Why Indian Students Must Learn German Before Studying in Germany

Germany has emerged as one of the most preferred higher education destinations for Indian students. Home to several world-class public universities offering free or highly affordable education, the country attracts thousands of applicants every year. While around 29,000 Indian students were studying in Germany in 2020, the number has now risen to nearly 60,000 in 2025 — a sharp rise in just five years.

Most students choose Germany for Engineering, Management, Economics, and Mathematics, making it a strong alternative to the US, UK, Canada, and Australia. But amid this growing interest, one major mistake many Indian students still make is going to Germany without learning the German language.

Here is why learning German is not just helpful, but essential.

1. More Courses Are Offered in German Than in English

While many master’s programmes in Germany are available in English, the majority of bachelor’s degrees and specialized master’s courses are still taught in German.
Knowing the language significantly increases your chances of:

• Admission to top universities
• Access to a wider range of academic programmes
• Better integration in classroom discussions

2. Daily Life in Germany Runs on German

Big cities and university campuses may use English, but outside those areas, German is unavoidable. Students face difficulties in:

• Completing government paperwork
• Grocery shopping and local communication
• Using public transport
• Renting accommodation
• Handling emergencies

Knowing German makes everyday life smoother and far less stressful.

3. Part-Time and Full-Time Jobs Demand German Skills

Most German companies — especially small and medium enterprises (SMEs) — require candidates to have B2 or C1 level German proficiency.

Without the language:

• Finding a part-time job becomes difficult
• Securing a full-time role after graduation becomes even harder
• Competition increases as companies prefer bilingual professionals

Learning German greatly boosts employability.

4. Understanding German Culture, Media, and Society

Language is the gateway to culture. German proficiency helps students:

• Follow German news and local media
• Engage in meaningful conversations with locals
• Build stronger social connections
• Integrate better into the community

This cultural comfort also reduces homesickness and helps students settle faster.

5. Academic Resources and Electives Are Often in German

Even if your core programme is in English, many:

• Academic resources
• Elective subjects
• Workshops and seminars

are available only in German.
To fully benefit from Germany’s academic richness, the language plays an important role.

Conclusion: Admission Is Easy — Success Requires German

Germany’s low-cost education attracts thousands of Indian students. But success in Germany is not just about securing a university seat. The real challenge begins after joining.

Learning German is essential for:

• Academic success
• Daily life convenience
• Better job opportunities
• Social and cultural integration

If you are planning to study in Germany, learning the language is not optional — it is a crucial step towards a successful future.