American Students Headed to Germany

The U.S. is not only considered a superpower but also the leading nation among developed countries with advanced technology, industry, economy, and military strength.

Aside from these, America is also considered to possess “soft power” – the ability to attract or persuade others in the fields of economics and culture. This concept, which is considered by some political scientists to be a feature of the U.S. Education, is one significant factor that comprises the U.S.’s soft power, causing international students to choose to study in their prestigious universities like Ivy League schools and other educational institutions.

Despite the advanced environment for higher education, many students face difficulties with high tuition fees. According to a report by the Organization for Economic Cooperation and Development (OECD), the United States ranks the highest in terms of education cost. Students resort to student loans because of the high tuition that they have to pay to get their degrees for their careers. Consequently, American students are buried in debt even before they advance into society.

The heavy financial burden has become a serious concern for many American students. This has increased the number of students who cross the Atlantic Ocean to study in Europe.

Germany is especially becoming a popular destination for American students. According to reports, about 10,000 American students are studying in German universities. In the past three decades, tuition fees in the U.S. have increased five times. This mainly contributed to the surge of American students in Germany.

The biggest advantage of students from other countries studying in German universities is free tuition. Studying in Germany is ideal because it does not cost much. Students can concentrate on their studies without feeling much pressure to get part-time jobs.

Various classes in German universities are taught in English, making it favorable to foreign students. The purpose of this government policy is to lure more students and to produce more highly educated manpower for the society. Hence, German universities invest more in globalization and international competitiveness.

High tuition fee is currently one of the most serious concerns for the American society and its young talents, making it among the hottest issues of the upcoming U.S. presidential election. Under such circumstance, the number of students who consider studying in Germany may continue to increase.