Why study in Germany

If you're thinking about studying in Germany, you're in for a treat. There are plenty of options, from top-notch technical universities to lively cultural spots that make for a great experience. The education system puts a strong emphasis on research and has high standards, plus lectures and seminars follow a more traditional setup, which means you'll need to be ready to compete a bit during the application process.

Germany boasts over 400 higher education institutions, with many making their mark in the World University Rankings. German universities have been well-respected in Europe for a long time, dating back to 1386 when the first one opened in Heidelberg. Today, they’re just as committed to quality education, spending about $14,200 per student each year, which is higher than the OECD average of $11,800.

Why do international students choose to study in Germany?

1. Free higher education for international students

In Germany, many public universities don't charge tuition for students, no matter where they come from. That's why a lot of international students choose to study there. But getting accepted can be tough since there's a limited number of spots, and you usually need to know some German. Private universities do have programs taught in English, which are easier to get into, but they can be pricey.

2. Different types of study programs for various fields

Higher education in Germany is set up around different fields and the goals of each degree. This helps students have clear career paths thanks to focused training and chances to grow professionally.

3. Great place to study if you like Tech, Engineering, Arts, or Humanities

German universities are well-known for their strong programs in Engineering and Technology. The country has a solid industrial base and good connections between schools and businesses, making for top-notch programs that tech lovers appreciate.

At the same time, if you're into philosophy, literature, or history, German universities have a lot to offer too. Think of big names like Kant, Hegel, Nietzsche, and Heidegger, who have all made a real impact in those fields.

What are the best universities in Germany 

Germany is home to 59 universities that rank highly in global education rankings, thanks to their solid academic standards and research focus. Here are the top five universities you should know about:

• Technical University of Munich: This school excels in engineering and technology, with a strong emphasis on collaboration and research across different fields. It’s consistently ranked among the best in Germany and Europe.
• Ludwig-Maximilians-University (LMU) Munich: One of the oldest universities in Germany, LMU has a great reputation in various research areas, including humanities, social sciences, and natural sciences. It’s situated in Munich, a city known for its rich culture and quality living.
• Heidelberg University: Nestled in the historic town of Heidelberg, this university boasts a long tradition of academic achievement and research. It’s well-known for its work in medicine, natural sciences, and humanities.
• Charité - Universitätsmedizin Berlin: This prestigious medical school is one of the largest in Europe, focusing heavily on research and innovation in healthcare, all while being located in the lively city of Berlin.
• Humboldt University Berlin: Established in 1810, this university has a solid track record in academia and research. It’s recognized for its strengths in humanities, social sciences, and natural sciences, also situated in central Berlin.

Tuition Fees in Germany

Tuition fees in Germany vary based on whether you attend a public or private university and what level of study you're pursuing—be it undergraduate, master's, or doctorate.

• For undergrad students at public universities, there are no tuition fees for anyone, including international students. You only need to pay a small admin fee of about 265 EUR each year.
• Things change a bit for master’s programs. They are free only if you earned your bachelor’s in Germany and are studying in the same field. PhDs are usually free as well.
• The Baden-Wurttemberg region, which covers places like Freiburg and Stuttgart, is the exception. In this area, students from outside the EU have to pay tuition fees. But some universities, like the University of Stuttgart, might let you apply for a fee waiver if you hit tough times or refund you if your financial situation changes after you've already paid.
• On the other hand, private universities charge tuition fees that can really add up—often tens of thousands of euros every year. Expect to pay between 10,000 and 15,000 EUR a year for a bachelor's and around 10,000 to 20,000 EUR for a master's. Some schools, like Bard University in Berlin, can go as high as 50,000 to 60,000 EUR.

Financial Aid and Scholarships in Germany

Germany offers different types of financial aid and scholarships, and picking the right one for you involves considering a few things: your eligibility, the requirements, and the support they provide, how easy or hard it is to apply, and how competitive the awards are.

Here are the main types of scholarships in Germany:

• DAAD Scholarships: The German Academic Exchange Service gives a variety of scholarships for international students and researchers looking to study or do research in Germany.
• Deutschlandstipendium: This is a merit-based scholarship for talented students enrolled in German degree programs that provides financial help.
• Erasmus+ Scholarships: This program offers scholarships to students from EU countries to study or do research abroad, including in Germany.
• StipendiumPlus: Funded by the Federal Ministry of Education and Research, this scholarship supports talented students who are facing social or personal challenges.
• Foundations and organizations: Many private foundations and groups in Germany give scholarships based on academic performance, financial need, or other factors.

Looking for scholarships in Germany? Take a look at our scholarship search page!