Studieren in Deutschland: Analyse: Internationale Studierende lohnen sich

According to a study conducted by the Institute of German Economy (IW) on behalf of the German Academic Exchange Service (DAAD), international students and researchers in Germany strengthen the country's economy and rapidly repay their costs to the state. The taxes and social contributions paid by these graduates exceed the state benefits they receive, including the costs of their study places, within two years of completing their studies. This finding is based on a microcensus survey of 212 German universities.

International students are defined as those who come to Germany for their studies. The IW report indicates that 45% of an international cohort of first-year students complete their studies and become available to the German labor market as qualified professionals. Consequently, around 34% of them remain in the country until retirement age.

The institute has determined the employment and fiscal effects of international graduates up to retirement and the overall economic value of their careers. For the approximately 82,000 international students with a study intention in 2023, the total economic value created over their working lives is estimated at around 127 billion euros.

This results in a long-term surplus of 23.1 billion euros for public budgets. The author of the study, Wido Geis-Thöne, argues that investing in international students' education is a profitable way to secure a skilled workforce. The more international students are attracted and retained in the country, the greater the economic benefit to Germany.

Therefore, it is essential for the state to secure existing study capacity and create additional study places. DAAD President Joybrato Mukherjee emphasized the significant role international students and researchers play in Germany's economy. To attract more international talent, attractive living and study conditions must be created, along with a welcoming culture that facilitates a smooth transition into studies, society, and the job market.