Are you an international student seeking an opportunity to study for free in Germany? Look no further; I’ve got you covered with this detailed guide. You’ll discover everything you need to know about the various types of free study programs available, the conditions you must complete, and the application and visa processes that will guide you through your studies in Germany.
With the information in this guide, you’ll be able to select the ideal free study program in Germany to suit your interests and qualifications.
So, whether you want to study engineering, business, or anything else, this guide will help you take the initial steps toward realizing your ambition of studying in Germany.
Study for Free in Germany without IELTS
It is possible to study in Germany without taking the IELTS, as numerous universities provide alternative ways to assess your English language proficiency. Here’s a general guide on studying for free in Germany without IELTS at German universities.
1. Select English-Taught Programs
You must choose programs that are taught in English. Many universities in Germany provide a diverse choice of English courses, particularly at the master’s and doctorate levels. By enrolling in an English-taught program, you may not be required to submit IELTS scores.
However, in order to pursue English courses at a German university, you must submit additional credentials demonstrating your proficiency in the language.
2. Language Proficiency Tests
Some German colleges accept alternative English language competency examinations instead of IELTS. The TOEFL (Test of English as a Foreign Language) and Cambridge English examinations (e.g., Cambridge Certificate of Advanced English) are frequently considered. Check with the specific university to see what alternative tests they accept.
3. Medium of Instruction Letter (MOI)
If you finished your previous education in English, you may request a Medium of Instruction Letter from your previous institution. This letter shows that your previous degree was taught in English, which certain German universities may accept as proof of language competency.
4. Interviews or Skype Calls
Some German colleges use interviews or Skype conversations as part of the admissions process to assess your communication skills. If you perform well in such encounters, the university may waive the IELTS requirement.
5. Work experience in an English-speaking environment
Certain colleges view extensive job experience in an English-speaking context as proof of language competency. If you have worked in an English-speaking environment, ask if this might be used in place of IELTS.
6. English Proficiency Certificate from a Previous Employer
If you have previously worked in a professional setting where English is the major language of communication, your employer may provide you with a certificate certifying your proficiency. Some German universities may accept such certificates.
7. Foundation Courses in Germany
Enrolling in a foundation course in Germany may be an alternative. These courses will help you enhance your language abilities and prepare for academic pursuits. After finishing the foundation course, you can enroll immediately in a degree program.
Free Education in Germany for International Students
Getting into a tuition-free institution in Germany as an international student may relieve you of a significant financial load that you would otherwise have as an international student. Here are some of the best universities in the country that you might apply to.
1. Free University of Berlin
The Free University of Berlin ranks first on most lists of Germany’s best universities. It is a public research institution founded in 1948 and is well-known for its humanities and political science departments. Its current enrollment of 36,000+ students includes a sizable amount of international students, with 22% coming from outside Germany.
Almost all programs at the Free University of Berlin are tuition-free, with the exception of some graduate and postgraduate programs.
Aside from their living expenditures, students may be obliged to spend additional costs throughout the semester. Students who receive funds from other organizations are not permitted to work while attending the university.
2. Ludwig Maximilian University, Munich
Ludwig Maximilian University of Munich is consistently ranked as one of Germany’s top universities. Established in 1472, this public institution provides free education to both local and international students. The university is primarily known for its highly ranked and internationally acclaimed arts, humanities, and physical sciences programs.
As one of the country’s largest colleges, international students account for nearly 17% of the student body. Regarding the university’s reputation, it consistently ranks high in the most prominent global rankings. In Europe, the institution is regarded as a sanctuary for the best academic and research facilities.
3. Technical University of Munich.
The Technical University of Munich is regarded as one of the best universities in Germany and the EU by the British magazine “Times Higher Education.” For the second year in a row, the university has been ranked among the top 30 universities in the world.
This institution has a strong reputation for its teaching and research facilities, particularly in medicine, applied sciences, and engineering. The long-established university is associated with international academic agents such as EuroTech and EUA, ensuring that their education matches global industry requirements.
In several departments of this university, international students outnumber natives. Most of these programs are likewise completely free or demand only a nominal fee. The college website lists a variety of courses taught in both English and German.
4. Humboldt University, Berlin
This free public research university, located in Berlin, Germany, is another famous institution in the country. Humboldt University of Berlin, founded in 1810, has emerged as one of the greatest universities in the country, having been ranked and placed in high ranks on various internationally known university rating websites.
International students benefit from the free education offered by this university. This public university teaches business administration, art, philosophy, and sociology fully in English. This means that no matter what program you choose here, you can be confident that it will be approved around the world.
5. RWTH Aachen University
This public institution is one of Germany’s largest, with over 44,000 students, more over one-fifth of them are international. It offers tuition-free education in a variety of subjects, the most well-known of which are mathematics, natural sciences, and information technology.
Aside from being extremely demanding for admission, the university makes it difficult for international students because the majority of programs are given in German. It is critical that you understand the German language requirements before applying to a program of your choosing. Most of the master’s and doctoral programs offered here are in English.
How to Apply to Study in Germany for Free
1. Ensure that you have a decent academic background
Every university conducts an academic background check on every applicant seeking admission. It is their privilege to filter any pupils who appear to be relevant and will help them improve their reputation. They look at students’ history, including their secondary education GPA and behavioral habits.
Of course, universities want their students to be well-mannered and capable of carrying their institution’s name on their shoulders. So, if you want to increase your chances of getting into different universities, the first thing you need to do before applying is study hard and behave appropriately. This is one of the most important measures for students seeking to study in Germany for free.
2. Apply as soon as you can
Applying as early as possible will offer you an advantage over other applicants or students in gaining admission to the university of your choice. The benefits of getting a head start include more time to research the universities you planned to attend. This might help you acquaint yourself with the school and find students to interview on how to reduce the cost of learning. Do not be scared to seek advice from instructors and seniors concerning your financial condition; help will undoubtedly come your way.
Furthermore, early application indicates that your portfolio will be more exceptional and prioritized than other applicants because they will consider your activeness and enthusiasm to join their university.
3. Check and Apply to Free Universities in Germany
Many German universities are free for international students, which is good news. All students can attend the country’s state and public colleges for free.
4. Find Scholarships in Germany and Apply
Major academic, athletic, and artistic scholarships are available from universities with a wide range of degree programs. In Germany, the majority of state and public universities provide academic scholarships to students whom they consider to be assets to their country. Scholarships from German universities are a wonderful method to study in Germany for free because they regularly cover students’ living expenses.
University scholarships are only one of the many funding opportunities available to college students. Aside from that, the university encourages student loans and makes them freely available to both local and international students in the country.
5. Apply for the DAAD Scholarship
The DAAD Scholarship is a German government-provided scholarship. It is completely supported, which means it will pay your living expenses (because all German colleges currently provide free tuition). I strongly recommend you apply for the DAAD Scholarship so that you can study in Germany for free. Many overseas students take advantage of it, and you should try as well!
6. Apply for private scholarships offered by organizations and companies
If you were going to take a degree that has something to do with large organizations or enterprises abroad, you can apply for scholarships from them through their foundations. Student scholarships are likely to be among their foundation’s programs. The WHO is an example of an organization with a mission to support students, as it supports various medical students in their studies.
However, some companies demand students repay their scholarships by working for them. All you need to do is investigate the companies that support your field of study and apply for their scholarships.
7. Find a part-time job
Tuition and other school costs were not the only expenses you will incur throughout your time in Germany. Housing rent, food, clothing, and utilities were among the few everyday essentials that required financial care. If you are unable to cover your living expenses through scholarships, you can work to study in Germany for free.
However, according to a German government website, you should always double-check your working hours because a student in Germany is only permitted to work a maximum of 20 hours per week during school days. The country constantly tells its kids that education should come before labor.
8. Manage your money well
Finally, when you get that hard-earned money from your part-time work, you must learn how to spend it responsibly. After you receive your money, pay your bills and save a portion of it right away. This ensures that you have adequate resources to address financial emergencies such as school projects, field excursions, or health concerns.
Being away from your home country while studying in another will teach you the value of thrift. Because financial security is extremely limited in another country, you must band together to overcome these obstacles by saving money.
Conclusion
A variety of scholarships and funding options are available to help students financially during their education.
Even students can receive free education in Germany. We have listed the top universities in Germany that do not require IELTS. You can also look into scholarships that support your studies and do not require an IELTS score.
