Germany is now one of the most popular study destinations, particularly among Indian students who want high-quality education at affordable rates. At the heart of this attraction lie public universities in Germany, institutions known for offering world-class academic programs without charging any tuition fees.
These universities are funded and regulated by the German government, and they maintain high standards of academics and provide equal access to education to both domestic and international students. Offering a wide range of degrees in Engineering, Business, Humanities, or even greener areas like Artificial Intelligence, the public universities in Germany will offer internationally accepted programs, mostly conducted in English.
However, it is not merely a matter of saving funds, but also bringing a wider scope of research, exposure to the world, and high job prospects after graduation. This blog explores all that you should know about public universities if you want to study in Germany. Learn about the most chosen courses, scholarships, expenses, and the system of admission within the process, created especially for Indian students. Let’s begin.
Why Choose a Public University in Germany?
Public universities in Germany are globally respected for combining academic excellence with affordability. Its biggest attraction? Free education for all, including foreigners, thanks to the extensive funding by the government. This implies that you can have the opportunity to study a high-quality Bachelor’s or Master’s degree without emptying your bank account.
Other than the affordability, these universities have a high number of English-taught courses, especially at the postgraduate level, and as such, they are easily accessible to Indian students. They are also among the top world universities in subjects such as Engineering, Computer Science, Business, Medicine, and Social Sciences.
German public university schools also offer you the opportunity to be a part of German innovation-oriented culture; it provides you with access to world-class research resources. With an 18-month post-study work visa, graduates enjoy a good prospect of employment opportunities, not only in Germany but also elsewhere in Europe.
An opportunity to obtain elite education at a minimal fare is not a luxury many in the contemporary world can afford when picking a German public university.
Public vs Private Universities in Germany: What’s Better for You?
It is important to know the main differences between German public and private universities before making the choice of a university. They both have their advantages that are based on your plans, financial resources, and studying preferences.
| Factor | Public Universities | Private Universities |
|---|---|---|
| Tuition Fees | Free or minimal (€0–€500/semester) | High (€10,000–€30,000/year) |
| Admission Process | Highly competitive, strict eligibility | Flexible, faster processing |
| Medium of Instruction | German + English (especially English-taught Master’s) | Primarily English-taught |
| Academic Reputation | Globally ranked, research-oriented | Varies; usually business-focused |
| Scholarship Access | Wide options like DAAD, Erasmus+, Deutschlandstipendium | Limited funding support |
| Job Opportunities | Strong industry links, especially in STEM fields | Better in business/management roles |
| Return on Investment | Very high – low cost + strong career prospects | Varies by university and course |
| Definition | State-funded institutions offering tuition-free or low-cost education. | Privately funded institutions that charge high tuition fees for self-financed degrees. |
| Tuition Fees | Usually €0–€500 per semester (only semester contribution applies). | Range from €10,000 to €30,000 per year depending on program and institution. |
| Funding Source | Fully or partially funded by the German government. | Run by private bodies and funded through student tuition fees. |
| Admission Process | Highly competitive, especially for English-taught programs. | Easier to get into, with simplified admission criteria. |
| Language of Instruction | Mostly German at undergrad level; many Master’s programs are in English. | Primarily English-taught programs, suitable for international students. |
| Recognition & Reputation | Globally respected, often featured in QS/Times rankings. | Recognition varies; some offer niche or practical training, others lack global ranking. |
| Available Programs | Wide range: STEM, Medicine, Business, Arts, Social Sciences, etc. | Mostly business, management, or niche professional programs. |
| Scholarship Opportunities | Access to DAAD, Erasmus+, Deutschlandstipendium, and government grants. | Limited scholarships; fewer options for fee waivers. |
| Career Prospects | Strong employer trust; many have links with top industries and research. | Better practical exposure in business programs, but ROI depends on fees and program. |
| Return on Investment (ROI) | Excellent – low cost, high employability. | ROI varies – can be high in business schools, but riskier due to high upfront cost. |
Benefits of Public Universities in Germany
No Tuition Fees for Most Programs
Public universities in Germany stand out for various reasons. The following are the main advantages of learning in Germany:
1. Affordable Education: The Fee is zero in most of the public universities for international students. You have to make a tiny contribution during the semesters.
2. International Reputation and Excellence: The German public universities have a global reputation and are research-oriented. The global markets value their qualifications.
3. English Teaching Programs: A large number of Master’s and a few Bachelor’s programs are also taught in English. Ideal for students who are not too fluent in German.
4. Scholarships & Financial Aid: The public universities enable students to have access to government scholarships. Funding terms include tuition, living expenses, and travel.
5. Good Career Prospect: Germany offers good career prospects, particularly in science, technology, engineering, and business sectors. The students are given 18 months after completing their studies to seek employment.
Additionally, public universities open doors to DAAD scholarships, affordable living, and strong post-graduation career prospects in Germany’s booming job market. Concisely, the affordability, academic excellence, and employability offered by the public universities have made it one of the most preferred choices on two continents.
How the German Public University System Works?
States and Federal Governance
The system of public universities in Germany works within a decentralized system, where the individual federal states (Länder) assume the principal control over universities of higher education. Although the federal government establishes blanket policy and funds them, the tuition regulations, admissions policies, and curriculum design remain under the jurisdiction of individual states. This independence called Landerhoheit implies that the tuition fees, at least those charged to international students, may differ across the states. Despite regional differences, public universities in Germany maintain consistently high academic standards nationwide.
Categories of Public Institutions
The two commonly provided public universities in Germany fulfill different objectives of education:
- Universities: These are theory-oriented colleges with much emphasis on research and postgraduate training. They also provide Bachelor’s, Master’s, and PhD degrees and are suitable for students who want to work in academia or research.
- Universities of Applied Sciences (UAS): They are practice-oriented and industry-oriented. Focusing on internships and practice and honing their hands-on skills, UAS traditionally provide the Bachelor’s and Master’s degrees and are recommended to be undertaken by those who wish to pursue a certain professional career.
Degree Structure
The German public universities adhere to the Bologna Process, according to which German degrees are aligned with the European Higher Education Area:
- The Bachelor’s Degree: 3 to 4 years (6 semesters to 8 semesters); a student is educated fundamentally.
- Master’s Degree: 1-2 years (2-4 semesters); provides a specialisation and is typically in English.
- PhD (Doktorat): A research-based course taking 3 – 5 years, that yields a dissertation.
The public universities in Germany are systematic and internationally recognized by international students.
Top Public Universities in Germany (2025 Rankings)
Some of the most qualitative top public universities in Germany provide free tuition to international students, which is the best in the world. These colleges are always ranked at the top of the world and are especially specialized in the areas of STEM, medicine, arts, and humanities. This is an overview of the most trusted institutions in 2025:
| University Name | City | QS World Ranking 2025 | Specialties |
|---|---|---|---|
| Technical University of Munich (TUM) | Munich | #22 | Engineering, Computer Science, AI |
| Ludwig Maximilian University (LMU) | Munich | #58 | Humanities, Natural Sciences |
| Heidelberg University | Heidelberg | #84 | Medicine, Law, Psychology |
| RWTH Aachen University | Aachen | #99 | Mechanical, Mechatronics, Energy |
| Humboldt University of Berlin | Berlin | #126 | History, Arts, Philosophy |
| University of Freiburg | Freiburg | #201 | Environmental Science, Biology |
| University of Stuttgart | Stuttgart | #310 | Aerospace, Civil Engineering |
Federal State-Wise List of Public Universities in Germany
Germany is divided into 16 federal states (Bundesländer), each hosting renowned public universities offering diverse Bachelor’s and Master’s programs. To assist you in shortlisting by region or city, you prefer to live in, here is a look at each state in brief:
| Federal State | Public Universities (including UAS where relevant) |
|---|---|
| Berlin & Brandenburg | Free University of Berlin (FU Berlin), Humboldt University of Berlin (HU Berlin), TU Berlin, Berlin University of the Arts (UdK), Charité – Universitätsmedizin Berlin, University of Potsdam, Brandenburg University of Technology Cottbus–Senftenberg |
| Bavaria (Bayern) | 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 (NRW) | RWTH Aachen University, University of Bonn, University of Cologne, University of Duisburg‑Essen, Heinrich Heine Universität Düsseldorf, University of Münster, University of Paderborn, University of Siegen, University of Wuppertal, TU Dortmund, 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, Leipzig University, Chemnitz University of Technology, TU Bergakademie Freiberg, University of Zwickau |
| Saxony‑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 | Johannes Gutenberg University Mainz, 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 |
Public Universities of Applied Sciences (Fachhochschulen or Hochschulen)
Germany also has more than 100 Universities of Applied Sciences, also called Hochschulen or Fachhochschulen, funded by the state on top of the traditional public universities. These universities are practice-oriented and are both theory-based and applied practice, mostly in fields such as engineering, business, IT, and social science.
Some of the top public universities of applied sciences in Germany include:
| University Name | Specialization / Notable Strengths |
|---|---|
| Hochschule Bonn-Rhein-Sieg | AI research, sustainability, computer science |
| Hochschule Darmstadt | Media technology, IT, engineering |
| Hochschule Düsseldorf | Business studies, social sciences, design |
| Hochschule Esslingen | Automotive engineering, mechanical design |
| Hochschule München (Munich University of Applied Sciences) | Engineering, business, international programs |
| Hochschule RheinMain | Architecture, media, business, engineering |
| Hochschule Bremen | International business, maritime logistics |
| Hochschule Hannover | Media, design, IT, and engineering |
| Hochschule Mannheim | Biotechnology, engineering, applied sciences |
| HTW Berlin (Hochschule für Technik und Wirtschaft Berlin) | Largest applied sciences university in Berlin, over 70 programs |
You could find your dream Bachelor’s and Master’s programs in Germany from the lists given above.
Popular Courses Offered by Public Universities
German public universities cover an extensive scope of various locally renowned programs and have a superior quality of studies to interest millions of international students. The most famous programs of the public universities are the programs in Engineering, namely Mechanical, Automotive, and Electrical Engineering, Computer Science, Data Science, and Artificial Intelligence. The business-related courses, primarily MBA, International Business, and Economics, are appealing to students all over the world.
Other high-demand faculties are Medicine, Pharmaceutical Sciences, Biotechnology, and Environmental Science, because there is a lot of research that can be done in Germany. Additionally, Germany positions itself at the centre of Architecture, Design, and Arts research at the level of the state universities of applied sciences. Their attractiveness is also mirrored by a large number of English-taught courses. Free education with a long tradition of academic excellence makes public universities in Germany a continuing attraction to motivated students worldwide.
Cost of Living in Germany
While tuition fees are generally non-existent at public universities in Germany, the overall cost of studying in Germany can be slightly on the higher side when you consider living expenses. The blocked account scheme (where the students put around 11,208 euros per year) provides financial safety and assists in complying with student visa conditions.
The cost of living in Germany for students can be €850 to €1,100 monthly, depending on the city. Housing is often the most expensive bit, but a shared apartment or dorm is the cheapest. Rent may range between €250 and €500 euros monthly. Routine purchases, including meals, commuting, medical insurance, and personal spending, contribute to the monthly budget. Even with the increased cost of living, attending a public university is an affordable option because of the lack of tuition and availability of student discounts in the usage of various services.
How to Apply to Public Universities in Germany (Step-by-Step) ?
The application process for German universities is well-formatted and well-planned, especially for international students.:
- Eligibility and Admission Restrictions: Students of India may require a Studienkolleg, a preparatory course since they do not even possess the equivalent of the German “Abitur”. Find out whether your degree/programme has Numerus Clausus (NC), i.e., some very competitive study areas, such as medicine, may be limited.
- Universities and Courses Shortlist: Find the universities according to your educational purpose, language, and whether they possess Uni-Assist or direct application websites. Expand your list as a risk minimisation approach.
- Assemble Time-Needed Paperwork: Obtain certified and translated transcripts, degree certificates, language scores (IELTS/TOEFL in English; TestDaF/DSH in German), letter of motivation, CV, LORs, APS certificate (Indian, only), and a copy of health insurance.
- Send in Your Form: Assuming that it is necessary, do the following: Register on Uni-Assist, upload the documents, pay a fee (~75 euros for the first one, and 30 euros for subsequent ones), and send your application to universities. Otherwise, one should use direct university portals.
- Follow deadlines: last date July 15 (winter intake) or January 15 (summer intake).
- Get an Offer Letter: You are likely to expect the official acceptance letters in 4-6 weeks. There are offers that are conditional (pending final transcripts or proofs of language).
- Open a blocked Account & Visa Application: Put approx. 11.208 Euros in a blocked account as a demonstration of financial stability as a precondition of getting a visa (this applies both to work and residence permit). After that, make a visa reservation and provide documents (certificate of admission, blocked account, health insurance, etc.). Germany has also been able to simplify its visa process through a digital portal, making the process much faster.
- Last Enrollment and Arrival: Once you have gathered your visa, you should then pay the Semester contribution and enroll in the university. Get a secure residence and health cover.
Eligibility Criteria
In Germany, entry into public universities is normally attained after completion of a higher secondary school certificate or a relevant Bachelor’s degree, depending on the level of the course. The international students have to achieve the Hochschulzugangsberechtigung (HZB), which is a university entrance requirement to the minimum German standards. English-taught courses in Germany will require proficiency in English (IELTS/ TOEFL), whereas TestDaF or DSH scores will be needed to take programs in the German language.
Other requirements are academic transcripts, a valid passport, a statement of purpose (SOP), letters of recommendation, and, in some cases, a CV. A greater GPA and entrance tests can be demanded in such competitive programs as Engineering or Medicine. Usually, it is applied online either through Uni-Assist or through the university. German university admission requirements are stringent yet attainable with the right study abroad consultant.
Scholarships for Public Universities in Germany
Although most public universities offer tuition-free education in Germany, scholarships can greatly ease the cost of living, blocked account deposits, and semester contributions. The prestigious scholarship opportunity is the DAAD Scholarship that fits international students in Master’s programs excellently. Scholarships like Deutschlandstipendium, Heinrich Boll Foundation, and Konrad-Adenauer-Stiftung scholarships, which annually award 300-1200 Euros (depending on merit, research, or socio-political activities), are among the other prestigious scholarships.
Many direct scholarships can be offered to bachelor students, although there is a huge number of regional and university-specific opportunities. International students are advised to apply early and write specific motivation letters for specific awards. Funding plans are also frequently available on the official sites of the public universities.
Job & Career Prospects After Studying at Public Universities
A scholarship, coupled with the affordable, quality education in Germany, makes the country a dream study destination for students all over the world.
The booming, energetic economy and the low rate of unemployment, particularly among skilled professionals, render Germany a major destination where international students look to have a long-term career. Graduates have a long period of 18 months on a post-study work visa to secure employment in their field of study. Such cities as Berlin, Munich, Hamburg, and Frankfurt are the hubs of technology, engineering, healthcare, and finance-oriented careers.
The emphasis on practical learning and industry partnership enables public university graduates to be job-ready and competitive in the global environment.
Final Word
Germany has become a global hotspot for quality, tuition-free education in Germany, and is at the heart of this transformation. Public universities in Germany are a successful entry point with no financial burden that is typical in other countries, public institutions represent a world-leading academic infrastructure, abundance of English-taught courses, and degrees that are highly valued globally. Students are also given on-site training, and they are exposed to industries involving engineering and business to medicine and design fields.
Additionally, the well-organized procedure of application, scholarships, and the possibilities to work part-time during studies make it even more attractive to Indian students. And after your graduation, you will find that the German job market is keen to hire qualified foreign professionals.
Traveling to your dream destination to study requires guidance, and that is where Walk International comes in. Our full-service support is there with you right after you select a university, to your visa support, so your dream of studying in Germany can metamorphose into a desirable reality.
The future starts now. Come on, we will walk it together.
Frequently Asked Questions
The other top engineering universities in Germany are RWTH Aachen, TU Munich, TU Berlin, and Karlsruhe Institute of Technology. There are no tuition fees in these universities, and the universities have state-of-the-art program tracks for international students.
Ludwig-Maximilians Universität München, the University of Heidelberg, the University of Freiburg, and the University of Hamburg are some of the universities in Germany that are tuition-free and also among the most excellent ones. They provide recognized degrees to the world without fees for most programs.
Yes, all the major universities in Germany are public tuition-free even to the international students outside the EU. Respectively, students should only make a small semester contribution.
In Germany, students (both domestic and foreign) pay no fees for the tuition instituted in public universities. This renders Germany as one of the cheapest nations for pursuing higher education in the world.
At most German public universities, 70-75 % or more is needed in your qualifying exams. Some more competitive programs, such as Engineering or Medicine, may however require more scores and other credentials.
In order to gain admission, submit your academic records and the scores of proficiency (IELTS/TOEFL) in the language of instruction and the statement of purpose via the university portal or uni-assist. There are also those courses that can involve entrance tests or interviews.
