-
Start planning early!:
If you are serious about pursuing your higher education abroad and find employment there, one shall ideally start planning 20-24 months in advance. If one starts gathering information at a later point, one might need to compromise on a lot many things if the time is scarce. If you have enough time, you can plan your variables, evaluate options, and make the right choices comfortably.
For many things, one shall give enough time without rushing. A few of these things can include improving your grades in last year(s). If you wish to learn the language along with your undergraduate studies, then ideally you should spend 8 to 12 months to give justice to it. Many times your financial planning will be easier if you start working on it 1.5 years in advance.
-
GPA or Percentage:
If you are still studying, you still have a chance! A good Percentage or GPA is one of the most important criteria for getting selected at a good public university! Try to score as much as you can in your years of graduation.
-
Learn as much German language as you can!:
Do not consider the German Language Certificate as a mere entry requirement. Don’t stop learning even if your university has asked for an A2 certificate only. A1/A2/B1 certificates will fulfill your admission criteria, but if you are really hoping to stay in Germany long term after your degree, German Language Proficiency is the key.
Once your degree course is complete, your potential employer might not be interested in just a Language Certificate, rather they would like to employ someone who can comfortably converse in Germany at the workplace. Hence when it comes to German levels, it’s more the merrier!
Even in case of applying to the universities, it will be the most ideal situation to have completed B1 and have Goethe Zertifikat B1 exam certification.
-
Enroll for the Professional Consultancy 1 to 1.5 years prior to your admission:
Getting the help of a professional experienced consultant is always a wise decision. Although it is not a mandatory thing, it is a better option than doing it on our own, especially because it’s a time-consuming process. Many online resources are misleading or might not give the most realistic picture. An experienced counselor can surely help you to draft your SOP, LOR suitable to your profile, and help you chose the best alternative for you.
Your consultation fees do not increase even if you join early. Hence it is better to enroll with the consultancy around 1-1.5 years in advance.
-
Research Projects or Industrial Internships:
Do research or Industrial Internships (each of a minimum of 2-3 months).
Along with your graduation, try to gather experience through industrial internships or research projects at your college. These certificates will surely make your profile better and make you a prominent candidate in the selection process.
-
GRE/GMAT:
Although not every university in Germany will ask for GRE/GMAT test score while applying. However, as a matter of fact, a good test score in these exams always increases your chance of getting selected into a good public university. If it is possible, it is advised to take these tests and submit your scores along with your application.
-
IELTS is preferable than TOEFL:
You will need to furnish proficiency in the English Language by taking internationally accepted English tests. Most of the European Universities preferably accept IELTS scores, whereas the TOEFL exam is more popular among American universities.
-
The course is Important than University:
While selecting the courses, your focus should be on the course, course contents, and your interests rather than mere reputation and ranking of the universities. Try to choose for the course rather than University. All the German Public Universities maintain similar standards and rankings are secondary, especially in Germany.
-
Manage Finances:
Germany is a popular destination for higher education due to no (or bare minimum) tuition fees. Even if your education is free, you will need money for your accommodation, food, insurance, and other days to day expenses. This entire amount for annual expenses needs to be put into a special account called ‘blocked account’ before we apply for Visa. Hence it is wise to keep an eye on finances well in advance.
-
Get to know the culture of the country:
Before you land in Germany, get yourself informed about German culture. Probably you must have gotten the insights during your German language course itself. It’s a good idea to do a little research on typical German habits, conventions, social behavior, cuisine, etc.
With all these tips, you’ll be all set to experience a delightful new journey with a promising future! Alles Gute! (All the best!)
