Planning Your Study Abroad Journey: What I Learned Along the Way

Europe was my dream to study abroad. I was excited but also overwhelmed. I am a creative person and wanted to pursue my career in the design and art fields. Germany has some amazing creative-focused universities. However, I was a bit confused about the process, where to start from and how to proceed. Deadlines, exams, and eligibility rules made everything confusing. As a student from India, I quickly realised that expert guidance from reliable overseas education consultants in Mumbai can make a huge difference in planning the journey the right way. This blog is my own journey recap of getting into Germany, IELTS, etc., especially if you’re planning to study in Germany or Europe in 2026.

Understanding Germany Intakes and Deadlines for 2026

Germany is a promising country in terms of education and lifestyle, not only that Germany also has affordable tuition fees. However, they are very strict with their policies; for example, if you miss the fee deadlines, then it is going to cost you an entire year. 

Germany Summer and Winter Intake 2026 

The Germany summer intake 2026 deadline is expected to be between December 2025 and January 2026; it also depends on the university and the opted course. Summer intakes typically start in March/ April and must suit the selected programs. 

While the Germany winter intake 2026 deadline is crucial since it offers a wide range of courses, their applications typically close between May and July 2026. It is expected that the classes will start from September/ October. 

One must be aware of all these deadlines; that is why consultants are crucial, since they track these deadlines carefully and ensure documents are submitted on time.

IELTS: Eligibility, Registration, and Centres in India

We all have heard of the IELTS exam as a first step towards our international study journey, and many of us worry about English language tests, especially IELTS. I was no different.

IELTS Exam Eligibility

The good news is that IELTS exam eligibility is simple. There are age bars; anyone who wants to study abroad or work internationally can take the exam. All you need is a valid passport. 

IELTS Test Registration 2026

For IELTS Test Registration 2026, students can complete their registration and select their preferred date and time of the exam. Booking early is important because popular dates fill up fast, especially before major intakes.

IELTS Exam Centres in India

There are several IELTS exam centres in India, major ones are located in Mumbai, Delhi, Pune, Bangalore, Chennai, etc. That is why it is convenient for students across the country to take the test.

Studying in Germany Without IELTS: Is It Possible?

This was my major concern, I didn’t know if I could study in Germany without IELTS or not? My counsellor told me that I could study in Germany without IELTS. Some universities accept:

• Proof of previous education in English

• Medium of Instruction (MOI) certificates

• Alternative English tests

Similarly, several universities in Europe without IELTS have other tests/methods/programs that can prove proficiency in English. This is helpful for those who want to save time and exam stress.

Exploring Creative Universities and Fee Structures

I am a creative person. I have always wanted to complete my degree in design, arts, and creative fields, but in India, there is a very limited scope. Hence, I browsed through the courses in Germany. During my research, I came across the University of Creative Arts Fees, which also depend on the level of the program. One thing that really inspired me to take a course in German Universities is that they offer strong industry exposure, practical learning, and global career opportunities. 

Why Overseas Education Consultants Matter

I took help from overseas education consultants in Mumbai, who helped me to avoid mistakes and plan strategically. I had a clear understanding of each step I needed to take.  They assisted with:

• University shortlisting

• Deadline management

• IELTS guidance or alternatives

• Application and visa support

Final Thoughts

If you are also planning to study in Germany, I would suggest that you take help from Meridean Overseas. They will help you through the whole journey, from tracking the Germany summer intake 2026 deadline and Germany winter intake 2026 deadline to understanding IELTS requirements and university fees. This will save time, cost, and even make you stress-free.