Germany has become one of the most popular places for international students to go to school because they can get a world-class education without having to pay a lot of money in tuition. Every year, more than 405,000 international students come to Europe to study in renowned public universities in Germany. These schools have great education programs, the chance to do cutting-edge research, and a wide range of students.
We at Taksheela Institute of Education understand that the world of overseas admissions might be challenging to comprehend. Being a trusted foreign study consultancy, we help students with every step of their journey, from picking the right university to getting accepted and securing a student visa.
Why should you go to a public university in Germany?
There are a number of good reasons why public universities in Germany are so great:
- Zero to very low tuition fees: Most public colleges don’t charge any tuition for undergraduate or many postgraduate programs.
- Rankings at the top of the world: The QS World University Ranking 2026 lists 12 German public universities.
- Programs taught in English: There are hundreds of courses in English, notably at the master’s and PhD levels.
- Strong ties to the industry: Direct ties with top firms like Bosch, Siemens, and BMW
- After studies work options: 18-month residency permit after graduation to look for work
At Taksheela Institute of Education, we are professional overseas study consultants who assist students in finding the best universities for them based on their academic records and career goals.
The 10 Best Public Universities in Germany
1. Technical University of Munich (TUM)
QS World Ranking: 28
The Technical University of Munich is always the best university in Germany. TUM is known for its innovative and high-quality education, which draws students from all over the world to its engineering, technology, and business programs.
Popular Classes:
- Engineering of Machines
- The study of computers
- Electrical Engineering, MBA Programs, and Architecture
Requirements for Eligibility:
- A bachelor’s degree is needed for master’s programs. (2.5 out of 4.0 minimum CGPA)
- For programs taught in German, you must be able to speak and write in German (DSH-2 or TestDaF).
- For English-taught programs, you need an IELTS score of 6.5 or higher or a TOEFL score of 88 or higher.
- 8% of people who apply get in.
Fees: €150–€300 each semester
2. Ludwig Maximilian University of Munich (LMU Munich)
QS World Ranking: 59
LMU Munich, which opened in 1472, is one of the oldest and most famous universities in Europe. It is especially well-known for its programs in medicine, biosciences, and natural sciences.
Common Courses:
- Medicine
- Psychology
- Business Administration
- Law
- Physics
Requirements for eligibility:
A bachelor’s degree that is relevant for master’s admission
Ability to speak German or English, depending on the curriculum
10 to 12% of applicants are accepted.
Fees: €150–€300 each semester
3. Heidelberg University
QS World Ranking: 84
Founded in 1386, Heidelberg University is the oldest university in Germany and one of the founding members of the League of European Research Universities. Heidelberg excels in the fields of humanities, medical sciences, and natural sciences.
Courses that are popular:
- Medicine
- Molecular Biological sciences
- Physics
- Computer Science and Economics
Requirements for Eligibility:
- Bachelor’s degree with a solid academic record
- Certificates of language proficiency
- 17% of applicants were accepted.
Costs: €150–€300 each semester
4. Humboldt University of Berlin
QS World Ranking: 120
Humboldt University is a research-heavy school in Berlin, Germany, that is noted for its humanities, social sciences, and natural sciences.
Most Popular Classes:
- Philosophy and Social Sciences
- Math
- Chemistry
- Biology
Requirements for Eligibility:
- A bachelor’s degree that is relevant
- Ability to speak either German or English
- Good academic background
Fees: €300–€350 each semester
5. Free University of Berlin
QS World Ranking: 97
The Free University of Berlin, which was founded in 1948, has more than 150 degree programs and places a significant emphasis on research and working with people from other countries.
Courses that are popular:
- Science of Politics
- Studies of North America
- Veterinary Medicine
- History of Earth Sciences
Requirements for eligibility:
- For master’s programs, you need a bachelor’s degree.
- Certification of language skills
- Relevant academic background
Fees: €300–€350
6. RWTH Aachen University
QS World Ranking: 99
RWTH Aachen is Germany’s largest technical university and a leader in engineering education. It had more than 44,000 students in winter 2024/25.
Courses that are popular:
- Engineering for Machines
- Engineering for Electricity
- Chemical Engineering
- Computer Science Engineering for Materials
Requirements for Eligibility:
- A bachelor’s degree in a related discipline
- A strong grounding in math
- Ability to speak the language
Fees: €300 to €350 each semester
7. Technical University of Berlin
QS World Ranking: 154
TU Berlin is known for its hands-on approach to teaching engineering and technology, and it has strong ties to the business world.
Courses that are popular:
- Engineering for Industry
- Civil Engineering Architecture
- Information Systems for Urban Planning
Requirements for Eligibility:
- Bachelor’s degree in a relevant field
- Language skills are required, and the CGPA requirement changes from program to program.
Fees: €300–€350 each semester
8. The University of Bonn
QS World Ranking: 200
The University of Bonn is a popular choice for overseas students because it has a long history (almost 200 years) and two Nobel Prize winners.
Most Popular Classes:
- Math
- Physics
- Economics
- Law
- Computer Science
Requirements for Eligibility:
- To go into a master’s program, you need a bachelor’s degree.
- Certification of language skills Strong academic performance
Fees: €300 to €350 each semester
9. University of Freiburg
QS World Ranking: 212
Freiburg is in Germany’s sunniest city and has great programs in the humanities, social sciences, and the sciences.
Courses that are popular:
- Science of the Environment
- Forestry Sciences Medicine
- Biology
- Studies in English
Requirements for eligibility:
- A bachelor’s degree that is relevant
- Ability to speak a language
- Being the best in school
Fees: €1,500 per semester for students from outside the EU in Baden-Württemberg
10. University of Stuttgart
QS World Ranking: 314
The University of Stuttgart is in the most active economic sector in Europe, and it has great job chances with firms like Porsche, Daimler, and Bosch.
Most Popular Classes:
- Automotive Engineering
- Aerospace Engineering
- STEM Programs
- Business Administration
- Architecture
Requirements for eligibility:
- A bachelor’s degree in a related discipline
- Ability to speak the language
- Relevant academic background
Fees: Semester fee of €300–€350
For complete guidance on admissions, visas, and country selection, connect with the best study abroad consultant in India through our full overseas admission guide.
Study in Germany Application Process
1. Research and shortlist universities
- Program prerequisites and language of instruction
- Anabin database verifies qualifications
2. Prepare required documents
- Proof of academic credentials
- Proof of qualifications: transcripts and language competence certificates
- Statement of Purpose Letters of Recommendation
- A copy of your ID
- Professional overseas study consultants can help ensure all documents meet university requirements
3. Apply Properly
- Uni-assist: 120+ universities
- Apply directly via university portals
- Medical and dental students alone.
- A reliable foreign study consultancy can guide you through the correct application portal
Deadlines for applications:
- October start Winter Semester: July 15.
- Starting January 15, summer semester (April)
4. Get Admission Letter
Most universities react in 4-8 weeks.
5. Request Student Visa
- German Embassy/Consulate appointment book
- Provide financial proof (€11,904 first year—banned account).
- Proof of health insurance
- Attend visa interview
Professional advice from overseas educational consultants is crucial.
The Cost of Living in Germany
When preparing to study in Germany, it’s important to know how much it costs to live there:
| Expense Category | Monthly Cost (EUR) |
| Accommodation | €300-€700 |
| Food & Groceries | €200-€250 |
| Health Insurance | €110-€140 |
| Transportation | Included in semester ticket |
| Books & Study Materials | €30-€50 |
| Personal Expenses | €100-€150 |
| Total | €740-€1,290 |
Important: Cities like Munich and Frankfurt cost more than smaller college towns like Freiburg or Göttingen. Source
Begin Your Study in Germany Today
Germany is a top choice for international students seeking economical, high-quality education. Your investment in German education will pay off with world-class public universities in Germany offering tuition-free education, great research facilities, and good employment possibilities.
Taksheela Institute of Education wants to help you go to study in Germany. As experts in foreign study consulting, we’ll be there for you the whole time. Our skilled advisors understand German university admissions and visa processes, giving you the best chance of success.
FAQs:
1. Is public university free in Germany?
Most German public universities offer tuition-free education for domestic and international students, charging a €150-550 semester contribution fee.
2. How to get 100% scholarship in Germany?
To be eligible for a DAAD scholarship, you must have strong academic performance, appropriate work experience (minimum 2 years), and strong motivation. Six to twelve months before the start date, full applications should be sent in.
3. Can I go to Germany even if I don’t have IELTS?
Yes, you can apply without IELTS if you have learned in English, shown proof of other English tests (like TOEFL, PTE, or Duolingo), or applied for programs taught in German and shown proof of your ability to speak and write in German.
4. How can I get into a state university in Germany?
You can apply directly to universities or through Uni-Assist just make sure you meet all the program standards and apply by the deadlines, which are July 15 for the winter semester and January 15 for the summer semester.