FRANCE

France offers delectable cuisine, an array of magnificent art and historical landmarks, and beautiful countryside. Apart from this, France is very rich in culture and home to amazing works of literature, filmography, philosophy, and more. Living in this country is something one can easily get used to.

France is quite a popular destination for international students because of the good quality of education, infrastructure and reasonable tuition fees. Some good courses offered here are business management, medicine, and psychology.

Requirements

Most institutes will require GMAT, GRE, LSAT, or SAT scores for admission. Scoring well in these exams can also help admission even if not a mandatory requirement for the university. 

Learning French is very important for basic interaction, as the majority still don’t communicate as well in English. Many courses are taught in French and if chosen students will have to study it. Students may be required to give the DELF, DALF OR TCF exams, which are French language tests. 

Students are also required to register on the ‘etudes en France’ program which will guide students in taking all the necessary steps for registration.

Visa

• Students can apply for one of 3 visa types depending on course:

• For a course for 3 months or less, a short-stay visa

• For a course lasting longer than 3 or for 6 months, a long-stay visa

• For a course exceeding 6 months, long-stay visa and resident permit.

• The cost for a visa will 50 euro and students are required to give an entrance examination (practical/oral test and interview).

Fees

Fees for public universities in France are quite affordable ranging from 2 lakh (for bachelors) to 3 lakh (for masters). Private universities are generally quite expensive and the fees can be anywhere in between 2 to 20 lakh. Though choosing public universities is a more popular choice as the quality of education is very good and with reasonable fees.

Living

Costs of living vary all over France with the big city, Paris is the most expensive. Other parts of France though slightly on the expensive side are comparatively quite affordable costing around 70 to 90 k. The main concern of cost will probably be rent which is considerably high around 300 to 800 euros. Accommodation in student halls will be much more cost-effective as they cost around 300 euros. For other needs, 300 to 500 euros will suffice.

GERMANY

Germany is a vibrant modern country that has the benefits of a modern metropolis whilst also having an abundance of charm and natural beauty.  There are many historical sites to visit, different food to try and things to experience here. The various types of bread and beer are also an important part of their heritage.

Some good courses to pursue here are medicine, engineering and architecture. The country offers world-class facilities, staff and truly impressionable experience.

Requirements to study 

Students will be required to give in an English proficiency test, TOEFL and IELTS are acceptable, but alongside a German language test such as TESTDAF and DSH, which is also mandatory for public universities. Apart from language tests, students should submit various exam scores such as GRE, GMAT, and JEE as asked for by the universities.

Visa

There are 2 types of visas available for students:

• For studies lasting 3 months or less, Schengen visa

• For studies for more than 3 months, German national visa 

If the German national visa is chosen, students will have to apply for a residence permit.

Important requirements

• Passport

• Previous Schengen visa

• Proof of financial funds

• Acceptance letter

• Certificates from previous educational qualifications

It takes about 4 weeks for processing formalities for the visa; hence it is advisable to apply for the visa as soon as the acceptance letter is received.

Fees and living costs

Studying in German public universities is free of cost, even for international students. Students will only have to fill in a minor enrollment/admission fee which is around 100 to 300 euros.

Living costs in Germany are pretty moderate. Students will require around 60 to 80 k INR per month. Housing is the main cost, but students can choose student residents which are much more affordable. Students will also receive free health healthcare (for necessary requirements) but will also require private insurance which will cover basic hospital/medical amenities.

Life

Germany is a great country for students as they will get to be a part of a wide array of experiences such as a robust nightlife, charming countryside, historic landmarks, and exciting festivals. It will only take a short time to get used to the lifestyle of the locals and get comfortable. The students will also get to interact with other students who hail from all around the world, making their experience truly educational.

Reference– https://www.freestudy.com/germany-or-france-which-is-the-best-country-to-study-abroad/#:~:text=When%20it%20comes%20to%20making,upper%20hand%20compared%20to%20Germany.