there are many universities in Germany for international students which encourage DAAD, Study in Germany and one must definitely research on it. Also, Study in Germany in English has got high recognition. One must also research on and follow the German universities ranking. Many local as well as international students prefer to study engineering in Germany, MSc in Germany, MS in Germany for computer science as they are some of the core courses in Germany especially, MS Germany. The concept of study and work in Germany is also becoming highly popular as there is a huge availability of scholarships to Study in Germany.
 

Benefits of Research [12 to 18 months prior]

Study at Germany in an international university in Germany can be a life time experience. Study in Germany scholarships at the top universities Germany can be a great achievement. ‘Master Germany’ is quite famous study program today. The process of university ranking in Germany must be studied deeply. The ranking of universities in Germany is of great value. There are many top engineering universities in Germany along with public universities in Germany for international students. There is a huge list of universities in Germany for international students. They have one of the best international master programs in Germany. There is a huge list of universities in Germany for MS. One must focus on the top 10 universities in Germany for MS. One must also focus and research well on:

  • The top 10 German universities
  • The best engineering universities in Germany
  • English colleges in Germany
  • Scholarships for masters in Germany
  • Top universities of Germany
     

COST OF STUDYING IN GERMANY

The first criteria that is considered by all the parents and students before even thinking about study abroad is the total cost of studying. It should be possible to earn back the invested money in case of international students. The amount invested by international students in a university abroad is way more than what they were paying in their home country. There are various cost related considerations. The total tuition fees, living cost including the expenses related to food, internet, electricity, rentals, entertainment and much more. One must take professional help in matters of overseas education. It will ensure a smooth journey ahead. Cost of Studying in Germany is quite affordable in comparison to other countries in Europe.
 

Add on benefits

Students who wish to study in private universities in Germany would have to keep a much higher budget as private universities are not financed by the state or the German Government and the money needed for running the university comes from the tuition fees. The tuition fees for private German universities would come up to around 20,000 euros per year. After the complete abolishment of tuition fees in German universities, there is a semester fee that has to be paid by every student which includes the residential costs, cafeterias, sports facilities and much more. It also provides students with a semester bus ticket which they can use while travelling within the country. Besides this, there is another set of fees which student need to pay to the university in Germany where they are planning to study which involves administrative fees (living costs). Germany is no more an expensive country to study in comparison to other European countries. Also, Germany is one of the few countries in the world which has huge employment opportunities and availability of jobs.
 

Internships and Employment Opportunities in Germany

There is a vast opportunity for international students to acquire an internship in different fields in Germany which helps them to cover up on their administration and living costs as well as provide them a great exposure and experience of working in a different country and earning their own living. It helps international students in interpersonal development which in turn encourages them to do better and proves as a motivational factor for international students. In short, Germany is an inexpensive study hub with vast employment opportunities and great future prospects. The living costs vary from city to city and from university to university. The basic cost structure is quite similar for all public universities. Cost of studying in Germany at a private university greatly varies from one university to another.
 

Government Universities vs Private Universities

German study at the Government universities in Germany is way more practical, rational and realistic in nature. From the huge list of German universities, some of the best German universities are on the number 1 position across the globe. Study in Germany cost is quite affordable for its quality and system. Along with doing MS from Germany, international students prefer to study masters in Germany in any of the subjects. One must research well and make a list of the top 10 universities in Germany.

Public universities in Germany have minimal or no tuition fees on a general basis. Universities in Berlin come under the top universities in Germany for MS. There are many universities in Germany for PhD as well. MS in Germany cost at the technical universities in Germany is not very expensive. Medical universities in Germany are available in abundance. The cost of studying in Germany at any of the German colleges and universities depends on many different factors.
 

HOW TO STUDY IN GERMANY

Introduction about How to Study in Germany

To simply move into a new country and to study over there can be a very stressful task. Before starting the journey, the system of studying in Germany must be understood well. It can be completely different from studying at one’s home country. Study programs, subject combinations, semester structures, exams, processes at universities differ from university to university. It also differs from country to country. Thus, taking professional help is extremely important in such matters.

After one applies to the universities in Germany, further process is carried out online. Students from across the world apply at the German universities. This makes the application process online which is quite beneficial and simple. There is a web based platform called ILIAS through which students can attend lectures. They can approach teachers in case of any doubts as well. Also, most of the tests, in German colleges and top universities in Germany are taken online. This makes evaluation quite easy. The library also has an internet platform. It allows all the students to read, purchase or borrow any book of their choice online. Moreover, it is important to know about the study programs and exams. One needs to make a time table according to one’s convenience.
 

Academics in Germany

Every study program in German universities have its own curriculum. This is not the case in Indian colleges which have quite similar term structures and examination patterns. All German study programs have their own unique structure and curriculum. This makes every program very different from the other. It gives students a deep insight into their choice of subject in a unique manner. In Germany, every study year contains two semesters or terms, each of 6 months. One is known as the summer term and the other as the winter term. Each term includes lecture periods and lecture free periods. In the lecture periods, the professors take subject lectures. In the lecture free periods, the end term examinations take place. This time can also be used to do an internship or take up a job. Students can travel back home or simply enjoy their vacations.

German universities have a very different kind of lecture patterns wherein there are a few lectures where there is one way talking and the professor teaches and students need to listen and learn. There are times when there are seminars which involve an exchange of information, knowledge and experiences between the teacher and the students. Also, there are times when the research projects done by students are applied in practical experiences with the help of teachers. These type of teacher student relationship leads to a healthy bond and better understanding between them. It is a rare scene in German universities to have a low attendance as learning is made interesting through collective efforts.
 

Environment and support at Universities in Germany.

Study in Germany for locals or international students is one of the best options available due to a considerable growth in the number of students who desire to study in Europe. The pattern of studying in German universities is very student friendly and takes care of all the needs and requirements of international students when they arrive at any university in Germany. There are many people who are in charge of student relationships and any student can approach them in case of any fight or any kind of problem.

There is also a student counselings department in every German university which helps all the students to deal with day to day issues in a responsible manner and they are of great help to international students as they provide them with moral support which helps them in getting adjusting to a new lifestyle which further leads to better academic performance at a new university in a whole new country.
 

GERMAN GRADING SYSTEM

When a student considers the option of study abroad, apart from the education system of that country, the grading system also needs to be understood well by the students as well as the parents since different countries follow different grading systems and when moving from one education system to another, the students go through a huge amount of coping up stress related to adjustment to a new lifestyle, a new system, a new university, new social groups and much more. When we talk about a country like Germany, the German Grading System differs widely from the grading system in Indian colleges in many aspects. Overseas education in Germany offers high quality of education compared to other European nations. Thus, when a person wishes to study in Europe these are important points to be kept in mind. The German grading system has to be understood for mainly two reasons.

  • Grades of international students that wish to apply to universities in Germany needs to transfer their grades according to the German system of grading and over all evaluation. One needs to complete this step prior to the application process.
  • It is necessary to understand the grades or ranks that one receives during his/her examinations in order to pass the exams as well for other applications.
     

Method of grading at German universities

Top universities in Germany follow two main grading systems with each one possessing a different method of grading. It is explained as follows:

  • The first system involves a method of grading which follows a scale from one to six. One being an excellent score and six being a very low score. If a student receives a grade four or more then he/she has unfortunately not passed the exam. This system mainly exists in Germany. It is followed from year one until year ten. Sometimes even in junior colleges which includes some of the best universities of Germany as well. Also, minor steps in the German grading system can be explained with the help of a numerical format. It involves decimals such as 1.0 being very good, 2.0 being good, 3.0 being satisfactory, 4.0 being adequate, 5.0 being poor and 6.0 being very poor.
  • In Germany, years 10 to 12 as per the modern way are known as the last years of gymnasium. In this system, after the G8 reformation, there is a new German Grading System. It involves a method of grading on the basis of points given from 0 to 15. 15 is a very good score and 0 is a really poor score. According to this system, calculation of the final degree is much easier. It is the part of the basic application process in any university of Germany.
     

Overall evaluation at German universities

In Germany, the final degree is calculated on the basis of an average score obtained by the student in the previous years of college with greater emphasis on the final exam scores. It is an average degree of all the years. This proves that the German grading system gives importance to collective effort and dedication throughout all the years that the student has put in and not just to one single exam which decides the future of the student as it exists in India.

One needs to evaluate the German universities after the first graduate degree. After that, many reforms took place in the German education system which has led to the advancement of the overall German grading system. Another change that took place in the system was the separation of the Bachelors and Master degree. Also, after every passed exam at the German university, the students receive ECTS (European Credit Transfer Points). These points summarise the final scores at the end of the term.
 

Government Universities vs Private Universities

German study at the Government universities in Germany is way more practical, rational and realistic in nature. From the huge list of German universities, some of the best Ger