4 Reasons Germany is not For You
Estimated reading time: 9 minutes
Updated on: March 2023
TL;DR: Germany is not for everyone. If you are planning to pursue medicine, law, or architecture, bear in mind that your qualification from a German university is not recognised in Malaysia, which means you will not be able to practise your profession back in Malaysia. You may also want to avoid studying in Germany if learning a new language is not an option for you. Read on to find out what other factors to consider before deciding to study in Germany.
Is Studying in Germany Right for You?
For Malaysian students, the UK, Australia, and the US have long been popular choices for studying abroad. But recently, Germany is becoming more popular. More students are realizing that Germany offers a unique and rewarding study experience.
Germany has a lot to offer, like free tuition at most public universities, affordable living costs, and beautiful scenery. But studying in Germany isn’t for everyone. Some students find it tough to adjust to German culture, while others simply prefer to study in an English-speaking country.
If you’re considering Germany, here are some things to think about to help you decide if it’s the right choice for you.
Germany is NOT for you if…
1. You plan to study medicine, law, or architecture and want to work in Malaysia after graduation.
Germany is famous for offering free tuition, which is a big draw for many international students. However, not all degrees from German universities are recognized in Malaysia. For example, if you study medicine in Germany, you won’t be able to practice in Malaysia because the Malaysian Medical Council doesn’t accept German qualifications. The same goes for law. Since Malaysia follows common law and Germany follows civil law, a law degree from Germany won’t be useful here.
If you’re unsure about a specific course, check with us or with the relevant authorities in Malaysia to confirm whether your degree will be accepted.
2. You’re not ready to learn German.
You might wonder: “Do I have to learn German?” While many universities in Germany offer courses in English, the options are often limited, especially for bachelor’s degrees. Depending on the course you want to study, you might struggle to find enough options offered in English.
German is spoken by the majority of the population, and while many people in larger cities like Berlin and Munich speak English, people in smaller towns may not be as fluent in English. Plus, speaking German will help you land a part-time job while studying and increase your chances of getting a full-time job after graduation.
If the idea of learning German seems overwhelming, and you prefer a country where you don’t have to worry about a language barrier, Germany might not be the best choice for you.
3. You’re expecting a lively student nightlife.
If you’re someone who enjoys hanging out at the mamak or shopping on Sundays, Germany might surprise you. In many areas, shops close by 8 pm, and in smaller towns, they may close even earlier. Sundays are especially quiet, as most shops (even malls) are closed. Germans also have “quiet hours” starting at 10 pm, so don’t expect to have loud parties at home.
While Germans do socialize, their favorite activities include hiking, cycling, and relaxing at home.
4. You’re not a fan of bread.
Germany is famous for its bread, with over 3,200 varieties! Bread is a key part of meals, especially for breakfast and dinner. If you don’t like bread, meals could feel repetitive, especially since German cuisine often focuses on bread, potatoes, and meat. Some people even describe German food as bland compared to the diverse flavours you might find in Malaysia.
Munich, Düsseldorf, Frankfurt and Berlin are among the top 10 European cities with the best quality of life in 2018
Germany is for you if…
1. You’re interested in engineering or technology.
Germany is known for its high-quality engineering and tech industries. It’s also considered one of the most innovative countries in the world. German universities have strong connections with companies like Siemens and BMW, giving students real-world opportunities to work on exciting projects and internships. If you’re passionate about engineering or tech, studying in Germany could be a great way to launch your career.
2. You prefer hands-on learning.
If you like the idea of learning through practical experience, Germany’s universities are a great fit. Many universities, especially Universities of Applied Sciences, focus on practical training. This includes internships, study trips, and work placements. You’ll even be required to do a 20-week internship at a German company. This type of education prepares you for the real world, helping you build skills that are in high demand by employers.
3. You’re looking for an affordable study abroad experience.
Studying in Germany is much more affordable than in countries like Australia or the UK. In fact, the cost of studying in Germany (including tuition and living expenses) is often a third of what you’d pay in Australia. For some students, studying in Germany can even be cheaper than attending private universities in Malaysia!
4. You want to work in Europe.
Graduating with a degree from Germany opens many doors for jobs, not just in Germany, but across Europe. Germany has a strong job market, and many employers actively seek international talent. Fields like healthcare, IT, and engineering are particularly in demand. If you’re fluent in German, your degree could help you find work in neighboring countries as well.
So, is Germany the right choice for you? If you think it might be, we’d be happy to help you with the next steps.