studieren

Studieren is a German verb meaning to study, typically in the sense of pursuing higher education or studying a subject at a university or college. It is used with a subject, as in "Ich studiere Biologie," or with a place, as in "Ich studiere an der Universität Heidelberg." The noun forms include "das Studium" (the course of study or degree program) and "das Studieren" (the act of studying).

Usage and nuance: Studieren usually implies enrollment in a formal, longer-term program at a higher education institution, whereas "lernen" covers general learning, practice, or informal study. Common phrases include "ein Studium aufnehmen" (to begin a degree program), "das Studium abschließen" (to complete a degree), and "eine Prüfung ablegen" (to take an exam).

Context: In German-speaking countries, higher education typically leads to degrees such as Bachelor and Master under the Bologna Process; some programs still use traditional degrees like Diplom or Staatsexamen. Admission often requires a Hochschulzugangsberechtigung and enrollment ("Immatrikulation"). Public universities in Germany generally charge little or no tuition, with costs covered by a semester contribution; financial aid such as BAföG may be available.

Grammar and forms: The verb is regular in its conjugation: ich studiere, du studierst, er studiert; past tense "studierte"; past participle "studiert." The gerundive "das Studieren" or the noun "das Studium" are used to refer to the act or the field of study respectively.