The cost of studying in Germany is a major factor that attracts international students due to its affordable education system and affordable lifestyle. Germany offers high-quality education with little to no tuition fees at public universities, making it an appealing choice. However, students must still cover administrative fees, living expenses, and health insurance.
Understanding the cost of studying in Germany helps international students plan their budget effectively and make informed financial decisions. This guide provides an in-depth look at the cost of studying in Germany in 2025 and explores all category-wise expenses involved in studying in Germany.
Table of contents
- What is the Cost of Studying in Germany?
- Cost of Tuition Fees in Germany
- Cost of Living in Germany for International Students
- Proof of Financial Resources (Blocked Account)
- Health Insurance Costs for International Students
- Additional Cost of Studying in Germany
- Scholarships for International Students in Germany
- Part-Time Work Opportunities in Germany
- FAQs on the Cost of Studying in Germany
What is the Cost of Studying in Germany?
The cost of studying in Germany varies depending on the type of university and living expenses a student prefers. For students attending Public Universities in Germany, the total annual cost of studying in Germany ranges from EUR 12,104 to EUR 12,604, including living expenses and semester fees. Private universities, however, have significantly higher tuition fees, bringing the total cost to EUR 16,904 to EUR 31,904 annually. Specialised programs, such as MBAs, can cost up to EUR 76,904 per year.
This cost of studying in Germany makes financial planning essential for students moving to study in Germany. The expense categories that are necessary to consider while studying in Germany include university tuition fees, cost of living in Germany, health insurance costs, and a few additional costs such as books, visas, library, travel, and others. Let’s explore these categories of the cost of studying in Germany one by one in detail.
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Cost of Tuition Fees in Germany
Germany is known for its tuition-free education system at public universities, making it one of the most affordable study destinations. However, the cost of studying in Germany still includes some expenses, depending on the state and type of institution you choose. Private universities, on the other hand, charge significantly higher tuition fees, which can increase the overall cost of studying in Germany.
Let’s take a look at the cost of tuition fees at public and private universities in Germany one by one!
Cost of Tuition at Public Universities in Germany
Public universities in Germany do not charge tuition fees for most undergraduate programs, making the cost of studying in Germany more affordable. However, students must pay administrative and semester fees, which range between EUR 100 and EUR 350 per semester, depending on the university. One exception is the state of Baden-Württemberg, where non-EU students must pay tuition fees of EUR 1,500 per semester (EUR 3,000 per year).
Cost of Tuition at Private Universities in Germany
Unlike public institutions, private universities in Germany charge tuition fees, contributing to the overall cost of studying in Germany. These fees vary widely based on the program and institution. On average, tuition fees at private universities range between EUR 5,000 and EUR 20,000 per year, with some specialised programs, like MBA courses, costing up to EUR 30,000 annually. Here are the tuition fees at some of the top universities in Germany:
| University and Location | Tuition Fees |
| Technical University of Munich (TUM) (Munich, Bavaria) | Bachelor’s: EUR 2,000-EUR 3,000 per semester Master’s: EUR 4,000-EUR 6,000 per semester Regular semester fee applies additionally. |
| Ludwig Maximilian University of Munich (LMU)(Munich, Bavaria) | EUR 85 per semester |
| Heidelberg University(Heidelberg, Haden-Württember) | EUR 1,500 per semester Second-degree programs: EUR 650 per semester |
| Free University of Berlin (Berlin) | EUR 304.40 per semester |
| RWTH Aachen University(Aachen, North Rhine-Westphalia) | EUR 304.47 per semester |
| Karlsruhe Institute of Technology (KIT)(Karlsruhe, Baden-Württemberg) | EUR 1,500 per semester Second-degree programs: EUR 650 per semester |
| Humboldt University of Berlin (Berlin) | EUR 321.90 per semester |
| Technical University of Berlin (TU Berlin) (Berlin) | EUR 329.09 per semester Continuing education master’s programs may have higher fees. |
| Albert-Ludwigs-Universität Freiburg (Freiburg, Baden-Württemberg) | EUR 1,500 per semester Second-degree programs: EUR 650 per semester |
| University of Hamburg (Hamburg) | EUR 335 per semester |
| WHU Otto Beisheim School of ManagementDüsseldorf, North Rhine-Westphalia | Bachelor’s Programs: EUR 9,050 per semester Master’s Programs: EUR 32,200 – EUR 39,600 MBA Programs: EUR 36,000 – EUR 48,500 Doctoral Programs: International students pay EUR 1,000 (one-time admission) + EUR 3,000 per semester |
| Frankfurt School of Finance and ManagementFrankfurt, Hesse | Bachelor’s Programs: EUR 3,850 – EUR 8,200 per semester Master’s Programs: EUR 21,500 – EUR 39,000 MBA Programs: EUR 42,000 – EUR 49,500 Doctoral Programs: No tuition fees + monthly stipend |
| Gisma University of Applied SciencesPotsdam, Brandenburg & Berlin | Bachelor’s Programs: For International EUR 11,813 – EUR 13,125 per year Master’s Programs: EU: EUR 11,700 – EUR 20,500 (total) International: EUR 14,725 – EUR 24,200 (total) MBA Programs: EUR 17,100 – EUR 18,000 |
| ESMT BerlinBerlin | Master’s Programs: EUR 35,000 MBA Programs: EUR 28,000 – EUR 64,800 Doctoral Programs: No tuition fees + stipends provided |
| University of Europe For Applied Sciences(The university has 4 campuses Berlin, Potsdam, Hamburg, Iserlohn | Bachelor’s Programs: for Non-EU students EUR 12,700 per year Master’s Programs: for Non-EU students: EUR 12,000 – EUR 13,600 per year MBA Programs: for Non-EU students EUR 12,900 – EUR 14,100 per year |
Cost of Living in Germany for International Students
The cost of studying in Germany includes living expenses, which vary depending on the city, lifestyle, and accommodation choice. Please have a look at the table below for the average monthly costs of rent, food and groceries, health insurance, transportation, internet and utilities, and miscellaneous expenses.
| Expense | Average Monthly Cost (EUR ) |
| Rent (Shared Apartment) | 300 – 600 |
| Food & Groceries | 200 – 300 |
| Health Insurance | 110 – 130 |
| Transportation | 50 – 100 |
| Internet & Utilities | 50 – 150 |
| Miscellaneous | 100 – 200 |
| Total | 800 – 1,500 |
City-Wise Cost of Living Variation
The cost of living varies based on the city. Metropolitan areas like Munich, Frankfurt, and Hamburg are more expensive, with average monthly expenses exceeding EUR 1,200. Smaller cities like Leipzig, Dresden, and Freiburg are more affordable, with students spending around EUR 800 – EUR 1,000 per month.
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- Student Working Hours in Germany: Rules, Limits, and Tips
- How Hard is it to Get into German Universities
Proof of Financial Resources (Blocked Account)
International students must prove they have sufficient funds to cover their stay in Germany. This is done through a blocked account (Sperrkonto), which must contain a minimum of EUR 11,208 for one year. The cost of studying in Germany includes this requirement as well. Students can withdraw EUR 934 per month from this account for their expenses.
Health Insurance Costs for International Students
Health insurance is mandatory for all students in Germany and is an essential part of the overall cost of studying in Germany. There are two types of health insurance: statutory (public) and private. Let’s take an overview of health insurance costs for international students in Germany.
- Public health insurance: Costs between EUR 110 – EUR 130 per month for students under 30 years old.
- Private health insurance: Costs vary but start from EUR 30 per month depending on coverage.
Students from EU countries may use their European Health Insurance Card (EHIC) for coverage, reducing additional costs.
Additional Cost of Studying in Germany
Apart from tuition and living costs, students should budget for additional expenses like books, visas, and travel, as these significantly contribute to the overall cost of studying in Germany. Proper financial planning can help students manage these costs effectively. Here is an overview of the key additional expenses to consider.
- Student visa fees: EUR 75 for a long-term student visa.
- Books & study materials: EUR 20 – EUR 50 per month.
- Airfare: Varies by country but can range from EUR 400 – EUR 1,500.
Scholarships for International Students in Germany
Germany offers numerous scholarships for international students to reduce financial burdens, making the cost of studying in Germany more manageable. Some popular scholarships include:
- DAAD Scholarships – Covers full or partial tuition and living costs.
- Erasmus+ Program – Provides grants for students studying in Germany.
- Deutschlandstipendium – Offers EUR 300 per month to talented students.
Part-Time Work Opportunities in Germany
International students can work part-time to manage the cost of studying in Germany. Students from non-EU countries can work 120 full days or 240 half days per year. Typical student jobs include tutoring, retail, and internships, with wages ranging between EUR 10 and EUR 15 per hour. While working part-time helps cover living expenses, students must balance work with their studies to succeed academically.
Germany offers an affordable study destination with high-quality education, particularly at public universities where tuition fees are minimal. However, students must still consider living expenses, health insurance, and additional costs. By planning finances carefully and exploring scholarships or part-time jobs, international students can make studying in Germany a financially viable option.
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FAQs on the Cost of Studying in Germany
The cost of studying in Germany for international students varies based on university type and lifestyle. Public universities charge minimal semester fees (EUR 100–EUR 350 per semester), while private universities can cost between EUR 5,000 and EUR 20,000 per year. Specialized programs like MBAs can go up to EUR 76,904 annually.
Public universities in Germany offer tuition-free education, but students must pay semester fees ranging from EUR 100 to EUR 350. However, non-EU students in Baden-Württemberg must pay EUR 1,500 per semester. Private universities in Germany charge tuition fees ranging from EUR 5,000 to EUR 20,000 per year.
International students need a blocked account (Sperrkonto) with a minimum of EUR 11,208 to cover one year of living expenses in Germany. This ensures students have enough funds to support themselves while studying. Students can withdraw EUR 934 per month from this account.
Unlike public universities in Germany, private universities charge tuition fees ranging from EUR 5,000 to EUR 20,000 per year, depending on the institution and program. Some specialized programs, such as MBA courses in Germany, can cost up to EUR 76,904 per year.
Health insurance is mandatory for all students in Germany. Public health insurance costs EUR 110–EUR 130 per month for students under 30, while private health insurance in Germany starts at EUR 30 per month based on coverage. EU students can use their European Health Insurance Card (EHIC).
Yes, part-time work for international students in Germany is allowed. Non-EU students can work 120 full days or 240 half days per year. Common student jobs include tutoring, retail, and internships, with wages between EUR 10 and EUR 15 per hour.
Apart from tuition fees and living expenses, students must budget for additional costs, including:
– Student visa fees: EUR 75
– Books & study materials: EUR 20–EUR 50 per month
– Airfare: EUR 400–EUR 1,500 (varies by country)
Yes, several scholarships in Germany for international students help reduce financial burdens, including:
– DAAD Scholarships – Covers tuition and living costs
– Erasmus+ Program – Provides financial aid for students
-Deutschlandstipendium – Offers EUR 300 per month to talented students
The cost of studying in Germany is lower in cities like Leipzig, Dresden, and Freiburg, where students spend around EUR 800–EUR 1,000 per month. In contrast, cities like Munich, Hamburg, and Frankfurt are more expensive, with costs exceeding EUR 1,200 per month.
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