Germany continues to establish itself as a major destination for international students.
According to the latest OECD “Education at a Glance” report, the country is now the fourth most popular study destination worldwide, trailing only the United States, the United Kingdom, and Australia.
Among non-English-speaking countries, Germany ranks first.
The share of international students has grown significantly: from 7.1% in 2013 to 12.7% in 2023, well above the OECD average of 7.4%.
More recent data from the Federal Statistical Office confirm that the trend is accelerating.
In the winter semester of 2024/25, 492,600 foreign students were enrolled in German universities, representing about 17% of the total 2.87 million students.
Diverse student body with strong Asian representation
The OECD report highlights that 44% of foreign students in Germany come from Asia, while 31% arrive from other European countries.
This cultural and academic diversity is increasingly seen as a strategic advantage, enriching both university communities and the labor market.
Strategic importance for innovation and the economy
International students who remain in Germany after graduation are considered a valuable resource for the country’s economy and innovation landscape.
The report underscores that integrating foreign graduates into the workforce can help address skills shortages and foster long-term growth.
Germany leads in STEM education
Another standout finding from the OECD study is Germany’s strong focus on STEM (Mathematics, Computer Science, Natural Sciences, Engineering) programs.
Around 35% of bachelor’s graduates in Germany hold a degree in a STEM subject—the highest proportion among the 38 OECD countries, where the average is 23%.
Federal Research Minister Dorothee Bär (CSU) emphasized this achievement during the report’s presentation in Berlin, calling Germany a “world champion in STEM education”.
The high proportion of technical and scientific graduates not only enhances the country’s academic reputation but also strengthens its role in global competitiveness.
Conclusion
With nearly half a million foreign students and a strong STEM focus, Germany has positioned itself as both an academic magnet and an innovation driver.
The OECD findings confirm the country’s growing influence in the global education landscape—and its importance as a bridge between research, industry, and international talent.
