Top 10 Public Universities in Germany for International Students

Indian students seem to love Germany when it comes to higher education. At least, that’s what reports indicate. There were 42,997 Indian students in the country as of the winter semester of 2022-23.  

International aspirants are usually drawn to the prospect of studying at reputed institutions in Germany for zero/low tuition fees. In this article, we will take a closer look at the key aspects of studying at public universities in Germany.

Why Study in Germany

What lies behind Germany’s appeal for international students? Here’s taking a look: 

Highly-Ranked Universities- 

It’s no secret that there are several reputed public universities in Germany, along with numerous private counterparts. There are 49 German institutions in the QS World University Rankings for 2024, with four in the top 100. 

Academic Options- 

You get a vast range of study options at both the bachelor’s and master’s levels in Germany. There are 420+ higher education institutions in the country, and they offer more than 21,000 programs. You will find a course that matches your preferences from robotics to environmental engineering or even medicine here. 

Exposure to a New Language- 

It goes without saying that studying in Germany gives you an opportunity to learn a whole new language. While learning German, you can pursue your university studies in English for maximum convenience. 

Affordable Tuition Costs- 

Most public universities in Germany for MBAs and other programs do not charge tuition fees. The ones that do have nominal tuition costs per semester. At most institutions, you’ll only have to pay between 100-350 Euros each semester. 

Many institutions also include public transportation costs in these fees, which is another plus point. 

Post-Work Career Options- 

Germany has a flourishing job market and you can apply for a residence permit after graduation. This will help you stay in the country for 18 months to find employment.

Difference Between Public and Private Universities in Germany 

What are the core differences between private and public universities in Germany? Here’s a brief snapshot of the same. 

Why Choose Public Universities in Germany 

Choosing public universities in Germany is a no-brainer for those looking for high-quality education at affordable costs. Most of these institutions do not charge tuition fees; students only have to pay nominal semester fees. 

Many of these universities are highly placed in global rankings while offering students more courses and academic diversity. Many institutions usually have open admission policies, with a more cosmopolitan and populous campus and student body. 

They usually offer students state-of-the-art infrastructure, including research and academic facilities. Public universities also offer international offices that support new students, including assistance with visas, language courses, accommodation, and more. 

Is Education Free at Public Universities in Germany

Education is mostly free at public universities in Germany. 16 states in the country abolished tuition costs at all public universities in 2014. Only a nominal fee is charged to cover administrative and other costs every semester. 

Yet, in the exception to the rule, non-EU students in the Baden-Wurttemberg state have to pay tuition fees ranging between 1,300 and 3,000 Euros per semester.All of these provisions apply to undergraduate courses. Postgraduate courses may have separate charges, depending on the institution and program. 

Top 10 Public Universities in Germany 

Here are the top 10 public universities in Germany with some of their key details: 

Master’s programs at most of these universities have a tuition fee, and the amount depends on the respective faculty and institution. 

How to Apply to Public Universities in Germany 

Here are some key points for applying to public universities in Germany: 

• Public universities in Germany usually take applications through the UniAssist portal. 
• It evaluates applications by international students for 180 universities in the country, assessing certificates and other documents. 
• There are two application deadlines: July 15th (winter semester) and January 15th (summer semester). 
• You can apply online by providing documents like language and educational certificates, translations and certified copies, and other necessary documents while paying the handling fees. 
• Register with My assist and create an account with a unique uni-assist application number. 
• You then have to fill out details like your educational history and personal information before choosing the university and course under the tab 'Search courses of study' tab. 
• Documents have to be uploaded after that to complete the process.

Explore More: Public Universities in Germany for Masters

Cost of Studying in Public Universities in Germany 

As mentioned, public universities do not charge tuition fees in Germany. However, certain provinces are exceptions and charge between 1,500 and 3,500 Euros per semester for undergraduate courses. 

Postgraduate programs come with a tuition fee at most universities, and their costs vary per institution and course. A nominal student contribution has also to be paid every semester. 

Conclusion 

As you can see, studying at public universities in Germany will be a great decision on several counts. You can save money on tuition fees while getting access to cutting-edge facilities and high-quality education at the same time. 

It can also be the first step towards building a fulfilling global career in the country.

Read More:

• Why study in Germany
• Cost of MBA in Germany
• Cost of Study in Germany
• Education System in Germany
• Career Opportunities in Germany
• Scholarships in Germany for Indian students
• Requirements for study in Germany for Indian Students