Last Updated on December 16, 2024
Germany is the ideal study destination for international students. It has many highly ranked universities that offer various courses and specialisations. A degree from a prestigious college in Germany can help you get good jobs.
Life in Germany is vibrant and fun-loving. While studying in Germany, you can choose to relish in the country’s rich cultural history, join different cultural societies and clubs, or simply stroll around town, taking in the country’s beauty.
Germany has a growing population of older people, showing the importance of an efficient healthcare system. The government offers a good public healthcare system that includes all people, and there is a great need for nurses. You can discover nursing jobs in hospitals, nursing homes, outpatient services, and rehab centres.
Nurses who come from countries where they earn very little get paid well in Germany. The yearly average for a nurse’s salary in Germany is around 33,000 EUR, or about 2800 to 2900 EUR every month.
Obtaining a nursing degree from Germany is valid for career advancement. This information is helpful for students from India who are considering studying nursing in Germany.
Why Study Nursing in Germany?
If you are looking for reasons to study in Germany, there are many. Some of them are:
- Free-of-Cost education: In Germany, numerous public universities provide free education. This is valid for local students as well as those from abroad. Thus, you might study nursing without spending much on tuition fees – a situation that makes it more inexpensive than in many places around the globe.
- Superior Training: German nursing schools offer top-notch education and hands-on learning. Skilled experts will teach you, employ contemporary tools, and prepare you for your profession.
- Job Opportunities: Many nursing jobs are available in Germany. When you finish your studies, you can find work in hospitals, clinics or care homes. The country appreciates skilled healthcare workers who come from other countries.
- Learn a New Language: Studying in Germany can allow you to learn German, a language millions speak worldwide. This capability may assist you with your nursing profession and personal life.
- Experience a Different Culture: Living in Germany while studying allows you to experience a new culture, meet people worldwide and broaden your knowledge. You can explore beautiful cities, try tasty food and enjoy different cultural events.
Top Colleges for Nursing in Germany
The top nursing colleges in Germany, along with their QS ranking 2025 and THE ranking, are given below:
| University | QS World University Ranking 2025 | THE Ranking 2024 |
| University of Freiburg | 212 | 128 |
| University of Bremen | 592 | 301 |
| Martin Luther University Halle-Wittenberg | 671 | – |
| Witten/Herdecke University | – | – |
| University of Trier | – | – |
| Humboldt-Universität zu Berlin | 120 | – |
| Freie Universität Berlin | 87 | – |
| Universität Heidelberg | 87 | – |
| Ludwig-Maximilians-Universität München | 54 | – |
| Technische Universität München | 37 | – |
Types of Nursing Degrees in Germany
Top nursing colleges in Germany offer various types of degrees. Refer to the table for details:
| Degree Type | Duration | Exams Required |
| Vocational Nursing | Three years | State Examination (Staatliche Prüfung) |
| Bachelor of Science in Nursing | 3-4 years | University entrance qualification (Abitur or equivalent) German language proficiency test (usually B2 level) University-specific entrance exams |
| Master of Science in Nursing | Two years | Bachelor’s degree in nursing or related field German language proficiency test (usually C1 level) GRE (for some universities) |
| PhD in Nursing | 3-5 years | Master’s degree in nursing or related field, German language proficiency test (C1 or C2 level)Research proposal, Interview |
| Specialist Nursing Courses | 1-2 years | State Examination, Relevant work experience Specialization-specific entrance exams |
Popular Nursing Courses in Germany
Popular nursing courses in Germany include:
| Course Name | Duration |
| General Nursing | Three years |
| Pediatric Nursing | Three years |
| Geriatric Nursing | Three years |
| Bachelor of Science in Nursing | 3-4 years |
| Bachelor of Science in Midwifery | 3-4 years |
| Master of Science in Advanced Nursing Practice | Two years |
| Master of Science in Nursing Management | Two years |
| Master of Science in Nursing Education | Two years |
| Intensive Care Nursing | Two years |
| Emergency Nursing | Two years |
| Oncology Nursing | Two years |
| Psychiatric Nursing | Two years |
Nursing in Germany for Indian Students
Every year, thousands of students enrol in nursing programs in Germany. Germany has a rich, dynamic and quality standard of living. It also offers free education to all international students. Various course options are available for students to choose from. However, Germany offers two major nursing courses. Let us discuss them in detail.
Nursing Ausbildung
Considered is the most famous program among youngsters. It is also known as a Vocational Program or Apprenticeship training. Under this program, students get trained at hospitals, paediatrics, nursing centres, and elderly homes for experience. The trainer provides a monthly stipend to the trainee/attendee. The placement and training providers of the Ausbildung Center do not charge any extra fees. This course offers a complete knowledge of the program.
Eligibility criteria for Ausbildung program for nursing in Germany
- Must have cleared B1/B2 Goethe exam
- Must clear the state entrance exam
Completing an apprenticeship leads to approval by the state as a “Nursing Specialist”.
Nurses with a vocational degree can apply for the following roles:
- Nephrology
- Clinical geriatrics
- Hygiene
- Psychiatric Center
- Endoscopy and operation services
BSc Nursing
BSc nursing in Germany is a dual program, meaning that simultaneous placement at hospitals is provided along with education. This program offers a degree at one end and training at the other. Students get early experience by practising at hospitals. No tuition fee is charged for this course.
Eligibility criteria for BSc nursing in Germany
- Must know German
- Must have a solid academic background
Nurses with a university bachelor’s degree or Master’s degree may apply for:
- Social and health services
- In-home care specialist
- Care consultants and experts
- Head of the department
- Palliative care specialist
Cost of Studying Nursing in Germany
Germany is relatively cheap and affordable compared to other countries. Education is free of cost at public universities. There are few private universities, but they are also inexpensive compared to other private universities across the globe.
| College Name | 1-Year Average Tuition Fees |
| Charité – Universitätsmedizin Berlin | INR 25,000 – INR 50,000 |
| University of Heidelberg | INR 30,000 – INR 60,000 |
| Ludwig Maximilian University of Munich | INR 25,000 – INR 50,000 |
| University of Tübingen | INR 30,000 – INR 55,000 |
| University of Freiburg | INR 25,000 – INR 50,000 |
| University of Hamburg | INR 30,000 – INR 55,000 |
| University of Cologne | INR 25,000 – INR 50,000 |
| Technical University of Munich | INR 30,000 – INR 60,000 |
| University of Würzburg | INR 25,000 – INR 50,000 |
| University of Bonn | INR 30,000 – INR 55,000 |
Eligibility to Study Nursing in Germany
Though the eligibility criteria may differ depending on the university and course chosen, the general eligibility criteria to study nursing in Germany include:
- Must have completed high school
- Must have cleared the Goethe exam with B1 certification.’
- A certificate proving you are mentally and physically fit
- Must qualify for the ‘Abitur’ entrance test of Germany
Admission Requirement to Study Nursing in Germany
| Requirement | Details |
| Educational Qualification | High school diploma or equivalent (e.g., 10+2 for Indian students) |
| German Language Proficiency | B2 level for most programs (C1 for some advanced courses) |
| English Language Proficiency | B2 level (if the program is taught in English) |
| Entrance Exam | Some universities may require TestAS (Test for Academic Studies) |
| Health Certificate | Proof of good health and required vaccinations |
| Police Clearance Certificate | Proof of no criminal record |
| Motivation Letter | Explaining why you want to study nursing in Germany |
| Letters of Recommendation | Usually 2-3 letters from teachers or employers |
| Work Experience | Some programs may require prior nursing experience |
| Visa | Student visa for non-EU students |
| Financial Proof | Evidence of sufficient funds to support your stay in Germany |
| Health Insurance | Proof of health insurance coverage in Germany |
Cost of Living in Germany for Indian Students
Germany is an affordable and friendly country as compared to others. However, the cost of living may greatly depend on your standard of living and lifestyle. An average estimate of the cost of living in Germany for Indian students is mentioned below:
| Expense Category | Estimated Monthly Cost (in EUR) | Estimated Monthly Cost (in INR) |
| Accommodation | EUR 300 – EUR 600 | INR 27,000 – INR 54,000 |
| Food | EUR 150 – EUR 250 | INR 13,500 – INR 22,500 |
| Public Transportation | EUR 70 – EUR 100 | INR 6,300 – INR 9,000 |
| Health Insurance | EUR 80 – EUR 120 | INR 7,200 – INR 10,800 |
| Books and Study Materials | EUR 30 – EUR 50 | INR 2,700 – INR 4,500 |
| Phone and Internet | EUR 20 – EUR 40 | INR 1,800 – INR 3,600 |
| Personal Expenses | EUR 100 – EUR 200 | INR 9,000 – INR 18,000 |
| Total | EUR 750 – EUR 1,360 | INR 67,500 – INR 122,400 |
Scope after Pursuing Nursing in Germany
Nursing has an abundance of openings and is a versatile profession. Nurses are in high demand in a variety of fields. You can also take on other part-time opportunities besides working as a nurse.
| Job Role | Average Annual Salary (in INR) |
| General Nurse | INR 27,00,000 – INR 40,50,000 |
| Specialised Nurse (ICU, ER, etc.) | INR 31,50,000 – INR 49,50,000 |
| Geriatric Nurse | INR 25,20,000 – INR 36,00,000 |
| Pediatric Nurse | INR 27,00,000 – INR 40,50,000 |
| Nurse Practitioner | INR 40,50,000 – INR 58,50,000 |
| Nursing Manager | INR 45,00,000 – INR 63,00,000 |
| Research Nurse | INR 36,00,000 – INR 54,00,000 |
| Community Health Nurse | INR 28,80,000 – INR 43,20,000 |
| Nurse Educator | INR 40,50,000 – INR 58,50,000 |
| Psychiatric Nurse | INR 31,50,000 – INR 45,00,000 |
Conclusion
Germany is an ideal study destination for you to pursue nursing in Germany as an Indian student. It has a vibrant and culturally rich environment and a friendly atmosphere, and you get the best education at no cost. Many universities in Germany provide quality nursing courses, details of which are mentioned in this article. Some of the top nursing colleges in Germany include the University of Freiburg, University of Tübingen, Ludwig Maximilian University of Munich, University of Heidelberg, etc. The average tuition fees range between INR 25,000-50,000. The average salary you receive after getting a nursing degree from Germany ranges between INR 24,000,00-INR55,000,00
After pursuing nursing in Germany, you can choose to take a job and settle in Germany, or you can come to India, clear the bar exam, and practice as a nurse here.
If you need assistance with your study abroad journey, contact us at Admissify. Our expert team will guide you through it and make it memorable.
FAQs
Do I need to know German to study nursing in Germany?
According to sources across the internet, learning German and passing the German proficiency exam are essential criteria for studying in Germany.
Is Germany suitable for studying nursing?
Yes, Germany has many top colleges and universities for international students to pursue nursing. Depending on your course and specialisation, you can choose to become a general nurse, psychiatric nurse, nurse educator, or community health nurse.
Can I study for free in Germany as an international student?
Yes, public universities in Germany provide free education to all, including international students.
What is the average cost of living in Germany for Indian students?
The average cost of living in Germany for an Indian student can vary between INR 67,500 – and INR 122,400 per month.
Aakriti Kumari is a passionate content writer who finds solace in the world of books. An avid reader from a young age, she has cultivated a deep love for the written word. When she’s not crafting compelling content, you can find her lost in the pages of a captivating novel. Aakriti shares her literary adventures and book recommendations on her Instagram account, @aakthereader, dedicated to her love of reading. With a keen eye for detail and a gift for storytelling, she brings words to life, inviting readers on a journey through her writing.
