Not one but numerous reasons exist to study at affordable universities in Germany. Many public universities in this country have education costs between €100 and €300 per semester. Certain universities may impose tuition fees on non-European Union students, although these fees typically remain more affordable than those in other countries. Additionally, the cost of living in this country is also quite affordable. In this blog, we will explore more about cheap universities in Germany for international students.
Cheap Universities In Germany For International Students 2024
In 2014, the German government eliminated international tuition fees at all public universities. This means that students are only required to pay an administrative semester contribution between €150 and €250 per semester. Tuition-free studies are most common for undergraduate students in some of the affordable colleges in Germany. Although some postgraduate courses are free, most require tuition fees unless the student has been awarded a scholarship. Let’s look at the list of cheap universities in Germany for international students:
| Affordable private universities in Germany | |
| University Name | Tuition Fees |
| Humboldt University of Berlin | First enrollment fee – 50 Euro |
| University of Bremen | Does not charge tuition fees. However, students pay minimal semester fees |
| University of Cologne | No tuition fees (student contribution fees of €304.15 should be paid each semester) |
| Heidelberg University | Semester fee of €151.05 |
| Ludwig Maximilians University | €85 winter semester basic fee |
| University of Gottingen | Winter semester 2024/2025Enrolment and Re-registration = €403.92 |
| Technical University of Berlin | No tuition fees are charged |
1. Humboldt University Of Berlin
The Humboldt University of Berlin, situated in Germany, is a renowned public institution. Founded in 1810, it holds the distinction of being one of Berlin’s oldest universities. QS World University Rankings currently place it at the 120th position globally in 2024. The university enjoys international recognition for its distinguished alumni and faculty members, boasting luminaries such as Albert Einstein and 55 Nobel Laureates spanning various disciplines.
Admission Criteria
- The acceptance rate at Humboldt University of Berlin is 18%, making admission highly competitive.
- Non-native English speakers must demonstrate language proficiency
- Humboldt University offers 171 degree programs for undergraduate and graduate students, with no minimum GPA requirement for admission.
2. University Of Bremen
Situated in Bremen, Germany, the University of Bremen is a medium-sized institution with approximately 20,000 students. Offering over 100 programs at both bachelor’s and master’s levels, the university is actively involved in shaping the future of European higher education. It is a Young Universities for the Future of Europe (YUFE) member, collaborating with seven other European universities to promote research-based learning and innovate higher education models. With a faculty of 2,300 academic staff, including researchers, the university is committed to an “Ambitious and Agile” strategy. Recognised as one of the eleven universities with the distinction of “the University of Excellence,” it is a premier choice for higher education in Germany.
Admission Criteria
- Submission of the online application form
- Matriculation certificate
- Official transcripts
- Passport
- Officially certified copy of HBZ (University entrance examination)
- Work experience certificate for select postgraduate courses
- Proof of Vaccination
- English language proficiency
- Medical insurance
3. University Of Cologne
Established in 1388, the University of Cologne is one of Central Europe’s oldest universities. Renowned for research and academic offerings in science and engineering, the university is home to a community of over 50,792 students. Embracing a culture of research and innovation, the institution offers over 250 programmes across its eight faculties and schools. While its science courses are prominent for research pursuits, the university’s business and international management programmes attract significant interest from international students.
Admission Requirements
Selection criteria for international students applying to bachelor’s, master’s, or doctoral programs differ from those for domestic applicants at the University of Cologne.
- Completed Application
- Certified Copies of Transcripts
- University Entrance Qualification
- (Bachelor’s Degree in the relevant field (for Graduate Admissions)
- Mark sheets of all completed examinations
- Credential Evaluations conducted in accordance with the Center for Foreign Educational Affairs at the Secretary of the Conference of the Ministers for Cultural and Educational Affairs, accompanied by German/English translations if required.
- English Language Proficiency
- TestAS results
- An original printed copy of the Individual APS certificate (for applicants from China and Vietnam only)
- Health Certificate
4. Heidelberg University
Established in 1386, Heidelberg University is Germany’s oldest higher education institution. Initially known as a centre of Calvinism in the 1600s, the university has since evolved into a prominent leader in various fields, including engineering, medicine, life sciences, and classical and ancient history. Presently, Heidelberg University offers diverse programs, including 58 bachelor’s, 69 consecutive master’s, 10 non-consecutive master’s, and 21 master’s of education programmes.
Admission Requirements For Heidelberg University
The admission process for international applicants differs slightly from that for German applicants. You are advised to meet the specified requirements to ensure your application is processed.
Admission Requirements: International applicants must meet the following criteria:
- Submit certified copies of official academic transcripts and graduation certificates.
- Provide certified translations of these documents into either German or English.
- If applicable, include the final exam certificate passed at a German Studienkolleg and the individual score sheet.
- Provide a copy of your passport or identity card.
- Submit a printout of the compulsory online self-test for study orientation required for admission to undergraduate degrees at universities in Baden-Württemberg.
5. Ludwig Maximilians University
Ludwig Maximilian University, established in 1472, is a leading research university in Germany. It is committed to maintaining the highest standards of education in research and teaching. The university has a total student population of 51,600, of which 15% are international students. It comprises around 18 faculties and offers courses in both English and German.
The university provides over 300 degree programmes in various subjects. Additionally, it offers 27 master’s degree programmes taught exclusively in English. While the university does not charge tuition fees for most students, a cost of 100 EUR is required if the semester’s duration is less than 5 hours per week.
For accommodation, students opting for private housing will pay between 400 and 650 EUR, whereas those choosing university housing will pay between 270 and 350 EUR.
Admission Requirements
Given below are some of the admission requirements for Ludwig Maximilians University:
- University Entrance Qualification
- An advanced school-leaving certificate qualifies you to pursue a degree at German universities.
- Official certified copies of original certificates and their translations from secondary school or university.
- Updated CV
- Financial support documentation or a sponsor’s affidavit of financial support.
- Visa certification
- Copy of official passport
- Completed admission application form
6. The University Of Gottingen
The University of Göttingen is a research-led institution focusing on research, experimentation, and source criticism. It welcomes international applicants from approximately 141 countries to pursue a variety of bachelor’s, master’s, doctoral, and certificate programmes.
Admission Requirements
To ensure a smooth application process, international applicants must meet specific entry requirements outlined below:
- Relevant subject knowledge (6 credits minimum).
- Updated CV
- Financial support documentation.
- Visa certification.
- Completed application form.
- Copy of passport.
7. Technical University Of Berlin
TU Berlin is one of the world’s top public universities and among the best in Germany. In the latest 2024 rankings by Times Higher Education World University Rankings, the Technical University of Berlin is placed #136 globally and #12 in Germany. According to unofficial sources, the acceptance rate at TU Berlin is 52%, making admission competitive for international students.
There are no tuition fees for international students at TU Berlin, except for continuing education master’s programmes. However, international students should budget at least EUR 1,200 per month to cover living expenses in Berlin, which includes accommodation, healthcare insurance, books, and supplies.
Admission Requirements
The university strongly emphasises restricted and open admission courses, providing a rigorous and dynamic learning environment. Please ensure you meet the following admission requirements to facilitate your application process.
- First university degree recognised by German universities
- Work experience
- Statement of Purpose
- English language proficiency
- German language proficiency
List Of Other Private Universities In Germany With Low Tuition Fees
The private universities in Germany are mostly perceived as costlier than public universities. This is because private universities are funded by tuition fees, donations, and private investments. However, there are many well-known private universities in Germany offering quality education at lower tuition fees:
- New European College
- The Berlin School of Business and Innovation
- GISMA – Business School
- Arden University Berlin
- IU
The list of affordable private universities in Germany for international students includes public universities; however, most are research universities. The prerequisites for these universities differ; thus, it is advised that you visit their official page to review them and follow any recommendations.
FAQs
What are the cheap universities in Germany for international students?
The Humboldt University of Berlin, the University of Bremen, the University of Cologne, Heidelberg University, Ludwig Maximilians University, etc., are some of the cheap universities in Germany for international students in Germany.
Which German university has no tuition fee?
The University of Bremen and Technical University of Berlin charge zero tuition fees.
Is IELTS required in Germany?
An IELTS score is necessary for admission to German universities. For undergraduate courses, an overall score of 6.0 is required, with individual module scores not below 5.5. Candidates should aim for an overall score between 6.0 and 6.5 for postgraduate courses.
Why is tuition so affordable in Germany?
Tuition is so affordable in Germany because the government heavily subsidises higher education, making it accessible to all.
How much does it cost for international students to study in Germany?
The total monthly off-campus living costs for international students studying in Germany is €1165.
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I have done Bachelor’s in Culinary Arts from India and completed my graduation in the year 2022 .I am 22 years old. After graduation, I have done 1 year paid internship from USA .Now, I would like to take occupational experience and learn culinary skills and also do masters in Culinary arts.How can I find the college n best course / country where I can persue studying further