The number of Indian students in Germany has touched an all-time high, with nearly 60,000 currently enrolled, marking a sharp 20% increase in just one year. The steady rise highlights the growing academic links between India and Germany and the increasing attractiveness of German universities for Indian students.
Ambassador Highlights Record Growth
German Ambassador to India, Philipp Ackermann, drew attention to the milestone in a post on X on 22 August. “Nearly 60,000 Indian students are studying in Germany — a 20% rise compared to last year,” he wrote, calling it a reflection of the strong educational partnership between the two countries.
DAAD Confirms India as Largest International Student Community
The German Academic Exchange Service (DAAD) reported that 49,483 Indian students were enrolled during the 2023–24 winter semester, representing a 15.1% increase over the previous year. This makes Indian students the largest international community in German higher education for the second year running.
“The number has more than doubled in the last five years. Indian students now comprise the largest international community in Germany for the second consecutive year,” DAAD noted in a statement issued in early September.
Why Germany Appeals to Indian Students
German universities are known for their rigorous academic standards, particularly in engineering, technology, and natural sciences. The availability of English-taught programs has further boosted their accessibility, making Germany a top destination for Indian students seeking quality education abroad.
Consistent Growth Despite Pandemic
Official records show a steady increase in Indian student enrollments, even through the Covid-19 years:
2018–19: 20,810 students
2019–20: 25,149 students
2020–21: 28,905 students
2021–22: 34,134 students
2022–23: 42,997 students
2023–24: 49,483 students
German Language Studies Gain Momentum in India
German language education is also gaining momentum within Indian universities, reflecting the growing demand for cross-cultural and academic engagement. Jamia Millia Islamia has introduced a new BA (Hons) in German Studies under the Four-Year Undergraduate Programme (FYUGP) for the 2025–26 session. The course, aligned with the National Education Policy (NEP 2020), aims to go beyond traditional language instruction by integrating linguistic proficiency with cultural studies, translation, interpretation, and industry-focused training. The university said the programme is designed to prepare students with global perspectives and equip them for careers in education, research, international organisations, and cultural exchange. Vice Chancellor Prof. Mazhar Asif underscored that the initiative reflects Jamia’s commitment to strengthening foreign language education and deepening India’s academic linkages with Germany.
Global Student Landscape
While India leads, other major groups of foreign students in Germany include those from Syria (15,563), Austria (14,762), and Turkey (14,732), according to DAAD data.
