Indian student numbers in Germany set to rise 298% by 2030: opportunities, scholarships and what’s driving the trend

Explosive growth: why Indian students choose Germany for higher education (Getty Images)

The lure of German universities is proving irresistible to Indian students. With enrollment expected to rise from 28,773 in 2021 to a whopping 114,499 in 2030, this represents a remarkable growth of 297.82%, according to the recent report. European student landscape: beyond beds and couches of University Life.
This explosive growth reflects a confluence of factors, including Germany’s globally respected higher education system, affordable education and the increasing aspirations of Indian youth for quality education abroad. Indian students in particular have already made their mark: in 2023, more than 39,600 were enrolled at German institutions, representing 1.2% of the country’s total student population.
Why Germany appeals to Indian students
• Quality and affordable education: Germany’s reputation as an academic powerhouse stems from its tuition-free or low-cost education model at public universities, coupled with its robust emphasis on research and innovation. Universities such as the Ludwig Maximilian University of Munich and the Technical University of Munich are consistently ranked among the best in the world, making Germany a top destination for science, engineering and technology aspirants.
• Opportunities for Career Growth: Germany’s booming job market, especially in sectors such as engineering, IT and healthcare, attracts students looking for lucrative work after graduation. The post-study work visa, which allows international graduates to stay in Germany for up to 18 months to look for a job, makes it even more attractive.
• Growing aspirations of the middle class in India: India’s emerging middle class, equipped with better financial resources and an increasing awareness of global education opportunities, has been a key driver of this trend. The Indian government’s initiatives to promote international collaborations and scholarship programs have also strengthened this outward mobility.
Scholarships: relief from financial burdens
For many Indian students, scholarships are the gateway to prestigious German institutions. Several financing options are specifically aimed at international students, including:

Such initiatives not only ease financial burdens, but also promote diversity and cross-border collaboration, enhancing the academic experience for all.
Enrollment trends: Breaking down the numbers
The increase in Indian student enrollments is part of a broader trend of increasing international mobility towards Germany. While India leads the way with a staggering 298% growth forecast between 2021 and 2030, other countries such as Türkiye and Austria are also experiencing significant increases, demonstrating Germany’s growing appeal. Conversely, registrations from China show a slight decline due to increased domestic investment and geopolitical factors.

These trends highlight Germany’s growing attractiveness as a global education center, especially for students from emerging economies seeking affordable, high-quality education. The growth rate easily exceeds that of traditional source countries such as China, whose numbers are expected to decline by 7.55% over the same period.
What awaits us
Focus on STEM and English-language programs: Indian students continue to be drawn to STEM disciplines, with a growing interest in computer science, engineering and data analytics. The increasing availability of English-language programs further eliminates language barriers, allowing for a smoother transition for international students.
Cultural and institutional support: Germany’s welcoming attitude towards international students, reflected in its multicultural campuses and robust student support systems, broadens its appeal. Programs such as DAAD’s ‘Studying in Germany’ provide crucial resources to help students integrate into German society.
Germany education system: structure of higher education
The German education system is known worldwide for its structure, which combines theoretical knowledge with practical application. The higher education system consists of two main types of institutions:
Universities (Universität): These institutions focus on academic and research-based education and offer bachelor’s, master’s, and doctoral programs in a broad spectrum of disciplines.
Universities of Applied Sciences (Fachhochschule): These institutions are known for their practical orientation, offering specialized courses in areas such as engineering, business and social sciences, often in collaboration with the business community.
Germany also supports lifelong learning through its continuing education programs, aimed at professionals who want to upskill or change careers. The affordability of education, combined with minimal or no tuition at most public universities, makes Germany a top destination for students around the world.
A win-win scenario
The dramatic increase in India’s student enrollment not only benefits students but also strengthens Germany’s position as a global education center. This influx brings diversity, new perspectives and talent to German universities, enriching the academic environment. For Indian students, the trip to Germany offers unparalleled opportunities to receive a world-class education and launch a promising career.
As these trends unfold, they underscore the importance of continued cooperation between the two nations in education and beyond. For Indian students who see global academic opportunities, Germany remains a beacon of excellence and possibility.