Doctor of Philosophy or PhD is the highest academic degree that offers specialised knowledge in a particular field of study. Many students are pursuing doctorate programs in Germany due to well-ranked universities and internationally recognised programs that open great employment opportunities. Every year, on average, ~28,000 candidates earn a PhD at German universities. So, if you are planning to study PhD in Germany, this guide is for you.

Key Highlights

• PhD degree in Germany: An overview
• Types of PhD programs in Germany for international students
• Popular PhD programs in Germany
• Universities in Germany for PhD
• Eligibility criteria to pursue a doctorate in Germany
• Cost to study PhD in Germany for Indian students

PhD degree in Germany: An overview

Germany is one of the best study abroad destinations due to its quality education system and the top-notch universities providing an outstanding research environment. Moreover, PhD programs in Germany for international students are affordable as most universities do not charge tuition fees. PhD in Germany is for 3-5 years. Students can pursue the program part-time or full-time as per their interests. Many universities even offer monthly stipends to PhD students.

Types of PhD programs in Germany for international students

Individual or traditional doctorate and structured doctorate are the two routes to obtain a PhD degree in Germany. 

• Structured PhD programs: Students opting for structured PhD programs in Germany complete their research work along with other doctoral students, who are guided by a group of supervisors. Germany offers ~600 structured PhD programs with English as the main language of instruction.  
• Individual Doctorate: It is considered a direct method in which aspirants complete their dissertation in a chosen subject under the supervision of a professor. This PhD allows students to conduct their research work at a university or any organisation.

Popular PhD programs in Germany

• PhD in Chemistry in Germany: Most German universities offer full-time PhD programs in Chemistry. Post-completion of the programs, PhD graduates can secure positions like Chemical Engineers, Analytical Chemists, and Pharmacologists. 
• PhD in Biotechnology in Germany: A PhD in Biotechnology allows students to research and develop new technologies and methods for the betterment of society, such as improving biofuel efficiency, genetically altering crops and making them pest-resistant, etc. Some popular PhD programs in Biotechnology are PhD in Bioinformatics, PhD in Molecular Biotechnology, PhD in Computational-Systems Biology, etc.
• PhD in Financial Mathematics: Students can pursue either individual or structured PhD in Financial Mathematics. Post-completion of the program, they can take up job roles like Researcher, Personal Banker, Economist, etc.

Some other popular programs German universities offer are PhDs in Humanities, Philosophy, Engineering, Social Sciences, Natural Sciences, etc.

Eligibility criteria to pursue a doctorate in Germany

Apply for PhD in Germany after submitting the following documents to your preferred university:

• Master’s degree in a related field from a recognised university
• Academic transcripts (certificates and degrees)
• Statement of Purpose
• Letters of Recommendation
• Graduate Record Examinations (GRE) or Graduate Management Admission Test (GMAT)
• Resume
• Appear for language proficiency exams like the International English Language Testing System (IELTS) or Test of English as a Foreign Language (TOEFL).

It is advised to apply for PhD in Germany after verifying university-specific requirements.

Cost to study PhD in Germany for Indian students

The cost of PhD includes semester fees and living expenses. The semester fee varies from ~EUR 150 to ~EUR 300 (~INR 13,650 to ~INR 27,000). The cost of living includes accommodation expenses, food, travelling, and other related expenses that may vary depending on German cities. On average, the monthly cost of living while pursuing a PhD in Germany for Indian students will be around ~INR 99,000 to ~INR 1,88,000.
So, if you are interested in pursuing a PhD program in Germany and are facing financial challenges, you can opt for an education loan for abroad studies. At Avanse Financial Services, we offer hyper-personalised education financing solutions, including an education loan without collateral and with collateral. Contact us today to know more about student loans.