Real Issues: Housing Shortage, Job Struggles and Need for German Language Skills
Germany has rapidly become one of the most attractive destinations for Indian students, with enrolment doubling from around 29,000 in 2020 to nearly 59,500 today. Affordable public universities, strong engineering and technology programmes, and promising long-term career prospects have contributed to this surge. However, students already living in Germany say the ground reality is far more complex than many anticipate.
While consultants describe Germany as an affordable, opportunity-rich nation, students warn of major challenges — especially the fierce competition for housing, slow administrative systems, and a job market that is far from guaranteed.
Germany currently faces a shortage of over 2 lakh skilled workers, particularly in engineering, IT, healthcare and cybersecurity. Despite this, students say part-time jobs, internships and full-time roles remain difficult to secure due to language requirements, strong local competition and lengthy hiring processes. Some international students, influenced by overly optimistic consultants, arrive expecting easy employment but eventually struggle with debt and limited prospects.
Germany remains a promising destination — but only for those who approach it with realistic expectations and thorough preparation
Housing represents one of the most stressful aspects of student life. Cities like Munich, Berlin, Hamburg and Stuttgart face high rents and tight supply. Even smaller towns such as Cham in Bavaria, popular among Indian students, offer limited accommodation and fewer transport options. Rent often forms the largest portion of monthly expenses, outweighing the benefits of tuition-free universities.
Compounding these challenges is Germany’s slow bureaucracy. From visa extensions and job-seeker permits to basic tasks like opening a bank account or registering an address, administrative processes require long waits and multiple appointments. Many international students say they feel overwhelmed by paperwork.
Language proficiency emerges as the biggest factor affecting integration and career advancement. Although some institutions teach in English, daily life in Germany remains heavily German-dependent. Students say even basic tasks become smoother with language skills, and employers often favour applicants who speak German, even for English-language roles. Experts recommend reaching at least B2 proficiency before arrival.
Students also highlight emotional challenges — long winters, cultural differences and the isolation that comes with limited social interaction if one cannot speak the local language.
Despite these hurdles, those who prepare early, learn German diligently, and adapt to local systems find success. Advisors recommend beginning accommodation searches months before arrival, maintaining a financial buffer for living costs, and staying mentally prepared for independent living.
