Germany is known for its free and high-quality higher education (distinguished students) and educational facilities. In contrast, Australia is known for its world-class universities, with the added benefit of bustling student life and scenic attractions. The key differences and similarities between the two countries are represented by the standard of facilities, the legal education, eligibility, student expenses, college administration, process, and ease of obtaining a post-graduate visa or a PR visa. This blog presents a unique country comparison of Germany vs Australia to determine which is preferable for Indian and international students wishing to study abroad.

Germany vs Australia: Education System

Read More About: Best Education System in the World

Cost of Studying in Germany vs Australia

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Cost of Living in Germany vs Australia

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Cost of Living in Germany
Cost of Living in Australia

Students Life in Germany vs Australia

Student life in Germany

Studying at German universities is the ideal combination of hard work and enjoyment. Studying in the country allows you to improve your networking skills while also meeting students worldwide. Students of various nationalities, including Lithuanians, Portuguese, and French, study and work in the country. In terms of lectures and teaching style, German universities have been ranked first for providing high-quality education and for leading the world in technological and scientific research.

Students have numerous opportunities to travel to neighbouring countries and participate in internships to learn practical skills during semester breaks.  German students are also permitted to work part-time during the academic semester to support themselves while in the country. Another unique aspect of studying in the country is the opportunity to learn German and later gain permanent residency.

Student Life in Australia

Australia is a melting pot of different cultures, ethnicities, and nationalities. Due to Australia's diversity and multicultural environment, approximately half of the population was born outside of the country or is a second-generation immigrant. The classrooms reflect this diverse group of students from all over the world. Apart from academic learning, the campus life and facilities are very engaging, with many sports, outdoor activities, clubs, and societies to keep students occupied.

The universities in Australia have a dedicated International Student Support unit to assist international students with everything from housing to job placement to counselling. The Australian way of life is laid-back, safe, and regarded as one of the best in the world. There are numerous beaches, landscapes, and parks to explore and opportunities for adventure and sports.

Admission Requirements in Germany vs Australia

Admission Requirements in Germany

To pursue undergraduate studies in Germany, you must have:

• Academic transcripts from previous degrees, and senior secondary mark sheets
• Evidence of language proficiency (German- DSH, TestDaf or English-TOEFL, IELTS, etc.)
• Photographs in passport size, Passport photocopies (personal details and photo ID page)
• GRE/GMAT results
• Proof of Financial Resources
• Letter of Motivation (optional)
• Statement of purpose (SOP)
• Letters of Recommendation(LORs)

Admission Requirements in Australia

To pursue undergraduate studies in Australia, you must have:

• Universities will require 12 years of education from a recognized institute for an undergraduate course.
• In addition, some universities may require the TOEFL or IELTS to demonstrate English proficiency.
• All universities require a three-year undergraduate program for post-graduate degrees. However, for engineering, you must produce a certificate for a four-year undergraduate degree.
• Some universities may not require the TOEFL or IELTS, but you will need to take them to obtain a visa.

Student Visa for Germany vs Australia

German Student Visa

You can begin your student visa application with your letter of acceptance or entrance exam scores (specified by your chosen institution). If you do not have either of these two, you can instead apply for a prospective student visa.

There are three types of student visas in Germany, these are:

• German Student Visa
• German Language Course Visa
• German Student Application Visa

Validity: Three months. Although this can be extended to six months when you get accepted into a German university, a German Foundation course, or any Preparatory German language-learning program

Processing Time: It takes Up to 25 days. 

Australian Student Visa

Even though there are many different types of Australian visas, to study in Australia, one must apply for a SUBCLASS 500 visa.

• To apply for a visa, visa options and requirements are subject to change; therefore, to ensure that you have the most up-to-date information, visit the Department of Home Affairs' official website regularly.

• The universities have two intakes for admission – February and July, with some offering intakes in September and November. It takes 4 to 6 weeks to process an application, so you must apply at least 6 months before the intake.

• After submitting your application, you will receive a "Letter of Offer" confirming your enrollment offer. You must sign and return an acceptance letter to the relevant institution in exchange.

Validity: The Australian Student Visa allows you to stay in Australia for 5 years.

Processing Time: The average processing time for you to obtain your Australian Student Visa is 4 weeks.

Must Read: Australia Student Visa

Post Graduate Work Visa in Germany vs Australia

Both Germany and Australia allow International Students to work after completing their courses if offered a job. Here are some options for staying in Australia or Germany after graduation.

Germany

International students who have completed their course at a German university can apply for a Residence Permit. Students who have completed their course are permitted by the Immigration Laws to apply for an 18-month residence permit. During this time, the graduate must look for a job related to their qualification. Please remember that this permit does not come with a student visa, so you must apply for it separately.

Quick Read: Masters In Germany

Australia

International students in Australia can apply for a post-study work visa valid for two years. This option is only available to those who have earned a Bachelor's or Master's degree from an Australian university. Graduates from other courses can apply for a subclass 485 visa through the graduate workstream, which allows them to stay for 18 months while looking for a job.

Quick Read: Masters in Australia

Job Opportunities & Salary in Germany vs Australia

Scholarships to Study in Germany & Australia

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Scholarships in Australia

Scholarships in Germany

Germany vs Australia Economy

German Economy

Germany's economy is considered a highly developed economy as it has the largest in Europe, the world's fourth-largest by nominal GDP, and the fifth-largest by GDP (PPP). According to the International Monetary Fund, the country accounted for about 28% of the eurozone economy in 2017. Germany is also one of the European Union and the Eurozone founding members.

Australian economy

Australia has a market economy and is a highly developed country with many natural resources. Australia is the 13th-largest national economy by nominal GDP (Gross Domestic Product), the 18th-largest by PPP-adjusted GDP, and the 25th-largest goods exporter and 20th-largest goods importer in 2022.

PR in Germany & Australia

PR in Germany

You can apply for a German permanent visa if you have lived in Germany for five years on a German Permanent Resident(PR). There are some exceptions for shorter stay requirements. After eight years in Germany, you are eligible to apply for German citizenship. If you marry a German citizen, you can apply for citizenship.

PR in Australia

Obtaining a permanent residency permit in Australia is possible, but the process is lengthy. Immigration officials conduct a comprehensive background check on candidates to ensure that he or she is not a fraud. The PR permit could take some time to be approved because of the complicated process. However, it is possible to obtain Australian citizenship.

Quick Read: Permanent Residency (PR) Courses in Australia

 FAQ

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