Work and Study in Germany as an International Student | Working Hours for Language & Foundational Program Students

Germany has again launched a piece of good news for International students planning to study in Germany. Germany has revised the working hours for international students enrolled in language or foundational programs holding a Germany study visa.

Germany is a popular destination for international students seeking higher education. Many students prefer to enrol in a language program or foundational courses before starting their university studies. These programs help them to acquire language proficiency and enhance their foundational knowledge, respectively. In the past, students enrolled in these programs were not allowed to work part-time in Germany. However, with the recent update in the rules and regulations, international students in these programs can now work part-time for up to 20 hours per week. This is a significant change that provides more opportunities for students to earn some income, gain work experience, and support their living expenses while they study in Germany.

West Highlander’s team of specialists conducted in-depth research and gathered information on Work and Study in Germany as an International Student & Working Hours for Language & Foundational Program Students in Germany. This comprehensive article covers the latest part-time job regulations for international students in Germany and addresses common student queries about working while study in Germany. Ms. Parwinder Kaur, an ICEF Trained Agent Counsellor and the director at West Highlander has over 18 years of experience assisting international students in obtaining their Germany Study Visa. With her wealth of knowledge and our dedicated team, we are recognized as the top immigration consultants in Chandigarh. Reach out to us for expert guidance and to begin your application process for a Germany Student Visa.

Work and Study in Germany as an International Student

Germany is a fantastic destination for international students looking to combine work and study opportunities. With world-class universities, a strong economy, and a welcoming environment, students can gain valuable experience while pursuing their academic goals. One of the key benefits of studying in Germany is the opportunity to work part-time while completing your studies. This can help offset living expenses, improve language skills, and gain practical work experience in your field of interest. Additionally, Germany offers various scholarships and financial aid options to support international students.

As of 1st March 2024, the Skilled Immigration Act has implemented new measures concerning international students from non-European Union countries. One of the most significant changes is that the limit for working hours has been increased from 10 hours per week to 20 hours per week. This means that international students are now permitted to work for up to 20 hours per week while they study in Germany. This change is expected to provide greater flexibility for international students who may need to work to support themselves while studying.

This new measure on part-time work limit is now also applies to students who are studying foundational courses or German language training, before enrolling in a program at a German university. Before the implementation of this new measure, such students were not allowed to work part-time. However, with the new policy, these students are now permitted to work part-time, 20 hours per week. This step has been taken to ensure that students have enough time to focus on their studies and also earn some extra to cover their cost of living.

Benefits of Updated Working Hours for Language & Foundational Program Students in Germany

Permission to work part-time is a major update and has numerous benefits for international students and the German workforce. They can gain valuable work experience while they study in Germany. This opportunity allows them to not only supplement their income but also develop essential skills that will benefit them in their future careers. Additionally, by joining the German workforce, these students bring diversity and fresh perspectives to the workplace, contributing to a more dynamic and inclusive work environment. Overall, allowing international students to work part-time is an advantage for both the students and the German economy. Here is the list of benefits of the Latest Update on Working Hours for Language & Foundational Program Students in Germany:

  • Supplement Income
  • Comfortable Living
  • Work-life Balance
  • Gain Work Experience
  • Gain Valuable Skills
  • Increased German Workforce

Supplement Income: International students studying in Germany can earn some extra from this part-time work opportunity. This development is excellent for students, enabling them to manage their living costs. The boost in financial aid will help ease the financial strains many students experience during their studies. With enhanced support for living expenses, students can concentrate on their academic pursuits and personal development without the added pressure of financial insecurity. This positive shift will not only aid individual students but also foster a more inclusive and supportive educational setting for everyone involved.

Comfortable Living: Balancing work and study is advantageous for international students holding a Germany study visa, as it plays a critical role in sustaining a comfortable lifestyle. Earning in Euros while studying can improve their standard of living and contribute to a more enjoyable experience in the country. A dual income will assist students in fulfilling different requirements like buying books, dining out, paying rent, and more.

Work-life balance: Working 20 hours a week means working 4 hours a day for 5 days. This schedule is ideal for students, as it helps them juggle work with studies and have a relaxing weekend. Allocating 4 hours daily for work enables students to effectively handle their tasks and time. This routine fosters a harmonious work-study balance in Germany, allowing students to focus on academics while gaining practical work skills. With weekends free, students can unwind, rejuvenate, and pursue their interests. By sticking to a manageable work timetable, students can maximize their time and excel in both work and academics.

Gain Work Experience: Balancing work and studies offers international students beneficial practical experience, enhancing their skills and enhancing their resumes for future career prospects. This balance fosters the development of time management, a strong work ethic, communication abilities, and multitasking skills – all crucial in today’s competitive job market. Additionally, working while studying helps students build connections in their desired field, potentially leading to internships or job offers after graduation. With the Germany Student Visa, Indian students can pursue the Germany Job Seeker visa, providing valuable opportunities for their future endeavours.

Gain Valuable Skills: This not only provides financial assistance but also enhances their overall educational journey. Students are not just making money; they are also acquiring essential skills that will benefit them long after their international student days. Working from an early stage will help international students know the German market and gain valuable skills. The German language skills will be enhanced through interactions with locals, communication abilities, time management, multitasking skills, and more skills will be learned and improved.

Increased German Workforce: There is a considerable gap between the demand for labour in Germany and the available workforce, which is being filled by skilled foreign workers. Recent studies indicate a noticeable increase in the enrolment of international students in Germany, many of whom come from India and China. These students not only pursue their study in Germany but also play a key role in addressing the workforce shortage.

Work and Study in Germany as an International Student: FAQs

How many bands required for Germany student visa after 12th?

The IELTS Academic band requirement for undergraduate studies varies depending on the University as well as the program. The average band requirement after the 12th to study in Germany is overall 6 with no band less than 5.5 for a Germany study visa.

Does 12th marks matter in German universities?

Marks scored in 12th grade are of importance if you are going to pursue an undergraduate degree or diploma in Germany. The entry criteria of every university are different but the minimum accepted score is 55% in the 12th grade.