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Interesting Facts About Germany Every Student Must Know!

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Archana Hariram
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Did you know that many German universities don’t charge tuition fees for international students?

Studying in Germany can be surprisingly affordable compared to other countries! This guide will cover 25 fun facts about Germany that every student should be familiar with. 

10+ Fun Facts About Germany for International Students

Germany is full of surprises that most students only discover once they step on campus. We’ll uncover fascinating facts about student life & campus fun, top universities & courses, tuition & cost of living, and more insights that most people don’t tell you, but every student should know:

#1 No Tuition Fees at Public Universities

Most public universities in Germany, like the Technical University of Munich and Humboldt University of Berlin, do not charge tuition fees for international students. Students only pay a small semester fee of around €250-€350 (₹25,747 to 36,046), which covers administration, public transport, and student services.

#2 No Visa Application Fees for Indian Students

Indian students do not need to pay a visa application fee for their German student visa if they are opting for a short academic program. This makes studying in Germany more affordable compared to countries like the US or the UK.

#3 Germany Has the Largest Economy in the EU

Germany is Europe’s biggest economy with a GDP of around $4.74 to $5.01 trillion. It is home to global companies like Volkswagen, Siemens, and Adidas, offering excellent student work in Germany.

#4 Cultural Diversity in German Universities

German universities host students from over 120 countries, including India, China, Turkey, Austria, and Iran. This diverse environment fosters a rich cultural exchange and global networking opportunities.

#5 Over 400 Universities Across Germany

Germany boasts more than 420 higher education institutions, including universities, universities of applied sciences, and art and music colleges. This extensive network offers a wide range of academic programs to choose from.

#6 Availability of English-Taught Programs

Approximately 10% of academic programs in Germany are offered completely in English. This makes it accessible for international students to pursue higher education without proficiency in German.

#7 Student Discounts in Germany

Students in Germany can avail themselves of various discounts, including 25% to 50% off train tickets with the 'BahnCard 25' or 'BahnCard 50'. Additionally, regional trains often have their own discount schemes for students.

#8 Free Access to Huge Libraries

Public libraries in Germany are free to access, providing additional resources for students. The University Library of Humboldt-Universität zu Berlin is one of Germany’s largest university libraries, holding about 6.5 million volumes.

#9 Student-Friendly Public Transport

The 'DeutschlandTicket' allows students to use public transport nationwide for €63 per month, covering buses, trams, and regional trains. You can also save money with this ticket to use all public transport in Germany.

#10 Affordable Student Housing Options

University dormitories offer affordable accommodation in Germany, with costs typically ranging from €200 (₹20,598) to €500 (₹51,495) per month. This helps students manage their budgets effectively.

#11 High-Speed Internet on Campuses

German universities provide high-speed internet access up to 100 to 200 Mbps, supporting students in their academic and research activities. This ensures efficient online learning and communication.

#12 Availability of German Language Courses

Many universities, like Heidelberg University and Paderborn University, offer German language courses, helping students integrate into the local culture. These courses are often available at various proficiency levels.

#13 Part-Time Jobs Not Always Requiring German Language Skills

Many part-time jobs do not require German language skills, opening opportunities for international students. This allows students to gain work experience and earn income.

#14 Mandatory Health Insurance for Students

Health insurance is required for all students in Germany, ensuring access to medical care during studies. This provides peace of mind and supports student well-being.

#15 Germany's Crime Rate Is Among the Lowest in Europe

Germany has a homicide rate of 1 per 100,000 people, which is lower than the European average of 3 per 100,000. Munich and Frankfurt am Main are known for low violent crime rates.

#16 High Graduate Employment Rates in Germany

In 2023, 91.5% of recent graduates in Germany found employment within months of completing their studies. This indicates strong job prospects post-graduation. A few high-paying jobs in Germany are of CEOs earning EUR 1,960,000 to 2,450,000 (INR 2 Cr to 2.5 Cr) as well as Surgeons getting EUR 1,470,000 to 1,960,000 (INR 1.5 Cr to 2 Cr).

#17 More Money with Minijobs

Students in Germany can earn up to €556 (₹57,262) per month in “minijobs” without paying taxes. This makes it easy to save money while covering living expenses.

#18 Work Up to 140 Full Days Annually

Non-EU students in Germany can work up to 140 full days (or 280 half days) per year. Whether this income covers the cost of living in Germany and tuition depends on your hourly wage (€12.41/₹1278 to €15/₹1545) and the number of hours worked. 

Additional Interesting Facts About Germany

Studying in Germany comes with many surprises beyond campus life. These tips and insights will help you navigate daily life, travel, and cultural quirks as a student.

  • Plan Extra Travel Time: If you travel with the Deutsche Bahn, always add at least 1 to 3 extra hours to your schedule. Trains can be delayed or canceled, so buffer time keeps your plans stress-free.
  • Cash Is King: Many shops, small restaurants, and services accept only cash. Always carry some cash and choose your bank wisely.
  • City-Specific Banks: Some banks, like Sparkasse, operate only in certain cities or regions. Know which bank serves your area.
  • Walk Often: Be prepared to walk a lot. Comfortable shoes are a must for daily commutes and exploring the city.
  • Appointments Can Take Time: In bigger cities, getting appointments with authorities or doctors can take weeks. Plan ahead and book early.
  • Use Online Doctor Platforms: Services like Doctolib help you schedule doctor appointments. Don’t wait until you are sick to book.
  • Shop Smart: Sites like mydealz, Schnäppchenfuchs, idealo, and geizhals help you find the best deals in Germany.
  • Handle Official Letters Seriously: Always monitor your mailbox. Letters from authorities or companies require attention; ignore them at your own risk.
  • Read Contracts Carefully: Never sign anything you don’t understand. Misunderstanding a contract can cost you months or years of unnecessary payments.
  • Know Your Rights as a Tenant: Learn German rental laws and your tenant rights to avoid problems with housing.
  • Avoid Pirated Content: Downloading torrents is illegal and can have serious consequences. Stick to legal sources.
  • Cultural Nuances: Germans may stare or behave differently in public. It’s usually not personal.
  • Food and Dialects: There are over 200 words for the end piece of bread. Regional phrases matter for ordering local dishes correctly.
  • Clubs and Hotels: Avoid staying directly in hostel or hotel areas near train stations or clubbing districts if you prefer peace and quiet.
  • Liability Insurance Is Essential: Make sure you have a “Haftpflichtversicherung” (liability insurance). Many students underestimate its importance.

From the Desk of Yocket

Studying in Germany can be a hassle at first when figuring out housing, public transport, and university procedures. Many students struggle with planning travel, sorting official paperwork, or knowing which city services to use.

Yocket Premium can make this journey much smoother. With features like verified university guides, housing listings, travel tips, and priority access to student communities, it helps you save time and avoid common pitfalls.

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