With over 400,000 international students currently enrolled in Germany, the country is steadily emerging as one of the top destinations for higher education worldwide. According to the German Academic Exchange Service (DAAD), nearly 34,000 Indian students were studying in Germany in 2024 — a number that continues to grow each year.
One major reason? Germany’s public universities offer world-class education without tuition fees. For students dreaming of studying abroad without burdening their finances, Germany is a golden opportunity.
In this comprehensive blog, we’ll explore the structure, benefits, top institutions, courses, eligibility, scholarships, and how you can make your dream of studying at a public university in Germany a reality.
What Are Public Universities in Germany?
Public universities in Germany are government-funded institutions that offer tuition-free or very low-cost education to both domestic and international students. They are known for:
- High academic standards
- Research excellence
- Strong global rankings
- No or minimal tuition fees
More than 90% of universities in Germany are public institutions, offering Bachelor’s, Master’s, and PhD programs in various disciplines.
Why Choose Public Universities in Germany?
Here are some compelling reasons why Indian students should consider public universities in Germany:
✅ Tuition-Free or Low-Cost Education
- Most public universities charge only a semester contribution between €150 and €350, covering administrative costs and public transport.
✅ Globally Ranked Institutions
- Top German public universities like TUM, LMU Munich, and Heidelberg regularly feature in the QS World Rankings.
✅ English-Taught Programs
- Over 1,800 English-taught courses, especially at the Master’s level, make education accessible for Indian students.
✅ Strong Industry Connection
- German universities have strong ties with industry giants like Siemens, BMW, Bosch, and SAP, leading to better employability.
✅ Post-Study Work Visa
- After graduation, students get an 18-month post-study work visa to find employment in Germany.
Types of Public Universities in Germany
Germany’s higher education system consists of various types of institutions:
| Type of University | Focus | Ideal For | Degree Offered |
|---|---|---|---|
| Universität | Research-oriented | Theoretical learning | Bachelor, Master, PhD |
| Fachhochschule (UAS) | Practice-based learning | Industry-ready education | Bachelor, Master |
| Colleges of Art & Music | Creative disciplines | Art, design, music, theatre | Bachelor, Master |
Top Public Universities in Germany – 2025 Rankings
Here’s a list of top public universities based on QS World University Rankings 2025:
| University Name | City | QS World Ranking | Specialties |
|---|---|---|---|
| Technical University of Munich (TUM) | Munich | #37 | Engineering, Computer Science, AI |
| Ludwig Maximilian University (LMU) | Munich | #59 | Humanities, Natural Sciences |
| Heidelberg University | Heidelberg | #87 | Medicine, Law, Psychology |
| RWTH Aachen University | Aachen | #99 | Mechanical, Mechatronics, Energy |
| Humboldt University of Berlin | Berlin | #120 | History, Arts, Philosophy |
| University of Freiburg | Freiburg | #192 | Environmental Science, Biology |
| University of Stuttgart | Stuttgart | #312 | Aerospace, Civil Engineering |
Technical University of Munich (TUM)
The Technical University of Munich is one of Germany’s top-ranked public universities, renowned globally for its excellence in engineering, natural sciences, and technology. With strong industry collaborations, especially with companies like BMW and Siemens, TUM offers a dynamic research environment and a wide range of English-taught master’s programs for international students.
Ludwig Maximilian University of Munich (LMU)
Founded in 1472, LMU Munich is one of Europe’s oldest and most prestigious research universities. Known for its academic strength in humanities, social sciences, and medicine, LMU attracts top-tier faculty and students from around the world and consistently ranks among the top 100 global universities.
Heidelberg University
Germany’s oldest university, Heidelberg University, is internationally recognized for its leadership in medical, legal, and scientific research. A member of the German Excellence Initiative, it offers a historic yet cutting-edge academic environment, with a strong international community and interdisciplinary focus.
RWTH Aachen University
RWTH Aachen is one of Europe’s leading institutions for engineering and applied sciences. Located near Germany’s borders with Belgium and the Netherlands, the university is known for its innovation in mechanical, electrical, and civil engineering, and maintains close ties with major global industries.
Humboldt University of Berlin
Located in the heart of Germany’s capital, Humboldt University has played a pivotal role in shaping the modern research university model. It is highly regarded for its contributions to the arts, humanities, and sciences, and has produced numerous Nobel laureates and influential thinkers.
University of Freiburg
Established in 1457, the University of Freiburg is a highly respected public university offering a strong liberal arts tradition alongside leading research in natural sciences, medicine, and environmental studies. Its vibrant campus life and location near the Black Forest make it a favorite among international students.
University of Stuttgart
The University of Stuttgart is a leading technical university, particularly noted for programs in automotive engineering, aerospace, architecture, and information technology. Located in a global hub for manufacturing and innovation, the university maintains strong connections with companies like Daimler and Bosch.
Federal State-Wise List of Public Universities in Germany
Berlin & Brandenburg
- Free University of Berlin (FU Berlin)
- Humboldt University of Berlin (HU Berlin)
- Technische Universität Berlin (TU Berlin)
- Berlin University of the Arts (UdK)
- University of Potsdam
- Charité – Universitätsmedizin Berlin (Medical School)
Bavaria (Bayern)
- Ludwig Maximilian University of Munich (LMU Munich)
- Technical University of Munich (TUM)
- University of Augsburg
- University of Bamberg
- University of Bayreuth
- University of Erlangen-Nuremberg
- University of Passau
- University of Regensburg
- University of Würzburg
- University of Eichstätt-Ingolstadt
- University of Applied Sciences Munich
Baden-Württemberg
- University of Heidelberg
- University of Freiburg
- University of Hohenheim
- University of Konstanz
- University of Mannheim
- University of Stuttgart
- University of Tübingen
- University of Ulm
- Karlsruhe Institute of Technology (KIT)
- University of Education Freiburg
- University of Education Heidelberg
North Rhine-Westphalia (Nordrhein-Westfalen)
- RWTH Aachen University
- University of Bonn
- University of Cologne
- University of Duisburg-Essen
- University of Düsseldorf (Heinrich Heine University)
- University of Münster
- University of Paderborn
- University of Siegen
- University of Wuppertal
- TU Dortmund University
- University of Bielefeld
Hesse (Hessen)
- Goethe University Frankfurt
- Justus Liebig University Giessen
- Philipps University of Marburg
- University of Kassel
- University of Applied Sciences Frankfurt
Lower Saxony (Niedersachsen)
- University of Göttingen
- Leibniz University Hannover
- University of Oldenburg
- University of Osnabrück
- Clausthal University of Technology
- Braunschweig University of Technology
Saxony (Sachsen)
- TU Dresden
- University of Leipzig
- Chemnitz University of Technology
- University of Freiberg (TU Bergakademie Freiberg)
- University of Zwickau
Saxony-Anhalt (Sachsen-Anhalt)
- Martin Luther University Halle-Wittenberg
- Otto von Guericke University Magdeburg
Schleswig-Holstein
- University of Kiel (Christian-Albrechts-Universität)
- Flensburg University of Applied Sciences
- University of Lübeck
Mecklenburg-Vorpommern
- University of Greifswald
- University of Rostock
Thuringia (Thüringen)
- Friedrich Schiller University Jena
- Ilmenau University of Technology
- University of Erfurt
- Bauhaus University Weimar Rhineland-Palatinate (Rheinland-Pfalz)
- University of Mainz (Johannes Gutenberg University)
- University of Koblenz
- University of Trier
- University of Kaiserslautern
Saarland
- Saarland University
Bremen
- University of Bremen
Hamburg
- University of Hamburg
- Hamburg University of Technology (TUHH)
- HafenCity University Hamburg
Brandenburg
- University of Potsdam
- Brandenburg University of Technology Cottbus–Senftenberg
Public Universities of Applied Sciences (Fachhochschulen or Hochschulen)
There are more than 100 public Universities of Applied Sciences, such as:
- Hochschule Bonn-Rhein-Sieg
- Hochschule Darmstadt
- Hochschule Düsseldorf
- Hochschule Esslingen
- Hochschule München (Munich University of Applied Sciences)
- Hochschule RheinMain
- Hochschule Bremen
- Hochschule Hannover
- Hochschule Mannheim
- Hochschule für Technik und Wirtschaft Berlin (HTW Berlin)
Popular Courses Offered by German Public Universities
German public universities are known for offering a wide variety of courses, especially in high-demand fields:
Engineering & Technology
- Mechanical Engineering
- Electrical & Electronics
- Civil & Structural Engineering
- Automotive Engineering
Computer Science & IT
- Artificial Intelligence
- Data Science
- Software Engineering
- Cybersecurity
Business & Economics
- MBA in International Management
- Finance & Accounting
- Supply Chain Management
Health & Natural Sciences
- Medicine
- Pharmacy
- Biotechnology
- Environmental Science
Arts & Humanities
- Literature
- Philosophy
- Sociology
- Political Science
Admission Requirements for Indian Students
For Bachelor’s Programs
- Completion of Class 12 with 70%+ from a recognized board.
- Must complete a 1-year Studienkolleg (foundation course) or qualify via entrance tests.
- Proof of English (IELTS/TOEFL) or German language proficiency (TestDaF/DSH).
- Valid passport and other academic documents.
For Master’s Programs
- Recognized 4-year Bachelor’s degree with 70%+ in relevant subjects.
- IELTS (6.5+) / TOEFL (90+).
- GRE/GMAT (if required).
- Statement of Purpose (SOP) and Letters of Recommendation (LORs).
- Academic CV/Resume.
Application Process: Step-by-Step Guide
Research Programs and Universities : Use the DAAD database or consult Walk International to shortlist suitable courses.
Check Entry Requirements : Look into GPA, test scores, language proficiency, and document requirements.
Submit Applications : Apply via:
- Uni-Assist portal
- Or directly on the university website
Wait for Admission Decision
- Takes 6–12 weeks depending on the university.
Receive Admission Letter
- Accept the offer and proceed to the next steps.
Apply for German Student Visa
- Book APS certification (for Indian students from Nov 2022 onwards).
- Open a Blocked Account (e.g., Expatrio, Fintiba – ~€11,208/year).
Cost of Living in Germany
Semester Contribution: €150 – €350 every six months (includes transportation pass, sports, etc.)
Explore our detailed guide on the Cost of Living in Germany for Indian Students to plan your finances better.
Scholarships for Indian Students
There are several financial aids available to Indian students:
DAAD Scholarship
- Covers full tuition + €934/month stipend
Deutschlandstipendium
- €300 per month (based on merit)
Erasmus+
- For exchange programs
University-Specific Grants
- Offered by institutions like TUM, LMU, RWTH, etc.
Walk International can help you identify the right scholarships based on your profile.
Intakes and Application Deadlines
| Intake | Application Window | Courses Available |
|---|---|---|
| Winter (Primary) | April – July | Majority of programs |
| Summer | October – January | Limited programs |
Most programs open for the Winter intake (October).
Planning your application timeline? Read our full blog on Intakes in Germany to know which intake is right for you.
English-Taught vs German-Taught Programs
| Feature | English-Taught Programs | German-Taught Programs |
|---|---|---|
| Popularity among Indians | High | Medium |
| Language Requirement | IELTS/TOEFL | TestDaF, DSH |
| Number of Courses | High for Master’s | More at Bachelor level |
| Job Prospects | Better with the German language certificate | Excellent |
Life at German Public Universities
- Student Support Services: Career counselling, mental health, student union
- Job Opportunities: Students can work 120 full days/year
- Part-Time Jobs: Internships, assistantships, language tutoring
- Cultural Diversity: Over 120 nationalities on campuses
- Student Accommodation: Shared apartments (WGs), student dormitories
How Walk International Can Help
Walk International is a leading study abroad consultant in Chennai, offering personalized guidance to students aiming to study at public universities in Germany.
Our Services Include:
- University shortlisting based on your profile
- SOP & LOR assistance
- IELTS/GRE preparation
- Application processing & Uni-Assist help
- Visa documentation, APS certification, and interview prep
- Pre-departure guidance
Final Thoughts: Is Studying at Public Universities in Germany Worth It?
Absolutely. Study in Germany offers unmatched academic quality without the burden of tuition fees, making it one of the most affordable and rewarding destinations for higher education. With the right guidance and timely planning, Indian students can unlock a future filled with international exposure, skill development, and global career opportunities.
Frequently Asked Questions
Are public universities in Germany free for international students?
Yes, most public universities in Germany do not charge tuition fees for both domestic and international students. However, students are required to pay a semester contribution, which typically ranges from €150 to €350, depending on the university. This fee often includes administrative costs and public transportation.
What is the difference between a university and a University of Applied Sciences in Germany?
Traditional universities (Universitäten) are research-focused institutions offering academic degrees, including bachelor’s, master’s, and doctoral programs. Universities of Applied Sciences (Fachhochschulen), on the other hand, emphasize practical training and are more industry-oriented, with a focus on preparing students for specific careers, especially in engineering, IT, business, and social sciences.
Can I study in English at a public university in Germany?
Yes. While most bachelor’s programs are taught in German, many public universities offer English-taught master’s and some bachelor’s programs, particularly in fields like engineering, business, and computer science. It is essential to check the language of instruction for your desired course before applying.
Is German language proficiency mandatory to study in Germany?
For German-taught programs, proof of German proficiency (typically B1/B2 level) is required. For English-taught programs, German is not mandatory for admission but is highly recommended for daily life and part-time work opportunities.
Can international students work while studying at public universities in Germany?
Yes. International students are allowed to work for 120 full days or 240 half days per year. Many students take up part-time jobs, research assistant roles, or internships to support themselves financially.
Are degrees from German public universities recognized internationally?
Yes. Degrees from public universities in Germany are highly respected and recognized globally, especially due to the country’s strong academic framework and emphasis on research and practical learning. Graduates often enjoy excellent job prospects both in Germany and internationally.
