Why Study Masters In Germany in 2024?

21 min read

Looking to study master’s in Germany? Excellent choice. Before you brush up on your Deutsch (German language) and waste time scrolling the internet for the best programs, continue reading below. 

Germany, the land of intellectual giants like Einstein and Beethoven, boasts a world-renowned education system that encourages innovation and critical thinking. With a total of 4.5L international students currently studying there, it’s clear that the country offers an intellectually stimulating environment. 

In fact, master’s degrees from German universities are highly regarded worldwide. The Bologna reform (a European initiative to standardise higher education) ensures all degrees meet international standards in most academic disciplines.

From the bustling heart of Berlin to charming university towns nestled amidst rolling hills, Germany is a place where your academic pursuits can thrive. Feeling the fernweh (wanderlust) and ready to conquer the land of philosophers and poets? 

Dive in!

Key Highlights

Ready to explore why you should study master’s in Germany?

Here’s a table tailored just for you. It provides a detailed snapshot view of everything you will read in the blog post.

Highlight	Detail
Top Universities to Study Master’s in Germany	Technical University of Munich Ludwig-Maximilians-Universität MünchenUniversität Heidelberg
Top Master’s Courses to Study in Germany	Engineering and Technology Business and Management Computer Science and IT
Monthly Cost of Living (Excluding Rent)	INR 89k (EUR 982)
Top Scholarships to Reduce the Cost of PG Courses in Germany	The Friedrich Ebert Stiftung  Heinrich Böll Foundation Konrad-Adenauer-Stiftung (KAS) Scholarships
Average Semester Fees	INR 2.5L (EUR 2.8k)
Approximate Cost of Visa for Indian Students	INR 6.7k (EUR 74)

Why Study Masters in Germany?

Germany has become a magnet for Indian students, with a total of 42,997 as of the latest count. One major factor for this is the fact that five universities in Germany rank in the top 100 of the QS World University Rankings, 2025! 

So now, you can be assured that your degree will be recognised internationally, giving you an edge in the global job market. Also, imagine trading in the monsoons in India for the Oktoberfest in Germany, where your biggest worry is choosing between a Weißbier (wheat beer) and a Pilsner (a larger beer). 

If these aren’t enough reasons, here are some more to study master’s in Germany. 

• Variety in Courses: Choose from over 2,087 PG courses in Germany, including top programs in Engineering, Business, and Computer Science. This vast selection to study master’s in Germany means you can find specialised courses that align perfectly with your career goals, ensuring a tailored and high-quality education.
  
• Affordable Higher Education: An MS in Germany costs between INR 2.5L to INR 15L (EUR 2.7k to 16.5k) per year. This makes it very affordable compared to other European countries like France, where the cost is INR 20L (EUR 22k) per year.
  
• Cheaper Cost of Living: The cost of living in Germany, including rent, is about 7.8% cheaper than in the UK and 21.4 lower than in the USA, making it a more affordable option for you.  
  
• Work While Studying: You can work up to 140 full days or 280 half-days per year, where a full day is 8 hours and a half-day is up to 4 hours, giving you ample opportunity to earn and gain work experience.
  
• Eligible for a Post-Study Visa: Upon completing your studies at a German university, you can apply for a post-graduation visa that allows an 18-month period to find employment matching your qualifications. This will enhance your career prospects.  

Top 5 Universities to Study Masters in Germany 

Germany has over 400 universities, many of which are highly ranked internationally, as mentioned in the QS World Rankings. If you’re dreaming of an exceptional academic experience, Germany is your go-to destination. With its amazing research environment, world-class faculty, and state-of-the-art facilities, you can’t go wrong.

Female students make up 50.8% of the total student population in Germany, showcasing the country’s commitment to gender equality and providing a supportive and inclusive environment for women in higher education, too. 

So, if you’re looking to study master’s in Germany, it’s time to get familiar with the top five universities that will not only boost your knowledge but also provide countless opportunities for your future career. 

Ready to find out where you might be studying next? Get right into it.  

Universities to Study Master’s in Germany	QS World Ranking 2025	Average Tuition Fees
Technical University of Munich	28	INR 11L  (EUR 12k) per year
Ludwig-Maximilians-Universität München	59	No tuition fee. (That’s right, it’s free!)
Universität Heidelberg	84	INR 1.3L (EUR 1.5k) per semester
Freie Universitaet Berlin	97	INR 3.7L (EUR 4.1k) per semester
RWTH Aachen University	99	No tuition fee.

Time to get into the world of these top universities to study master’s in Germany and their entry requirements.  

1. Technical University of Munich

Dreaming of academic excellence and innovation? Look no further than the Technical University of Munich (TUM) to study master’s in Germany, consistently ranked at the top. Founded in 1868 and a proud member of the prestigious TU9 group (an alliance of nine leading technical universities in Germany), TUM offers you an unparalleled educational experience. 

With around 200 diverse degree programs, including many English-taught courses, TUM’s 15 academic departments and schools provide a thriving, multicultural environment. Imagine being part of a student body where over 30% of the 40,000 students come from all around the globe, enriching your learning journey.

Ready to turn your entrepreneurial dreams into reality? TUM, known as “The Entrepreneurial University,” is dedicated to nurturing innovative minds like yours. If you’re aiming to study at top universities in Germany for your master’s, TUM is your gateway to success. 

Below are the admission criteria to study master’s in Germany at this university. 

Criteria	Details
Admission Requirements	Bachelor’s degree or equivalent qualification GPA of at least 3.6 (91% or above)
English Language Proficiency	TOEFL iBT: Minimum score of 88 IELTS: Minimum score of 6.5 PTE Academic: Minimum score of 65
Standardised Test Score	GRE: 157 – 164
Additional Requirements	Bachelor’s certificate  Work experience Letter of motivation Visa and proof of health insurance Preliminary documentation (VPD) from uni-assist (for international applicants)

2. Ludwig-Maximilians-Universität München (LMU)

Imagine studying at the University in the heart of Munich, a place recognised as one of Europe’s premier academic and research institutions. Founded in 1472, (LMU) has long been a magnet for inspired scholars and talented students from around the globe. 

Step into 500 years of tradition to study master’s in Germany at one of Europe’s leading research universities. LMU’s excellence in teaching and research spans a wide array of fields — from the humanities and cultural studies to law, economics, social sciences, medicine, and natural sciences. 

Below are the admission criteria to study master’s in Germany at this university.

Criteria	Details
English Language Proficiency	TOEFL iBT: Minimum score of 80 – 90 IELTS: Minimum score of 5.5 – 7.5
Standardised Test Score	GRE: 157 – 164 GPA of at least 3.6 (91% or above)
Additional Requirements	Bachelor’s certificate  Letter of motivation Visa and proof of health insurance Preliminary documentation (VPD) from uni-assist (for international applicants)

3. Universität Heidelberg

Founded in 1386, Heidelberg University is one of Europe’s top research institutions and the best choice to study for a master’s degree in Germany. It’s not just about the prestige — Heidelberg has a proven track record of excellence in QS World University Rankings in 84th place and the Times Higher Education World University Rankings in 47th place. It is a blend of tradition and forward-thinking that will inspire you every day.

Join the community of around 30,000 students, exploring over 180 diverse study programs. Heidelberg’s unique range of subjects to study for a master’s degree in Germany lets you tailor your education to your interests, offering endless possibilities for interdisciplinary learning. 

Whether you’re a budding scientist, an aspiring artist, or anything in between, Heidelberg University is the perfect place to grow, learn, and make a mark on the future. 

Below are the admission criteria to study master’s in Germany at this university.

Criteria	Details
English Language Proficiency	TOEFL iBT: Minimum score of 80 – 90 IELTS: Minimum score of 5.5 – 7.5
Standardised Test Score	GRE: 157 – 164 GPA of at least 3.6 (91% or above)
Additional Requirements	Bachelor’s certificate  Letter of motivation Visa and proof of health insurance Preliminary documentation (VPD) from uni-assist (for international applicants)

4. Freie Universitaet Berlin

Freie Universität Berlin is the place for you if you’re seeking a forward-thinking, globally recognised institution in Germany’s esteemed academic landscape. Frequently honoured as one of the country’s Universities of Excellence, it combines an international orientation, interdisciplinary approach, and a strong commitment to social responsibility. 

Since its founding in 1948, the university has upheld academic freedom as a core value, making it a premier destination for international students like yourself to study master’s in Germany. 

The university’s research is known for excellence within disciplines and a strong emphasis on interdisciplinary collaboration, supported by extensive academic and scientific networks. With 23,524 students, including 4,732 international students, it offers a diverse and inclusive environment to study master’s in Germany. 

Whether you’re pursuing an undergraduate or postgraduate degree, Freie Universität Berlin provides the ideal atmosphere to achieve your academic and research goals.

Below are the admission criteria to study master’s in Germany at this university.

Criteria	Details
English Language Proficiency	TOEFL iBT: Minimum score of 72 – 94 IELTS: Minimum score of 6.5
Additional Requirements	A bachelor’s degree or an equivalent university degree Proof of a minimum number of credit points  (Ex. 30 credit points for computer science) Work experience

5. RWTH Aachen University

Imagine studying at the largest university of technology in Germany, renowned for its high-quality courses and excellent facilities. RWTH Aachen University attracts numerous international students to study master’s in Germany every year, drawn to its world-class education and cutting-edge research environment. 

With 47,173 students enrolled in 166 courses of study, including over 12,000 international students from more than 120 countries, you’ll experience a truly multicultural education. 

The university’s 260 institutes across nine faculties offer a wealth of knowledge and research opportunities. Whether your interests lie in engineering, natural sciences, or the arts, RWTH Aachen provides a supportive and innovative environment to study master’s in Germany. 

Below are the admission criteria to study master’s in Germany at this university.

Criteria	Details
English Language Proficiency	TOEFL iBT: Minimum score of 72 – 94 IELTS: Minimum score of 5.5 – 7.5
Additional Requirements	A bachelor’s degree or an equivalent university degree Proof of a minimum number of credit points  (Ex. 30 credit points for computer science) Work experience

Top 5 PG Courses to Study Masters in Germany 

If you’ve reached here, you’re probably thinking of levelling up your education game with a postgraduate degree in Germany. Excellent choice! Germany isn’t just famous for its precision engineering and fairy-tale castles; it’s also a global powerhouse in education. 

Whether you’re dreaming of engineering like a tech wizard, decoding the mysteries of data, or mastering the art of business strategy, Germany has a course for you. 

And here’s the best part: 61% of international students said they had plans to stay in Germany after completing their studies, according to a study. So, get ready to pack your bags, embrace the Oktoberfest spirit, and discover the top 5 PG courses that can transform your future!

Here’s a table outlining various master’s courses in Germany for Indian students.

Top PG Courses	Universities
Engineering and Technology	Technical University of Munich Ludwig-Maximilians-Universität München Universität Heidelberg Freie Universitaet Berlin RWTH Aachen University
Business and Management	Technical University of Munich Ludwig-Maximilians-Universität München Universität Heidelberg Freie Universitaet Berlin RWTH Aachen University
Computer Science and IT	Technical University of Munich Ludwig-Maximilians-Universität München Universität Heidelberg Freie Universitaet Berlin RWTH Aachen University
Environmental Science and Sustainability	Technical University of Munich Ludwig-Maximilians-Universität München Universität Heidelberg RWTH Aachen University
Media and Communication Studies	Ludwig-Maximilians-Universität München Freie Universitaet Berlin

1. Engineering and Technology

Are you ready to turbocharge your career in engineering and technology? Then Germany is your stop! Did you know that Germany is home to Europe’s largest engineering labour force, with more than 1.94 million workers in engineering-related occupations?

With renowned institutions like RWTH Aachen and the Technical University of Munich, you can enrol in one-year master’s programs in Germany for international students. That’s right! 

Imagine earning your degree faster than your friends can say, “Wunderbar!” Experience top-tier education, research, and a great international atmosphere, all while making lifelong connections. 

Here is a table showcasing some of the top engineering and tech master’s courses in Germany for Indian students. 

Popular Engineering Courses	Estimated Tuition Fees
Computer Science Engineering	INR 0 to INR 5.4L (EUR 0 to EUR 6k) per year
Chemical Engineering	INR 0 to INR 3.6L (EUR 0 to EUR 4k) per semester
Civil Engineering	INR 0 to INR 3.6L (EUR 0 to EUR 4k) per semester

2. Business and Management

Are you considering Germany MBA colleges? Well, that’s a perfect choice! Did you know that Germany is home to over 2,809,644 registered businesses? Known for its robust economy and innovative industries, Germany offers top-tier education in business and management. 

With a focus on practical skills and strategic thinking, Germany MBA colleges provide you with the tools to excel in the global business arena. Their programs often include internships, industry projects, and opportunities to network with leaders such as BMW, Siemens, and Deutsche Bank. 

Here is a table showcasing some of the top business master’s courses for Indian students in Germany. 

Popular Business and Management Courses	Estimitaed Tuition Fees
MBA	INR 0 to 3.6L (EUR 0 to 4k) per semester
Master of Science in Management	INR 0 to 3.6L (EUR 0 to 4k) per semester
Master of Business Administration	No Tuition Fees

3. Computer Science and IT

Ready to code your way to success? Germany is the ultimate destination for computer science and IT enthusiasts like you!

Why Germany, you ask? Not only do you get a world-class education, but you also enjoy affordable tuition fees. Did you also know that Germany’s IT market has the potential to grow by USD 16.21 billion by 2025? The significant potential growth in Germany’s IT market indicates a thriving industry with ample job opportunities and advancements.

Here is a table showcasing some of the top computer science master’s courses in Germany for Indian students. 

Popular Computer Science and IT Courses	Estimated Tuition Fees
Master of Science in Computer Science	INR 0 to 3.6L (EUR 0 to 4k) per semester
Master of Science in Information Technology	INR 0 to 3.6L (EUR 0 to 4k) per semester
Master of IT Management	No tuition fees

4. Environmental Science and Sustainability

Are you passionate about protecting the planet and promoting sustainability? Germany is the perfect place for you to pursue a degree in environmental science and sustainability. Renowned for its commitment to environmental protection and green innovation, Germany offers a strong educational framework for students eager to make a difference.

The country’s commitment is reflected in its global standing — Germany is ranked as the 4th most sustainable country out of all 193 UN member states.

The master’s programs focus on advanced concepts in sustainability, environmental policy, and management strategies. It is ideal if you’re looking to become a leader in environmental advocacy and sustainable development.

Here is a table showcasing some of the top environment master’s courses in Germany for Indian students. 

Popular Environmental Science and Sustainability Courses	Estimated Tuition Fees
Master of Science in Environmental Science	INR 0 to 3.6L (EUR 0 to 4k) per semester
Master of Science in Sustainability and Environmental Management	INR 0 to 3.6L (EUR 0 to 4k) per semester

5. Media and Communication Studies

Passionate about media and communication? Germany is the perfect place to excel in this dynamic field. Did you know Germany has around 2,000 publishing houses and publishes over 90,000 titles annually, second only to the United States?

With that, you can expect to enjoy world-class education, great facilities, and practical experience through internships and industry projects. 

Germany offers low tuition fees and a vibrant multicultural environment. Whether you aim to be a journalist, media analyst, or digital media expert, Germany provides the ideal education and resources to succeed in your career.

Here is a table showcasing some of the top courses in Germany for master’s in media.

Popular Media and Communication Courses	Estimated Tuition Fees
Master of Arts in Media and Communication Studies	INR 0 to 3.6L (EUR 0 to 4k) per semester
Master of Science in Communication and Media Research	INR 0 to 3.6L (EUR 0 to 4k) per semester
Master of Arts in Digital Media and Society	INR 0 to 3.6L (EUR 0 to 4k) per semester

Intakes at Top Universities to Study Masters in Germany 

Consider starting your studies in Germany, where international students benefit from two intake periods: summer and winter. 

This strategic choice is bolstered by Germany’s impressive ninth-place ranking for quality of life globally in the US News world report. This emphasises its strong job market, economic stability, and excellent public services in education and healthcare.  

With that, it’s time to dive deeper into the intakes to study master’s in Germany! The winter intake is the primary choice for most universities in Germany to study for a master’s degree, with the majority accepting applications during this period. It’s advisable to apply about a year in advance to secure your place.

For more details on intakes to study master’s in Germany, refer to the table below. 

Details	Winter Intake	Summer Intake
Start Month	September-October	April-May
End Month	February-March	July-August
Deadline	Mid-July	Mid-January

Entry Requirements for Masters in Germany for International Students

In German culture, punctuality is more than just a habit — it’s practically a superpower! Public transport runs like clockwork and arrives fashionably late? It’s not exactly their style — it’s more like showing up at Hogwarts without your wand.

So, when it comes to noting down those entry requirements to study master’s in Germany, think of doing it like you would set your alarm to German precision. And don’t worry! This section has that covered. 

To study master’s in Germany, you’ll need to meet these specific requirements. 

• Bachelor’s Degree: Ensure you’ve completed a bachelor’s degree or its equivalent from a recognised university. Typically, this should match the duration of a German bachelor’s degree, which spans 3-4 years.
  
• Minimum CGPA: Most universities look for a minimum CGPA of 7 or 70% to study master’s in Germany, though top institutions may require a higher CGPA of 8.5 or above.
  
• Visa: If you’re not from the EU/EEA, securing a student visa to study master’s in Germany is essential which typically costs INR 6.7k (EUR 75).
  
• Language Proficiency: You must demonstrate proficiency in either English or German study master’s in Germany, depending on your chosen program’s language of instruction. 

Accepted tests include the following.

Test	Score Requirement
IELTS	6.5
TOEFL	80+
TDN	4

Cost of Living in Germany 

To study master’s in Germany, it’s important to note that expenses include not only tuition fees but also accommodation, transportation, entertainment, and other living costs.  

But here’s a delightful nugget: with restaurant prices being 15.8% lower than in the UK and 18.5% cheaper than in the US, you can afford to treat yourself to some schnitzel and strudel without worrying!

Here’s a snapshot of what you might expect to spend as a student in Germany. Take a look at this convenient table — it serves as your guide for estimating student expenses. 

Category	Approximate Cost
1 Bedroom Apartment Rent (City Centre)	INR 82.8k (EUR 911) per month
Food (Inexpensive Restaurant)	INR 1.3k (EUR 14)
Coke/Pepsi (0.33 litre bottle)	INR 250 (EUR 2.74)
Local Transportation	INR 260 (EUR 3) one way
Milk (1 litre)	INR 96 (EUR 1.04)
Cinema	INR 1.2k (EUR 12) one seat
Internet (60 Mbps)	INR 4.1k (EUR 46) per month

Scholarships to Reduce the Cost to Study Masters in Germany

Dreaming of studying in Germany, but your wallet screams “nein” (no)? Don’t let the fear of living expenses and tuition fees send your dreams packing!  

Among the numerous scholarships available, the Erasmus Program is one such beacon of opportunity to study master’s in Germany. With 27,226 Erasmus students currently in Germany, scholarships like these will help you get through college life smoothly. 

Imagine strolling through the cobbled streets of Berlin or sipping coffee in a quaint Munich café without worrying about your bank balance. Scholarships are here to rescue you from financial woes, turning your German academic adventure from fantasy to reality.

Here are some scholarships for Indian students to study in Germany. 

Scholarships to Study Master’s in Germany	Funding Amount
DAAD Scholarship	EUR 934 (INR 85k) per month
Universität Hamburg Scholarship	EUR 930 (INR 84.6k) per month
Konrad-Adenauer-Stiftung Scholarships	EUR 850 (INR 77.3k) per month
Heinrich Böll Foundation Scholarship	EUR 652 (INR 59.3k) + allowance per month
Friedrich Ebert Foundation Scholarship	EUR 850 (INR 77.3k) + allowance per month
The Erasmus Mundus Scholarship	EUR 1000 (INR 91k) per month

Also Read Scholarship for Germany: Popular Scholarship and Tips to Apply. 

Application Process for a Visa to Study Masters in Germany

Germany is not only renowned for its economy but also for being home to some of the world’s most influential companies that are always hiring. Some of them are BMW, Siemens, Volkswagen, Bayer and others. 

But before you can land your dream job after or while studying, there’s one little obstacle to overcome: the visa application process. 

Ready to turn that mountain of paperwork into a molehill? Then, here’s what you need to know.   

• Apply to your chosen university and secure your admission letter. This is a crucial document for your visa application.
  
• Demonstrate that you have sufficient funds to support yourself to study master’s in Germany. You need to show that you have at least INR 10L (EUR 11.2k)  in a blocked account for one year.
  
• Obtain health insurance to study master’s in Germany that meets the requirements of German authorities. For example, you can get public health insurance that costs around INR 10k (EUR 110) per month. Covers doctor visits, hospital treatment, prescriptions, and basic dental care.
  
• Fill out the student visa application form to study master’s in Germany, which can be found on the German consulate or embassy website in your home country.
  
• Attend your visa interview with all the required documents. Be prepared to answer questions about your study plans and future goals.
  
• Pay the visa application fee, which is approximately INR 6.8k (EUR 75).
   
• After your interview, your application will be processed. The processing time can take anywhere from 4 to 12 weeks, so apply well in advance of your intended travel date.
  
• With your visa in hand, you’re ready to travel to Germany. Don’t forget to register at the Resident’s Registration Office (Einwohnermeldeamt) within two weeks of your arrival and apply for a residence permit if your stay exceeds 90 days.

How to Apply for a Residence Permit in Germany

Are you ready to dive into the academic year in Germany? Imagine exploring a gorgeous country, making lifelong friends and gaining a world-class education. But before you can pack your bags, there’s one crucial step: securing your residence permit. 

Don’t worry—it’s simpler than it sounds. With a little guidance, your dream of studying for a master’s in Germany is just around the corner. 

Here are the steps to secure that permit. 

• Ensure you have your passport, acceptance letter from a German university, proof of financial resources, health insurance, and any other required documents.
  
• You can find this form on the official German immigration website. Fill it out meticulously to avoid any delays.
  
• Book an appointment at your nearest German consulate or embassy to submit your application and undergo an interview if required.
  
• The application fee for a residence permit is approximately INR 9.1k (EUR 100). However, if you have a scholarship, this might be free of charge. Keep your receipt as proof of payment.
  
• Be punctual and bring all your documents. You might be asked questions about your study plans, so be prepared.
  
• The processing time can vary, but typically it takes 2-3 weeks. Stay patient and check your application status regularly.
  
• Once approved, you’ll be notified to collect your residence permit. Ensure all details are correct.

Top High-Paying Jobs You Can Get After Completing Your Studies in Germany 

Did you know that Germany ranks second for entrepreneurship globally in the US News world report, boasting a highly educated population and a well-developed legal framework? It excels in technological expertise and has a well-connected business environment, making it a prime hub for young entrepreneurs like yourself.   

Also, Indians in Germany usually earn around INR 60L to INR 77.3L (EUR 65k to EUR 85k) per annum!  Such competitive salaries highlight the lucrative job market, making it an attractive destination for career growth and financial stability. 

Here’s a look at some of the top high-paying careers after you study master’s in Germany, along with their estimated annual salaries.

Job Title	Average Annual Salary
Doctor	INR 40L – 1.2Cr (EUR 47k – 142k)
Pilots	INR 24L – 1.3Cr (EUR 28k – 161k)
Portfolio Manager	INR 40L – 1.1Cr (EUR 46k – 138k)
Software Architect	INR 53L – 66L (EUR 62k – 77k)
Legal Consultants	INR 43L – 1.1Cr (EUR 51k – 124k)
Tax Advisor	INR 60L – 1Cr (EUR 70k – 120k)
Biotechnology Researchers	INR 47L – 85L (EUR 55k – 100k)
Management Consultant	INR 34L – 1.2Cr (EUR 40k – 142k)
Risk Manager	INR 60L – 1Cr (EUR 70k – 120k)
Software Developers	INR 38L – 68L (EUR 45k – 80k)

Conclusion

You’re done flipping through well-worn textbooks and attending lectures on autopilot. Imagine yourself in Germany, in the same places that once echoed the ideas of Marie Curie or the artistic genius of the Bauhaus founders. A Master’s degree here transcends mere academics; it’s your gateway to a cultural and personal renaissance. 

When you study master’s in Germany, you may even have to pay zero tuition fees, potentially leaving you with a hefty travel fund to explore the country! The best part? Post your studies with potential earnings ranging from INR 60L to INR 77.3L (EUR 65k to 85k) per annum, and you’ll have plenty of opportunities to grow professionally and financially. 

Also, swap the hustle and bustle of Indian megacities for the serene beauty of the Black Forest, or trade the monsoons for the crisp mountain air of the Bavarian Alps. So, what are you waiting for? Your study abroad journey starts here – in Germany. 

Alles Gute (all the best)! 

Frequently Asked Questions