Learning German - Motivation

Except international degree programs that are taught in English, German is the language of instruction at all levels at universities/colleges and Studienkollegs. Therefore you are expected to have sufficient German language skills to meet the language requirements of the degree program you plan to attend, if it isn't an international one. This means you must be able to follow and understand a lecture, read and work on an academic text and also write similar texts (all in German). You must also be able to take part in academic discussions and hence sufficient proficiency in spoken German is also necessary. 

Germans expect you to speak in German!

Another very important aspect about living in Germany is that you need to know the language in order to interact with people, unless you heavily depend upon internet (read facebook) for socializing! Even if your coursework and lectures are in English you will need a good level of German for practical reasons. Bear in mind, Germans expect you to speak German!

Better Job Opportunities

Unlike the 'typical west' which we have come to so closely familiarize ourselves with - thanks to Hollywood - English isn't an official language in Germany. Except academic purposes any documents in English must be translated to German in order to gain legal status. Likewise your resume and application letters intended for a job application must be written in German (see jobs section for more details) and so will be the language of the interview. Trust us when we say its not smart to stammer during your interviews. So learn German as much as you can, your can start right right now from your home country (see German language courses in foreign countries).

Financing yourself
Learning German will also help you to find part time jobs during your study periods in Germany should you want to earn some extra cash. Admittedly all part time jobs don't require a good knowledge of German, e.g. if you study at an international degree program and get a student job at your department, but the chances are relatively low

(see part time jobs).

Social Integration
Social integration is a part and parcel of student life. A good command over German language would enable you to communicate better with the local people. Be it at a seminar, party or tour, you will need the language to interact with people around you. Remember the more people you know the easier it will be for you to integrate with the society during your stay in Germany.