Studying in Berlin, Germany, is one of the smartest choices for international students looking for a world-class education at low tuition fees.
Germany is famous for its public universities with free or very affordable tuition, and Berlin stands out as a vibrant academic hub, home to some of the best institutions in Europe.
Low Tuition Fee Universities in Berlin, Germany for International Students 2025
This guide explores the top universities in Berlin with low tuition fees, covering everything you need to know—programs, tuition, scholarships, PhD opportunities, and student life.
Free University of Berlin (Freie Universität Berlin)
Founded in 1948, the Free University of Berlin (FU Berlin) is one of Germany’s leading research universities. It is globally recognized for excellence in the humanities, social sciences, and natural sciences. FU Berlin consistently ranks among the top 150 universities worldwide (QS, THE).
Its campus in Dahlem offers a peaceful yet dynamic environment, surrounded by modern facilities, libraries, and international research institutes.
Programs Offered
FU Berlin offers over 150 degree programs, including many English-taught Master’s and Doctoral options. Popular fields include:
- Humanities & Social Sciences – Political Science, Sociology, History, Philosophy.
- Natural & Life Sciences – Biology, Chemistry, Physics, Earth Sciences.
- Business & Economics – Management, Finance, International Business.
- Area Studies & Languages – North American Studies, Global History, Cultural Studies.
Tuition Fees (2025–2026)
- Bachelor’s & Master’s: No tuition fees (only semester contribution of approx. €320–€350, covering student services & public transport).
- PhD: No tuition fees, only semester contribution.
Scholarships Available
- DAAD Scholarships (Master’s & PhD).
- Deutschland stipendium – €300/month for high-achieving students.
- Erasmus+ – For exchange students.
Doctoral Programs (PhD)
Yes. FU Berlin is research-driven and offers structured doctoral programs in the sciences, humanities, and social sciences. Many PhD candidates receive funding or research assistant positions.
Student Life
- Located in the Dahlem district, FU Berlin provides a green, campus-like atmosphere.
- Strong international community with students from over 130 countries.
- Berlin’s affordable living costs are compared to other European capitals.
Why Choose FU Berlin?
- No tuition fees for all students.
- Excellent reputation in humanities and sciences.
- Wide variety of English-taught Master’s and PhD programs.
- Strong global research partnerships.
Website: Free University of Berlin
Humboldt University of Berlin (Humboldt-Universität zu Berlin)
Established in 1810, Humboldt University (HU Berlin) is one of the oldest and most prestigious universities in Germany. Known as the “Mother of Modern Universities,” it pioneered the integration of teaching and research. It ranks within the top 120 universities globally.
Located in central Berlin, its historic main building near Unter den Linden and Museum Island offers a unique cultural and academic atmosphere.
Programs Offered
HU Berlin provides 190+ programs, with strong English-taught options at the graduate level. Popular fields:
- Law, Economics & Business.
- Arts & Humanities – Philosophy, History, Literature.
- Natural Sciences – Mathematics, Physics, Chemistry, Life Sciences.
- Social Sciences – Political Science, Sociology, Psychology.
- Medicine (in partnership with Charité – Universitätsmedizin Berlin).
Tuition Fees (2025–2026)
- No tuition fees for Bachelor’s and consecutive Master’s programs.
- Semester fee: ~€315–€350 (includes transport ticket).
- Some non-consecutive Master’s may charge tuition (€5,000–€15,000).
Scholarships Available
- Deutschlandstipendium – merit-based scholarship.
- DAAD Scholarships.
- Foundation Grants (Konrad Adenauer, Heinrich Böll, etc.).
Doctoral Programs (PhD)
Yes. HU Berlin is a hub for doctoral research, especially in natural sciences, law, and social sciences. Doctoral candidates can join structured graduate schools and receive stipends.
Student Life
- Located in Berlin’s historic city center.
- International student community with rich cultural exposure.
- Strong academic tradition with Nobel Prize–winning alumni.
Why Choose HU Berlin?
- Globally recognised for excellence and tradition.
- No tuition for most degree programs.
- World-class research opportunities.
- Vibrant city-centre location.
Website: Humboldt University of Berlin
Technical University of Berlin (Technische Universität Berlin – TU Berlin)
TU Berlin, founded in 1879, is one of Germany’s leading technical universities, ranked among the top 200 universities worldwide. It is renowned for engineering, computer science, and natural sciences, with strong industry connections and international partnerships.
Programs Offered
TU Berlin offers over 40 English-taught Master’s programs in addition to German programs. Key fields include:
- Engineering & Technology – Mechanical, Electrical, Civil, Industrial, Energy Engineering.
- Computer Science – Data Science, AI, Software Engineering.
- Architecture & Urban Planning.
- Business & Management – Innovation Management, Industrial Economics.
- Natural Sciences – Chemistry, Physics, Mathematics.
Tuition Fees (2025–2026)
- Bachelor’s & consecutive Master’s: No tuition fees.
- Semester contribution: ~€307.
- Non-consecutive Master’s: €10,000–€15,000 (e.g., MBA, continuing education).
Doctoral Programs (PhD)
Yes, TU Berlin offers PhD opportunities across engineering, natural sciences, IT, and economics. Doctoral candidates often work on funded research projects.
Student Life
- TU Berlin’s campus is near Charlottenburg Palace.
- Highly international, with 27% of students from abroad.
- Berlin’s tech and start-up ecosystem provides career opportunities.
Why Choose TU Berlin?
- Strong reputation in engineering, science, and technology.
- English-taught Master’s programs.
- Excellent research and start-up ecosystem.
- No tuition fees for most programs.
Website: TU Berlin
Berlin School of Economics and Law (Hochschule für Wirtschaft und Recht Berlin – HWR Berlin)
Founded in 2009 through a merger, HWR Berlin is a leading university of applied sciences focused on economics, business, law, public administration, and security management.
Programs Offered
- Business Administration & Management.
- International Business (English-taught).
- Law & Criminology.
- Public Administration & Politics.
- Economics & Finance.
Tuition Fees (2025–2026)
- No tuition for most Bachelor’s and Master’s programs.
- Semester fee: €300–€350.
- Some specialized Master’s (MBA, Executive programs): €8,000–€12,000.
Scholarships Available
- DAAD scholarships.
- Deutschlandstipendium.
- HWR-specific merit scholarships.
Doctoral Programs (PhD)
No standalone PhD, but joint doctoral programs are offered with partner universities.
Student Life
- Practical, career-oriented education.
- Strong ties with Berlin’s public and private sectors.
- Modern campus with an international student body.
Why Choose HWR Berlin?
- Affordable education with no tuition fees.
- Strong focus on business, law, and administration.
- Excellent connections to Berlin’s job market.
Website: HWR Berlin
Alice Salomon University of Applied Sciences (ASH Berlin)
Alice Salomon Hochschule Berlin (ASH Berlin) specialises in social work, health sciences, and early childhood education. Founded in 1899, it is named after Alice Salomon, a pioneer in social work.
Programs Offered
- Social Work.
- Public Health.
- Early Childhood Education.
- Management in Health and Social Services.
Tuition Fees (2025–2026)
- Tuition: Free for most Bachelor’s/Master’s programs.
- Semester Fee: ~€320.
Scholarships Available
- DAAD Scholarships.
- ASH Berlin International Scholarships.
Doctoral Programs (PhD)
Yes, in collaboration with partner universities.
Location & Student Life
- Located in Hellersdorf, East Berlin.
- Close-knit academic community with around 4,000 students.
- Strong focus on applied sciences and international partnerships.
Website: ASH Berlin
Berlin School of Economics and Law (HWR Berlin)
HWR Berlin is a leading university of applied sciences offering career-oriented programs in business, economics, law, and public administration. It is known for strong connections to industries and public institutions.
Programs Offered
- Business Administration & Economics.
- Law & Criminology.
- Public Administration & Security Management.
- International Business Management.
Tuition Fees (2025–2026)
- Tuition: Free for most programs.
- Semester Fee: €320–€350.
Scholarships Available
- HWR Berlin International Scholarships.
- DAAD Funding.
- Deutschlandstipendium.
Doctoral Programs (PhD)
Offered in partnership with universities like FU Berlin and HU Berlin.
Location & Student Life
- Multiple campuses across Berlin, including Schöneberg and Lichtenberg.
- Over 11,000 students, with 15% international.
- Strong internship and industry connections.
Website: HWR Berlin
Visa Requirements for International Students in Germany
- Student Visa (apply at the German Embassy).
- Proof of admission to a German university.
- Financial proof: ~€11,208 in a blocked account.
- Health insurance coverage.
- Valid passport and biometric photos.
Part-Time Jobs and Work Opportunities in Berlin
- International students can work 120 full days or 240 half-days per year.
- Popular jobs: tutoring, research assistants, hospitality, and tech support.
- After graduation, Students can apply for a job-seeker visa (18 months) to stay and work in Germany.
Top English-Taught Programs in Berlin Universities
- MSc in Data Science (FU Berlin)
- MSc in Information Technology for Energy (TU Berlin)
- MA in Global Communication (FU Berlin)
- MBA in International Business (BSEL)
- MA in Fine Arts (UdK Berlin)
FAQs
Can I study in Berlin without knowing German?
Yes, many Master’s and PhD programs are taught in English. However, German is recommended for daily life.
How much does it cost to live in Berlin as a student?
On average, €850–€1,200 per month.
Are Berlin universities recognised internationally?
Yes, Berlin universities are globally ranked and widely recognised.
Do Berlin universities charge tuition for international students?
No, most are tuition-free except for some specialised Master’s programs.
Can I work while studying in Berlin?
Yes, students can work part-time legally.
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