5 Points – Studying in Germany vs. UK: Free vs. Fee

Education has positive benefits for the whole society. With higher education, people have more job opportunities and the country has a larger skilled labor force.

Whether or not higher education should be free, is a recurring topic of debate around the world. The main cause of the debate is growing tuition fees and student loan debts. In regard to the ever-increasing student loan, a simple solution can be to provide tuition-free higher education at public universities.

However, this costs for the tuition-free higher education has to be recovered from elsewhere – Increase in Taxes! In recent times, this debate has led to surprising policy changes in countries around the world. Let’s have a look at why or why not is the higher-education free in two popular destinations for international students to study in UK and study in Germany.

Studying abroad can be an exciting and life-changing experience. Two popular destinations for international students are Germany and the United Kingdom (UK). While both countries offer high-quality education and are home to some of the world’s leading universities, there are some notable differences between the two.

Language

One of the most obvious differences between studying in Germany and the UK is the language. German is the primary language spoken in Germany, while English is the main language used in the UK. While many Germans speak English as a second language, it may be challenging for non-German speakers to study in Germany. In contrast, studying in the UK will not pose any significant language barriers for non-English speakers.

Cost

Studying in Germany is generally less expensive than studying in the UK. Public universities in Germany do not charge tuition fees, while private universities charge lower tuition fees than their UK counterparts. On the other hand, tuition fees for international students in the UK are significantly higher than those in Germany. Additionally, the cost of living in Germany is generally lower than that of the UK, making it a more affordable option.

Programs and Specializations

Both Germany and the UK have a wide range of academic programs and specializations to offer international students. However, the UK is well-known for its strong programs in areas such as Business, Law, and the Arts, while Germany is famous for its excellent Engineering and Science programs. If you have a specific academic interest, it is important to research the universities in each country to find the best program for you.

Work and Study

International students in both Germany and the UK are allowed to work part-time while studying. In Germany, students can work up to 120 full days or 240 half days per year, while in the UK, students can work up to 20 hours per week during term time and full-time during holidays. However, it is important to note that the job market and availability of part-time work may differ between the two countries.

Culture and Lifestyle

Germany and the UK have distinct cultures and lifestyles that may influence your experience as an international student. The UK is known for its vibrant cities, diverse population, and thriving music and arts scene, while Germany is famous for its efficiency, engineering excellence, and beer culture. It is essential to consider which country’s culture and lifestyle would suit you best before making a decision.

In conclusion, studying in Germany and the UK both offer excellent educational opportunities for international students.

However, there are significant differences in language, cost, programs, work opportunities, and culture that need to be considered before making a choice.

Ultimately, the decision should be based on individual preferences, academic interests, and personal circumstances.

Let’s discuss about the government benefits for foreign students in Germany and the UK.

Germany:

Foreign students in Germany are eligible for several government benefits, including:

1. Health Insurance: All students are required to have health insurance, and international students can choose between public or private health insurance plans.
2. Part-Time Work: As mentioned earlier, international students in Germany can work up to 120 full days or 240 half days per year. Students who work part-time can earn enough to cover their living expenses and save money for future education costs.
3. Student Visa Extension: International students in Germany can extend their student visa for up to 18 months after graduation to search for a job or start a business.
4. Reduced Transportation Costs: Students in Germany can apply for reduced transportation costs through the Semesterticket program. This program offers discounted prices on public transportation in many cities across Germany.

UK:

Foreign students in the UK are also eligible for several government benefits, including:

1. National Health Service (NHS): International students in the UK are eligible for free medical care through the NHS.
2. Work Opportunities: As mentioned earlier, international students in the UK can work up to 20 hours per week during term time and full-time during holidays. The UK also offers a two-year post-study work visa for graduates who have completed their degree.
3. Scholarships: Many UK universities offer scholarships to international students, which can help reduce the cost of tuition and living expenses.
4. Public Transportation Discounts: Like in Germany, students in the UK can apply for discounted transportation costs through various programs, including the 16-25 Railcard and the Student Oyster card in London.

In conclusion, both Germany and the UK offer government benefits that can make studying abroad more affordable and accessible for international students. It is important to research and understand these benefits before making a decision on where to study.

Which country i would advice to study Germany or UK

Ultimately, the decision to study in Germany or the UK depends on individual preferences, academic interests, and personal circumstances. It’s essential to consider factors such as language, cost, academic programs, work opportunities, and cultural differences when making a decision.

Researching and comparing the universities and the benefits offered to international students in both countries can help you make an informed decision. It’s also helpful to speak with current or former students who have studied in these countries to gain insights into their experiences. Ultimately, the choice should be based on what is best for you and your goals.

When it is about money resources, which country i would advice?

When it comes to money, Germany may be a more affordable option compared to the UK. Public universities in Germany do not charge tuition fees for domestic and international students, and private universities charge lower tuition fees than their UK counterparts. In contrast, tuition fees for international students in the UK are significantly higher than those in Germany, and the cost of living in the UK is generally higher as well.

However, it’s important to note that the cost of living can vary depending on the location, lifestyle, and individual circumstances. It’s recommended to research and compare the cost of living in the cities you’re considering and create a budget to estimate your expenses realistically. Additionally, it’s important to consider other factors beyond money, such as academic programs, language, work opportunities, and culture, when making a decision about where to study.