Not erratic or volatile: Germany invites Indian students

In a clear contrast to the US’s tightening visa policies, Germany has extended a warm invitation to Indian students, reaffirming its position as a steady and welcoming destination for higher education.

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Speaking in New Delhi, German Ambassador to India Dr Philipp Ackermann said there are already 50,000 Indian students in Germany, and the country is keen to welcome more.

“Germany is very eager and happy to receive Indian students. We’ve been a reliable and steady partner—not erratic or volatile,” he said. “We don’t check your social media before you come.”

The remarks come in the wake of the Trump administration’s proposed plans for stricter visa scrutiny, including mandatory social media checks on platforms such as Facebook, X, LinkedIn and TikTok.

Highlighting Germany’s strengths, Ackermann pointed to opportunities in STEM fields, streamlined visa procedures and the country’s generous post-study stay rules. Graduates can remain in Germany for up to 18 months while seeking employment, and residence permits are easily extendable upon finding a job.

“Most of our state-run universities don’t charge tuition fees. When they do, it’s nominal — education is a public good, not a business,” the Ambassador stressed.

He also warned students against using commercial agents. “Apply directly through university websites. You don’t need intermediaries,” he added.

Katja Lasch, Director of the DAAD Regional Office in New Delhi, noted that applications from India have surged by over 30 per cent in recent months. “Germany offers 2,300 programmes in English across 425 universities, including 305 public institutions. It is among the top five destinations for Indian students,” she said.