Germany is increasing in popularity among ambitious international students every day. And why wouldn’t it? It offers an efficient educational system, some of the best universities in the world, and low or no tuition fees at all! It’s basically a students’ paradise here! As the latest statistics report, there are over 350,000 foreign students in Germany pursuing their qualifications, with the numbers increasing by the day.
In addition, German universities offer globally recognised degrees, meaning your qualifications will be valued internationally, and the skills you will gain will give you that bit of extra edge in the job market.Non-EU/EEA students are also able to work in Germany alongside their studies, for 120 full days or 240 half days per year. If you take a job as a student assistant or research assistant at your university, this is usually not counted in your limit. You must notify the Alien Registration Office if you take up this type of work.
Students in Germany can earn up to €450 (~US$491) per month tax-free. If you earn more than this, you will receive an income tax number and have automatic tax deductions from your salary. Some employers may withhold income tax despite the low income, but you can reclaim this after submitting your income tax statement.
FocusEconomics Consensus Forecast panelists project the economy to grow 4.4% in 2021, which is down 0.1 percentage points from last month, and to increase 2.6% in 2022.
4 Perks of studying in Germany:
Student life in Germany thrives on adrenaline and curiosity. German people are friendly but give you privacy; mutual respect and order are part of the daily routine; and cultural diversity is worth exploring in every inch of the country, as it makes you feel part of one entity rather than a total stranger.
What is the average cost of living in Germany for students?
Although most German universities provide student accommodation, the number of available rooms is always limited. Around 40 % of international students in Germany choose to live in student residences, due to low costs – around 300 EUR/month.
Out of all the monthly expenses, students in Germany spend the most part on housing, so finding good accommodation options is essential. As a tip, in cities like Munich, Cologne, Frankfurt and Hamburg it is the most difficult to find student housing. What you can do is contact the student union on the university campus to book a room as soon as possible.