Applying for a Bachelor’s Degree in Germany What you should know

Known for its industrial excellence and home to some of the world’s greatest minds, Germany lies in the heart of Europe and is a center of opportunity. German institutions have always had a reputation for being academically rigorous, and in recent years they have attracted thousands of international students seeking a high-quality education. The German Academic Exchange Service (DAAD) is the national agency for higher education in Germany. DAAD offers an extensive database allowing international students to easily find their preferred programs.

“The efficiency of navigating DAAD.de for my undergraduate application in Germany was amazing. With nearly 200 English-taught programs available, it outperformed most European offerings, although there was a noticeable lack of diversity in business courses compared to STEM fields,” said Hasiba Khan, a spring ’25 applicant.

The main advantage of higher education in Germany is the tuition policy at public universities. When asked about the extent to which such benefits influenced her application, Hasiba explained: “I was always keen to relieve my parents of the financial burden of funding my education, which made Germany an attractive choice. Because most public universities offer little or no tuition fees at all. In addition to a nominal semester fee that covers public transportation costs and ample job opportunities for international students, I can continue my studies without worrying about accumulating student debt, while still receiving a high-quality education that is recognized around the world.”

However, the structure of secondary school education in Germany is different from that in Bangladesh.

“I was initially taken aback by Germany’s 13-year education requirement for a bachelor’s degree, but my A levels allowed me to apply directly. Students with an HSC qualification must complete one year or 25 percent of their bachelor’s degree at Anabinsk University. verified university to transfer credits to a German institution,” said Zein Anaf, also a spring ’25 applicant. However, an alternative route to this is the Studienkolleg, a preparatory school that seamlessly bridges the gap between years 12 and 13. In addition, you will usually need your O/A level or equivalent SSC/HSC grades, as well as your English Language Test (IELTS/TOEFL) results.

The Germany visa application process is considered the most difficult aspect. From long waiting periods to large amounts of paperwork, the process requires a lot of patience.

“The visa process was very tedious and time-consuming. Since the pandemic, the waiting period and documentation required have increased. Universities are constantly pushing students to take applications. Despite best efforts, students are unable to attend classes on time even due to the long waiting period, which can take up to 20 months or longer. The Bangladeshi government can’t do much here, so the situation hasn’t improved much,” says Fardeen Alam, a first-year student at South West Phillips University of Applied Sciences.

Although the waiting period is long and tiring, if you plan ahead, you can still progress without wasting time. After completing your HSC, try to obtain a 13th year certificate from an accredited university as this is a mandatory requirement. Also finish taking IELTS, learn German, or maybe even get a job to gain experience. Productivity at this time will make the journey to Germany easier.

Despite its large and growing international community, the importance of the German language to its people cannot be overstated. Although there is no requirement to apply, life in Germany can be difficult if you don’t know the language.

“The German language is of great importance here. Even if people know English, they don’t speak it unless they absolutely have to. Most of the applications that are needed on a daily basis are also not in English. You will have a very hard time if you don’t know German, I came here after finishing my A2 level German course, so I’m not completely lost. It still turns out to be very difficult, especially when filling out various government documents, although people here have helped me. stuff, they won’t go out of their way to help unless they feel you’re doing something very wrong,” Fardeen added.

However, students can find work even without knowing German. However, before the trip it is recommended to learn the language to level A2. This can be done through online courses or by joining an institution such as the Goethe Institute. Although the language barrier can be a challenge, studying abroad gives students the opportunity to experience a new culture.

“German culture is very different, but I found it fascinating. The young people here are very hospitable. If you speak German it is much easier for you to communicate with people, but they will try to talk to you even if you are not fluent. Try to accept their culture and speak their language,” says Sadat Hossein Adol, a student at Hamm-Lippstadt University of Applied Sciences.

Germany offers many opportunities beyond a bachelor’s degree. For example, graduate programs offer even greater scholarship opportunities. In addition, joining the growing international workforce in Germany and obtaining permanent residence can be achieved with relative ease.

“Germany’s appeal goes far beyond free education. The ease of obtaining permanent residence compared to other European countries and obtaining a Schengen visa is a game changer,” adds Zane.

While Europe’s historic architecture and ethereal nature add to its appeal, choosing a university abroad is a decision that must be carefully considered, taking all factors into account. Despite all the benefits, applying to Germany requires patience and persistence.