Germany has 313 public universities out of 428 institutions, which makes it one of the top destinations in Europe for higher education. As of 2024, more than 43,000 students from India are studying there. They are choosing Germany because of its strong education system, global recognition and student-friendly environment.
The key advantage is that most public universities in Germany offer tuition-free education, even to international students. This applies to popular fields such as engineering, business, computer science, and MBA programs. Students typically pay a semester fee ranging from €150 (approximately INR 14,450) to €300 (approximately INR 28,900). This fee covers administrative services, public transport and student union access.
This guide will walk you through everything you need to know. From choosing a top university to the application process, scholarships and post-study work options. Use it to plan your education in Germany with clarity and confidence.
List of Top Public Universities in Germany
Germany has 48 universities listed in the QS World University Rankings for 2025. This highlights the country’s strong academic standing. With so many top institutions, selecting the right university can take time and research.
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German universities offer two main intakes, Winter and Summer. Most students apply for the Winter intake, which starts in the fall.
The table below shows the top public universities in Germany. Use it to compare your options and decide what fits your academic goals.
| Public Universities in Germany | QS World Ranking 2025 | Location |
|---|---|---|
| Technical University of Munich | #28 | Munich, Bavaria |
| Ludwig Maximilian University of Munich | #59 | Munich, Bavaria |
| Heidelberg University | #84 | Heidelberg, Baden-Württemberg |
| Free University of Berlin | #97 | Berlin |
| RWTH Aachen University | #99 | Aachen, North Rhine-Westphalia |
| Karlsruhe Institute of Technology | #102 | Karlsruhe, Baden-Württemberg |
| Humboldt University of Berlin | #126 | Berlin |
| Technical University of Berlin | #147 | Berlin |
| University of Hamburg | #191 | Hamburg |
| University of Freiburg | #212 | Freiburg, Baden-Württemberg |
| University of Tübingen | #222 | Tübingen, Baden-Württemberg |
| University of Erlangen-Nuremberg | #224 | Erlangen, Bavaria |
| University of Bonn | #227 | Bonn, North Rhine-Westphalia |
| Technical University of Darmstadt | #234 | Darmstadt, Hesse |
| University of Göttingen | #252 | Göttingen, Lower Saxony |
| University of Cologne | #285 | Cologne, North Rhine-Westphalia |
| Goethe University Frankfurt | #309 | Frankfurt, Hesse |
| University of Stuttgart | #314 | Stuttgart, Baden-Württemberg |
| University of Münster | #367 | Münster, North Rhine-Westphalia |
Detailed Overview of the Top 10 Public Universities in Germany in 2025
1. Technical University of Munich (TUM) - Rank: #28
TUM is Germany’s top-ranked university and one of the best in Europe for engineering, technology, and applied sciences. It offers many English-taught master's programs. TUM has strong industry connections with companies like BMW, Siemens and Google, which makes it a solid choice if you are looking for research experience and career opportunities.
2. Ludwig Maximilian University of Munich (LMU) - Rank: #59
LMU is one of Europe’s oldest universities. It is known for excellence in the humanities, social sciences and natural sciences. It is located in the centre of Munich and offers a vibrant academic setting, modern research facilities, and many English-taught graduate programs.
3. Heidelberg University - Rank: #84
Heidelberg is Germany’s oldest university. It is respected worldwide for life sciences, medicine, and philosophy. The university combines tradition with modern research and has a diverse international student population. Its location in a historic town adds to the overall experience.
4. Free University of Berlin - Rank: #97
The Free University has a strong international focus and is well-known for political science, international relations and humanities. It offers many master’s and PhD programs in English. If you want to study in a globally connected academic environment, this is a great option.
5. RWTH Aachen University - Rank: #99
RWTH is a top destination for students in engineering, mechanical sciences and architecture. It offers practical training, strong industry partnerships, and is located near Belgium and the Netherlands in a growing innovation region.
6. Karlsruhe Institute of Technology (KIT) - Rank: #102
KIT focuses on STEM fields, especially engineering, computer science and physics. It is known for research-driven teaching and works closely with major tech companies. You will find several international master’s programs in areas like AI, energy, and informatics.
7. Humboldt University of Berlin - Rank: #126
Humboldt has a strong reputation in philosophy, literature and social sciences. It is based in central Berlin and plays a key role in the city’s academic life. International students benefit from its historic academic culture and global perspective.
8. Technical University of Berlin - Rank: #147
TU Berlin is strong in engineering, computer science and business-related tech fields. It offers several degrees in English and focuses on sustainability and innovation. Its location makes it ideal for students interested in startups and tech companies.
9. University of Hamburg - Rank: #191
The University of Hamburg is the largest university in northern Germany and is known for its work in climate science, economics and law. It offers a mix of traditional and interdisciplinary programs. Hamburg itself is a high-quality, student-friendly city to live in.
10. University of Freiburg - Rank: #212
Freiburg is based in the scenic Black Forest region and is respected for its work in environmental science, medicine and renewable energy. It offers a liberal academic atmosphere with solid research and several English-taught programs. It is a sustainable and supportive place for international students.
Read More:
| Best Universities in Germany for Masters in 2025 | Affordable & Cheapest MBA in Germany for Indian Students |
How to apply to Public Universities in Germany in 2025
Applying to public universities in Germany as an international student requires a clear process. You need to make sure your qualifications and documents meet the academic standards in Germany. Top universities like the Technical University of Munich (TUM) and LMU Munich have high competition. A strong and complete application will improve your chances.
1. Choose the right university and program: Start by shortlisting universities that offer the program you want. Focus on institutions with English-taught options if you do not speak German. Use official sources like university websites, the DAAD database, or MyGermanUniversity for current information.
2. Check eligibility and admission criteria
Each university sets its own requirements. These usually include:
- A recognized undergraduate degree (for master’s programs)
- A GPA that meets the German grading scale
- Language scores (IELTS or TOEFL for English, TestDaF or DSH for German)
- Application deadlines
Make sure you check the specific criteria for every program.
3. Get your application documents ready
You will usually need:
- Transcripts and graduation certificates
- A Statement of Purpose
- A complete CV
- Language test results
- Letters of recommendation (if asked)
- A passport copy and a photo
4. Submit your application
You will apply through either:
- Uni-Assist, a common platform for many German universities
- Or the university’s own online portal
Check the document format rules and deadlines. Most deadlines fall around mid-July for winter intake and mid-January for summer intake.
5. Wait for the admission result and complete enrolment: If you are accepted, the university will send you an admission letter. Follow their enrolment steps. This usually includes sending hard copies, paying the semester fee, and showing proof of health insurance.
Read More:
| How to Apply to German Universities in 2025 | Cheapest Universities in Germany for International Students |
Scholarships for Public Universities in Germany
Germany offers generous scholarship opportunities for international students to help reduce the cost of living, travel and sometimes even tuition. Whether you're pursuing a bachelor's, master's or doctoral degree, you’ll find fully funded and partial scholarships from the German government, universities and European institutions
Here are some of the top scholarships available to international students at public universities in Germany:
| Scholarship | Provider | Benefits |
|---|---|---|
| DAAD EPOS Scholarship (Fully Funded) | DAAD (German Academic Exchange Service) | Monthly stipend of €934, travel allowance, insurance and tuition support |
| Deutschlandstipendium | German Federal Government | €300/month based on academic merit and social involvement |
| Erasmus+ | European Union | Covers travel costs, visa fees and monthly living allowance |
| Women’s Academic Excellence Scholarship | ESMT Berlin | Up to €10,000 tuition reduction for female students in management/MBA |
| Konrad-Adenauer-Stiftung Scholarship | Konrad Foundation | €861/month + health insurance and support for research & internships |
| Heinrich Böll Foundation Scholarship | Heinrich Böll Stiftung | €934/month + allowances for books, travel and family (if applicable) |
Quick Tips:
- Most DAAD scholarships are targeted at postgraduate students and have early application deadlines (Sep-Dec of the previous year).
- Erasmus+ is ideal if you’re applying for joint or exchange programs in Europe.
- Apply for scholarships in parallel with your university application many are competitive and time-sensitive.
Read More:
| Fully Funded Scholarships in Germany for International Students | Scholarship for Germany: Popular Scholarship and Tips to Apply |
Top Jobs After Studying at the Best Public Universities in Germany
Did you know? Germany has one of the lowest unemployment rates at around 3.5% among the European Union (EUR-27). Graduates from the best public universities in Germany often find themselves in high-demand roles across industries.
Here are the top jobs and their average annual salaries.
| Job Title | Average Annual Salary |
|---|---|
| Data Scientist | INR 51L (EUR 56.9K) |
| Financial Analyst | INR 50L (EUR 55.6K) |
| Software Developer | INR 47L (EUR 52.6K) |
| Mechanical Engineer | INR 46L (EUR 52K) |
| Marketing Manager | INR 44L (EUR 49.4K) |
Read More:
| Top 20 Highest Paying Jobs in Germany in 2025 for Indians Students | Average Salary in Germany for Indian Students 2025 |
Why Study at the Public Universities in Germany?
Did you know? Germany allows international students to work part-time (up to 20 hours per week) during their studies. After graduation, you can also extend your residence permit for up to 18 months to seek employment!
Here are some more compelling reasons why you should consider studying at one of the public university in Germany.
1. High-Quality Education: Germany is home to some of the best universities in the world, with over 40 public universities ranked globally in the QS World University Rankings. These institutions focus on research-driven education, ensuring you receive cutting-edge knowledge in your chosen field.
2. Minimal or No Tuition Fees: German public universities typically charge little to no tuition fees, even for international students like yourself. A lot of public universities in Germany offer free education, making it an affordable destination compared to other top study locations.
3. Strong International Reputation: Germany public universities attract over 3,00,000 international students annually, highlighting their global appeal. You'll graduate with world-class faculty and resources with a degree recognised and respected worldwide.
By choosing public universities in Germany, you’re investing in a future filled with academic opportunities and global exposure. With affordable education, a range of programs, and world-class facilities, Germany is the perfect destination for international students.
Want to study at the best public universities in Germany but need help figuring out where to start? Let Leap Scholar guide you every step of the way. We cover all your needs, from selecting the ideal university to assisting with your application and visa process. Connect with our Leap Scholar consultants now!
Frequently Asked Questions
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Q. What makes public universities in Germany unique?
Ans. Public universities in Germany are globally recognised for offering high-quality, research-driven education at minimal or no tuition fees. They prioritise academic excellence and have strong collaborations with industries, ensuring students gain both theoretical knowledge and practical experience. With over 300 public universities in Germany, students have access to diverse programs, including STEM, humanities, and business. These universities also provide a multicultural environment, making them ideal for international students.
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Q. Can international students study for free at public universities in Germany?
Ans. Yes, most public universities in Germany offer free education for international students, although there may be minimal administrative fees, often referred to as enrolment or social contribution fees. These fees typically range from INR 27k to INR 54k (EUR 300 to EUR 750) annually.
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Q. How many public universities are there in Germany?
Ans. Germany is home to over 240 public universities, offering an extensive range of courses across various disciplines. These institutions are known for their rigorous academic standards and world-class research facilities. From the Technical University of Munich to Heidelberg University, the list of public universities in Germany provides ample choices for students seeking top-notch education.
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Q. What are the top public universities in Germany for masters?
Ans. Some of the best public universities in Germany for master’s include the Technical University of Munich, Ludwig Maximilian University Munich, and Heidelberg University. These institutions consistently rank highly in global university rankings and offer a variety of master’s programs in fields like engineering, business analytics, and molecular sciences. They are known for their focus on innovation and academic excellence.
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Q. Which public universities in Germany are ideal for an MBA?
Ans. Public universities in Germany for MBAs include the University of Cologne, RWTH Aachen University, and the University of Mannheim. These institutions provide affordable MBA programs that emphasise global business practices, leadership development, and strong industry connections. Germany’s economic stability further ensures high employability for MBA graduates.
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Q. How to get admission to a public university in Germany?
Ans. To secure admission, you need to follow a structured process. Start by researching the list of public universities in Germany and identifying programs that suit your goals. Prepare the required documents, such as academic transcripts, a CV, and proof of language proficiency (IELTS or TOEFL scores). Submit your application through platforms like Uni-Assist or the university’s portal. Lastly, wait for admission confirmation and follow enrollment instructions.
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Q. Are there scholarships for public universities in Germany?
Ans. Yes, several scholarships are available for international students studying at public universities in Germany. Programs like DAAD, Erasmus+, and Deutschlandstipendium offer financial support to cover tuition fees, living expenses, or both. These scholarships make it even more affordable, ensuring you can focus on your studies without financial stress.
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Q. What are the living costs for students in Germany?
Ans. The cost of living in Germany is relatively affordable compared to other European countries. Monthly expenses typically include rent (around EUR 914 in city centres), food, local transport, and utilities. Public universities in Germany for international students are located in cities with diverse accommodation options, ranging from shared apartments to on-campus housing.
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Q. Can I study in Germany with 10 lakhs?
Ans. Studying in Germany with a budget of 10 lakhs is possible, especially at public universities where tuition fees are minimal. This budget can cover living expenses for a year, but additional costs like health insurance and travel need to be factored in. It's advisable to apply for scholarships to supplement your funds. Living costs vary by city, so budgeting accordingly is crucial.
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Q. Does 12th marks matter in Germany?
Ans. Yes, 12th-grade marks are significant for admission to undergraduate programs in Germany. Many universities require a strong academic record, often a minimum of 90% marks, along with proof of language proficiency. This helps in securing admission and scholarships.
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Q. Is IELTS required for Germany?
Ans. IELTS is typically required for admission to English-taught programs in Germany and for student visa applications. The minimum IELTS score varies by university but generally ranges between 5.5 and 6.5. Some universities may accept alternative English proficiency tests like TOEFL.
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Q. Which is the cheapest university in Germany?
Ans. The cheapest universities in Germany are typically public institutions that charge no tuition fees. Examples include RWTH Aachen University and Technical University of Munich, where students only pay a semester fee (around EUR 100-350). These universities offer affordable education while maintaining high academic standards.
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