Key Highlights

Germany surpasses 402,000 international students in 2024–25, marking a 6% year-on-year increase and a new national record.
116,600 first-year international students enrolled, the highest intake ever recorded.
India becomes the largest source country with nearly 59,000 students, reflecting a 20% growth from the previous year.
Asia-Pacific leads global enrolments (33%), followed by North Africa & Middle East (19%) and Western Europe (15%).
STEM dominance continues: 43% enrol in Engineering & Natural Sciences; 25% in Economics, Law, and Social Sciences.
Nearly 2,400 English-taught programs are now available.

The world of global higher education is watching as Germany cements its status as a premier destination for students from around the globe. According to the latest data from the German Academic Exchange Service (DAAD), the 2024-25 winter semester has ushered in a monumental milestone with over 402,000 international students and doctoral candidates now enrolled in universities in Germany. It represents an impressive 6% increase over the previous academic year. With this milestone, Germany firmly strengthens its position as the world’s leading non-English speaking destination for international students, accentuating the country’s appeal, academic quality, and growing global footprint in higher education

Surge in First-Year Enrolments

The 2024-25 cycle recorded a new high in first-year intakes. Notably, of these, 116,600 are first-year enrollees, the largest number of new foreign students to begin their German academic journey this year.

India Emerges as #1 Source Country

One of the most striking shifts has been in the origin of Germany’s international students. According to the latest data, India is now the largest source country with nearly 59,000 Indian students enrolled, surpassing China and other traditional markets. The enrolment numbers were up by 20% when compared to the academic year 2023-24. Asia-Pacific overall remains the largest regional contributor with 33% of all foreign enrolments. Additionally, North Africa and the Middle East also contribute significantly, with 19% approximately, followed by Western Europe with 15%, among others.

Academic Diversity with Focus on STEM & Social Sciences

The concentration of international students in particular fields continues to reflect global labour market demands and the appeal of Germany’s strong STEM and Social Sciences traditions. Roughly 43% of all foreign students are enrolled in Engineering and Natural Sciences, while another 25% study Economics, Law, Social Sciences, and related disciplines.

English-Taught Courses on the Rise

Germany is becoming increasingly accessible and attractive to students whose first language isn’t German. As of summer 2025, recognized German Universities offer nearly 2,400 English-language degree programs, including around 420 Bachelor’s and 1,930 Master’s courses. That means about 18% of Master’s Degrees and a growing share of 4% Bachelor's programs are now open in English. For many students, especially from non-German speaking countries, this widens the course options to study in Germany.

Lower Dropout Rate & Stronger Retention

Beyond these numbers, the 2025 report from DAAD also highlights that the dropout rates amongst international students are lower than previously assumed, and in many cases are comparable to those of German students themselves. Part of this success stems from a clearer support structure. The number of German universities with dedicated ‘International Offices’ has surged, and almost all Institutions now offer at least one English-language degree program.

With over 400,000 international students now enrolled and growth accelerating, Germany is now positioned as a stable and welcoming alternative to countries whose international-student policies have become more restrictive. As global competition for students intensifies, Germany’s upward trajectory is a major advantage. For study-abroad recruiters, this German higher education data offers an exceptional opportunity that can reshape students’ futures and define the next era of international education success. Let’s embrace this momentum and help shape futures, careers and lives by collaborating for international student recruitment.

Germany Crosses 400,000 International Student Enrolments: Highest-Ever Numbers

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