Germany has become one of the most attractive destinations for international students, not only for its great public universities but also because many of them charge no tuition fees at all. Here is everything you need to know about studying in Germany for free: admission at public universities, other fees besides tuition, and scholarships.
Can You Really Study in Germany for Free?
Yes, if you choose a public university, your tuition will usually be free (except for universities in Baden-Württemberg, which charge €1,500 per semester) whether you are from Germany, the EU, or a non-EU country.
This policy is part of Germany’s commitment to making education accessible to everyone, and it applies to most degree programmes across the country.
However, "free" does not mean completely costless. You will still need to cover:
- Semester contributions (€100–€350 per semester)
- Living expenses (€850–€1,100/month)
- Visa-related costs (if applicable)
How Tuition-Free Education Works in Germany
The majority of German universities are publicly funded. This means the government covers most of the operating costs, allowing them to offer degrees without charging tuition. Students contribute only a semester fee, which supports administrative services, student unions, and public transport passes (in most cities).
However, there are some exceptions:
- Baden-Württemberg charges non-EU students €1,500 per semester.
- Some specialised Master’s programmes and all MBA programmes require tuition fees, even at public universities.
Who Can Study for Free in Germany
The tuition-free policy is inclusive, and it applies to:
- German citizens
- EU/EEA citizens
- Non-EU international students enrolled in standard degree programmes
Whether you’re from India, the USA, Nigeria, or Brazil, you can apply to a public university and pay no tuition fees for most programmes. The only and main condition is that you meet the admission requirements for your chosen degree.
Public Universities and Tuition-Free Education
Public universities are the backbone of Germany’s higher education system. They are funded by the government, which is why they can offer tuition-free degrees to both national and international students.
These institutions are known for their academic excellence, strong research output, and a wide range of programmes in both German and English.
Programmes Offered in English at Tuition-Free Public Universities
If you’re worried about the language barrier, you’ll be happy to know that hundreds of programmes are taught in English, especially at the Master’s level.
Use the mygermanuniversity.com database to filter by "Language: English" to find the most up-to-date list of tuition-free English-taught programmes.
However, if you plan on making friends here and staying for longer in Germany, you should learn German for day-to-day interactions, group work, and making connections.
Admission Requirements at Tuition-Free Public Universities
Because tuition is free and Germany is quite sought-after, entry standards are competitive. Requirements do vary by programme, but they generally include:
For Bachelor’s programmes
- Secondary school certificate recognized as equivalent to German Abitur (use the Anabin database to check)
- Proof of language proficiency (German B2/C1 for German-taught programmes, IELTS/TOEFL for English-taught programmes)
- Sometimes, a preparatory year (Studienkolleg) is required if your home country has a 12-year school system
For Master’s programmes
- Bachelor’s degree in a relevant field, recognized in Germany
- Proof of language proficiency (English or German, depending on programme)
- Motivation letter, CV, and letters of recommendation
Scholarships and Financial Support in Germany
Even though public universities in Germany are tuition-free for most programmes, you still need to cover living expenses, semester contributions, and other costs.
Scholarships can help ease this financial pressure, and many options are open to international students.
Main Types of Scholarships for International Students
Scholarships in Germany generally fall into three main categories:
- Government-funded programmes
- Private foundations
- University-specific grants
Some scholarships cover only living costs, while others may include family allowances, insurance, or even research funding.
How to Find and Apply for Scholarships in Germany
- Search early – Many scholarships close applications before the semester starts.
- Use reliable databases – Start with the DAAD scholarship finder and your university’s funding page.
- Prepre your documents – Such as academic transcripts, CV, motivation letter, and recommendation letters.
If you want to make sure you have enough funds to cover your costs, you can apply to several scholarships at once.
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Are there tuition fees for master’s programmes in Germany?
Most Master’s programmes at public universities are tuition-free, especially consecutive programmes (continuing in the same field as your Bachelor’s). Non-consecutive Master’s and some specialised programmes may charge tuition.
Can I study in Germany for free in English?
Yes. Many public universities offer English-taught programmes without tuition fees, particularly at the postgraduate level. Always check the language requirements before applying.
Can international students study in Germany for free?
Yes. At most public universities, both EU and non-EU students can study without paying tuition fees. Only semester contributions and living costs apply.
Do I need to speak German to study for free in Germany?
Not necessarily. Many tuition-free programs, especially at the Master’s level, are taught entirely in English. However, learning German will improve daily life, job prospects, and integration.
What are the hidden costs of studying in Germany for free?
“Free” still includes semester fees, living expenses, health insurance, and possibly lab or exam fees. Expect to budget €850–€1,100/month.
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