Germany boasts a world-class higher education system, renowned for its rigorous academics and affordable tuition, making it a top destination for Indian and international students. Some of the best public universities in Germany include the Technical University of Munich, Ludwig Maximilian University of Munich, Heidelberg University, Humboldt University of Berlin, and the University of Bonn. These institutions attract a diverse student body, over 49,000 Indian students were enrolled in German universities in the 2023-2024 Winter Semester, making them the largest international student group.
While tuition fees are minimal, living costs can range from EUR 700 to EUR 1,200 per month. A blocked account with EUR 11,172 is required for the student visa, and part-time work (up to 20 hours/week) is permitted to help cover expenses, the overall cost of studying includes living expenses such as student accommodation, food, and transportation, which can vary depending on the city and individual lifestyle.
This Blog Includes:
- Why Study at Public Universities in Germany?
- List of Best Public Universities in Germany
- Popular Courses Across Public Universities in Germany
- Scholarships for Public University in Germany
- How to Apply to a Public University in Germany?
- Cost of Studying at a Public University in Germany
- Job Opportunities After Studying at Public University in Germany
- FAQs
Why Study at Public Universities in Germany?
Germany has emerged as a top choice for Indian students seeking a world-class education, and public universities play a significant role in this trend.
- Unlike many other study destinations, most public universities in Germany charge minimal tuition fees. This makes pursuing higher education significantly more affordable for Indian students.
- Over 49,000 Indian students were enrolled in German universities in the 2023-2024 Winter Semester.
- Most public universities charge only a small semester fee, typically ranging from EUR 100 to EUR 350.
- A wide range of programs are available across various disciplines, from engineering and technology to humanities and arts, catering to diverse academic interests.
- Studying in Germany provides access to valuable industry connections and enhances career prospects.
- Studying in Germany provides a unique opportunity to experience a different culture, learn a new language, and gain valuable international exposure.
- International students can stay in Germany for up to 18 months after graduation to seek employment, further enhancing career prospects.
Quick Read: Requirements to Study in Germany
List of Best Public Universities in Germany
Here are some of the best public universities in Germany for Indian and international students, along with their QS World University Rankings 2025 and approximate annual tuition fees:
University Name | QS World University Rankings 2025 | Average Annual Tuition Fees (approx.) |
Technical University of Munich (TUM) | 28 | EUR 4,000 – EUR 6,000 (INR 3.5L – 5L) |
Ludwig Maximilian University of Munich (LMU) | 59 | EUR 747 (INR 66.5K) |
Heidelberg University | 84 | EUR 300 (INR 27K) |
Free University of Berlin | 97 | EUR 300 (INR 27K) |
RWTH Aachen University | 99 | EUR 608 (INR 54K) |
Humboldt University of Berlin | 126 | EUR 630 (INR 56K) |
Karlsruhe Institute of Technology (KIT) | 102nd | EUR 300 – EUR 600 (INR 27K – 54K) |
University of Bonn | 227th | EUR 300 (INR 27K) |
University of Freiburg | 212th | EUR 300 (INR 27K) |
Technical University of Berlin | 147th | EUR 300 (INR 27K) |
University of Göttingen | #=252 | EUR 300 – EUR 700 (INR 27K – 63K) |
University of Würzburg | #=428 | EUR 300 (INR 27K) |
University of Tübingen | #=222 | EUR 300 (INR 27K) |
University of Marburg | 801-850 | EUR 300 (INR 27K) |
University of Hamburg | #191 | EUR 300 (INR 27K) |
University of Cologne | 285th | EUR 300 (INR 27K) |
Check Out: Masters Courses in Germany
Popular Courses Across Public Universities in Germany
Here’s the table of popular courses for Indian and international students at public universities in Germany:
Category | Popular Courses | Specializations/Focus Areas |
Engineering | Mechanical Engineering | automotive, aerospace, and robotics |
Electrical Engineering | power systems, electronics, and telecommunications | |
Computer Science and Information Technology | software engineering, data science, artificial intelligence, and cybersecurity | |
Civil Engineering | infrastructure development, construction, and environmental engineering | |
Chemical Engineering | process engineering, biotechnology, and materials science | |
Business and Management | Business Administration | finance, marketing, human resources, and international business |
International Business | global business operations, trade, and intercultural management | |
Management Information Systems (MIS) | use of information systems in organizations | |
Natural Sciences | Physics | Theoretical and experimental physics, with research opportunities in fields like quantum mechanics and astrophysics |
Chemistry | organic, inorganic, physical, and analytical chemistry | |
Biology | biotechnology, bioinformatics, and environmental biology | |
Mathematics | Pure and applied mathematics, with opportunities for research in areas like statistics and computer science | |
Humanities and Social Sciences | History | Exploring various historical periods and cultures |
Philosophy | Investigating fundamental questions about existence, knowledge, and values | |
Literature | Studying various literary genres and authors from around the world | |
Political Science | Analyzing political systems, international relations, and political theory | |
Sociology | Studying human societies and social behavior | |
Medicine and Healthcare | Medicine | A highly competitive field with rigorous training programs |
Dentistry | Offering a range of specializations within the field of dentistry | |
Public Health | Focusing on improving public health outcomes and preventing disease |
Take a look at Top Universities in Munich!
Scholarships for Public University in Germany
Here are some prominent scholarships for Indian and international students to study at public universities in Germany:
Scholarship Name | Coverage | Eligibility |
DAAD Scholarships | Monthly stipend, travel allowance, health insurance | Varies by program, generally open to undergraduate, graduate, and doctoral students |
Erasmus+ Program | Tuition fees, travel, visa, and living expenses | Students enrolled in participating universities |
Heinrich Böll Foundation Scholarships | Monthly stipend, travel allowance, health insurance | Students committed to environmental protection and social justice |
Konrad-Adenauer-Stiftung Scholarships | Monthly stipend, travel allowance, health insurance | Students with strong academic records and interest in political and social engagement |
Bayer Foundation Scholarships | Varies depending on the program | Students in natural sciences, medicine, and related fields |
University-Specific Scholarships | Varies by university and program | High-achieving international students |
Quick Read: Top Universities in Berlin
How to Apply to a Public University in Germany?
Here’s a step-by-step guide on how to apply to a public university in Germany as an Indian student:
- Explore the German higher education system and identify universities and programs that align with your academic and career goals.
- Most programs have specific academic requirements (e.g., minimum grades, and relevant coursework).
- If the program is taught in German, you’ll need to demonstrate proficiency through exams like the TestDaF or DSH. If it’s in English, you’ll need to provide proof of English proficiency (e.g., IELTS, TOEFL).
- Prepare Application Documents including Academic Transcripts, Diploma/Degrees, Proof of Language Proficiency, SOP, LOR, CV/Resume, etc.
- Be mindful of application deadlines and submit your application well in advance.
- Pay the required application fees to uni-assist or the university.
- Monitor the status of your application through the online portals or by contacting the university directly.
- If accepted, you will receive an official letter of admission from the university.
- Follow the university’s instructions for enrollment and confirm your place in the program.
- Obtain your student visa and arrange for accommodation in Germany (student dorms, private rentals, etc.).
Required Documents
Here’s a breakdown of the essential documents for Applying to Public Universities in Germany for Indian Students:
- Certified Copies of Academic Transcripts
- Degree Equivalence Certificate
- Proof of Language Proficiency
- If the program is taught in German: TestDaF or DSH certificates.
- If the program is taught in English: IELTS, TOEFL, or other accepted English proficiency tests.
- Letter of Motivation/Statement of Purpose
- Letters of Recommendation
- Curriculum Vitae/Resume
- Passport
- Passport-sized Photographs
- Application Form
- Payment receipt for the application fee (if applicable)
Recommended Read: Universities in Hamburg
Cost of Studying at a Public University in Germany
Studying at public universities in Germany is quite affordable, especially compared to private universities or studying in countries like the US or UK. Here’s a breakdown of the costs for Indian students:
Expense | Cost |
Tuition Fees | EUR 100 – EUR 350 per semester (approximately INR 8,800 – INR 31,000) |
Living Expenses (Monthly) | EUR 700 – EUR 900 (Budget-conscious) |
Living Expenses (Monthly) | EUR 900 – EUR 1,200 (Comfortable living) |
Blocked Account (for Visa) | EUR 11,172 (approximately INR 9.75 lakh) for one year |
Job Opportunities After Studying at Public University in Germany
Germany offers excellent job prospects for international graduates. Here are some popular career paths and potential employers:
Job Sector | Top Companies Name | Average Annual Salary (approx. INR) |
Engineering | BMW, Audi, Volkswagen, Porsche, Daimler, Siemens, Bosch, ThyssenKrupp, Infineon, SAP, Airbus, MTU Aero Engines | INR 35-53 lakhs (entry-level), INR 53-88 lakhs+ (experienced) |
Information Technology | SAP, SAP Concur, Software AG, Oracle, Google, Amazon, Bosch, Siemens | INR 35-53 lakhs (entry-level), INR 53-88 lakhs+ (experienced) |
Business & Finance | McKinsey & Company, Boston Consulting Group, Deloitte, Deutsche Bank, Commerzbank, Allianz | INR 35-53 lakhs (entry-level), INR 53-88 lakhs+ (experienced) |
Research & Development | Bayer, Boehringer Ingelheim, BioNTech, CureVac, Universities, Research Institutions | INR 35-53 lakhs (entry-level), INR 53-88 lakhs+ (experienced) |
Others | Siemens Gamesa Renewable Energy, Vestas, Hospitals, Pharmaceutical Companies | INR 35-53 lakhs (entry-level), INR 53-88 lakhs+ (experienced) |
Also Read: Free Universities in Germany!
FAQs
Public universities in Germany offer tuition-free education, not just for German or EU citizens but also for international students. You can apply even if you’ve never been to Germany or don’t speak German.
As compared to other universities, Germany is quite affordable and the average cost of living ranges from INR 60,000 per month.
Being the technology hub, Germany is among the top destinations for students who wish to study abroad.
Yes, studying in Germany with a budget of 10 lakhs (Indian Rupees) is generally possible. Public universities have low tuition fees, and living expenses can be managed with careful budgeting. Scholarships and part-time work opportunities can further reduce costs.
Yes, 12th-grade marks are considered in Germany, but they are not the sole deciding factor. Your overall academic record, language proficiency, and a strong motivation letter are equally important.
To study in Germany, candidates must meet specific eligibility criteria. They should be at least 18 years old and have secured a minimum of 90% in the relevant subjects in their Class 12 board exams. Additionally, standardized test scores such as SAT or ACT may be required, with score ranges typically falling between 400 and 1600. However, the exact minimum score varies depending on the course and university.
Related Articles
We hope that this blog was able to provide you with all the information regarding “Public Universities in Germany”. Lastly, for more such content on universities to study abroad, stay tuned to Leverage Edu. Thank you for reading!
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I m interested in sending my son to Germany for graduation.
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Hi Pratibha!
Please get in touch with our experts at 1800572000 to find out the best course of action! All the best for your future endeavours.
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I am an Electronic and Telecommunication Engineering student so is there any course or program I can study into
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Hi, Pooja!
You can read: Electrical and Electronics Engineering
Electronics and Communication Engineering
Give us a call at 1800 57 2000 for study-abroad related matters and expert guidance for application process!
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11 comments
I m interested in sending my son to Germany for graduation.
Hi Pratibha!
Please get in touch with our experts at 1800572000 to find out the best course of action! All the best for your future endeavours.
I am an Electronic and Telecommunication Engineering student so is there any course or program I can study into
Hi, Pooja!
You can read: Electrical and Electronics Engineering
Electronics and Communication Engineering
Give us a call at 1800 57 2000 for study-abroad related matters and expert guidance for application process!
My son wants to pursue aeronotical engineering and i think Germany would be the best place for him. Any public universities offering aerontical engineering courses and teaching in english?
Hi Jimson! We have heard you and hereby providing you some links for your further help:
Aerospace Engineering in Germany
Aerospace Engineering Courses
Diploma in Aeronautical Engineering
We’ve found as a parent you are keen interested in sending your child abroad. You are on the right platform!
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Hi i m interested in sending my son to Germany for MA economics. I need public govt college
Hi please get in touch with our study abroad experts at 1800 57 2000 they will surely assist you
Hie
I’m sneha I’m studying bsc life science
I need to know this course related jobs and
Scholarship in msc in Germany
Here is the list of careers option after BSc life sciences.
Researcher, Professor, Conservation Scientist, Epidemiologist, Pathologist, Agronomist, Palaeontology, Biomedical Engineer, Horticulturist, Food Scientist, Nutritionist, Immunologist, Biophysicist, etc.
I’m looking for good public universities.