Studying in Germany: Frequently Asked Questions by Nigerian Students

Germany is characterized as an excellent and the most attractive non-English speaking country in the world for international students. Every year, students from all over the world apply to various German universities. This is because Germany offers one of the best standards of education in the world and is also known for offering one of the cheapest forms of education. The country boasts of the best education in the field of science, engineering and technology.

As students apply each year, they ask certain questions about studying in Germany and we have compiled these questions for you. If you want to study in Germany and you need answers to certain questions, this article is for you.

• Why should I study in Germany as a Nigerian?
• Can I study in English in Germany?
• Are scholarship opportunities available for Nigerians to study in Germany?
• Do I really need TOEFL or IELTS to study in Germany?
• What is Studienkolleg?
• Are there age limits to applying for a postgraduate study in Germany?
• Can I work while studying in Germany?
• Do I need a student visa to study in Germany?
• What documents do I need to apply for a German Student Visa as a Nigerian?
• Do I need to show proof of German proficiency if my study program will be taught in English?
• Can I extend my student visa after completing my degree progam?
• What are the requirements for getting a PhD in Germany?
• How can I study medicine in Germany?

Why should I study in Germany as a Nigerian?

There are quite a number of reasons why you should study in Germany. One of them is that you will get first-class education-German Universities are among the top universities in the world. Secondly, the system of education is research-driven and focuses on output learning. Also, Germany is an important country of culture, so Nigerian students stand to benefit greatly from it. Finally, Nigerian students in Germany can attest to the fact that German universities offer some of the cheapest education in the world.

Can I study in English in Germany?

Yes, you can. Although the language of instruction at most universities in Germany is German, there are a number of degree courses that are taught in English Language.  You would be required to provide proof of your English language proficiency with a TOEFL or IELTS result. Even if you study in English in Germany, it is important to learn the basics of the German language to enable you communicate better with the local residents.

Click to view universities that offer courses in English in Germany.

Are scholarship opportunities available for Nigerians to study in Germany?

There are various German scholarship opportunities for Nigerian students to study in the country. They could either be government-funded, private organization-sponsored or school-based scholarships.

Click to view different German Scholarships available to Nigerian Students

Do I really need TOEFL or IELTS to study in Germany?

Yes. As a general rule, you need TOEFL or IELTS in order to apply for a study program that is entirely taught in English at a German university. However, if you are applying for a postgraduate program and you already hold a Bachelors degree with English as the language of instruction, you do not need TOEFL or IELTS- which is the same as saying as there is no need for TOEFL or IELTS if you are a native speaker of English.

What is Studienkolleg?

Studienkolleg is a one-year preparatory course for prospective students who wish to study at a German higher education institution but whose school leaving diploma/ prior qualification has been considered insufficient to apply for a degree program.

The course covers full-time education in the subjects of your chosen degree program as well as the German language, for five days a week. A passing score on the final Assessment Examination qualifies you to apply for a degree program that is suitable for you at any German university.

Are there age limits to applying for a postgraduate study in Germany?

No, there are no age limits set on applying for a postgraduate study program in Germany

Can I work while studying in Germany?

According to the law, a foreign student studying full-time in Germany is permitted to work for a maximum of 120 full or 240 half days in a year.

Do I need a student visa to study in Germany?

As a Nigerian, you will need to apply for a student visa in order to be able to study in Germany at least three months before you are due to travel.

For detailed information on how to apply for a German Student Visa, read this article.

What documents do I need to apply for a German Student Visa as a Nigerian?

Generally, the documents needed to apply for a German Student Visa include:

• An offer letter from a German University.
• Proof of health insurance.
• Proof of sufficient funds needed to cover your expenses throughout your expected stay in Germany.
• Transcripts/ proof of academic background.
• Proof of German language skills (except you plan to attend English-taught study program)

It is advisable to check with the German Embassy in Nigeria to be sure of the documents that are required.

Do I need to show proof of German proficiency if my study program will be taught in English?

No. If the language of instruction for your study program is English, you do not need to know the German language. However, it is advisable to have a little knowledge of German as this would help in your day to day life as a student.

Can I extend my student visa after completing my degree progam?

Yes, it is possible to extend your student visa for one year after the completion your degree program. You could also apply for a residence permit to stay in the country and seek jobs for an additional period of 18 months.

What are the requirements for getting a PhD in Germany?

The most important requirement for getting a PhD in Germany is getting a master?s degree that is recognized in Germany. Each university is responsible for accessing and admitting candidates to its PhD program. This is why it is recommended that you apply directly to the faculty?s committee or Dean?s office to have your past degrees scrutinized.

How can I study medicine in Germany?

Studying medicine in Germany is not split into bachelors and master?s degree and will take at least six years and three months to complete. You can study medicine for free at any public university in Germany. You will need to have a strong knowledge of both German and English. The spaces available to study medicine in Germany are very competitive. You are advised to read the requirements given by the school offering the course.

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