Germany has emerged as one of the top destinations for Indians seeking international education. The country, with one of the strongest economies in the world, serves as the hub for various industries, including the production of electronics and automobiles as well as mechanical and chemical engineering. Germany is also known for its top-notch education system that includes institutions listed in the World University Rankings.

A report published by Germany's Federal Statistical Office 'Statistisches Bundesamt (Destatis)' last year states that the country's labour market depends heavily on students coming from non-EU countries because of 'skilled labour shortages and demographic change'.

It also found that 'the stay rate of international students in Germany is similar to that in Canada and is one of the highest among OECD countries.' With 38 member nations, the Organization for Economic Co-operation and Development (OECD) is a global body that promotes world trade and economic growth.
Here are the benefits of opting Germany for overseas education:

1. Scope for Permanent Residence
With a variety of visa and residency permit options, Germany offers international students — including Indians — the chance to go from temporary residency to permanent residence or a long-term stay.
• Job Seeker Visa: International students may apply for a Job Seeker Visa upon graduation, allowing them to remain in Germany for up to 18 months in order to look for work in their field of study. They can switch to a work visa or residency permit if they are able to find a job.
• Blue Card: Skilled workers or professionals may apply for a Blue Card, which enables them to reside and work in Germany. It provides a quick route to permanent residency, usually following 21 to 33 months of job.
• Residence Permit for Job Seekers: After meeting the requirements of the country's laws for a predetermined amount of time, international students who secure employment can apply for this permit, which has the potential to lead to permanent residence.
• Ausbildung and Dual Study Programmes: Students who successfully complete dual study or Ausbildung-sponsored vocational training may also be eligible for permanent residency.

2. Practical ways of learning
Germany's educational system prioritises research and hands-on learning. Institutions frequently provide part-time jobs and internships for international students, exposing them to industrial knowledge.

3. Low cost
Education in Germany is cheaper compared to many other Western countries and, in some cases, free of cost, particularly at public universities. For Indian students, who wish to pursue higher education without taking on a significant financial debt, this makes it a desirable choice. Germany also provides international students with a range of funding options and scholarships.

4. Wide range of courses in English
Many institutions offer programmes taught in English making it simpler for overseas students to pursue their education without encountering a language barrier. However, learning German would prove helpful for students to obtain better career prospects.

5. Public educational institutions
In Germany, public universities are a cost-effective choice for students because they mostly offer courses with minimal fee and, in certain situations, free education. High educational standards and outstanding academic performance are the hallmarks of German public universities. A degree from a public institution in Germany is widely valued and acknowledged globally, which improves graduates' employment and mobility abroad.

(Information Courtesy: Universal Study, Ernakulam. www.universalstudy.net/ 7902411111 or 0484-4063333)