Study in Germany — Low Tuition, Strong Engineering

Germany's public universities charge low fees (some states and TUM charge international students). For Indian Class 12 students there is an extra step: from Winter Semester 2026/27, you need at least 70% in Class 12, and then either a Studienkolleg (foundation year) with the Feststellungsprüfung exam, or one successful year of a bachelor's in India, for subject-restricted admission.

It suits budget-conscious STEM students willing to learn German. After graduating you can stay 18 months to find a job, then move to an EU Blue Card.

• ✓Low tuition at most public universities. Example: TUM charges non-EU students €2,000–3,000 per semester for a bachelor's.
• ✓Job-search permit of up to 18 months after graduating.
• ✓EU Blue Card 2026 salary thresholds: €50,700 standard, €45,934.20 for shortage jobs or graduates within 3 years of their degree.
• ✓Work while studying: up to 140 full days a year.

• •Class 12 with at least 70% overall (from WS 2026/27), plus Studienkolleg or one year of an Indian bachelor's.
• •An APS certificate is generally required for the student visa (APS India, set up in 2022).
• •German language (TestDaF or DSH) for German-taught programmes; IELTS/TOEFL for English-taught ones.
• •A blocked account for living costs (check the current amount with the German Missions in India).

• •Engineering, computer science, natural sciences and more, with a strong practical and research focus.

1. 1Check the admission rules for your Class 12 board on the DAAD admission database and the university's site.
2. 2Apply for the APS certificate early; it takes time.
3. 3Apply to universities directly or through uni-assist.
4. 4Open a blocked account and apply for the student visa.

Always confirm dates, eligibility and fees on the official site — rules change each year.

• →Start learning German in Class 11; it matters for most bachelor's programmes and jobs.
• →Aim for well above 70% in Class 12.
• →Plan for the extra foundation year or first year in India.

• !The extra year (Studienkolleg or an Indian bachelor's year) adds time.
• !Most bachelor's programmes are taught in German.
• !The job market favours German speakers.

• •German engineering degrees are respected by Indian and multinational employers.

• •18-month job search, then the EU Blue Card; the Opportunity Card (Chancenkarte) is a separate route for skilled workers.