Gather, Explore, Chat Event Guide: What to Know Before Attending
Overview
đź—“ Date: Saturday, 7 March 2026
⏰ Time: 9:30 AM – 12:00 PM
đź“Ť Venue: MCKL Auditorium, Methodist College Kuala Lumpur, Off Jalan Tun Sambanthan 4, Brickfields, KL
How to get there
For many parents and students, the journey to studying in Germany often begins with a lot of questions. What is student life like? How different is the education system? And what should you really expect when living and studying there?
That’s exactly why Gather, Explore, Chat was created. Our flagship forum brings together parents, students, alumni, and educators to share real experiences and honest perspectives about studying and living in Germany.
If this is your first time attending, this Gather, Explore, Chat Event Guide will help you prepare for the conversations ahead. Inside, you’ll find important information and key ideas that will be discussed during the event, so you can follow the discussions more easily and make the most of the forum.
What can I study in Germany?
Germany is home to over 400 higher education institutions offering more than 19,000 courses across a wide range of subjects. Popular options for international students include engineering, natural sciences, mathematics, and computer science-related programmes.
At German Educare, we advise students to avoid courses in medicine, law, and accounting, as these degrees are not recognised in Malaysia. Additionally, some programmes have limited seats, so admission is competitive and offers are not guaranteed. Be sure to consult our student advisors, especially if you’re considering working in Germany after graduation or planning a career in a country other than Malaysia.
Is studying in Germany really tuition-free?
Most public universities in Germany don’t charge tuition fees, even for international students. That said, there are a few exceptions you should know about:
- Universities in Baden-Württemberg: €1,500 per semester
- TH Ingolstadt and TH Deggendorf: €500 per semester
- TU Munich: €3,000 per semester
In addition to tuition (if applicable), students pay a semester contribution. This small fee, usually between €200 and €400, covers administrative costs and student services like public transport, libraries, and campus activities.
Knowing these costs ahead of time can help you plan your budget and choose the right university for your studies in Germany.
What's the cost of living in Germany for students?
The cost of living in Germany depends on the city and lifestyle. On average, students spend €850 to €1000 per month, which includes:
- Accommodation
- Food and groceries
- Transportation
- Health insurance
- Study materials and personal expenses
Rent typically accounts for more than half of a student’s monthly expenses. Housing costs are higher in major cities compared to smaller towns. For example, a room in Munich or Berlin can cost up to €700 per month, while the same-sized room in a smaller town like Heilbronn may be around €350 per month.
Do I need to learn German to study in Germany?
This depends on both the university and the language of instruction for your degree. If your programme is taught in German, you’ll need to provide proof of German language proficiency. If it’s taught in English, then proof of English proficiency is sufficient.
A helpful tip: Even if your programme is in English, picking up some German can make everyday life much easier. Simple tasks like shopping, banking, or meeting new people become far smoother when you know the language.
Can international students work part-time in Germany?
Yes! International students can work part-time while studying in Germany, usually up to 20 hours per week during the semester. Many jobs pay €14 per hour or more, and the best part? You can work in fields related to your studies, earning extra income while gaining real-world experience that will boost your resume.
Can I work in Germany after graduating?
Yes! After graduating from a German university, you can stay and work in Germany. By applying for a job-seeker visa, usually valid for 18 months, you get plenty of time to find a role related to your degree. It’s a great way to gain international work experience and kickstart a long-term career either in Germany or anywhere else in the world.
Gather, Explore, Chat is German Educare’s flagship forum, created to bring together parents, students, alumni, and educators for open conversations about studying and living in Germany.
At this forum, our panelists share their personal experiences and insights from different perspectives. By hearing directly from those who have studied, worked, or supported students in Germany, you’ll gain a clearer and more honest understanding of what studying in Germany is really like, from academic life to everyday living.
Whether you’re exploring your options or preparing for the journey ahead, Gather, Explore, Chat offers a space to ask questions, learn from real experiences, and connect with a community that understands the path to Germany.