In view of the increasing number of students opting Germany as the place to pursue their higher education, especially research, the two-day ‘Germany Study and Research Expo' commenced here on Tuesday. Nearly 50 delegates from 18 German universities were part of the expo, which witnessed unimpeded flow of students on the first day. While few enquired about undergraduate colleges, a large number were interested in pursuing their Masters and Doctorate education across varied disciplines.

“Studying undergraduate courses in Germany requires 13 years of schooling as against 12 years in India. Moreover, there are few programmes in English at the UG level,” said Prashasthi of the German Academic Exchange Service (DAAD). “But, there is a great demand for the Masters and Ph.D. programmes as there are numerous choices and opportunities,” she said.

Delegates from the University of Bonn, Goethe Graduate Academy, Frankfurt School of Finance and Management, Max Planck Research School and University of Cologne among others were present at the expo to answer queries about the programme of study, scholarships, opportunities and requirements. Among the numerous programmes offered, Mathematics and Natural Sciences were the most sought after courses by Indians studying in German universities, according to a study conducted by DAAD, the funding agency for students aspiring to study in Germany.

Courses in engineering, law, economics, social and cultural sciences, language and medicine were among the other most sought after courses at the universities. The decision-making process for students at the expo was also made easier with presentations and seminars . A DAAD survey also indicated that the number of Indian students opting to study in the country has increased by a huge 43 per cent in the last three years. The second day of the expo, with seminars by research scholars for registered students will be held at the University of Hyderabad.