| Latest Update: International students in Germany are now allowed to work up to 140 full days or 280 half days annually, or a maximum of 20 hours per week during the semester. Those holding a student applicant visa may also take up part-time jobs for up to 20 hours per week while waiting for university admission. |
Do you know that 5 universities in Germany rank in the top 100 by the QS ranking, and they offer unique and detailed curricula along with affordable tuition fees?
Due to the popularity of the country and many great benefits, around 50K Indian students went to study in Germany the previous year. The main agenda of the universities in Germany is to ensure innovation and growth for each student.
Now, let’s explore the list of the top 10 universities in Germany, best student cities, hidden-gem universities, visa process and more.
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| Feature | Detail |
| Top Student Cities | Berlin, Munich, Aachen |
| Top Public Universities | TUM, LMU Munich, Heidelberg |
| Top Private Universities | WHU, EBS, Bard College Berlin |
| Tuition Fees Range | Public: Free - €3,000 (INR 2.7L) Private: €10,000 - €20,000 (INR 9L-18L) |
| % of English-Taught Courses | 38% Master's; 12% Bachelor's |
| Average Salary After Graduation | €60,000 (INR 54L) |
Top 10 Universities in Germany
German universities will gain a great deal from mobility financing from international sources. In the next two years, they will get around €186 million under the Erasmus+ Programme, which will be for financing student and staff exchanges outside their home countries.
Many of these universities are ranked in the top 100 by QS and THE rankings. Now, let’s look at the top 10 universities in Germany for international students:
| Best universities in Germany | QS World Ranking 2025 | Average Tuition Fees |
| Technical University of Munich (TUM) | 28 | INR 3.5L - 5L (€4K-€6K) |
| Ludwig Maximilian University (LMU) Munich | 59 | INR 66.5K (€747) |
| Heidelberg University | 84 | INR 27K (€300) |
| Free University of Berlin | 97 | Free (€300 admin fee) |
| RWTH Aachen University | 99 | INR 54K (€608) |
| KIT Karlsruhe Institute of Technology | 102 | INR 1 Cr (€150K) |
| Humboldt University of Berlin | 126 | INR 56K (€630) |
| Technical University of Berlin | 147 | Free (€300 admin fee) |
| University of Hamburg | 191 | Free (€340 admin fee) |
| Albert Ludwigs University Freiburg | 212 | INR 3L (€3K) |
5 Hidden Gem Universities That Indian Students Love
While the top 10 universities in Germany get all the limelight, these lesser-known options are gaining popularity:
- University of Mannheim - Ranked high for business and social sciences
- University of Stuttgart - Strong in mechanical engineering
- Otto Beisheim School of Management (WHU) - Elite business education
- University of Leipzig - Among the oldest and most affordable
- University of Bremen - Offers strong research and English courses
These good universities in Germany offer smaller class sizes, better admission chances, and affordable living.
For instance, the University of Mannheim boasts a triple-accredited business school and company internships with industry leaders such as SAP.
The University of Stuttgart is well known for its Mechatronics and Aerospace Engineering programmes, and the University of Bremen recently made headlines for its English-taught master's in Artificial Intelligence and international student services.
Private vs Public Universities in Germany
Germany's higher education system comprises approximately 422 institutions, with around 88 public and 21 private universities.
The state funds public universities in Germany; therefore, most students don’t pay tuition. However, you may have to pay a small administrative fee of €200 - €350 (INR 18k - INR 22k) every semester.
Here is the difference between private and public colleges in Germany:
| Aspect | Public Universities | Private Universities |
| Tuition Fees | Generally free; minimal semester fees (INR 18-22K) | Higher tuition fees can range from (INR 9L - 27L) per year |
| Funding Source | Government-funded | Tuition fees, private investments, and donations |
| Admission Requirements | Highly competitive; stringent academic criteria | More flexible; may have lower entry requirements |
| Program Offerings | Wide range of programs across various disciplines | Often specialised programs, particularly in business and management |
| Class Sizes | Larger class sizes | Smaller, more personalised classes |
| International Programs | Numerous English-taught programs; strong international presence | Many programs are tailored for international students |
| Examples | Ludwig Maximilian University of Munich Heidelberg University | Frankfurt School of Finance & Management WHU – Otto Beisheim School of Management |
English-Taught Universities in Germany
Looking for universities in Germany for international students who speak only English?
Over 2,100 courses are taught in English across public and private institutions. Fields like Business, Engineering, Social Sciences, and Natural Sciences are most commonly available in English.
Public universities such as:
- Universität Freiburg – Offers BA/BSc in English
- Georg-August-Universität Göttingen – Offers BSc in Molecular Ecosystem Sciences
- Rhine-Waal University of Applied Sciences – Offers English-taught degrees in areas like International Relations and Sustainable Tourism
Private universities like:
- Jacobs University Bremen – Offers English-taught bachelor's programs (e.g., Mathematics, Psychology) at ~€20,000/year (₹19,08,400)
- Berlin International University of Applied Sciences – All programs taught in English, with tuition fees of €7,200/year (~₹6,87,000)
Master’s degrees in English are widely available at top universities like:
- Ludwig Maximilian University of Munich (LMU)
- Heidelberg University
- RWTH Aachen and TU Munich (TUM)
Also Read: Best Courses to Study in Germany
Student Visa Process for Germany
Obtaining a student visa to study in Germany is an easy process if you get all the documents in order. The approval rate for the visa is still high in 2025, at 90%.
Let’s look at the details:
| Visa Type | Cost | Processing Time |
| Student Visa | €75 (INR 6.6K) | 4 to 12 weeks |
2025 Update on Blocked Account
As of January 2025, international students are required to provide evidence of their financial resources through a blocked account (Sperrkonto) with a minimum balance of €11,208 (INR 9.9L) for an academic year. The funds pay for living costs according to German immigration requirements.
The frozen account has to be opened in a recognised provider, and students can withdraw €934 each month (approximately INR 82,500).
Documents Required for Visa Application:
- University admission letter (Offer or Admission Confirmation)
- Proof of sufficient funds (Blocked Account confirmation)
- Proof of health insurance
- Valid passport
- Academic transcripts
- Visa application form and biometric photo
Post-Study Work Visa for Indian Students in Germany
Indian students who have completed higher education in Germany are eligible to apply for a post-study work visa. This visa allows you to stay in Germany for 18 months to find employment in your field of study. It is also known as the "Residence Permit for the Purpose of Seeking Employment".
To apply, you must have a recognised degree in Germany, proof of financial stability, and health insurance. After securing a job that matches your qualifications, you can apply for a work visa or an EU Blue Card, allowing you to stay longer and work in your field.
Job Opportunities in Germany
Germany will keep enhancing its economy, becoming an even more desirable place for overseas graduates. In January 2025, the minimum wage in Germany rose to €12.82 an hour (INR 1,130), increasing part-time job appeal for students and providing improved entry-level pay.
This reflects the government’s efforts to adjust to inflation and enhance the quality of life for workers.
While numerous foreign students earn their degrees in Germany via English-language programmes, learning to cope with life and particularly the job market can take more than scholarly brilliance.
Employers in the vast majority of instances require at least minimum fluency in German, even at multinational corporations.
Here are the details for jobs in Germany:
| Role | Average Annual Salary |
| Software Developer | €81,500 (INR 71.8L) |
| Electrical Engineer | €78,000 (INR 68.7L) |
| Doctor | €85,100 (INR 75L) |
| Lawyer | €82,900 (INR 73L) |
| Project Manager | €79,900 (INR 70.4L) |
Summing Up
Germany offers Indian students a top-tier education system in 2025, whether it's tuition-free public universities or globally ranked private options. With over 50K Indian students and a new minimum wage of €12.82/hour (INR 1,130), it also promises strong financial and career outcomes.
From RWTH Aachen's engineering prowess to WHU's top MBA, and even emerging stars like Mannheim and Bremen, students have great options for academics and employability. A public university in Germany provides world-class education and career opportunities, along with lower tuition fees.
Whether you're looking for a list of the top 10 universities in Germany or hidden gems, this guide has you covered. If you're searching for good universities in Germany that combine affordability, employability, and excellence, look no further.
Need Help Shortlisting? LeapScholar helps you choose the top Germany universities tailored to your goals. Contact us today!
Frequently Asked Questions
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Q. What is the rank 1 university in Germany?
A. According to the QS World University Rankings 2025, the Technical University of Munich (TUM) ranks at the top among universities in Germany. TUM is world-famous for its excellence in engineering, technology, and applied sciences.
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Q. Is Germany expensive to study?
A. Pursuing education in Germany is quite cheap, particularly at public universities. Public universities charge minimal fees of €100 to €350 per semester, translating to around INR 9K to 33K. Private universities, however, may charge from as low as €5,000 and up to over €20,000 (INR 4.7L - 19L) per annum
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Q. Can I study in Germany if I only speak English?
A. Yes, a number of German universities have programs taught fully in English, particularly for master's degrees. Undergraduate degrees taught in English are less common, but opportunities are increasing. English proficiency is necessary, but learning German will enrich daily life and integration.
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Q. How to get PR in Germany?
A. Foreign graduates are eligible for permanent residence after having worked for two years in Germany in an occupation corresponding to their field of graduation. Having an EU Blue Card may reduce this duration to 21 months, subject to the production of German language skills at B1 level.
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Q. Is university free in Germany?
A. The majority of German public universities provide free tuition to both local and foreign students, particularly at the undergraduate level. Nonetheless, a semester fee (€100–€350) has to be paid by the student. Private universities continue to charge tuition fees, and expenses for living are different and have to be paid for by the student.
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Q. Is IELTS necessary for Germany?
A. IELTS is not always mandatory, especially if you’re applying to a German-taught programme or already studied in English. However, many English-taught courses do require proof of English proficiency, and IELTS (usually 6.0–6.5) is widely accepted as valid proof by German universities.
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