Germany is famous for a lot of different things- tuition-free universities, an amazing education system, lots of diverse cultures, and, of course, beer and bratwursts! Germany is also one of the most sought-out destinations for international students. More than 350 educational institutions offer higher education in Germany with 14,000-degree courses.

Here is everything you need to know about studying in Germany:

Visa rules and requirements

You are eligible for a German student visa if you are looking to attend the following study types: full time, German language course, state preparatory college, propaedeutic course, and mandatory preliminary internship. You are required to fill out the visa application form and submit the form to the German embassy or consulate along with the following documents: valid passport, previous passports, two passport size photographs, proof of admission, previous academic records, resume, proof of finances, proof of payment of application fee of EUR 60, and proof of English language proficiency. You are allowed to stay in Germany for three months before the start of your degree to apply for your residence permit. Though the German student visa does not allow you to work fulltime during your degree, you can work part-time.

You need to buy health insurance

 As in the case of many other major countries where there is an abundance of international students, Germany makes it mandatory for their students to buy health insurance. You can either buy the health insurance from your home country or from insurers in Germany at a discounted price. Health insurance has benefits like health and nursing insurance.

German universities will not spoon-feed you

Unlike universities in the US or UK, German universities will not notice or offer you support if you fail to attend classes. They expect you to handle everything on your own from your academics to your survival. They will not spoon-feed you at all.

Germans are very straightforward

Just as the universities will not spoon-feed you, Germans will not sugar-coat anything. They are very direct, outspoken, and straightforward. They despise small-talk and they find it incredibly frustrating. They are also not comfortable being touchy if you are new to them. If you are not used to blunt answers or humor, you might think they are being rude. However, they are not rude people and you will find that they are some of the nicest people once you get to know them.

Germany is a heaven for foodies

 Germany is known for its bratwursts and beer, but what most people don’t know is that they have many national foods that will leave you wanting more. Some of the most popular foods are currywursts, pretzels, marzipan, pumpernickel bread, and spaetzle, amongst many others.

It should also be noted that you should find the accommodation well before your course begins. Though housing is not as expensive in Germany as it is in other countries, searching for one and getting it is a task in itself.

Regardless, Germany is an amazing place to stay, study, and explore.

We hope you have fun!