Planning a masters degree in Germany requires understanding the expenses involved. The cost of masters in Germany varies by university type. Public universities generally charge a semester contribution of EUR 300 to EUR 760 (approximately INR 33.0K-84.3K), while private university tuition can range from EUR 10,000 to EUR 45,000+ (approximately INR 11.0L-49.5L+).
Several German universities offer masters programs with varying semester contributions, including RWTH Aachen University, TU Berlin, University of Göttingen, TU Dresden, University of Cologne, University of Hamburg, LMU Munich, FU Berlin, University of Bonn, and University of Stuttgart.
This guide includes the cost of doing masters in Germany, covering tuition fees at public and private universities, living expenses, scholarships, and practical budgeting tips to help you estimate your total expenses and plan your finances better.
Tuition Fees in Germany for International Students
Fees are one of the main expenses when planning the cost of masters in Germany. However, Germany is more affordable than many other popular study destinations. Most public universities do not charge regular tuition fees for consecutive masters programs, although students need to pay a semester contribution.
The following table gives a clear breakdown of masters fee in Germany.
Masters Course
Approximate Annual Tuition Fee in Public Universities
Approximate Annual Tuition Fee in Private Universities
Master of Business
EUR 0 (INR 0)
EUR 12,000-EUR 26,000 (INR 13.3-28.8 lakh)
Master of Data Science
EUR 0 (INR 0)
EUR 10,000-EUR 20,000 (INR 11.1-22.2 lakh)
Master of Information Technology
EUR 0 (INR 0)
EUR 10,000-EUR 20,000 (INR 11.1-22.2 lakh)
Master of Engineering
EUR 0 (INR 0)
EUR 11,000-EUR 22,000 (INR 12.2-24.4 lakh)
Master of Law
EUR 0 (INR 0)
EUR 10,000-EUR 24,000 (INR 11.1-26.6 lakh)
General / Executive MBA
EUR 0-EUR 6,000 (INR 0-6.7 lakh)
EUR 18,000-EUR 45,000+ (INR 20.0-49.9 lakh+)
For students comparing the cost of masters in Germany for international students, public universities can be a more affordable option. However, always check the exact fee for your program before applying.
Students looking for a lower cost of masters in Germany can consider public universities, particularly those that do not charge tuition fees to international students. However, students should not judge affordability based only on tuition.
For international students, several public universities in Germany offer masters programs with no tuition fees, although students still need to pay a semester contribution of around EUR 300-EUR 760 (approximately INR 33.3k-84.3k).
Note: Tuition and semester contributions can change by program, student status and academic year. Always check the university's official fee page before applying.
Cost of Living in Germany for International Students
Tuition is only one part of the cost of masters in Germany for international students. Accommodation, food, health insurance, transportation, utilities and personal expenses can make up a significant portion of the annual budget.
Actual expenses can be higher or lower than this amount depending on the city and lifestyle. Munich, Frankfurt and central Berlin can be more expensive for accommodation, while smaller cities and regional locations may offer comparatively lower rents.
A practical monthly budget for international masters students can include:
Expense
Approximate Monthly Cost (EUR/INR)
Accommodation
EUR 400-EUR 900 (INR 0.4-1.0 lakh)
Food & Groceries
EUR 200-EUR 350 (INR 0.2-0.4 lakh)
Health Insurance
EUR 140-EUR 150 (INR 0.16-0.17 lakh)
Transportation
EUR 30-EUR 80 (INR 0.03-0.09 lakh)
Utilities & Internet
EUR 50-EUR 120 (INR 0.06-0.13 lakh)
Personal Expenses
EUR 100-EUR 250 (INR 0.11-0.28 lakh)
Note: These are indicative planning estimates. Actual expenses depend on accommodation type, city, lifestyle and whether rent or utilities are shared.
Cost of Living in Major German Cities
The city you choose can significantly influence the cost of master degree in Germany. Tuition may remain similar across public universities, but accommodation and daily expenses can differ substantially.
The following are some of the top cities in Germany with their estimated living cost.
Munich
It is one of Germany's most expensive student cities, particularly for accommodation. Students should therefore keep a higher monthly budget for rent and everyday expenses.
It has a large international student population and offers programs across technology, business, arts and social sciences. However, accommodation costs have increased, so students should plan their housing budget carefully.
This is an important financial centre and can be attractive for students interested in finance and business. Rent and other daily costs can be relatively high.
It is another major international city with strong business, logistics and technology sectors. Students can expect moderate-to-high living costs depending on their accommodation.
This city can be a comparatively affordable option for students, particularly when accommodation costs are considered. It can be suitable for students trying to manage the overall cost of doing masters in Germany.
When comparing the cost of masters in Germany, students should therefore look beyond tuition fees and consider rent, food, transport and other everyday expenses.
Additional Costs of Studying Masters in Germany
Besides tuition and regular living expenses, international students should budget for several one-time or recurring expenses. These additional costs can make a noticeable difference to the first-year cost of master degree in Germany.
The following table includes extra cost of studying masters in Germany:
Expense
Approximate Cost (EUR/INR)
German Student Visa
EUR 75 (INR 8.3k)
APS Certificate for Indian Students
INR 18k
Uni-Assist Application
EUR 75 for first application + EUR 30 for each additional application (INR 8.3k + 3.3k)
Health Insurance
EUR 140-EUR 150/month (INR 15.5k-16.6k/month)
Language Test
Varies by test/provider
Flight to Germany
EUR 400-EUR 900+ (INR 0.4-1.0 lakh+)
Accommodation Deposit
Usually several months' rent
Residence Permit
EUR 100-EUR 130 (INR 11.1k-14.4k)
Semester Contribution
Varies by university
Study Materials
EUR 100-EUR 300+ per semester (INR 11.1k-33.3k+)
The German national visa fee is generally EUR 75, while uni-assist charges EUR 75 for the first chosen course in a semester and EUR 30 for each additional course.
Scholarships to Reduce the Cost of Masters in Germany
Funding can significantly reduce the financial burden associated with the cost in Germany. International students can explore scholarships offered by government-funded organizations, universities, and foundations.
Masters/PhD applicants with above-average grades and highlight political or social commitment
EUR 934/month (approximately INR 1.0 lakh); possible tuition support up to EUR 500/semester (approximately INR 55.5k); medical insurance subsidy; networking and academic support
Excellent academic record; social/political engagement; interest in democracy, human rights or environmental values; German proficiency may be required
EUR 934/month (approximately INR 1.0 lakh); possible study/research and family allowances; tuition generally not covered
Strong academic performance; social or political engagement; commitment to social-democratic values
EUR 934/month (approximately INR 1.0 lakh); health insurance subsidy up to EUR 163/month (approximately INR 18.1k); family allowance of EUR 276/month (approximately INR 30.6k) for students with children
Note: Scholarship amounts and eligibility requirements can vary by program and intake. Students should check the respective provider's requirements before applying.
If you want to know more about scholarships in Germany, check out:
A realistic budget can help students manage the cost of masters in Germany without putting unnecessary financial pressure on themselves. It is important to plan both pre-arrival and ongoing expenses.
Below is the step-by-step breakdown on how you can plan your budget in Germany.
Step 1 - Choose a Public University: Look for public universities with no regular tuition fees, but check for any special charges for international students.
Step 2 - Compare Cities: Compare rent and daily expenses, as studying in a smaller city can reduce your overall cost of masters in Germany for international students.
Step 3 - Calculate the Semester Contribution: Check the university's semester contribution and include it in your annual budget.
Step 4 - Plan for the Blocked Account: Students using a blocked account need to show EUR 11,904, or EUR 992 (approximately INR 13.2 lakh or 110.0k) per month, as proof of financial means for study purposes.
Step 6 - Choose Affordable Accommodation: Student residences and shared apartments can be more affordable than private studio apartments, especially in expensive cities.
Step 7 - Cook at Home: Cooking at home can help reduce food expenses and manage the cost of studying masters in Germany.
Step 8 - Apply for Scholarships: Apply early for DAAD, university and foundation scholarships to reduce your expenses.
Step 9 - Keep an Emergency Fund: Keep some extra money aside for unexpected medical, travel or accommodation costs.
Step 10 - Consider Part-Time Work: International students can generally work up to 140 full or 280 half days per year, subject to applicable rules.
Part-time work can help with everyday expenses, but students should not depend entirely on employment to meet the initial financial requirements for their visa.
Conclusion
The cost of masters in Germany can be comparatively affordable for international students, particularly when they choose public universities where most masters programs do not charge tuition fees. However, students still need to account for semester contributions, accommodation, food, health insurance, transportation, visa expenses and other personal costs.
With careful university selection, affordable accommodation, scholarships and proper financial planning, the cost of doing masters in Germany can be managed effectively. Before applying, students should always check the latest university fee structure, semester contribution and visa requirements because these can change by institution and academic year.
Is a masters degree in Germany free for international students?
Many consecutive masters programs at public universities in Germany have no regular tuition fees for international students. However, students usually pay a semester contribution, while some states and universities charge tuition fees.
Can I study for a masters in Germany without paying tuition fees?
Yes. Many public universities offer tuition-free consecutive masters programs, so students generally pay only the semester contribution. However, exceptions apply, including certain universities, states and specialised or continuing-education programs.
Is Germany cheaper than other countries for a masters degree?
Germany can be more affordable than destinations such as UK, USA and Australia because many public universities have low or no tuition fees. However, living expenses vary considerably depending on the city and lifestyle.
Are Masters in Germany 2 years?
Many masters programs in Germany take two years, usually covering four semesters. However, duration varies by program and university, with some courses lasting three semesters or extending beyond two years depending on the curriculum.
Is ₹20 lakhs enough to study in Germany?
₹20 lakh can be sufficient for some students, particularly at public universities with little or no tuition. However, your budget must also cover living expenses, health insurance, semester contributions, travel and other personal costs.
How much money is required for a German student visa?
International students generally need to show proof of sufficient funds for their stay. A commonly used route is a blocked account, with the exact required amount confirmed by the German mission or Consular Services Portal.
How much does health insurance cost for students in Germany?
Students under 30 can generally access statutory student health insurance for around EUR 120-EUR 130 (approximately 13.3k-14.4k) per month. Health insurance is mandatory, and students must provide valid coverage for university enrolment and, where applicable, visa procedures.
What is the application fee for German universities?
There is no single application fee for all German universities. If you apply through uni-assist, the current handling fee is EUR 75 (INR 8.3k) for the first program and EUR 30 (INR 3.3k) for each additional program in the same semester.
What is the minimum CGPA required to study in Germany?
Germany does not have one universal minimum CGPA for masters admission. Each university and program sets its own academic requirements. Competitive programs may expect stronger grades, while other programs may assess your overall academic profile.
Which university accepts low CGPA in Germany?
There is no fixed list of German universities that universally accept low CGPAs. Admission depends on the program, academic background and eligibility criteria. Universities of applied sciences may offer options, but requirements should be checked individually.
Which skill is high in demand in Germany?
Skills in IT, artificial intelligence, data science, cybersecurity, engineering and healthcare are highly valued in Germany. German language skills can also improve employment opportunities, particularly for jobs involving customers, patients or local teams.
Sr. Content Writer & Study Abroad Expert |109 articles published
Kanika has 5+ years of experience as a writer and content developer. She has written for a wide range of industry verticals, including hospitality, restaurants, non-profits, finance, IT, HR, technolog...
Download Your Free Copy Now
Refer Your Friend & Earn upto ₹15000
Help your friend upgrade to a Global Career and earn rewards together.
