In the academic year of 2024, Germany witnessed a significant increase in the number of international first-year students. According to the Federal Statistical Office in Wiesbaden, 145,100 students from abroad enrolled for the first time, marking a ten percent rise from the previous year. This growth contributed to a total of 491,400 new enrollments across the country, a two percent increase overall.
The surge in international students has notably increased their share to 30 percent, up from 22 percent a decade ago. This trend is driven by a demographic decline in German students, whose numbers have decreased by 13 percent since 2014. In contrast, international enrollments have surged by 33 percent over the same period.
Fields such as engineering, mathematics, and human medicine have seen above-average enrollment increases, reflecting strong interest among international students. On the other hand, fields like law, economics, and social sciences have experienced less pronounced growth.
The continued rise in international student numbers highlights Germany's appeal as an educational destination and its ability to attract diverse talent from around the globe. The data further underscores a shift in educational dynamics, with foreign students playing a crucial role in sustaining and enriching Germany's academic landscape.
