Germany has become one of the most attractive destinations for international students, largely because of its policy of offering tuition-free education at most public universities.
Unlike many countries where higher education is expensive, Germany allows both domestic and international students to study at little to no tuition cost.
Germany’s public universities are funded by the federal states and, in most cases, do not charge tuition fees—even for international students.
What students pay is a semester contribution (usually between €100 €350 per semester), which covers administrative services, student unions, and often a semester transport pass.
What Does Free Tuition in Germany Mean?
Most public universities in Germany do not charge tuition fees. This applies to German students, EU students, and international students from other countries. The reason is that public universities are funded by the government through taxes.
Even though tuition is free, students still pay semester fees between $100 and $400. In many universities, this fee also includes a public transport pass for the city or region.
There is one exception: in the state of Baden-Württemberg, international students must pay about €1,500 ($1,657) per semester. A few universities outside this state, such as the Technical University of Munich (TUM), also charge tuition.
Still, these costs are much lower compared to studying in the United States or other countries.
Tuition-Free Public Universities in Germany
This guide highlights the Top 15 Public Universities in Germany with Free Tuition, including their unique strengths, living costs, application process, and direct links for applying.
RWTH Aachen University
RWTH is tackling real challenges that will shape the future. The teaching is fresh, research-driven, and highly practical, making it one of the best choices for students in engineering and applied sciences. With an outstanding international reputation, RWTH consistently ranks as one of Europe’s top technical universities.
- Overview: A top-tier institution renowned for engineering and technology.
- Tuition & Fees: No tuition fees; semester contribution around €300.
- Living Costs: Approximately €992/month required for permit extension; breakdown includes ~€500 for housing, €110 health insurance, €300–400 for food and expenses.
- Application Process:
- Master’s applications via RWTHonline.
- Non-EU applicants: Dec 4 – Mar 1; EU applicants may apply until July 15.
- No application fees.
- Extra Info: Some early bird discounts apply for timely applications.
- Link: RWTH Aachen University Official Website
Ludwig-Maximilians-Universität Munich (LMU)
LMU combines a centuries-old legacy with cutting-edge research. As one of Germany’s largest and most prestigious universities, it displays academic excellence with multiple Nobel laureates.
- Overview: A prestigious, multi-disciplinary powerhouse in Munich.
- Tuition & Fees: Tuition-free; semester fee of €150–250 covers admin and transit.
- Living Costs: Monthly budget: €900–1,300 (housing €400–700, food €200–300, health insurance ~€110–120, miscellaneous €150–200). Transport included.
- Application Requirements: No application fees; many English-taught programs; knowledge of German helpful for daily life.
- Link: LMU Munich Official Website
Humboldt University of Berlin
Humboldt champions a rigorous intellectual tradition with forward-looking research in the arts, social sciences, and life sciences. It’s a vibrant academic beacon in Berlin.
- Overview: A leading university in arts, social sciences, and research. Ranked top in Germany in multiple subject areas.
- Tuition & Fees: No tuition; only semester contributions.
- Admissions:
- Applications processed via uni-assist for foreign qualifications.
- International applicants can contact the Student-Service Centre for support.
- Link: Humboldt University of Berlin Official Website
University of Bonn
An Excellence University with over 200 disciplines and strong international offerings.
- Tuition & Fees: Tuition-free; semester fee €600/year.
- Language Requirements: Bachelor’s programs often require German proficiency (DSH level 2 / CEFR C1). Master’s vary by program. Click here requirement.
- Living Costs: Approx. €864/month in Bonn.
- Application Process:
- Entrance qualifications reviewed via anabin or DAAD database.
- Non-EU applicants follow detailed documentation and visa steps.
- Support Services: Campus International, Study Buddy program, welcome events, counselling.
- Link: University of Bonn Official Website
University of Hamburg
One of Germany’s largest and most research-intensive universities, Hamburg excels in structured admissions and diverse fields like law, media, and STEM.
- Overview: Large, research-oriented university in Hamburg.
- Application:
- Bachelor’s deadlines: June 1 – July 15, Master’s process: May 1 – June 15.
- Applications are done online; certain master’s programs vary.
- International applicants must have qualifications verified by uni-assist; a German language needed for German-taught programs.
- Link: University of Hamburg Official Website
Heidelberg University
Germany’s oldest university, Heidelberg, is globally known for medical sciences, philosophy, and history. Its historic charm blends seamlessly with research leadership.
- Tuition: Tuition-free for most; non-EU students may pay ~€1,500/semester.
- Semester Fees: ~€150–€200.
- Strengths: Medicine, philosophy, natural sciences, history.
- Admissions: German or English proof required. Applications via uni-assist.
- Living Costs: ~€950/month.
- Link: Heidelberg University
University of Freiburg
Freiburg shines in environmental studies, humanities, and sustainable sciences. Located in a scenic, student-friendly city, it emphasises green research.
- Tuition: Free for EU; non-EU ~€1,500/semester.
- Semester Fees: ~€150–€200.
- Strengths: Environmental studies, humanities, biology, and renewable energy.
- Admissions: Deadlines July 15 (Winter); Jan 15 (Summer).
- Living Costs: ~€850–€1,000.
- Link: University of Freiburg
University of Stuttgart
A go-to for engineering, technology, and architecture, Stuttgart collaborates with Germany’s leading automotive and aerospace industries.
- Tuition: Free for EU; non-EU ~€1,500/semester.
- Semester Fees: ~€200–€300.
- Strengths: Engineering, aerospace, architecture, IT.
- Admissions: German/English proof needed. Apply via the C@MPUS portal.
- Living Costs: ~€850–€1,200.
- Link: University of Stuttgart
Karlsruhe Institute of Technology (KIT)
KIT is a powerhouse for computer science, engineering, and sustainability. Its reputation as a “German MIT” makes it a prime choice for innovators.
- Semester Fees: ~€300.
- Strengths: IT, computer science, energy, materials, and environmental science.
- Admissions: Uni-assist for international applicants. Deadlines vary.
- Living Costs: ~€850–€1,000.
- Link: KIT
University of Göttingen
A historic and research-driven university, Göttingen is home to multiple Nobel Prize winners and a rich mix of science and humanities.
- Semester Fees: ~€300.
- Strengths: Physics, mathematics, humanities, law, and forestry.
- Admissions: Apply through uni-assist. Deadlines: Summer ~Jan 15; Winter ~July 15.
- Living Costs: ~€850.
- Link: University of Göttingen
University of Bremen
Bremen emphasises modern research and innovation in STEM and social sciences. Its semester contribution includes free regional transport.
- Semester Fees: ~€350.
- Strengths: Space engineering, political science, media studies, and marine biology.
- Admissions: Online via uni-assist.
- Living Costs: ~€850–€1,000.
- Link: University of Bremen
University of Potsdam
Known for its modern campus and student-focused learning, Potsdam provides many interdisciplinary programs near Berlin.
- Semester Fees: ~€304 (includes transport).
- Strengths: Digital engineering, humanities, teacher education, biosciences.
- Admissions: Apply via uni-assist.
- Living Costs: ~€850–€1,000.
- Link: University of Potsdam
University of Cologne
One of Germany’s largest universities, Cologne excels in economics, management, and the humanities. Its central location makes it attractive to internationals.
- Semester Fees: ~€300.
- Strengths: Economics, social sciences, humanities, law.
- Admissions: Online via uni-assist.
- Living Costs: ~€950–€1,200.
- Link: University of Cologne
TU Dresden
TU Dresden is among Germany’s “Universities of Excellence,” strong in engineering, natural sciences, and architecture. It has one of the most beautiful campuses in Europe.
- Semester Fees: ~€280.
- Strengths: Engineering, natural sciences, medicine, architecture.
- Admissions: Apply through uni-assist. Deadlines vary.
- Living Costs: ~€850–€1,000 (affordable compared to Munich or Hamburg).
- Link: TU Dresden
Cost of Living in Germany as an International Student
On average, students need around €850–€1,200 per month. Major expenses include:
- Rent: €350–€600.
- Food: €200–€300.
- Health Insurance: ~€120.
- Transportation: often included in semester fees.
- Miscellaneous: €100–€150.
Admission Process for Public Universities in Germany
- Choose a program (check English/German language requirements).
- Apply through Uni-Assist or the university portal.
- Submit documents: transcripts, proof of language, CV, and motivation letter.
- Deadlines: Jan 15 (Summer intake), July 15 (Winter intake).
- Apply for a student visa (non-EU students)
Popular Courses to Study in Germany for Free
- Engineering (Mechanical, Electrical, Civil, Aerospace)
- Computer Science & IT
- Medicine and Life Sciences
- Business & Economics
- Environmental Studies
- Humanities & Social Sciences
Deadlines and Academic Calendar in Germany
- Winter Semester: October – March (applications close around July 15).
- Summer Semester: April – September (applications close around January 15).
FAQs
Do non-EU students really study for free?
Yes, most public universities charge no tuition. Some states charge €1,500/semester for non-EU students.
What are the hidden costs?
Semester fees (€150–€350), living costs (€1,000/month), and health insurance.
Is the German language mandatory?
Not always. Many Master’s programs are in English, but undergraduate programs often require German.
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