Saarland University - Through my Lens!

1. Universität des Saarlandes, Germany I applied to Universität des Saarlandes for two courses as it was possible and mentioned in the portal. For Data Science and AI, I was rejected as my CV and cover letter suggested strong interest in Cyber Security while I was accepted for Cyber Security. I received a letter of confirmation within two months of application for Cyber Security while the rejection for the other course I applied to came way earlier. 2. University of Warwick, UK My first motivation letter was generic and lacked the required standard and relied on my academic background to get admissions but this was the first University which pointed this out. They gave me a second chance for a video SOP (Statement of Purpose). Initial Motivation letter - Rejected Video SOP - Accepted 3. Coventry University, UK MSC Computer Science I received a conditional offer requiring me obtain student visa pay, pay the second installment of fees once I receive the visa and to produce the official transcripts as the final step. 4. Deakin University, Australia Master of Cyber Security (Professional)          Accepted within 1-2 weeks Unconditional offer letter 5. Royal Holloway, University of London, UK MSc Information Security with a Year in Industry Unconditional offer letter within 1-2 weeks 6. Queensland University of Technology (QUT), Australia Master of Information Technology Unconditional offer letter within 1-2 weeks 7. Griffith University, Australia Conditional offer for Master of Cyber Security The next step was to pass the GTE interview, provide attested copy of UG degree, accept the offer and make the initial tuition fee payment to the University at the earliest. There were around 10+ universities from the UK and Australia that I got accepted from and I got them with purely based on my academic skills where my motivation letter wasn't the prime focus. And only 1-2 universities in the UK from where I got rejections like Oxford University where there were mismatches of subjects or required much more Mathematics background. The two main reason for choosing Universität des Saarlandes were that MSc Cyber Security was an English taught program and there was no application fees.  Most Universities in the UK and Australia had high tuition fees which I wasn't willing to pay when I had above average grades which is why I never proceeded with those offer letters. The admission process involved submitting our academic details like marks secured or expected marked in case the results weren't out at the time of application. It also involved submitting letters of Reference/Recommendation, a motivation letter as well as transcripts. Some Universities required certificates for extra-curricular activities as well as internships that support your academic background and skills. The better the University would be the harder they scrutinize the submitted documents. I tried to be as honest as possible with my academic background which is why most of the Universities were quick to offer me an offer letter. All of the Universities had a requirement for IELTS with a score of not less than 7 and no individual score less than 6. Although there were minor variations in the requirements where some required only 6.5 in total. There are basically two intakes in University des Saarlandes - the summer and the winter intake. The summer intake is in April which is the one I applied to and winter intake is in October. The application process starts more than 5 months in advance and closes very quickly. I applied by November mid and got the response by December end for the Summer semester....Read More

Initially, I wanted to go to the US. But my GRE score was only 306. Also, the US was way too expensive and we didn't have so much money. When we consulted MS in Germany, they said that education in Germany was free of charge and that based on my profile, I could get into a top university. So I chose to pursue education here. Saarland University was my high-shot option. The university's QS rankings were extremely good and the computer science department was top-notch . I applied for embedded systems since I chose ECE in my bachelors. I also preferred Saarland as it was smaller than big cities like Munich, which were also very expensive. I had talked to a few seniors and since they mentioned that it is easy to get a hiwi job here as there are many research organisations, I decided to come here. My overall experience was phenomenal. I got a housing at the student housing and I pay 250/280 euros per month as rent . Hochschulsport offers many sports courses for free and with payment. There are many big libraries with a lot of space to study....Read More

In terms of infrastructure and facilities, the universities I have worked so far are world class having state of art equipments, vibrant campus life and best accommodation facilities. Having a chance to get interact with European culture with many European colleagues has helped me to build and develop a better character and adoptability....Read More

My overall experience at my university was overwhelmingly positive. The international program provided me with a unique opportunity to immerse myself in different cultures and perspectives, fostering a sense of global citizenship. The research opportunities I was given allowed me to apply my theoretical knowledge to real-world problems, enhancing my critical thinking and problem-solving skills. The approachable and knowledgeable faculty members were always available to provide guidance and support, ensuring my academic success. The vibrant social scene and diverse student cohort offered a plethora of events and activities to unwind and connect with like-minded individuals. And having a central location in Western Europe provided me with the chance to travel extensively at relatively low cost, broadening my horizons and enriching my cultural understanding....Read More

I choose Germany over any other country because, firstly, I learned the language as part of my extracurricular course in my graduation degree, and secondly, because of free education in public universities. Germany is widely known for its scientific advancements and even better career options in the research and development department, which was another reason for me to pursue my master's from here. Saarland is the warmest part of the country, so winters are not harsh here. The surroundings are clean and nice. As for full-time career options, I wouldn't recommend this place; Frankfurt and Berlin are better options, as a lot of the facilities are available in those big cities. While studying, one can find a job on HiWis or work in the city....Read More

Germany, as it has no tuition fees and the possibility of working part-time to support during studies. The computer science program is top-ranked. There are plenty of research institutes on campus. Saarbrücken is a cheaper city. Closer to Luxembourg and France. The studies are a bit intensive. It leans towards research a bit more; however, some of the best courses are by leading professors....Read More