School Guide

A tertiary education in Germany-4 things you should know

Published by SchoolAdvisor | Nov 23, 2016

Malaysians' interest in Germany's higher education has peaked especially with its "free tuition" policy. Here's a basic guide for all students and parents to help you get started towards applying for study in Germany. There is not doubt that German universitiesare some of the best in the world with as many as 21 higher education institution in the top 300 world ranking.

Many of our students love the idea of studying abroad but the expensive fees make parents think twice. However, studying in Germany is free because the country strongly believes that education is not a business. Furthermore, this holds true for international students and for all levels of study including PhD. Only some small administration or registration fee might be charged.

Another plus point, German university graduates would have easier access to the German employment market.

This is a golden opportunity for Malaysians to earn a quality degree from Germany.

1. Learn the language

If a student wishes for a free education from Germany, then it is absolutely essential to learn the language. In Malaysia, students can learn the language from reputable language centres like the Goethe Institut Malaysia.

Students need to complete a certain level of proficiency in the German language and get at least A1 (level one) to start the application process. Students need to ensure they hold proof of their capabilities and present it to the university they wish to study at and to the embassy, if the embassy schedules students for an interview.

You can find more information on the courses, dates and prices here.

2. German Higher Education Entrance Qualification

To get into a German University, students need to ensure that they have the right qualification. For an undergraduate course, the STPM, A-Levels and International Baccalaureate (IB) Diploma examinations are recognised on condition that the minimum requirements are met.

The General requirements for each are as follows, however students must bear in mind there are certain requirement unique to the course and level students intent to study which must be fulfilled.

STPM

• SPM and STPM results combined, applicants need to have a minimum of five academic subjects.

A-Levels

• Applicants need to have passed a minimum of four A-Levels.

International Baccalaureate (IB)

• Applicants must have done six subjects.

3. Seeking admission

The application process to a German university is fairly easy. Interested students can apply directly to the International Office at the higher education institution. Students must fill in the application form which can be obtained from the university's website and disclose all relevant documents.

However, the process isn’t standardised across all higher learning institutions. Each university may have different requirements and the individuals are required to prepare their documents based on the respective institutions.Nevertheless, there are essential documents that students need to prepare:

• Certified copies of all qualifications obtained such as STPM, A-Levels or any equivalent qualification recognised by Germany – certification may require the review of the German Embassy
• Translated copies of the qualifications to German
• Passport size photograph
• A copy of the individual’s passport (personal information and photo ID)
• A proof of German language proficiency

4. Official websites

There are two official websites that aid students applying to German universities:

• Uni-Assist
• German Academic Exchange Services – DAAD