List of All Public Universities in Germany: No Tuition Fees!

Did you know? Many public universities in Germany do not charge tuition fees for undergraduate and masters programs, making higher education accessible to many students worldwide. ​

Picture this: a life filled with luxury cars, a thriving career in top global industries, access to world-class research facilities, and a high quality of life. It sounds like a dream, right? Well, in Germany, this dream might become a reality.

In Germany, public universities are funded by the government, allowing them to offer tuition-free education to both domestic and international students. 

However, students are required to pay a semester fee, which typically ranges between INR 14,000 - INR 32,000 (€150 and €350). This fee covers administrative costs and often includes a public transportation ticket, providing students with unlimited travel within their university's region. Living expenses in Germany are also relatively affordable compared to other Western European countries.

Key Highlights:

• Public universities in Germany do not charge tuition fees for undergraduate and most postgraduate programs, making education highly affordable.
• Students pay a nominal semester fee ranging from INR 12,000 - 50,000 (EUR 130 - 550), which covers administration and public transport costs.
• The average cost of living in Germany is INR 10.5 - 15.4 lakhs (EUR 12,000 - 17,000) per year, varying by city.
• German Universities like TUM, LMU Munich, and Heidelberg rank among the best globally, offering world-class education and research facilities.
• Many top German universities partner with Siemens, BMW, Bosch, and SAP, offering internships, research projects, and job opportunities.
• International students can apply for DAAD scholarships and university-specific funding options.

So, if you’re looking for an exciting, affordable, and academically enriching study abroad experience, Germany is the place for you. This blog will discuss a comprehensive list of public universities in Germany, including the most esteemed institutions.

Table of Contents:

20 Best Public Universities in Germany List of Public Universities in Germany Public vs Private German Universities Cost of Attendance at Public Universities in Germany How to Apply to Public Universities in Germany? Why Are All Top-Ranked Universities in Germany Public? Advantages of Studying at a Public University in Germany

20 Best Public Universities in Germany

Germany boasts some of the world’s highest-ranked universities, offering a variety of courses in both English and German. If the prospect of studying in Germany already has you buzzing with excitement, here’s another reason to get pumped: Germany is home to 59 top-ranked universities worldwide. This means you have a lot of options to choose from.

Germany’s Technical University of Munich (TUM) is among the most selective, with an acceptance rate of only 8%, making it one of the hardest universities to get into. On the other hand, the University of Heidelberg has an acceptance rate of 70–80%, making it easier for international students to gain admission.

To make your search a little easier, let’s discuss the list of top awesome public universities in Germany:

Now, let’s explore each of these universities in detail.

Technical University of Munich (TUM)

Technische Universität München (TUM) is a world-class university that’s consistently ranked among the best in Europe. It’s a popular choice for international students, drawn to its high academic standards and vibrant cultural atmosphere. TUM is Germany’s highest-ranked university and a hub for engineering, AI, and technology. It has strong industry partnerships with BMW, Siemens, and Google, offering students exceptional research and career opportunities.

TUM is a true “University of Excellence,” offering a top-notch education and enriching student life. In short, it’s an excellent place to study in Germany!

Ludwig Maximilian University of Munich (LMU)

Established in 1472, Ludwig Maximilian University Munich (LMU) stands as one of Germany’s oldest and most prestigious universities. As a pioneer in international education, LMU has been offering English-language teaching and research for centuries, attracting students from all corners of the globe. Imagine learning from some of the brightest minds, including experts from Harvard and beyond. 

LMU also offers double-degree programs, allowing you to earn two degrees simultaneously. Embark on a journey at LMU and pave the way for an exceptional career.

University of Heidelberg

Heidelberg University, founded in 1386, is Germany’s oldest university and consistently ranks among the top research institutions in the world.

Heidelberg University, officially known as Ruprecht Karl University of Heidelberg, is a top-notch university offering a wide range of Bachelor’s, Master’s, and Parallel degrees. International students need to have a German language certificate (DH2 level) to study here. The university is known for its focus on research and interdisciplinary teaching. With over 160 courses to choose from, you’re sure to find the perfect fit for your academic interests.

Humboldt University of Berlin

Humboldt University, established in 1810, is known as the "Mother of all modern universities" because of its influential research and teaching model. It is famous for social sciences, humanities, and political studies.

Humboldt University revolutionized education by combining teaching and research. Inspired by Wilhelm von Humboldt’s two-century-old vision, the university seamlessly blends these two aspects of academia. While some courses are offered in English, it’s important to check the course type and teaching mode before applying. Additionally, you may need to take language tests like the German language test or TestDaf.

Karlsruhe Institute of Technology (KIT)

KIT, or Karlsruhe Institute of Technology, is one of Germany’s top universities, boasting top-notch facilities, cutting-edge amenities, and promising career opportunities. To study here, you’ll need a German DH2 level certificate, but don’t let that discourage you. If your chosen field is offered at KIT, consider making it your study destination - you won’t regret it! While English courses are limited, the university’s overall excellence makes it a worthwhile choice.

With an acceptance rate of approximately 20%, KIT is highly competitive, particularly for engineering and IT-related programs. While undergraduate programs require German proficiency, the university offers several English-taught master’s programs.

Freie University of Berlin

Immerse yourself in a world of research and learning at Freie University Berlin, one of Berlin’s esteemed free public universities. With its twelve academic departments, the university has earned a global reputation for its exceptional programs in arts and humanities, social sciences, and the sciences. And the best part? Freie University welcomes students from around the world without requiring a German language test certificate. Plus, they offer a wide range of English-taught courses to suit your academic interests.

One of Germany’s top research universities, Freie University offers a wide range of English-taught programs in humanities, business, and social sciences.

RWTH Aachen University

RWTH Aachen is the largest tech university in Germany, and it’s got everything you could want in a university: a vibrant student life, top-notch facilities, and a bright future for its graduates. Plus, they offer a bunch of Master’s programs in English for international students, so you can study for free in Germany without having to worry about the language barrier. Aachen is a great city for students, with a friendly and welcoming community. 

Choosing your specialization and settling into Aachen will be a breeze thanks to the supportive student network.

Technische Universität Berlin

TU Berlin is a top-notch university in Germany, attracting students from all over the world. With over 30,000 students enrolled in around 100 courses, it’s one of the largest technical universities in the country. And the best part? They offer 26 English courses without charging any tuition fees!

TU Berlin is renowned for its excellent technical programs, but they also focus on the all-round development of their students. This means plenty of opportunities for research, international networking, and personal growth. So, if you’re looking for a challenging and rewarding academic experience, TU Berlin is worth considering.

Technische Universität Dresden

Nestled on the edge of Germany, right next to the Czech Republic, Dresden is a charming and affordable city, perfect for students looking to explore both Germany and its neighbors. With five schools offering courses in over 120 disciplines, TU Dresden provides students with a wide range of academic opportunities. From health sciences, biomedicine, and bioengineering to information technology and microelectronics, there’s something for everyone. And the best part? You won’t have to pay any tuition fees!

With an acceptance rate of around 30%, TU Dresden is a moderately selective university but remains highly competitive for technical programs.

University of Freiburg

The University of Freiburg, officially named the Albert Ludwig University of Freiburg, is a prestigious institution that has produced numerous Nobel laureates and is renowned for its innovative spirit. With a student body of over 24,000 enrolled in a variety of undergraduate and graduate programs, the university offers a vibrant and stimulating learning environment. 

Studying here will undoubtedly enrich your international learning experience.

University of Stuttgart

The University of Stuttgart is one of Germany’s leading technical universities, especially in engineering, automotive technology, and architecture. It is part of the TU9 alliance of top technical universities in Germany and has strong ties with companies like Mercedes-Benz, Porsche, and Bosch, making it a great choice for students interested in automotive and mechanical engineering.

With an acceptance rate of approximately 30%, Stuttgart is moderately competitive, especially for STEM and research-oriented programs.

University of Mannheim

The University of Mannheim, located in Mannheim, Germany, is known for its strong focus on social sciences and business administration. It offers programs that combine theoretical knowledge with practical skills, preparing students for successful careers. 

Known as the "Harvard of Germany" for its strong focus on management and economics, it has a reputation for excellence in both research and teaching.

University of Duisburg-Essen

Strong programs in engineering and medical sciences define the University of Duisburg-Essen, a German institution situated in Duisburg-Essen. It provides modern instruction in these disciplines, equipping students for professions in the vanguard of technology and healthcare.

It is one of the largest universities in Germany, with a diverse student population and strong industry collaborations.

University of Tübingen

The University of Tübingen, situated in Tübingen, Germany, is renowned for its programs in life sciences and theology. It offers a unique combination of scientific research and spiritual studies, providing students with a well-rounded education.

This University is one of Germany’s oldest and most prestigious universities, dating back to 1477. It is renowned for its strong research programs in life sciences, theology, and humanities. The university has produced several Nobel laureates, particularly in medicine and chemistry.

University of Würzburg

Situated in Würzburg, Germany, the University of Würzburg emphasizes natural sciences and medicine somewhat strongly. It presents thorough courses in various disciplines, therefore giving students a strong basis for professions in scientific research and the medical field.

It has a strong focus on biotechnology and molecular biology, with close partnerships with research institutes like Max Planck and Fraunhofer Institutes.

University of Bremen

Situated in Bremen, Germany, the University of Bremen is well-known for its multidisciplinary style of research. It provides courses designed to inspire students to investigate relationships between several disciplines of study, therefore promoting creativity and originality.

With an acceptance rate of 27%, Bremen is competitive but accessible, particularly for international students in environmental sciences and technology programs.

University of Cologne

Reputed for its management and business studies courses, the University of Cologne is situated in Cologne, Germany. It gives students a strong basis in these disciplines, therefore arming them for positions of leadership in many other sectors.

It is particularly well known for its business and management programs, with strong ties to companies like Deutsche Bank, Bayer, and Lufthansa, providing excellent career opportunities for graduates. The university has a moderately selective acceptance rate of around 40%, making it competitive for international students.

University of Kiel

The University of Kiel, situated in Kiel, Germany, is particularly strong in marine sciences and environmental studies. Its location near the Baltic Sea provides unique opportunities for research and study in these fields.

The university offers world-class research facilities and is part of Germany’s Excellence Initiative. It is moderately selective, with an acceptance rate of around 35% for international students.

University of Leipzig

Established in 1472, Ludwig Maximilian University Munich (LMU) stands as one of Germany’s oldest and most prestigious universities. As a pioneer in international education, LMU has been offering English-language teaching and research for centuries, attracting students from all corners of the globe. Imagine learning from some of the brightest minds, including experts from Harvard and beyond. 

LMU also offers double-degree programs, allowing you to earn two degrees simultaneously. Embark on a journey at LMU and pave the way for an exceptional career.

University of Bonn

The University of Bonn is a leading institution in sciences, humanities, and mathematics, with a strong reputation for international research collaborations. Comprising a wide spectrum of sciences and humanities, the University of Bonn is situated in Bonn, Germany. 

Its all-encompassing attitude to education is well-known for giving students a range of academic possibilities.