Germany
Sharing borders with nine other countries, Germany is in the heart of Europe so you'll never be far from all that this culturally rich continent has to offer
There are over 400 higher education institutions in Germany with more than 13,500 degrees to choose from. Each of the 16 state universities has its own higher education laws and guidelines and the university system is not centralised.
In Germany, higher education institutions are referred to as Hochschule. This term covers:
If you are applying for an undergraduate course in Germany, generally you will need four A-levels, one being a second language and another being either a natural science or mathematics. Admission for postgraduate courses is not centralised so you will have to enquire with individual institutions regarding their requirements.
To study courses in German, you will need to sit an exam to prove you have an adequate grasp of the language. There are two important tests you have to take:
You will have to pay an examination fee when registering for the TestDAF. The fee differs in each country. In Germany, the test costs €175. The cost of the DSH varies with each university. The tests can be taken throughout the year.
International degree courses are taught primarily in English, so you won't need any prior knowledge of the German language.
Most universities are public, funded by the government and free to attend. If tuition fees are charged at a particular university, they should be within €500 per semester. Some private higher education institutions will charge considerably higher fees.
Regarding tuition fees, German, European Union (EU) and non-EU nationals all pay the same at each university.
In Germany, there are substantial funding options available for all students seeking support while they study. The programmes and scholarships are diverse and offered by many institutions. Research all possibilities available and visit your international office for further assistance.
A comprehensive site to begin your research can be found at DAAD - Scholarship Database . This database is not exhaustive, however, and you can obtain other funding and scholarships through individual institutions.
Students attending a UK university can take part in the EU's flagship educational exchange programme Erasmus . This scheme offers work placements, study opportunities and language assistantships, which last from three months to one academic year in EU countries.
Financial support is also available to selected Masters and Doctoral students through the Erasmus Mundus initiative.
Your university must have a formal agreement with a partner university in another EU country. Check that your university is involved in the programme and offers the Erasmus scheme in your subject.
It isn't always necessary to speak the language of your host country, but you can arrange intensive language courses before you go. Speak to the Erasmus coordinator at your university about available opportunities.
As an EU citizen, you are permitted to live in any EU country while studying as long as you:
Some countries require you to register with the local authority after three months. Find out how to register at Europa - Rights, Conditions and Formalities and Embassy of the Federal Republic of Germany - Study and Scientific Research .
One of the wealthiest and largest countries in the European Union (EU), the abundance of jobs and the thriving economy are what makes working in Germany so appealing
Germany has the largest economy in Europe and the fifth largest in the world. The job market in Germany is generally strong and employment is high for skilled workers coming into the country, specifically in engineering, manufacturing and the IT sectors. Manufacturing is the foundation of the economy of Germany, a highly industrialised and densely populated country.
While the German-based multinational companies, such as Allianz, BMW, Siemens and Volkswagen, employ thousands of people, it is the small and medium-sized businesses (SMEs) that can be held accountable for the success and size of the German economy.
Germany is also a popular destination for those who want to teach English as a foreign language. However, Germany is one of the few countries that expect English teachers to be able to speak the local language. For more information, read i-to-i Teach English in Germany .
To work as an English language assistant, the British Council - Language Assistants in Germany scheme is available for students who have a minimum of AS level in German or equivalent.
To find out more information about teaching English in Germany, check out TEFL.com .
Casual work and jobs in hospitality are also easy to come across.
For jobs in Germany, search:
Usually there are no graduate schemes at companies in Germany, and it is with previous work experience that students secure jobs after university.
To find out about internships, go to DAAD - Student Internships .
Internships and summer work placements for students can also be arranged by:
Voluntary work is a great way to build your skill-set and learn a new language. It will help to have some money saved before you set off, as the vast majority of voluntary positions are unpaid. Volunteer positions look great on your CV and give you the chance to network and build contacts.
The European Commission (EC) funds a scheme called The European Voluntary Service (EVS) , which is aimed at people aged 18 to 30 wishing to volunteer abroad. It offers young people the chance to volunteer for up to 12 months in a number of European and non-European countries.
Opportunities vary from placements concerned with sport and culture to others focused on social care and the environment. For successful applicants, accommodation, travel, food and insurance are all covered by a European grant and you even receive a personal allowance each month.
Make sure you thoroughly research all volunteering opportunities and always check the terms and conditions before committing yourself to a scheme.
The majority of well-educated Germans have a strong grasp of English and can speak the language fluently. You will be expected to have a good knowledge of German, both spoken and written, to stand a chance of finding work. It is worth learning some before you go.
There are lots of German language courses in the UK and many good websites exist to help you learn a language or improve your skills. To test and then sharpen your skills, visit BBC Languages - German .
According to the EC, European Union (EU) citizens have the right to:
For more information and to check what conditions and restrictions apply, see:
EU nationals must obtain a certificate of residence upon gaining employment. To do this, you will need to show proof of employment and accommodation. This certificate will be allocated by the local Ausländeramt (Foreign Nationals Authority) or Einwohnermeldeamt (Residence Registration Office).