Germany offers affordable higher education with many public universities charging low tuition fees, often around EUR 150-EUR 300 per semester. This, combined with a relatively low cost of living compared to other Western European countries (around EUR 700-EUR 1,100 per month depending on the city), makes studying in Germany an attractive option for international students. Some of the most affordable and renowned universities include the Technical University of Munich, Ludwig Maximilian University of Munich, Humboldt University of Berlin, and the University of Heidelberg.
Total Public Universities | 400+ |
Total Private Universities | 100+ |
Average Living Cost | EURO 934 per month |
Average Tuition Fee | EURO 350 to EURO 30,000 |
International Students in Germany | 4,50,000+ |
This Blog Includes:
Top 10 Cheapest Universities in Germany
Germany offers a haven for international students seeking quality education at an affordable cost. Many public universities charge minimal tuition fees, making them highly attractive options. Here are 10 of the cheapest universities in Germany, along with their distinctive features and academic strengths:
University Name | QS World Ranking 2025 | Top Specializations | Average Tuition Fees per Semester (EUR) |
Technical University of Munich (TUM) | 28 | Engineering, Computer Science, Mathematics | 150-300 |
Ludwig Maximilian University of Munich (LMU) | 59 | Medicine, Law, Humanities | 150-300 |
University of Heidelberg | 84 | Medicine, Law, Humanities | 150-300 |
Humboldt University of Berlin | 126 | Humanities, Social Sciences, Law | 300 |
Technical University of Berlin (TU Berlin) | 147 | Engineering, Computer Science, Architecture | 300 |
University of Göttingen | 252 | Medicine, Natural Sciences, Humanities | 300 |
University of Cologne | 285 | Medicine, Law, Economics | 300 |
University of Stuttgart | 314 | Engineering, Natural Sciences, Architecture | 150-300 |
University of Bremen | 592 | Marine Sciences, Computer Science, Social Sciences | 300 |
Free University of Berlin | 97 | Humanities, Social Sciences, Law | 300 |
Technical University of Munich (TUM)
A global leader in engineering and technology, TUM boasts cutting-edge research facilities and a strong emphasis on innovation. Its programs in fields like mechanical engineering, electrical engineering, and computer science are highly regarded worldwide.
QS World Ranking 2025 | #28 |
Top Specializations | Engineering, Computer Science, Mathematics |
Average Tuition Fees Per Semester | EUR 150 – EUR 300 |
Estimated Cost of Living (per month) | EUR 850 – EUR 1,100 (Munich) |
Ludwig Maximilian University of Munich (LMU)
A prestigious institution with a rich history, LMU offers a wide range of programs in humanities, social sciences, and natural sciences. Its renowned medical faculty and law school attract students from around the globe.
QS World Ranking 2025 | 59th |
Top Specializations | Medicine, Law, Humanities |
Average Tuition Fees Per Semester | EUR 150 – EUR 300 |
Estimated Cost of Living (per month) | EUR 850 – EUR 1,100 (Munich) |
University of Heidelberg
One of the oldest universities in Germany, Heidelberg University is known for its excellent research in medicine, humanities, and social sciences. Its picturesque campus and vibrant student life make it a popular choice for international students.
QS World Ranking 2025 | 84 |
Top Specializations | Medicine, Law, Humanities |
Average Tuition Fees Per Semester | EUR 150 – EUR 300 |
Estimated Cost of Living (per month) | EUR 800 – EUR 1,050 (Heidelberg) |
Humboldt University of Berlin
A leading university in the humanities and social sciences, Humboldt University emphasizes interdisciplinary research and critical thinking. Its renowned faculty and strong international connections provide students with a unique learning experience.
QS World Ranking 2025 | #=126 |
Top Specializations | Humanities, Social Sciences, Law |
Average Tuition Fees Per Semester | EUR 300 |
Estimated Cost of Living (per month) | EUR 750 – EUR 1,000 (Berlin) |
Technical University of Berlin (TU Berlin)
A powerhouse in engineering and technology, TU Berlin offers a wide range of programs in fields like civil engineering, electrical engineering, and computer science. Its close ties with industry provide students with valuable career opportunities.
QS World Ranking 2025 | #147 |
Top Specializations | Engineering, Computer Science, Architecture |
Average Tuition Fees Per Semester | EUR 300 |
Estimated Cost of Living (per month) | EUR 750 – EUR 1,000 (Berlin) |
University of Göttingen
A renowned research university with a strong focus on natural sciences and medicine, the University of Göttingen offers cutting-edge programs in fields like biology, physics, and medicine. Its vibrant research culture attracts students and scholars from around the world.
QS World Ranking 2025 | #=252 |
Top Specializations | Medicine, Natural Sciences, Humanities |
Average Tuition Fees Per Semester | EUR 300 |
Estimated Cost of Living (per month) | EUR 700 – EUR 900 (Göttingen) |
University of Cologne
A comprehensive university with a diverse range of programs in humanities, social sciences, and natural sciences, the University of Cologne is known for its strong research in fields like medicine, law, and economics. Its modern campus and central location make it a popular choice for students.
QS World Ranking 2025 | #=285 |
Top Specializations | Medicine, Law, Economics |
Average Tuition Fees Per Semester | EUR 300 |
Estimated Cost of Living (per month) | EUR 700 – EUR 950 (Cologne) |
University of Stuttgart
A leading university in engineering and natural sciences, the University of Stuttgart offers a wide range of programs in fields like automotive engineering, aerospace engineering, and architecture. Its close ties with industry provide students with valuable practical experience.
QS World Ranking 2025 | 314th |
Top Specializations | Engineering, Natural Sciences, Architecture |
Average Tuition Fees Per Semester | EUR 150 – EUR 300 |
Estimated Cost of Living (per month) | EUR 800 – EUR 1,050 (Stuttgart) |
University of Bremen
A modern university with a focus on interdisciplinary research, the University of Bremen offers a wide range of programs in fields like marine sciences, computer science, and social sciences. Its unique location on the North Sea coast provides students with a unique learning environment.
QS World Ranking 2025 | #=592 |
Top Specializations | Marine Sciences, Computer Science, Social Sciences |
Average Tuition Fees Per Semester | EUR 300 |
Estimated Cost of Living (per month) | EUR 700 – EUR 900 (Bremen) |
Free University of Berlin
A leading university in the humanities and social sciences, the Free University of Berlin offers a wide range of programs in fields like law, economics, and political science. Its commitment to academic freedom and critical thinking attracts students from around the world.
QS World Ranking 2025 | #97 |
Top Specializations | Humanities, Social Sciences, Law |
Average Tuition Fees Per Semester | EUR 300 |
Estimated Cost of Living (per month) | EUR 750 – EUR 1,000 (Berlin) |
Also Read: Free Universities in Germany For International Students
Cheapest Universities in Germany: Average Cost of Studying
Any place outside your native country is considered to be costly. Since education in Germany is either free or has a low-cost tuition fee, you will need to pay for rent and other daily utility expenses. The cost of food and other activities is not very expensive. The cherry on the cake is if you are doing a part-time job or have a scholarship. Here is an overview of the average Cost of Studying in Germany.
University Type | Tuition Fee (INR) |
Public University | EURO 150 to EURO 350 |
Private University | EURO 5,000 to EURO 32,000 |
Accommodation Costs in Germany
Apart from tuition fees, living costs also need to be considered. In case you are studying in a German university for free then only the living cost is payable. Accommodation expenses, travelling, food, and other expenses need to be managed by you. Naturally, the living expenses of city areas will be more than those outside them. EURO 934 monthly is enough to live in Germany and EURO 11,208 per year. The table given below will give you a fair idea about the expenses you need to be ready for.
Types of Expenses | Cost |
1 Bedroom (Monthly) | EURO 707 |
Food (1 Month) | EURO 15 to EURO 25 |
Public Transport (One Way Ticket) | EURO 2.40 |
Other Expenses | EURO 230 to EURO 250 |
FAQs
Most German Universities offer low tuition fees or free study opportunities. When it comes to choosing affordable universities then below we have mentioned some public universities in Germany.
Humboldt University of Berlin
University of Bremen
University of Cologne
Heidelberg University
Ludwig Maximilians University
You can separate the expense into two parts which are tuition fees and living costs. On average tuition fees can vary for public and private universities, While, the living cost in Germany is EURO 934 monthly.
There is no separate eligibility to get admission to free universities in Germany. However, you must have a good academic record for getting shortlisted for admission.
Yes. A student can apply for PR in Germany after they have been employed in Germany. The applicant must have been employed for a duration of 2 to 5 years.
Yes, Germany is generally considered cheap to study compared to many other Western European countries.
Yes, IELTS is generally required for admission to most undergraduate and postgraduate programs in Germany. A minimum IELTS band score of 6.0 is often required for undergraduate studies, with sectional scores of 5.5 in each module (Speaking, Reading, Writing, Listening). For postgraduate programs, the IELTS requirement may be higher, often around 6.5 or 7.0 overall.
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