Germany

Germany

Quick Facts & Figures

  • capital

    Berlin
  • language

    German
  • currency

    Euro (EUR)
  • government

    Federal parliamentary republic
  • religion

    Top 3: Christianity, Islam, Buddhism
  • weather

    Temperate seasonal climate
  • timezone

    UTC +1 / (DST) UTC +2
  • internet domain

    .de

Germany, one of the major European countries, is located in western Europe. The bigger German cities like Munich, Berlin, and Dusseldorf, are an interesting mix of old and new, with cutting edge and sleek skyscrapers dominating the skyline, while historic architecture lines its streets, filling it with charm. The products that Germans are known for include fast cars and beer -- Oktoberfest, the largest beer festival in the world is celebrated here. Don’t be fooled into thinking that Germany is all about modern and sleek. Its natural wonders are also sights to behold; the Rhine Valley and its mountain ranges have a fairytale-like vibe to it, especially with the old castles and fortresses they house.

Like Filipinos, Germans are very hospitable hosts; banquet tables are always full and guests are well-fed. Germans can also be very serious, well organized, and they strictly follow their rules. While they may seem cold at first, Germans are actually very sincere and loyal. English is also a language that is regularly spoken in this country so the language barrier should be limited, if any. 

The best thing about studying in Germany is that many of its schools don’t charge for tuition. Their schools are known for being high in quality and there are programs available for any career path. However, be prepared to shell out money for living expenses as cost of living in Germany can be quite high, especially in the larger cities. 

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Partner Schools

Studying in Germany

Are there scholarships available for studying in Germany? How can I finance my studies?
There are many scholarships offered by the German government and even the schools themselves. Visit the Edukasyon profiles of the schools you are interested in to check if they are offering any scholarships.

There are also some international student loans available from different loan giving bodies. University representatives usually work in tandem with their financial aid department that focuses on helping students find options to finance their education. Explore our partner schools here, and click "Send Inquiry" to get connected with your university representative.
Do I need a visa to study in Germany? How do I get it?
If you’re a Philippine passport-holder, you’re going to need a student visa to attend school in Germany. The process involves:
  1. Completing the online application form
  2. Gathering all the required documents
Note that you can’t start processing your student visa until you get accepted by a school in the Germany. For the full list of details, please visit the German embassy website or contact the German embassy in Manila.
 
What are the required languages for studying in Germany?
Although German is the native language of Germany, most colleges offer courses in English. However, every foreign student is required to submit proof that they are proficient in German through a German Language University Entrance Examination for Foreign Applicants (DSH), or a Test of German as a Foreign Language (TestDaF) if they wish to study in German.

If you’re worried about your English language proficiency, check out our partner language centers that can help you improve your skills!
Why should I study in Germany?
Germany is the third most attractive country for foreign students. Aside from having internationally recognized degrees and exceptional facilities and curricula, public schools offer free education for everyone!

All 400 universities in Germany are “tuition free”, as they are all funded by the state. The German government has also been pushing for free college education for the whole of Germany in the past decade, and this might become reality in the near future.

German universities also offer many of its courses in English for international students like you! Along with its world-class education, graduating from a German institution instantly gives you countless job opportunities there, and elsewhere. The government also gives you 18 months to look for one within the country.
 
How do I choose a school in Germany?
Schools in Germany offer many undergraduate and graduate programs in every academic field. After deciding (1) What your career goals are and (2) What academic programs can help you achieve those goals, it's time to do some research on which school is best for you! There are schools in Germany that are looking for Filipino students just like you! Explore them here.
 
What are the requirements for studying at a school in Germany?
Generally, schools in Germany will ask for your:
  • Education credentials,
  • Proof of financial capability
  • Proof of German proficiency (if taking courses in German)

The specific requirements will vary depending on your school, course, and level of study. Visit the Edukasyon profile of the school you like to find their specific requirements. For a list of schools in Germany looking for Filipino students, see here.

Living in Germany

How much is the cost of living in Germany?
Livings cost will vary depending on your location and lifestyle. You will need around 850 euros, which covers your food, accommodation, clothing, and entertainment needs. Expect your monthly rental fees to be your largest expense during your stay. Depending on the location and the university you are staying in, accommodation would cost you somewhere between 210 to 360 euros.               
 
University representatives are great resources to understand the cost of living in their school's city! Explore our partner schools here, and click "Send Inquiry" to get connected with your university representative.
Are there Filipinos living in Germany?
As of December 2015, there are 21,000 Filipino citizens living in Germany. Most OFWs work as seamen, aboard German ships. A total of 622,544,000 USD has been sent back to the Philippines as remittances in the same year.
 
What is the lifestyle like in Germany?
Germany is a highly diverse country. You can choose to live in a city or in the countryside. It is a country for people who love to live in a city, near nature, as well as healthy food and gourmet restaurants.

Germans are said to be somewhat reserved in their interactions with others. This may be true but this is mostly in the case of elders and those who live in smaller towns. In larger cities or places with young people, you will find out that they are very friendly and welcoming of students from abroad.

Whether you want to study in a large city or a quaint town, there are universities available in both scenarios.

Working in Germany

Can I work while I’m studying in Germany?
Students outside the EU can work for a maximum of 120 full days (1080 hours) a year.

This includes internships, whether paid or not. Your salary would depend on your workload and time spent working. Hourly wages span from 6 to 10 euros, depending on the company and its location.
If you are a student assistant, or a research assistant, then the limit on work hours will not apply to you. Furthermore, mandatory internships will not affect your 1080-hour work limit.
 
What are the benefits of graduating from a school in Germany?
Graduating from a school in Germany can greatly benefit your future career! Depending on your school and their industry connections, your university could connect you to some of your dream German companies, internships, and maybe even foreign companies. Schools in Germany are also generally high in quality and are recognized all over the world. You can also expand your set of languages and expand your network by meeting fellow students from all walks of life. These, among other factors, can improve your employability once you graduate!