Study in Germany: After SPM and IGCSE
Estimated reading time: 10 minutes
Updated on: Sept 2025
Just finished SPM or IGCSE? Here’s how you can study in Germany or Austria.
Options for SPM and IGCSE leavers
✅ A Level German Pathway
✅ Austria Preparation Programme
✅ Dual Vocational Training Prep Prog
Why Study in Germany and Austria: The Advantages for SPM and IGCSE Leavers
| Germany | Austria | |
|---|---|---|
| Tuition Fees | €0 | ~€700/sem |
| Monthly Living Costs | RM5,000 | RM5,500 |
| Part-time Work Allowed | 20 hours/week | 20 hours/week |
| Stay-Back Option | 18 months | 12 months |
| Pathway to PR | Yes | Yes |
Germany and Austria offer:
World-Class Education
Germany and Austria are home to top universities like RWTH Aachen, TU Braunschweig, and the University of Applied Sciences Upper Austria.
Affordable Tuition Fees
Public universities in Germany offer no tuition fees for undergraduate programmes. Austria offers low tuition fees for non-EU international students, making education affordable compared to other countries.
Cultural and Language Immersion
Experience rich European culture, history, and traditions while studying. You will have the opportunity to learn German, a valuable language in the global job market.
Excellent Job Opportunities and Career Prospects
Strong economies with leading industries like automotive, engineering, IT, and finance. German and Austrian university graduates are highly sought after by employers globally.
Student-Friendly Environment
Affordable cost of living compared to countries like the UK or US.
Global Networking
Study alongside an international student community from all over the world and build lifelong professional and personal connections.
What to Do After SPM: Pathways to Study in Germany
Because your qualification is not directly recognised by German or Austrian universities, here are the official routes to get in.
Option 1: Recognised Pre-University First (A-Level / STPM / Australian Year 12)
Take a pre-university programme that Germany and Austria accept. Example A-Level, STPM, Australian Year 12 and IB Diploma. After that, apply to tuition-free or low-fee public universities in Germany or Austria.
✅ Best for: Students who want to enter top-ranked degree programmes
✅ Timeline: 1.5–2 years pre-u → 6–15 months uni prep programme → 3–3.5 years Bachelor’s degree
There are 2 variations to this option.
Learn German while doing your A Level
The programme is called the A Level German Pathway. Students will study their A Level and learn German at the same time, reducing the time it takes to start their university in Germany compared to the University Preparation Programme.
✅ Best for: Students who choose to study A Level.
Complete pre-u first, and then learn German after
The programme is called the University Preparation Programme. You get to focus on doing well for your pre-u, and then focus on learning German after completing your pre-u.
✅ Best for: Students who choose to do one of the Australian Matriculation qualifications or STPM.
Option 2: Study in Austria Preparation Programme (Direct Pathway)
Not ready for STPM or A Level? We’ve got a faster route. With our Study in Austria Preparation Programme, you can move to Austria after an intensive German language and university preparation programme. After that, enter a Bachelor’s degree at a public university of applied science in Austria.
✅ No need for A Level or STPM
✅ English or German-taught degree options
✅ Get to university faster
✅ Very low tuition
Option 3: Learn on-the-job via the Dual Vocational Training (Ausbildung)
Prefer to learn on-the-job? Then the Dual Vocational Training is the programme for you. Choose from technical, culinary, hospitality and nursing positions.
✅ No need for A Level or STPM
✅ Zero tuition
✅ Receive generous allowance
✅ High chance to stay in Germany after graduating
How to Apply to German Universities After Completing SPM or IGCSE?
To apply to German universities after SPM or IGCSE, you’ll need to choose a course, meet the academic requirements, and ensure you have the necessary language skills (German or English, depending on the programme).
You’ll also need to prepare documents like academic transcripts, proof of language proficiency, and a motivation letter. German Educare can help you with language preparation, advising on course and university selection, guiding you through document preparation, and ensuring your application meets all requirements.
We also assist with visa applications and pre-departure preparation, ensuring a smooth transition to studying in Germany.
Common Questions from SPM and IGCSE Students
Should I learn German in parallel to A Level or only start after completing my A Level?
A popular option among our students is the A Level German Pathway at MCKL. You can join the A Level German Pathway in Kuala Lumpur or Penang. Some advantages of this option is that students can start their studies in Germany one semester earlier compared to students who only start German after their A Level.
What's the fastest option to start my Bachelor's degree?
Consider the Austria Preparation Programme. It takes only 1 year to complete and it’s also recognised by the Deggendorf Institute of Technology in Germany.
I don't like exams. Can I still study in Germany?
The Dual Vocational Training will be a good fit for you. You can choose from Culinary, Hospitality, Nursing and Technical. Not only are you getting a qualification which is recognised in Germany and other European countries, you will also get an average of €1000 monthly allowance.
Can I study in English?
Unlike other European countries, you can still enjoy tuition-free education in Germany and Austria if you choose to study in English.
We do strongly recommend that you be fluent in German to maximise your opportunities – more university options, more part-time job options, and much better chance to get a full-time job after you graduate.
Is it too expensive for my family?
For students with a budget of RM50,000, consider the Dual Vocational Training as it’s not only tuition-free, you’ll receive an allowance of about €1000 monthly, which is sufficient to cover your monthly allowance.
If your budget is between RM150,000 to RM300,000, both Germany and Austria will be a good study destination for you. Speak to our team to learn how to reduce your expenses.
If budget is not a consideration, you will not be restricted by the cost of living in bigger cities like Munich or Berlin.
Find your best fit with German Educare
For each of the above considerations, we have a suitable preparation programme you can enrol to. Speak with us so that we can help you find the best fit option for you to study in Germany or Austria. There should be something suitable to you!
Get Personalised Advice (Free!)
Our education advisors are ready to help you 1-on-1. Fill up the form below so that we can advise you better. We will get in touch within 1 working day.