Germany’s growing population of international students are largely satisfied with their decision to study in the country but note significant issues around bureaucracy, housing, discrimination and language barriers, according to a snapshot survey conducted by the German Academic Exchange Service (DAAD) as part of its broader “Benchmark International University” (BintHo) study.
In total, approximately 115,000 students (including about 21,000 international students) enrolled at 132 German universities and colleges were questioned for the survey during the winter semester of 2023/24.
Around 200 universities and colleges also contributed data on enrolment trends and challenges, forming the basis for DAAD’s extrapolations of Germany-wide figures.
What international students like about studying in Germany
The quality of education remains the top reason international students choose Germany, many of whom singled out the country’s universities for their reputation for academic excellence, research opportunities, and strong master’s programs.
The availability of English-language programmes also scored highly among many master’s students in the country, allowing them to pursue degrees without needing full German proficiency from the start.
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Affordability remains a significant advantage versus other popular study destinations, with relatively low to no tuition fees at public universities.
Career prospects in Germany further motivate international students, with roughly two-thirds intending to remain in the country after graduation, highlighting Germany’s enduring appeal as a place to live and work.
About half of international students are aiming for long-term employment, and a significant number are even considering starting their own businesses here.
What international students don't like about studying in Germany
Despite high overall satisfaction, the survey revealed a number of common issues and obstacles.
Visa and administrative processes remain a significant barrier; 83 percent of universities report delays and complications affecting international enrolment.
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The shortage of affordable student housing in the country is also a pressing issue, cited by 75 percent of institutions.
Many students struggle with rising costs of living and studying, which 69 percent of universities identified as problematic.
Language challenges also affect academic success and integration. Insufficient German skills limit students' participation in courses taught in German and hinder access into the job market after graduation.
How big an issue is discrimination?
Within the university environment, 80 percent of international students and those with migration backgrounds report they have never encountered discrimination.
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But the situation is very different beyond university grounds. Roughly half of international students and students with migration backgrounds report experiencing occasional discrimination, while 13 percent face it frequently.
Students from Africa, the Middle East, and the Asia-Pacific region are most affected by discrimination, according to the survey.
Who makes up Germany’s international student body?
Germany’s international student population is growing steadily, reaching an estimated 405,000 in the 2024/25 winter semester, a seven percent increase on the previous year.
More than half of the universities surveyed reported growth in new international students, while only about 10 percent reported declines.
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Enrolment is especially strong among master’s programs in the country, with 56 percent of surveyed universities reporting significant increases in international postgraduate students.
The most common countries of origin for international students in Germany remain India and China, with roughly 50,000 and 40,000 students respectively, but there is also notable growth in the number of students coming from Turkey, Iran, Ukraine, and Pakistan.
The number of students arriving from other countries, including Syria, Austria, and Russia, is in decline.
Recommendations to improve the experience of international students
The DAAD survey highlights the need to tackle the obstacles identified by universities and students to maintain Germany’s attractiveness as a destination for foreign students.
Key areas requiring improvement include expanding affordable and adequate student housing solutions nationwide and simplifying and streamlining visa and administrative procedures.
In order to improve the transition from university to employment in Germany, DAAD also recommends enhancing German language support, including tailored courses embedded in study plans, and strengthening career guidance and labour market integration programs.
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