Germany vs Australia for international students 2023/2024 – Which is the best ?

Wondering between Germany and Australia which one is best and most suitable for international students? read further let’s share details of both countries with you.

Germany and Australia are two of the most popular destinations for international students. These countries offer world-class education with cutting-edge facilities.

Tuition fees, career prospects, and stay-back options are all aspects to consider while choosing a study abroad location.

If you’re having trouble deciding between Germany and Australia as an international student, this post will help you make your decision.

Many international students choose to study in these countries for several reasons like cultural diversity, welcoming locals, and excellent educational standards.

Some of the best education systems is in Australia and Germany. The majority of their schools are among the best in the world, with programs covering a wide range of subjects.

Due to their unique educational standards, choosing between Australia and Germany may be tough. Nonetheless, there are several decisive variables to consider while choosing a study abroad location.

Australia, for example, is an English-speaking country, making it a popular choice among international students. The tuition fee, however, is extremely high.

Germany, on the other hand, provides free tuition in its public universities, although proficiency skill in German is required.

If Australia and Germany are on your list of study abroad places, read on as we evaluate the two countries’ tuition fees, housing, employment, and study opportunities, and stay after graduation.

Opportunities for international English speakers

The medium of instruction is one of the most essential considerations international students consider when applying to schools abroad. This is something that international English speakers who want to study in Australia or Germany should be aware of.

Germany:

There are a few English-language programs that are given in German. Private German universities offer English-taught programs. However, the majority of undergraduate courses at public universities are taught in German.

Furthermore, international students applying to study in Germany must provide a German proficiency test score. This is one of the conditions for admission in German universities.

Australia:

Australia is a predominantly English-speaking nation. International students who are native English speakers are not required to submit an English proficiency test result, such as the IELTS, TOEFL, GRE, or GMAT.

Citizens of the United Kingdom, Canada, the United States, and New Zealand are exempted from taking the proficiency test.

Other English-native speakers from Nigeria, Ghana, Liberia, and Sierra Leone may be needed to present the results of their competence tests.

Before taking any of the recommended proficiency tests, double-check with your chosen university to determine if the test is exempted. For further information, you may also contact the university’s team.

Entry requirements for universities

Germany:

To study in Germany, here are the popular documents that need to be provided.

• A completed application form
• An authenticated copy of a high school diploma
• Academic certificates from a recognized institution
• Copy of scanned passport
• Passport photograph
• Proof of language proficiency either TestDAF or the DSH.
• Translated copy of your modules and grades.
• Proof of funds (10,332, blocked account)

Australia:

Do you wish to further your studies in Australia? The following are the most commonly required documents for studying in Australia.

• Downloaded application form (duly filled out)
• Passport ID (scanned passport)
• Certified proof of your level of English language proficiency
• Academic transcripts
• Passport photograph
• Application fee

Application deadline

Every university has its own application deadline. The intake period for Australia and Germany differs.

Germany:

The majority of German universities have two admissions per year, namely summer and winter semesters. In general, winter semester applications close on July 15th, whereas summer semester applications close on August 15th.

If the course begins during the winter semester, the application deadline is usually July 15th. If the course begins in the summer semester, the application deadline is usually January 15th.

Australia:

University courses in Australia typically begin in February or March, with some programs starting in June or July, and only a few universities giving different intakes in September and November.

Quality of education

Germany:

German education is enthralling, with a strong focus on practical skills. Its schools are regarded as among the best in Europe and the world. They provide large-scale instruction in a student-friendly environment.

Australia:

International students can easily choose the school and field that are suited for them because Australian institutions provide a diverse range of courses and degrees. When it comes to picking a degree program, overseas students must first decide which institution best fits their needs and interests.

For overseas students, the emphasis on scientific research is one of the most intriguing considerations. Australia is a technological and innovation country. Students studying in Australia benefit from the country’s advanced technology and resources.

Germany appears to be more enterprising than Australia in terms of practical training. If you’re looking for a technical school, Germany comes in first, before Australia.

Student life

Australia and Germany are excellent destinations for international students. International students with a study permit can travel freely in these countries while studying.

Germany:

International students are welcome in Germany. However, if you do not have a basic understanding of the German language, you may have difficulty finding work.

There is no doubt that there are many student jobs in Germany; however, if a person does not have a basic understanding of German, they may be disqualified.

Australia:

Australians are peaceful people. Australia is a fantastic place to study; the people are friendly. International students studying in Australia rarely complain about ‘racial abuse’. This is impossible to guarantee in Germany. Germany is a fantastic place to study, but Australia tops the list when it comes to friendliness.

Tuition fee

If you have a limited budget, look into lists of cheap universities for international students. One of the deciding elements in picking a place to study abroad is the tuition fee.

Some countries and universities are less expensive than others, which is why you plan so meticulously.

Germany:

Presently, German public universities are free, particularly at the undergraduate level. The same applies to all study levels, but international students are expected to create a blocked account.

The block account is a type of account for international students studying in Germany. The account is where students deposit the required amount of cash to cover their daily expenses for one year, and it serves as proof of money for students who wish to study at any German institution. Visit https://www.fintiba.com/or the official website of Deutsche Bank to create an account.

Australia:

On the other hand, there are no tuition-free universities in Australia. The tuition fees at Australian universities are extremely high. They range from 15,000 to 36,000 AUD every year.

Living costs

Another factor to consider while selecting a study abroad destination is the cost of living. Is the cost of living expensive or affordable? This would have an impact on your decision. You must research the country’s average living costs before applying to the institution.

Germany:

The cost of living in Germany is lower than that of living in Australia. The cost of living in Germany is generally low, thanks to the country’s rational macroeconomic system. Accommodation, health insurance, food, tuition and fees are all less expensive than in Australia.

International students in Germany spend an average of 850 euros a month on living expenses. However, the cost of living varies by city; for example, Munich, Hamburg, and Düsseldorf are more expensive than places such as Berlin, Cologne, and Leipzig.

Australia:

In comparison, Australia is more expensive. International students should budget between 1,400 and 2,500 AUD per month for housing and other expenses. So, on average, it costs between 940.98 euros and 1,679.59 euros.

Health Insurance

Obtaining health insurance is required in both countries. The significant distinctions, however, are as follows:

Australia:

Before traveling to Australia, you must have your health insurance. You will be required to obtain health insurance covering one or two years depending on the duration of the program.

Germany:

In Germany, you acquire health insurance after migrating. In Germany, health insurance costs roughly 90–100 euros per month.

Student accommodation

Some schools provide housing for international students. They are in the shape of dormitories, with amenities such as free internet, a shared bathroom, and a kitchen.

International students who desire to stay alone can do so outside of the school’s assigned housing if they can afford it.

Germany:

There are resident halls and private lodging in Germany. The cost of private accommodation is determined by the type of room you choose. The cost of private accommodations ranges between 350 and 600 euros.

Australia:

In Australia, you can live in a hostel or private lodgings. The cost of lodging is determined by its location. Outside of the city, private lodging costs around 440 AUD, whereas within the city, it costs around 1000 AUD. Hostel lodging, on the other hand, often costs between 1000 and 1200 AUD.

Culture & lifestyle

Germany:

Germany’s culture and lifestyle provide you with a diverse multicultural atmosphere as well as access to one of the world’s most academically rich countries, full of events and inventions.

Germany has a magnificent castle tradition, with thousands of them scattered around the country. What were once the residences of kings and emperors are now priceless pieces of German history that serve as cultural items, museums, and stunning architectural structures, attracting thousands of visitors from all over the world.

As a lively country with an enthusiastic and innovative populace, Germany has so much to offer. This country has a rich culture, which has been affected in part by its rich history and in part by the countries that surround it.

The majority of German cities have a vibrant nightlife and a diverse choice of leisure opportunities. Larger cities, such as Munich and Berlin, have many interesting locations to explore, but the charm of smaller villages cannot be equaled.

Germany is the ideal destination to mix academic and social life, with various student-friendly restaurants, extracurricular activities, and festivals. If you love night, then German awaits you!

Australia:

Australia is known around the world for its natural beauty, large areas of beaches and deserts. Australia is one of the world’s most densely populated countries, recognized for its enticing megacities such as Sydney, Melbourne, etc.

Studying in Australia makes you feel the natural ambiance, especially if you are an adventurous individual. Australia is a fun place to study with plenty of yearly festivals like the Adelaide Festival, Woodford Folk Festival, Melbourne International Arts Festival, Melbourne International Comedy Festival, etc.

The application process for a student visa

The application process for student visas varies from country to country. Some countries are usually fast. Check the below information for a comparison between Germany and Australia’s application process.

Germany:

If you’re opting to study in Germany, a German student visa can take up to 30 days to process. However, it also depends on the German Embassy and the country from where you are applying. In some cases, it may take up to 6–14 weeks, with the maximum processing time being 3 months.

Australia:

The application process for a student visa to Australia is straightforward. It can take anywhere from 6 weeks to 90 days to get your visa decision (granted or denied).

To apply for Australian study visa, international students must apply to a school in Australia and get a Confirmation of Enrolment (CoE).

Then create an account with the Australian immigration authorities. Students are expected to create an account

https://online.immi.gov.au/lusc/register

Before creating an account, all the required documents must be available and in digital format. Next is to complete the visa application online and provide the following documents, such as:

Offer letter, passport copy, birth certificate, academic results, proficiency test results (if needed), passport photograph, and evidence of tuition fee payment, application fee, and proof of funds

Pay the visa fee and get a Transaction Reference Number (TRN-number). Once you have completed the application online, you are expected to pay the application fee, which is 575 AUD currently.

After completing the visa application online, you then prepare for a visa interview. Depending on your nationality, the visa interview might be skipped.

Visa decision

This is the most important aspect of the application process. The Australian study visa is one of the most difficult to get. However, if you provide all the requirements, your visa will be “granted”. The visa decision is either “granted” or “declined”.

Obtaining a German student visa is much easier than that of Australia. In Germany, once you provide the needed amount in your blocked account, with other supporting documents, you are sure of getting your study visa.

Work and study

International students have comparable working conditions in both countries. International students on a student visa can work up to 20 hours per week, whether they are studying in Germany or Australia.

Germany:

International students in Germany are permitted to work up to 20 hours a week; you must not exceed. In Germany, the minimum hourly pay is 9.60 euros per hour, and international students can earn up to 14 euros, depending on the city.

Part-time work is preferred by the majority of students. In Germany, the average income for a student is 9–15 euros per hour. Please note that you cannot work as a freelancer in Germany while on a student visa.

Australia:

In Australia, you can also work 20 hours each week. However, during the off-semester, you can work up to 40 hours per week. The minimum wage in Australia is 18 AUD ($20.33 per hour).

On the contrary, freelancing is permitted while on a student visa in Australia. It enables international and domestic students to study and work in Australia for the duration of their program. You have the right to work 40 hours per two weeks while studying and full-time during school breaks.

Generally, foreign students in Germany earn more than their counterparts in Australia. However, the freelancing aspect is a bonus for students studying in Australia.

Opportunities after graduation

Germany:

Yes. You can stay in Germany after finishing your studies if you want to hunt for work. Students from non-EU and non-EEA countries who have a residence permit can request to have it extended for an additional 18 months while looking for work in Germany.

Students from non-EU countries who intend to work in Germany after graduation can also, extend their stay for up to 18 months to find work related to their education. This will enable them apply for an extended stay permit.

Australia:

Yes, international students can stay in Australia after graduation if they have completed their studies in bigger cities like Melbourne, Sydney, or Brisbane, where they can get a two-year post-study work visa, or in regional areas where they can get a three-to-four-year post-study work visa.

The post-study work visa permits international students to stay, work, or look for work in Australia after they finish their studies. The stay periods range from 18 months to 6 years, depending on their qualification and place of study.

You may be able to obtain one of three types of post-study work visas.

• The most popular post-study employment visa is the Temporary Graduate visa (subclass 485) – Post-Study Work Stream. This visa is intended for international students who have just graduated from an Australian educational institution with appropriate qualifications, regardless of their subject of study. They must apply for this visa within 6 months after completing their studies, and the stay duration ranges from 2 to 4 years based on the qualification.
• The Temporary Graduate visa (subclass 485)—Graduate Work Stream is for overseas students who have graduated with skills and qualifications for occupations on the skilled occupation list. The skills and qualifications are usually closely tied to an occupation regarded as being in demand in the Australian labor market in the medium to long term. The term of residence is up to 18 months, and students must apply for this visa within 6 months of finishing their education.
• The Skilled Recognised Graduate Visa (Subclass 476) is for overseas students who have graduated with engineering degrees from a certain educational institution within the last two years. The period of stay is up to 18 months.

Top jobs after graduation and their annual income

There are some highly in-demand disciplines in Germany and Australia. Check them out.

Germany:

The best universities for international students

Germany:

The best universities in Germany, as ranked by QS World University Rankings, are listed below.

1. Technische Universität Münche (Technical University of Munich)
2. Ludwig-Maximilians-
3. Universität München
4. Ruprecht-Karls-Universität Heidelberg (Ruprecht Karl University of Heidelberg)
5. Humboldt University of Berlin
6. KIT, Karlsruhe Institute of Technology
7. Free University of Berlin (Freie Universitaet Berlin)
8. Rheinisch-Westfälische Technische Hochschule Aachen (RWTH Aachen University)
9. Berlin Institute of Technology (Berlin Institute of Technology)

Australia:

Australia’s top ten universities

1. The University of Melbourne
2. Australian National University
3. The University of Queensland
4. Monash University
5. The University of Sydney
6. UNSW Sydney
7. The University of Adelaide
8. The University of Western Australia
9. University of Technology Sydney

FAQs

Is Australia cheaper than Germany?

No! Australia is not cheaper than Germany. The cost of living is generally higher in Australia. Costs such as student accommodation, transportation, food, and other miscellaneous are cheaper in Germany.

International students living in Australia need between 1,400 and 2,500 AUD/month to cover all their living expenses, including accommodation, food, and social activities. While 1000 euros will be enough for all these costs in Germany,

What are the disadvantages of living in Germany?

Germany is no doubt a fascinating study abroad destination. However, certain things that might look ‘normal’ in some other countries usually attract some fines in Germany. Listed below are some of the things that many international students in Germany find very uncomfortable.

• Jaywalking is prohibited in Germany.

Jaywalking is not allowed. Jaywalking simply means hurrying across the street against a red light.

• Never walk on the bicycle lane:

Working on bicycle lanes on streets and off-street bike paths is not allowed. You must avoid the bicycle lanes. Bicycles are permitted in both pedestrian zones if the zone is labeled “Fahrrad Frei” or has a logo of a bike with the term “Frei” on it.

• Hand gestures (middle finger) are tagged as an insult.

Never use it when talking to somebody in public.

• High tax deduction

Although Germany has a low cost of living, taxes in Germany are high because they are paid in percentages and are progressive, with rates starting at 14 percent.

To a fair degree, the location you choose to live in Germany will determine a large part of your expenses. So, do not live above your income.

• Not friendly enough

Germans are not known to be friendly. They are strict people who strive for excellence and precision in all aspects of their lives. This makes many foreigners see them as ‘unfriendly’.

• Language Barrier

This is one of the drawbacks of studying in Germany. Your inability to understand German can limit your chances of getting a job or other opportunities.

Is Germany good for international students?

Yes, Germany is very good for international students. Regardless of your nationality, the tuition fee at its public universities is free for all international students at all levels.

Why is Germany the best for international students?

Germany is a great destination to study. When deciding on a study location, some factors come into play. Among the benefits that foreign students identify with Germany as a popular study destination are the following:

• Tuition is free at public universities.

Tuition is free in German public schools. International students can study for a free tuition fee at an institution in Germany, but they must first open a student blocked account.

• A reasonable salary structure

Germany has an excellent salary system. Students studying and working in Germany earn more than those in other European countries.

• Work while studying

Germany, like other top study abroad countries, allows foreign students to work part-time. Amazingly, depending on your lifestyle, working while studying in Germany can meet nearly all of your needs.

• Stay back after graduation.

After graduation, international students can stay in Germany for 18 months to search for a job. Depending on your program, you can stay longer.

• World-class education

The country is famed for its technological strength. A study in Germany guarantees that students receive a world-class education through classroom and field-based lectures.

• The possibility of learning another language (German)

You have the chance to learn another language while studying in Germany. The majority of German universities provide instruction in German, with a few exceptions providing instruction in English. The mode of instruction may be determined by the program, level of study, and school you attend.

Conclusion

Germany and Australia are among the preferred study destinations for international students. Both countries are safe and ideal for international students. However, the cost of living in Australia is higher than in Germany.

That being said, if you are planning to put in your application to any university in these countries, use the factors discussed above to make your choice.