In Germany there are at present some 312 state and state-recognised
higher education institutions divided into three types.
There are two semesters each academic year. The standard
study period in which a degree programme can be completed is
at least eight to ten semesters at universities and at
Fachhochschulen six semesters, or eight semesters for degree
programmes with integrated practical semesters.
These comprise universities and equivalent higher education
institutions such as technical universities, comprehensive
universities (Gesamthochschulen) and specialised
institutions at university level (eg. for medicine, sport,
administrative studies, philosophy and theology).
Only universities and equivalent institutions are entitled
to confer doctorates.
Fachhochschulen
Fachhochschulen are institutions which have the task of
providing students with practical training on an academic or
artistic basis. Degree programmes and teaching at
Fachhochschulen are strongly oriented towards vocational
studies and the practical requirements of working life.
Fachhochschulen offer shorter courses than the universities
and arts and music colleges, particularly in the engineering
disciplines, in business administration, social work and
creative arts.
Colleges of art and music
A second strand of higher education establishment is the
Kunst-und Musikhochschulen which, as well as the
corresponding subject areas in the universities and
Gesamthochschulen, provide training in the fine arts and
performing arts and also in music subjects.
Linguistic ability
German is the language of instruction for all lectures,
classes and seminars and you will be required to pass a
German language test to be admitted to, or registered with,
a higher education institution. This is usually administered
by the institution itself and is taken before you start your
studies. There are various language courses available
through the German cultural institute (the Goethe-Institut)
in Germany or abroad, as well as courses offered by language
schools and higher education institutions in Germany; these
include summer holiday courses, pre-study courses and
courses accompanying regular study.
Accommodation
You are not assured of accommodation when you register with
a German university or Fachhochschule. There are halls of
residence but most German and foreign students have to find
their own accommodation.
You should go to Germany well in advance of the beginning of
the semester to arrange a place to live. Initially you may
have to stay in a youth hostel, boarding house or other
cheap accommodation until better housing is found. Selection
of students for the relatively few halls of residence takes
place six months in advance of the semester so you should
apply well in advance. The Akademische Auslandsmter,
Studentenwerke and other university services will give you
assistance.
Student organisations and services
In most German states, you would automatically become a
member of the Studentenschaft (student body) when you
register - an organisation established to help students look
after their own interests. You could also join one of the
political groups or other societies. Your overall interests
as a foreign student would be looked after by the
Akademisches Auslandsamt. The advisory service will provide
general tips to help you organise your studies when you
arrive. Student welfare offices will give you assistance
with economic, social or medical problems. German and
foreign students receive a student card upon registration at
a higher education institution and can, as a rule, use
public transport at reduced prices and eat inexpensive meals
in student canteens.
