Top 10 Universities in Germany for International Students 2024

Germany is rising to be one of the most preferred study destinations abroad and a worthy competitor of countries like the USA, UK and Canada. 

Germany is an excellent destination for Bachelor’s, Master’s, and PhD courses. You can choose between private and public universities. We’ll explore the differences between the two in much detail as we go forward. 

Many beneficial factors draw students to Germany, including, 

• Affordability: Universities in Germany for International students offer affordable education in the range of 2.5L-30L INR. The price varies according to the university you choose. 
• Top Ranked Universities: Germany has over 400 universities to choose from, with many of them ranking under the top 100 universities in the world (as per QS). 
• Diverse Selection of Courses: Germany offers many programs, especially in STEM-related fields such as Engineering. Germany is said to be one of the best countries to study engineering, thanks to its high-tech laboratories, job opportunities, and practical learning experience.
• Exploring Europe: The best thing is travelling to different parts of Europe on a German Student Visa. Germany is well connected to the rest of Europe. Most places can be visited by train!

In this blog, we’ll discuss in detail everything you need to know about studying at German universities! 

Types of Universities in Germany for International Students: Based on Funding

In Germany, universities are categorised mainly based on learning methods. These universities also have a funding body, differentiating them as public universities or private universities. 

Let’s explore this in more detail. 

Public Universities in Germany 

Public universities are also popularly known as tuition-free universities in Germany, making up over 60% of universities in Germany. If you haven’t already gotten the hint, these universities offer education completely free of tuition! 

The state funds public universities in Germany; therefore, most students don’t pay tuition. However, you may have to pay a small administrative fee in the range. €200 – €350 or 18,000-22,000 INR every semester. 

Tuition-free universities are largely popular among Engineering students, but they’re equally difficult to get into. These universities hold students to high academic standards and usually have a tough competition for admissions.

Here are some popular public universities in Germany.

• Technical University of Munich (TUM)
• Humboldt University Berlin
• Ludwig Maximilians University Munich
• Karlsruhe Institute of Technology (KIT)
• RWTH Aachen University
• Technische Universität Berlin
• Technische Universität Dresden
• University of Freiburg
• Heidelberg University
• Freie Universität Berlin

Private Universities in Germany 

Private institutions comprise about 30% of universities in Germany, with most being Universities of Applied Sciences. The state approves these universities, but they operate and receive funds from private institutions.

Studying in private universities will cost you between 9L- 30L INR. These universities have excellent ties with industries and can lead to valuable internships and, eventually, high-paying jobs. 

Here is a list of private universities in Germany.

• Berlin School of Business and Innovation
• Jacobs University Bremen
• Dresden International University
• EU Munich Business School
• International School of Management (ISM)
• EU Business School, Munich
• Cologne Business School
• Schiller International University- Heidelberg
• FOM University of Applied Sciences for Economics and Management
• SRH Hochschule Hamm

Types of Universities in Germany for International Students: Based on Learning

The higher education sector in Germany has a remarkable reputation worldwide. German institutions greatly emphasise research-based learning strategies. Universities equip students with the latest tech, infrastructure and other facilities.

Let’s explore this in detail.

Universities with a Focus on Science 

These universities focus intensely on helping you master the subject using research-based strategies. The focus here is to help you develop theoretical knowledge of your subject. 

Universities that focus mainly on science include: 

• Technical universities (TU)
• Theological University (Theologische Hochschulen)
• University of Education (Pädagogische Hochschulen)
• University of Public Administration

Universities in Germany offer an array of courses in multiple degree levels, such as Bachelor’s, Master’s and Doctoral Degrees. 

If you’re interested in research and you’re considering getting a Ph.D., this type of university could be perfect for you!  

Here are the Top Universities in Germany.

• Technical University of Berlin
• Technical University of Munich
• University of Bonn
• University of Stuttgart
• University of Freiburg
• Heidelberg University
• Leipzig University
• Philipps University, Marburg
• Dresden University of Technology
• Humboldt University of Berlin

University of Applied Sciences (Focus on Practice) 

These universities prioritise practical learning methodologies. The curriculum will include theoretical knowledge. However, the emphasis is on helping you develop hands-on skills essential for the corporate world. 

The University of Applied Sciences offers various courses at the bachelor and degree levels. PhD level education is typically not available in these universities.

Here are the Top Universities of Applied Science in Germany.

• Hamburg University of Applied Sciences
• RWTH Aachen
• FH Aachen
• Leibniz Universität Hannover
• Esslingen University of Applied Sciences
• Beuth University of Applied Sciences Berlin
• Hochschule Hannover
• HTW Berlin
• Frankfurt University of Applied Sciences
• Fachhochschule Lubeck

Top 10 Universities in Germany For International Students

It’s not a surprise that the top 10 universities in Germany are public since they make up the majority of universities in the country. 

Most of the universities listed below are free of tuition fees and only require a small charge called a semester fee. This includes administrative charges such as contributions to student unions, social funds, and a semester ticket or transit pass. 

University	Type of University	Tuition Fee
Technical University of Munich (TUM)	Public	1L-5L per year + Semester fee (varies depending on campus)
Freie University of Berlin	Public (Tuition Free)	28K per semester (Administrative charge)
RWTH Aachen University	Public (Tuition Free)	29K per semester (Administrative charge)
Karlsruhe Institute of Technology (KIT)	Public	1L-1.3L per semester
Humboldt University of Berlin	Public (Tuition Free)	26k per semester (Administrative charge)
Technical University in Berlin	Public (Tuition Free)	10k per semester (Administrative charge)
University of Hamburg	Public (Tuition Free)	31k per semester (Administrative charge)
TU Dresden	Public (Tuition Fee)	24k per semester (Administrative charge)
University of Stuttgart	Public	1.3L
University of Leipzig	Public (Tuition Fee)	24k-26k per semester (Administrative charge)

Summing up

Ultimately, picking public universities in Germany is the most affordable option for studying in Germany, as they are practically cost-free. However, getting admission to a public university is not as easy as it sounds! 

The universities in Germany have an exceptional standard of education and hold students up to great expectations. Additionally, the competition in these universities is really high, so it’s essential you apply early and have a good portfolio to start with! 

The private universities in Germany may cost more than the public universities, but they provide the same quality of education and other facilities. It may be easier to get into these universities; they typically tend to offer many English-taught courses.

At the end of the day, the best university for you depends on your own preferences! So, take your time to research and make the best decision. Good luck! 

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