Study Destination

10 Best Cities in Germany for International Students in 2024

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Sumeet Jain
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Germany is a popular study destination for international students, offering world-class education, affordable living costs, and a vibrant cultural scene. If you're looking for the best cities in Germany for students, look no further!

Germany is home to some of the best universities in the world, including Heidelberg University, Ludwig Maximilian University of Munich, and Technical University of Berlin. These universities offer a wide range of programs to choose from, and their graduates are highly sought-after by employers. It is one of the most affordable countries in Europe to live in. Students can expect to pay significantly less for tuition fees, accommodation, and food than they would in other popular study destinations such as the UK or the US. Germany has a rich and diverse culture, which is reflected in its cities. Students can enjoy everything from world-class museums and art galleries to traditional festivals and markets.

More than a million study-abroad aspirants have chosen Yocket to fulfill their dreams of studying in the best universities abroad. When will you? 

Explore Yocket Premium today to get personalized guidance from our experts on selecting the best city in Germany for your international education. Not only that but with Yocket Premium, you will also get free access to multiple resources, visa counseling, loan assistance, and others.And if you are looking for more information on the topic, read on as we discuss various aspects of the best cities for international students in Germany.

Source : Germany Map

Table of Contents

Why Study in Germany?

One of the main reasons to study in Germany is its student cities. According to the QS Best Student Cities 2024 rankings, 2 of the top 10 student cities are located in Germany.  Here are a few reasons why you should choose a city in Germany for your higher education:

  • Quality of life- Students can enjoy a good quality of life in German cities. Safety, affordability and a chance to interact with a global student population is a rewarding experience.
  • Quality of education - German universities are known for their research and teaching standards.
  • Renowned Universities - Some of the world’s most prestigious institutions of higher education are located in German cities including the Technical University of Munich, and the Free University of Berlin, is located in Germany.
  • Affordability - Higher education and the cost of studying in German cities is far lower than the US and UK counterparts.

Suggested: Cost of Studying in Germany

Top 10 Cities in Germany for Students

After narrowing down your study abroad search to Germany, the next dilemma to strike at you is: Where exactly in Germany?

To help you make that decision, here are the best cities in Germany for international students:

  1. Munich
  2. Frankfurt
  3. Berlin
  4. Hamburg
  5. Aachen
  6. Bonn
  7. Dresden
  8. Stuttgart
  9. Leipzig
  10. Cologne

Let us dive deep into each of these best cities for students in Germany to pursue higher education -

1. Munich

Source: Munich.de/official

Some of the top universities in Germany to study Engineering courses are located in Munich, making it one of the best student destinations in Germany. With affordable prices and a variety of scholarship opportunities, Munich has a solid Indian and International community of students. Studying in Munich you can be assured of enjoying all the comforts of city life except the business that tags along. 

Some of the best courses to study in Munich:

  • Computer Science Engineering.
  • Chemical Engineering.
  • Civil Engineering.
  • Electrical Engineering.
  • Mechanical Engineering.
  • Environmental Engineering
  • Distributed Software
  • Mechatronics
  • Automotive Engineering
  • Power Engineering
  • Management and technology
  • Renewable Energy Systems

Best Universities in Munich

What can Students do in Munich?

If you are going to be studying in Munich, you will enjoy partying and the nightlife of the city. Munich has some of the best beer, food, and fun joints to make the most of an evening.

Apart from that, students also have easy access to many European cities to easily explore the rest of the continent. But, if you are looking for activities to do in Munich, you will still find yourself occupied with everything that Munich has to offer. You can:

  • Visit various historical galleries and museums
  • Have a brunch at the castles
  • Dive into the lakes around
  • Have a touristy time visiting the Churches, historic sites, and more
  • Spend a day at the BMW museum and more.

Read: Public Universities in Germany

Is it worth Studying in Munich?

It is worth studying in Munich. For Indian students, you have many Indians to help you figure out your life in Germany. Additionally, if you are interested, Munich has many job and PhD opportunities. However, remember that the level of competition at the top universities is high and so, you will have to put your best foot forward.

Suggested: Top Universities to Study in Munich

2. Frankfurt

Source: Frankfurt.de/official

Frankfurt is the finance capital of Germany. While the other cities of Germany are filled with greenery, Frankfurt has a perfect busy high-town vibe. The skyscrapers, the hurried stockbrokers, and the nightlife buzz make your life in Frankfurt desirable yet busy.

For aspirants planning to pursue a course in finance, economics, or business in Germany, we recommend you choose Frankfurt.

Some of the best courses to study in Frankfurt:

  • Finance
  • Economics
  • Liberal arts
  • Communication
  • Business Studies

Best Universities in Frankfurt

What can Students do in Frankfurt?

Earning the name ‘Main-hattan’ because of the shimmering skyscrapers, Frankfurt is one of the coolest student cities in Germany. We’d like to give you evidence, here are some of the amazing things you can you in Frankfurt as an international student:

  • Travel
  • Explore the city, pubs, and restaurants
  • Visit the Goethe House
  • Learn about the German culture and history
  • Shop

Suggested: MS in Germany

Is it worth studying in Frankfurt?

Studying in the ‘Main-hattan’ of Germany is worth it! Apart from a good education, other perks like a great student community, a well-connected commute, and a great cultural mix add to a fun and comforting experience. This is also one of the top destinations to advance your career. Since many offices are located in Frankfurt, students have a high chance of getting a good job in the city after their studies.

Suggested: Top Universities to Study in Frankfurt

3. Berlin

Source: Berlin.de/official

Berlin, the capital city, is one of the best cities in Germany for international students. With its diverse culture, the city and scenic mix, and exciting nightlife, Berlin has it all. Students studying here might find it fun yet moderately challenging to adapt to a town with language barriers. However, if you’re adapting to the language and the people, your study in Berlin definitely ought to be memorable. Berlin is one of the best student cities in Germany, but here's something you should know: Most of the courses are offered in German, so learn the language or be sure to choose the course in an English teaching medium.

Some of the best courses to study in Berlin:

  • Specialization in Renewable Energy
  • Courses in illustration, design, and communication
  • Photography
  • Business Management
  • Social Design and Sustainable Innovation
  • Data Analytics and Information System Management
  • Business Intelligence and Analytics

Best Universities in Berlin

Suggested: All About Engineering in Germany  

What can Students do in Berlin?

The capital city has a lot to offer to international students. Exploring the city alone is a fascinating feeling. Reminiscing the great Berlin Wall, strolling around the Spree River of Berlin while you sip a cold coffee will certainly brighten your day. Some of the other things you can do in Berlin are:

  • Explore the museums of Berlin
  • Enjoy the nightlife
  • Have instant-friendly photoshoots at the East Side Gallery of Berlin
  • Sign up for an artsy tour across the city
  • Watch the sunset from the Berlin tower

Is it worth Studying in Berlin?

There is no doubt that Berlin is one of the best student cities in Germany. The amazing student life and experiences you will gather while studying in Berlin are unparalleled. The vast exposure and facilities available are certainly going to make your study in Berlin worth it. The well-connected city, the cultural richness, and the scenic town certainly account for Berlin as one of the best cities in Germany for students.

Suggested: Top Universities to Study in Berlin

4. Hamburg

Source : Hamburg.de/official

Hamburg has some of the most architecturally gorgeous buildings in Germany. This is the perfect student town, being one of the best destinations for Instagrammers, fashionistas, and music enthusiasts. Housing some of the top fashion brands, music museums, and more, students love living in Hamburg. The scenery and the education system are a bonus to the young energetic vibe of the town.

Some of the best courses to study in Hamburg:

  • Computer science
  • Business administration
  • Food Chemistry
  • Economics
  • Industrial engineering
  • Aeronautical
  • Automotive engineering
  • Journalism
  • Nanoscience
  • Psychology
  • Music and liberal arts

Best Universities in Hamburg

  • HFH Hamburger Fern-Hochschule
  • Hamburg University of Technology
  • Hamburg School of Business Administration
  • University of Fine Arts Hamburg
  • HafenCity University Hamburg
  • Hochschule für Musik und Theater Hamburg

Suggested: How to Study in Germany After the 12th?

What can Students do in Hamburg?

As a student, you will enjoy having many interesting experiences in Hamburg. Some of the things you can do in Hamburg:

  • Visit the various museums and parks
  • Spend a day at the miniature museum
  • Hang out at the bars of the city
  • Spend time at the music joints and listen to music bands
  • Experience the dialogue in the dark

Is it worth studying in Hamburg?

For fashion and music lovers, Hamburg is a study destination. You will certainly have a fun time hanging out and exploring the city of Hamburg. The beautiful city, the live bands, and the youthful atmosphere will serve as an amazing experience in any student's life.

Suggested: Top Universities to Study in Hamburg

5. Aachen

Source : Aachen.de/official

One of the overlooked or underrated places in Germany is Aachen. Yes, this might come as a surprise, but Aachen is a tech-freak town. If you’re looking to pursue an automotive career or study technology, Aachen is the best place to study in Germany for you. RWTH Aachen University is one of the top universities in Germany founded by the minds of the IDEA League, a prestigious association of all the technical universities across Europe. This means that Aachen is undoubtedly the ideal destination to study courses in engineering.

 Some of the best courses to study in Aachen:

  • Applied Geophysics
  • Automotive Engineering
  • Biomedical Engineering
  • Data Science
  • Electrical Engineering,
  • Information Technology
  • Computer Engineering
  • Communications Engineering
  • Micro and Nanoelectronics
  • Media Informatics
  • Metallurgical Engineering
  • Software Systems Engineering
  • Sustainable Management

Best Universities in Aachen

What can Students do in Aachen?

Aachen is a small city. However, it is one of the best German cities for international students who live an adventurous life. And to balance that out you also have an ancient thermal bath in Aachen.

  • Take a hike on the Eifelsteig trail
  • Relax at the Carolus Therman
  • Visit the famous Aachen Cathedral
  • Have an instant-friendly shoot with the flamingos at the Aachen park

Is it worth studying in Aachen?

If you’re aspiring to study an elective course in Engineering, especially in automobile engineering or computers, the answer is a big fat yes! Studying in an affordable city with easy access to places like Belgium is a good deal for students to live economically and travel wholeheartedly.

Suggested: Top Universities to Study in Aachen

6. Bonn

Source : Bonn.de/official

Bonn functions as the seat of the German Government alongside Berlin. Apart from Bonn’s particular political popularity, the city is also famous for being the birthplace of the genius musical composer, Beethoven. Furthermore, Bonn is a perfect mix of modernity and culture. The historically rich is also the hub of many multinational companies. This means that international students can seek many job opportunities in Bonn.

Some of the best courses to study in Bonn:

  • Computer Science
  • Physics
  • Mathematics
  • European and Asian Art History
  • Paleontology
  • Geology

Best Universities in Bonn

Suggested: Bachelors in Germany

What can Students do in Bonn?

As mentioned, Bonn is a fascinating mix of history and modernity. Likewise, international students studying in Germany have the privilege of experiencing the coolness of the city as it has many tourist attractions. Students studying in Bonn must-

  • Visit the Bundeskunsthalle exhibition.
  • Take a tour of the art galleries and the historic galleries of Germany at Bonn.
  • Picnic and reminisce about German history at the Bonn Minster.
  • Visit the palaces in Bonn and also, you just can’t miss out on the Rheinisches Landesmuseum Bonn.

Is it worth studying in Bonn?

Bonn might not be your first choice, but, if you are planning to take up courses in History, Physics, Mathematics, etc, Bonn is one of the best places to study in Germany. The city will allow you to enjoy a modern yet laid-back lifestyle. If you’re keen on studying in Germany but are intimidated by the fast pace, you can then consider Bonn as your study destination.

 Suggested: Top Universities to Study in Bonn

7. Dresden

Source : Dresden.de/official

Dresden is the most beautiful city in Germany. Also known as the ‘Jewel Box of Germany’, Dresden attracts thousands of tourists and students every year. However, beauty is not the only attractive quality of this town, Dresden is well known for its political, cultural, and highly sophisticated education system. The scenic lifestyle and good quality of education make Dresden one of the best cities to study in Germany.

Some of the best courses to study in Dresden are:

  • Computational Modeling and Simulation
  • Computational Logic
  • Distributed Systems Engineering
  • Nanoelectronic Systems
  • Dance

Suggested: GRE Accepting Universities in Germany

Best Universities in Dresden

  • Dresden University of Technology
  • University of Applied Sciences Dresden (HTW Dresden)
  • Academy of Fine Arts Dresden
  • Palucca University of Dance Dresden (Palucca Hochschule für Tanz Dresden)

What can Students do in Dresden?

As a student, most of your time is spent reading and spending time at various serene parks. But, with this, you also have a lot to explore in Dresden, like:

  • Have a historic city tour (learning all about the historic buildings)
  • Have a fun picnic by the Dresden Castle or the Zwinger Palace
  • Cruise to Prague
  • Visit art galleries
  • Hang out at the various cafes of the town.

Is it worth studying in Dresden?

Students who love an aesthetic lifestyle should consider living in Dresden. Furthermore, for students specializing in the liberal arts, history, architecture, and dance studies, Dresden is surely one of the top destinations to consider.

8. Stuttgart

Source : Stuggart.de/official

If you are a nature lover, Stuttgart is your place to be. With a good education system and a lovely lifestyle, many students prefer studying in Stuttgart. To add to the fun factor, Students studying in Stuttgart, enjoy a great deal of snowboarding, skiing, and hiking. It’s fair to say that, if you are an international student studying in Stuttgart, you are bound to have some of the best experiences of your life in Germany.

Some of the best courses to study in Stuttgart:

  • Architecture and Urban Planning
  • Aerospace Engineering and Geodesy
  • Civil and Environmental Engineering
  • Computer Science
  • Electrical Engineering and IT
  • Energy Process and bio-engineering
  • Engineering Design
  • Production Engineering
  • Automotive Engineering

Best Universities in Stuttgart

  • University of Stuttgart
  • Stuttgart Media University
  • Stuttgart Technology University of Applied Sciences
  • Baden-Württemberg Cooperative State University

What can Students do in Stuttgart?

Some of the exciting activities you should engage in Stuttgart are:

  • Visit the Mercedes-Benz Museum and arena
  • Go to the Porsche Museum
  • Spend time at the famous public library
  • You also can expect an exciting Christmas with the famous Stuttgart Christmas markets

Is it worth studying in Stuttgart?

Stuttgart is a slightly offbeat choice of study but yet a very exciting one. Students interested in pursuing Engineering should surely consider Stuttgart as their study destination

Suggested: Top Universities to Study in Stuttgart

9. Leipzig

Source : Leipzig.de/official

The many Leipzig Churches, tourist sites, cafes, and museums sum up life in Leipzig. Like any other German town, Leipzig offers an education that attracts international students from all over the world.

Some of the best courses to study in Leipzig:

  • International energy economics and business administration
  • Small enterprise promotion and training
  • Physics
  • Global Studies
  • Advanced Spectroscopy in Chemistry

Suggested: MS in Germany Cost

Best Universities in Leipzig

  • Leipzig University
  • Leipzig University of Applied Sciences
  • University of Music and Theatre Leipzig

What can Students do in Leipzig?

Students can enjoy a lot of cultural and outdoor activities in Leipzig. Some of the cool things you can do here are:

  • Take an excursion to the Belantis.
  • Visit the famous Leipzig Zoo.
  • Spread out a picnic at the park.

Is it worth studying in Leipzig?

If you are someone aspiring to study in Germany but want to keep away from the competitive rush, then you should consider studying here. This can be a good place to get a quality education without the pressures of a competitive sphere.

Suggested: Top Universities to Study in Leipzig

10. Cologne

Source : Cologne.de/official

Famous for its Cathedral in Cologne, the city is a cultural hub. In addition to that, the University of Cologne is also one of the oldest and one of the top universities you can study in. As for the city, the ancient town flaunts its historic quirks and the Rhine River adds to its stunning elements.

Some of the best courses to study in Cologne:

  • Applied Natural Sciences
  • Architecture and Construction
  • Computer Science
  • Engineering
  • Culture; Information and Communication
  • Society and Social Sciences
  • Business Studies.

Best Universities in Cologne

  • University of Cologne
  • Cologne University of Applied Sciences
  • German Sport University Cologne
  • Cologne Business School

What can Students do in Cologne?

Cologne is popular among international students not only for education but also for a range of other activities. Some of the things students can do here are -

  • Visit the Nazi regime memorials
  • See the historic Churches in the city
  • Enjoy the Rhine Cruises-hosted events

Is it worth studying in Cologne?

Cologne might not be just the ideal place if you want an affordable and authentic location as a student. If you wish to pursue courses specific to the University Of Cologne you certainly will enjoy your stay in Cologne.

Suggested: IELTS Score for Germany

From the Desk of Yocket

While you consider your options to study in Germany, some of the main things you should be aware of are, the best destinations to study your course, the type of course, and the specialization you should opt for, the cost of living in  Germany, etc. By closely examining these factors you will be able to make the best decision and have a memorable experience as a student in Germany. Wish to know more? Connect with our Yocket Counsellors!

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