Top 20 Universities in Germany: Updated List 2024

With its rich cultural history, cutting-edge technology, and emphasis on higher education, Germany stands as a prime destination for international students seeking quality education.

For those considering studying in Germany, it’s noteworthy that the country hosts 49 universities included in the latest QS World University Rankings 2024.

These universities undergo evaluation based on various indicators, including academic and employer reputation, citations per faculty (indicative of research output), sustainability, and other relevant criteria. A detailed understanding of the assessment process can be obtained by exploring the methodology. In this blog, we will talk about the top 20 universities in Germany. 

Also Read: Germany vs UK: Which is the Better Study Abroad Destination?

Top 20 Universities In Germany

Here is a list of the Top 20 Universities situated in Germany, along with their rankings. 

Name of the University	QS World University Rankings 2024	Average Tuition Fees (Approx)
Ludwig Maximilians University Munich	64	258 EUR/year
Technical University of Munich	50	258 EUR/year
Heidelberg University – Germany	63	20,000 EUR/year
Humboldt University of Berlin	128	10,000 EUR/year
University of Bonn	226	No fees, however, students have to pay a social contribution
Free University of Berlin	127	No fees, however, students have to pay a social contribution
University of Tuebingen	177	1,500 EUR/year
Albert Ludwigs University of Freiburg	172	1,500 EUR/year
RWTH Aachen University	165	No fees, however, students have to pay a social contribution
University of Gottingen	204	No fees, however, students have to pay a social contribution
University of Hamburg	214	No fees, however, students have to pay a social contribution
Dresden University of Technology	185	No fees, however, students have to pay a social contribution
Karlsruhe Institute of Technology	216	1,500 EUR/year
Technical University of Berlin	159	1,100 EUR/year
University of Wurzburg	378	No fees, however, students have to pay a social contribution
University of Cologne	311	No fees, however, students have to pay a social contribution
University of Munster	411	No fees, however, students have to pay a social contribution
Goethe University Frankfurt	340	700 EUR/year
Friedrich Alexander University Erlangen-Nuremberg	322	No fees, however, students have to pay a social contribution
University of Ulm	365	No fees, however, students have to pay a social contribution

Also Read: Oldest Universities in Germany

Admissions Periods in Germany

While the admission timelines for German universities may vary, they generally fall into two overarching categories that applicants should be mindful of during the application process.

For Germany Intake 2024, relevant details are outlined below for master’s, bachelor’s, and doctoral programs.

Intake 1: This corresponds to the summer semester, spanning from March to August. To be considered for this semester, applications must be submitted by January 15th.

Intake 2: Aligned with the winter semester, occurring between September to February or October to March. Applications for this semester must be completed and submitted by July 15th.

How to Select a University and Course?

Before finalizing your choice of course, whether pursuing a master’s or bachelor’s degree in Germany, it’s essential to conduct thorough research. The German Academic Exchange Service (DAAD Germany) can be a valuable resource, providing access to an extensive list of nearly 2,000 programs offered by German universities, with approximately 1,389 programs available in English.

While it’s relatively challenging to find undergraduate courses conducted entirely in English at German universities due to their scarcity, you have the option of choosing courses delivered in both English and German. Typically, the initial two to four semesters are conducted in English, allowing you ample time to acquire proficiency in German. 

Some universities even provide in-house German language courses, facilitating a smoother transition to understanding course material taught in the language.

Enrollment Procedures for Pursuing Studies in Germany

Admission cycles in Germany for 2024 occur in both summer and winter. Interested candidates can navigate the admission process for Germany in 2024 by following the steps outlined below:

1. Choose the study program and specific course you wish to pursue.

2. Compile a list of German universities offering your chosen course.

3. Reach out to the shortlisted colleges and universities.

4. Verify eligibility criteria and admission requirements.

5. Complete any necessary admission tests.

6. Explore funding options for your studies.

7. Secure confirmation of admission.

8. Initiate the application process for a student visa.

Admission Eligibility in Germany

The criteria for eligibility to study in Germany in 2024 differ based on whether you are applying for undergraduate or postgraduate programs, with the same conditions applicable to Indian students. For undergraduates, completion of high school education is mandatory, aligning with the German “Hochschulzugangsberechtigung” (HZB), which serves as a university entrance test.

While there are no specific tests for international undergraduates, your high school grades must meet the university’s standards. Some institutions may require the FSP (Feststellungsprüfung), an exam assessing your suitability for the chosen course. This exam is university-specific, with varying dates and specifications based on the subject.

For master’s programs, a GRE is typically required, and widely accepted by most German universities. However, those applying for management, finance, or business courses may need to take the GMAT. Some management courses also consider GRE scores. It’s crucial to note that entrance exams necessary for studying in Germany are often institution-specific, and therefore, it is advisable to verify requirements directly with the university before undertaking these tests.

Also Read: Student Life in Germany

Prominent Courses for Study in Germany 2024

Germany offers a selection of premier educational courses featuring contemporary curricula and essential skills aligned with the current job market demands. International students often opt for courses that are not only presently sought after but also promise future career opportunities. Here are some of the top courses in Germany:

1. Medicine

2. Engineering

3. Law

4. Natural Sciences

5. Psychology

6. Business and Economics

7. Industrial Engineering

8. Finance

9. Architecture

10. Social Sciences

FAQs

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So, this was all about the top 20 universities in Germany. Many Indian students dream of pursuing education in foreign nations due to the exposure and career growth they offer. Consider joining a free counselling session with Leverage Edu if you plan to study abroad.