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School and Education in Germany

Context

Germany has a very long tradition of education and institutions of higher education. Many of Germany's oldest universities were founded during the Middle Ages, and new universities, particularly in the eastern part of the country, continue to be founded. Although the North American system of education shares a lot in common with the German system (American schools even have "Kindergärten"), there also are distinctions. What are some of the distinctions you have observed?

Exploration

Go to the Web page for the Deutscher Akademischer Austauschdienst, or DAAD To find out more about the German system of higher education. As you read, think about the following questions.

What types of institutes of higher learning are available in Germany? Are there private universities in Germany? What is the difference between the two main types of German colleges?
What degrees are available? How long does it take to finish a program at a German college?
What changes are occurring at German colleges?
What is the difference between smaller, younger universities (mainly in the East) and their older, larger counterparts (mainly in the West)?
What qualifications are necessary for foreign students to study at German colleges? Are scholarships available?

DADD
Read about university life in Germany.

Application

After you have finished reading about German colleges, write a letter in German asking to be admitted to a German university or technical college. Choose a course of studies, and explain why you are interested in it. Explain why you want to study at that particular institution. Find out whether scholarships are available, and whether it is a private or public institution. You might also give some information about yourself: where you live and study, your academic background and what profession you plan to pursue. Finally, you might inquire about the interaction among students, and the relationship between universities and students.