Germany’s universities are becoming increasingly popular among international students, despite the nation’s growing shortage of skilled workers. In response to this demand, both universities and the government are stepping up efforts to provide career opportunities for foreign students. The German Academic Exchange Service (DAAD) is leading these initiatives through its “Skilled Labour Initiative.”
“We must do more in science, business, and society to open up career opportunities in Germany for young people who come here from around the world to study,” stated DAAD President, Prof. Dr. Joybrato Mukherjee. The initiative currently supports 104 universities in enhancing services for international students before, during, and after their studies.
The DAAD projects nearly 405,000 international students will enroll in Germany in the winter semester of 2024/25, marking a 7% increase from the previous year’s total of 380,000. The survey also shows that nearly 90% of universities are experiencing stable or rising international enrollments. Over half of the universities reported an increase, with one-third witnessing significant growth of 10% or more.
The influx of international students is particularly notable among first-year students, with approximately 88,000 newcomers joining German universities, a rise from 82,000 the year before. Master’s programs are a key driver of this trend, with 56% of universities reporting significant increases in enrollment.
Challenges Persist for International Students
Despite the rising numbers, international students in Germany still face significant obstacles. A survey by the DAAD revealed key challenges that hinder their ability to fully benefit from the country’s educational offerings:
- Entry policies and visa processes (83%)
- A shortage of affordable housing (75%)
- High living and studying costs (69%)
Mukherjee emphasized the urgent need for affordable student housing, highlighting that this issue affects both domestic and international students. Addressing this concern is vital for Germany’s continued standing as a global center of business and innovation.
The DAAD’s survey, which gathered responses from over 200 state-recognized universities, provides a comprehensive view of the current trends and challenges in international student enrollment, representing 70% of all international students in Germany.
As Germany seeks to further integrate international students into its workforce, efforts to mitigate these challenges will be key to maintaining its status as a top destination for global talent.
