Universities in Germany for PhD – Ranking, Fees & Scope

Updated on 11 October, 2023

upGrad Abroad Team

upGrad Abroad Team

upGrad abroad Editorial Team

You will find numerous highly ranked universities in Germany for Ph.D. programs This is usually a 2-6 year course that comes with almost negligible tuition costs at public universities while private institutions may charge a nominal amount. PhDs at universities in Germany not only offer world-class educational standards, but also top-notch research infrastructure. 

 

Recommended Read: Cost of living in Germany

Universities in Germany for PhD Courses- Eligibility Criteria

The eligibility criteria are usually the following: 

  • CV/Resume. 
  • Doctoral thesis outline. 
  • Master’s degree and SOP. 
  • Scores in language proficiency tests. 
  • Interview- Most universities in Germany for PhD will conduct personal interviews for candidates online. There will be a panel with two to four committee members to probe candidates on their professional journey, academics and more. 

Recommended Read: Requirements to study in Germany for Indian students

Top universities in Germany for PhD programs- A list 

Here is a list of the highest-ranked universities for PhD courses in Germany that you should not miss: 

Name of the Institution  Popular Courses 2021 QS Ranking 
LMU Munich Financial Maths 51-100
Technical University Of Munich Management, Maths, Computer Science and Chemistry 40
Heidelberg University English 44
Humboldt University Of Berlin Finance 51-100
Rwth Aachen University Physics 49
Karlsruhe Institute Of Technology Economics 175
University Of Gottingen Neuroscience, Computer Science, Economics, Law, Physics and Chemistry 123
University Of Freiburg English, Mechanical Engineering and Computer Science 89
Free University Of Berlin Physics, Political Science, Economics, Finance and History  117

Advantages of studying PhD programs in Germany

Studying PhD courses in Germany is highly advantageous by all means. Here are some of the biggest benefits for students: 

  • Germany offers free higher education at its public universities and this is applicable for international students. You only have to cover semester and administrative costs and travelling expenditure. This naturally makes a big difference to the budgets of PhD scholars, and makes studying that much more attainable.
  • German universities offer top-notch educational facilities and infrastructure for PhD students. Germany is ranked as one of the best places for education in the whole world following the UK and USA as per reports. This is visible from the cutting-edge amenities and research prospects in the country. 
  • Institutions like the Leibniz Association, Helmholtz Association of German Research Centres, the Max-Planck Gesellschaft, and Fraunhofer-Gesellschaft contribute greatly towards the spirit of research and innovation in the country. 
  • Completing a PhD program in Germany automatically opens doors towards a rewarding career in mainstream research, or even as a skilled professional in various business sectors, with the highest salaries of course!

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upGrad Abroad Team

upGrad abroad Editorial Team

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