There are no tuition costs at most public universities.
Part-time job opportunities while studying.
18-month post-study employment visa.
A robust research and academic infrastructure.
Lower living costs than other top countries.
Top Universities to Study in Germany
Germany has public universities that rank among the best in the world. They focus on academic depth, research, and career outcomes.
University of Göttingen
Humboldt University of Berlin
University of Freiburg
RWTH Aachen
Heidelberg University
LMU Munich
Technical University of Munich (TUM)
Popular Courses and Fields of Study in Germany
Engineering is the most common choice for international students in Germany, but there are other options too. A lot depends on your background and what you want to do after graduation.
Business
Engineering
Medicine
Astronomy
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BSc International Business – WHU – Otto Beisheim School of Management
BSc Mechanical Engineering – RWTH Aachen University
Staatsexamen Human Medicine – Heidelberg University
MSc Astrophysics – University of Heidelberg
BSc Computer Science – Technical University of Munich
BSc Business Administration – University of Mannheim
BSc Electrical Engineering – Karlsruhe Institute of Technology
Staatsexamen Human Medicine – Charité – Universitätsmedizin Berlin
MSc Astronomy – LMU Munich
BEng Mechanical Engineering – RWTH Aachen University
BSc Business & Economics – LMU Munich
BSc Civil Engineering – Technical University of Munich
Staatsexamen Human Medicine – LMU Munich
MSc Physics with Astronomy – University of Bonn
BBA Business Administration – University of Mannheim
BSc Management – Frankfurt School of Finance & Management
BSc Automotive Engineering – TU Berlin
Staatsexamen Human Medicine – University of Freiburg
MSc Astrophysics – University of Göttingen
MBBS (Staatsexamen Medicine) – Heidelberg University
BSc Business Informatics – Technical University of Munich
BSc Aerospace Engineering – University of Stuttgart
Staatsexamen Human Medicine – University of Hamburg
MSc Astronomy and Astrophysics – University of Cologne
BSc Electrical Engineering – Karlsruhe Institute of Technology
BSc Global Management – ESMT Berlin
BSc Industrial Engineering – TU Darmstadt
Staatsexamen Human Medicine – RWTH Aachen University
MSc Physics – Technical University of Munich (with astrophysics modules)
BSc Data Science – University of Potsdam
BSc International Management – EBS Business School
Tuition Fees and Cost of Living in Germany
Tuition Fees
Public universities in Germany generally do not charge tuition fees for international students, except for a small semester fee of €100–€300.
Living Expenses
Monthly living costs average around €934, covering rent, food, transport, and personal expenses.
Budgeting Tips
Choose student dormitories and get a semester ticket for unlimited public transport access, which is often included in university fees.
Scholarships and Financial Aid for International Students in Germany
If you wish to study in Germany, there are several scholarships available to help you pay for it. Some are provided by the government, while others come from colleges or private organizations.
DAAD Scholarships
Monthly stipend, travel, insurance; supports international postgraduates, PhDs, postdocs in various disciplines.
Heinrich Boll Foundation Scholarships
€812–€1,350 monthly; supports undergrad, grad, PhDs; includes book, research, family allowances.
Erasmus+
Covers tuition, €292–€900 monthly stipend, travel support for exchange students in Germany.
Konrad-Adenauer-Stiftung Scholarships
Monthly stipend, mentoring, family support for master’s, postgraduates, and PhDs in Germany.
Deutschlandstipendium
€300/month for high-achieving students; public-private funded; merit and social engagement based.
Visa Requirements and Stay Back Options in Germany
As an international student, your very first move should be to apply for the necessary visa you need to get in Germany and also understand the stay-back restrictions.
Get an admission letter from a recognized German university.
Apply for a student visa (Visum zu Studienzwecken).
Show proof of funds through a blocked account or sponsor.
Work part-time during your course (up to 120 full or 240 half days per year).
Stay back for up to 18 months after graduation to find a job related to your field.
How to Apply for Higher Studies in Germany?
If you’re wondering how to apply for higher studies in Germany, it mostly comes down to getting your documents in order and starting early. Here’s how most international students do it:
What are the basic requirements to study in Germany?
You will have your paperwork like academic credentials, a valid passport, proof of language competency (English or German), SOP, and enough money to finance your stay.
Can I study in Germany without an IELTS score?
Yes, some colleges accept alternative scores like TOEFL. You need to check with the university directly.
How much study gap is accepted for studying in Germany?
It is generally two years. But you need to be able to explain the study gap with work experience, internships, or other legitimate reasons. Every university has a different policy.