What is it like to study in Germany?

With its unique combination of academic excellence, robust economy, and enviable quality of life, the country offers opportunities that go far beyond the classroom. It's a transformative experience that requires planning, but it can revolutionize your professional future in a way that you may not even imagine yet.

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Why did Germany become the dream destination?

Germany isn't just another beautiful European country to do an exchange. It's literally a global powerhouse in education and innovation. Think of it this way: when you hear about cars like BMW, Mercedes-Benz, or Volkswagen, you're talking about German engineering. When you think of SAP, one of the largest software companies in the world, again... Germany.

The country invests heavily in education - about 4.9% of GDP goes directly to ensure that universities have first-rate structures.

Key advantages of studying in Germany:

• Universities with very low fees
• Stable economy with excellent job opportunities
• Permission to work while studying
• Possibility to stay in the country after graduation
• Exceptional quality of life
• Strategic location in the heart of Europe

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How does the German education system work?

The German system is quite different from the Brazilian one, but in a way that can be very advantageous for you. There, there is a clear distinction between traditional universities (Universitäten) and universities of applied sciences (Fachhochschulen or Universities of Applied Sciences).

As traditional universities are more focused on research and theory, ideal if you want to pursue an academic career or in areas that require more in-depth knowledge. As for universities of applied sciences focus on the practical aspect, with a strong connection with the industry - perfect for those who want to enter the labor market quickly.

For those considering specific areas, it's worth taking a look at programs such as software engineering in Germany, which offers a gateway to global success, or exploring opportunities in artificial intelligence, an area in explosive growth in the country.

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Course structure

• Bachelor (Baccalaureate): 3-4 years
• Master (Master): 1-2 years
• PhD (Doctorate): 3-5 years

An interesting thing is that master's degree in Brazil vs. master's degree in Germany there are very marked differences in the structure and in the practical focus of the studies.
What's more: as a student, you can work up to 20 hours a week during term time and fully during holidays. With the German minimum wage of €12.82 per hour, you can earn around €1,025 a month just working part-time. That is, it is possible to practically support yourself while studying!

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What about the German one? Do I need to be fluent?

Many courses, especially master's and technical courses, are offered completely in English, but learning German can make all the difference in your experience.

For courses in English:

• IELTS 6.0-6.5 or equivalent
• Some programs accept TOEFL or Cambridge certificates

For courses in German:

• Level B2-C1 proven by exams such as TestDaF or DSH

The good news is that many universities offer preparatory German courses. Mastering the local language not only expands your job opportunities, but it also allows you to truly immerse yourself in German culture.

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A typical day studying in Germany

8:00 - University class (yes, many start early!)

12:00 - Lunch at the Mensa (university restaurant) - €3-5 for a full meal

14h00 - Study at the library or laboratory 17:00 - Part-time job (if you have)

20h00 - Dinner with flatmates

21h00 - Free time to explore the city or study

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Weekends are for

• Explore castles and historic cities
• Travel to other European countries (with tickets starting at €20!)
• Attend university events
• Discover the famous German nightlife

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Cities that are pure charm for students

Each German city has its own unique personality. Frankfurt, for example, is the financial heart of the country, ideal for those who want to pursue a career in finance or business. Now Hamburg offers this incredible port vibe, combining history and modernity.

Berlin - The cool capital

• Effervescent cultural life
• Lower cost of living
• Startups and technology

Munich - Tradition and innovation

• Proximity to the Alps
• Oktoberfest (obvious!)
• Hub of technology companies

Colonia - Art and media

• Over 2,000 years of history
• Media and Communication Center
• Vibrant nightlife

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Career opportunities that will impress you

Germany isn't just a cool place to study - it's where you can build a solid career. The country is in enormous demand for qualified professionals, especially in YOU, engineering and health sciences.

Trending sectors:

• Information Technology
• Engineering (all areas)
• Health Sciences
• Renewable energies
• biotech
• Digital marketing

And here comes some valuable information: after graduating, you can spend 18 months in the country looking for work. Once employed, the path to permanent residence is much simpler.

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Cultural Adaptation: What to Expect

Germans are punctual (and that means 5 minutes AHEAD of time), direct in communication, and take rules very seriously. But do you know what's cool? This whole organization makes the country work like a Swiss watch.

Things you will learn to love:

• Public transport efficiency
• Safety to walk on the street at any time
• Respect for traffic rules (even when no one is watching!)
• Quality of products and services
• Everyone's environmental awareness

And some that may challenge you initially:

• Stores close early and on Sundays
• Bureaucracy for absolutely everything
• Formality in initial relations
• Long winter with little sun

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For families: it's also possible!

If you are thinking of taking the family, know that Germany for families offers excellent structure. The German education system is of the highest quality, and there are plenty of options for spouses to work as well.

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Admission process: less complicated than it seems

A common question is whether the Brazilian high school is valid for universities in Germany. The answer is yes, but it may be necessary to take a preparatory year (Studienkolleg) depending on the course chosen.

Required basic documents:

• Apostilled and translated school transcript
• Certificate of language proficiency
• Motivation letter
• Curriculum in European format
• Financial proof

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Be Easy

A Be Easy understands that choosing to study in Germany is an important decision that will impact your future. Our specialized team has all the necessary experience to guide you on this journey, from choosing the ideal program to its adaptation to the country. We offer full support at every stage of the process, ensuring that you get the most out of this transformative experience. Get in touch with us! We're here to make your dream of study and work in Germany a safe and successful reality.

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