Top 10 Public Universities in Germany for International Students

Germany is a top destination for Indian students seeking tuition-free, world-class education with strong career prospects. Public universities in Germany, such as LMU Munich, Heidelberg University, TUM, Humboldt University, RWTH Aachen, and the University of Stuttgart, offer globally recognized degrees and cutting-edge research opportunities.

But how do you choose the right university, meet admission criteria, or secure scholarships? This guide covers everything—top public universities in Germany, costs, eligibility, scholarships, and job prospects—helping you make an informed decision. Ready to explore the best options for 2025? Let’s get started!

Also Read: How to Avail Free Education in Germany for Indian Students in 2025? to explore more details

Key Highlights :

Feature	Details
Tuition Fees	Mostly tuition-free for international students (except for minimal administrative fees)
Top Public Universities	TU Munich, LMU Munich, Heidelberg University, University of Stuttgart, etc.
Popular Programs	Engineering, Business, Computer Science, Medicine, Social Sciences
Eligibility	12th grade for bachelor's, bachelor’s degree for master’s, language proficiency (German/English)
Language Requirements	IELTS/TOEFL for English programs, TestDaF/DSH for German programs
Scholarships	DAAD, Deutschlandstipendium, University-specific scholarships
Cost of Living	EUR 850 – EUR 1,200 per month (INR 79,280 – INR 1,11,924) (varies by city)
Application Process	Apply via Uni-Assist or directly to universities
Job Opportunities	18-month post-study work visa, jobs in engineering, IT, healthcare, finance, and research

Before gaining insights on top public universities in Germany read on to know about the education system in Germany and why it is on your top list to study abroad.

Public Universities in Germany: An Overview

Public universities in Germany are government-funded institutions that offer tuition-free education to both domestic and international students.

• These universities are highly attractive to Indian students seeking affordable, high-quality education, especially for postgraduate programs, which typically have no tuition fees.
• Known for their academic excellence and research focus, they provide a wide range of courses taught by renowned faculty, including Engineering, Computer Science, and Medicine.
• With a diverse student community, many public universities in Germany for international students offer English-taught programs, making them an excellent choice for global learners.

Keep reading to explore why Germany is one of the best destinations for a bachelor's degree and how you can make it happen! 

List of Top Public Universities in Germany

Germany is renowned for its world-class education system, offering tuition-free degrees, cutting-edge research, and globally recognized qualifications. Below, we've compiled a list of public universities in Germany for both bachelor’s and master’s degrees to help you find the best institution for your academic journey.

University Name	QS World University Ranking 2025
Technical University of Munich (TUM)	28th
Ludwig Maximilian University of Munich (LMU)	59th
Heidelberg University	84th
RWTH Aachen University	99th
Karlsruhe Institute of Technology (KIT)	102nd
Free University of Berlin	97th
Humboldt University of Berlin	126th
University of Göttingen	252nd
University of Stuttgart	314th

Note: Public universities in Germany generally offer tuition-free education, but students must pay a semester fee of around EUR 250 to EUR 310.

Popular Courses Offered at Public Universities in Germany

Germany has some of the best public universities, offering world-class education across diverse fields. Below are the most sought-after programs at the bachelor’s and master’s levels in Germany.

Popular Master’s Courses in Germany

Germany’s top public universities offer specialized master’s programs, helping students gain advanced knowledge and industry expertise. Some of the most popular postgraduate courses in Germany include:

• MSc in Computer Science & Cybersecurity
• MSc in Data Science & Artificial Intelligence
• MSc in Electrical & Mechanical Engineering
• MSc in Automotive & Renewable Energy Engineering
• MSc in Biomedical & Environmental Engineering
• MSc in Business Analytics & Finance
• MBA (Master of Business Administration)
• MA in International Relations & Economics

Popular Bachelor’s Courses in Germany

Public universities in Germany offer a variety of undergraduate programs, providing students with strong academic foundations and global career prospects. Some of the most in-demand bachelor’s courses in Germany  include:

• BSc in Mechanical Engineering
• BSc in Electrical Engineering
• BSc in Computer Science
• BSc in Data Science & Artificial Intelligence
• BSc in Biotechnology
• BBA (Bachelor of Business Administration)
• BA in International Relations & Political Science
• BA in Economics
• BSc in Architecture & Civil Engineering
• BSc in Environmental Science

Now if you're wondering how to get admission in a public university in Germany, let's explore eligibility, application deadlines, and language requirements for admission to top public universities in Germany.

Eligibility Criteria for Public Universities in Germany

Planning to study at a public university in Germany? These universities offer world-class education, often tuition-free, making them a popular choice for international students. From academic qualifications and language proficiency to supporting documents, we provide you with the list of document requirements to study abroad and start your journey toward higher education in Germany.

Academic Requirements

• A recognized high school diploma is mandatory for bachelor’s programs, while a bachelor’s degree in a relevant field is required for master’s programs.
• Many public universities in Germany for international students require a minimum GPA of 2.5 on the German scale (~70%).
• Some universities accept 3-year bachelor’s degrees, but others may require a 4-year degree.

Language Proficiency Requirements

Your required language skills depend on whether the program is taught in English or German.

• For English-taught programs:
  • TOEFL: Minimum 80–100 (iBT)
  • IELTS: Minimum 6.0–7.0
  • Cambridge English Exams: Minimum score of 180 (Advanced or Proficiency).
• For German-taught programs:
  • TestDaF: Minimum 4 in each section
  • DSH: Level DSH-2 or DSH-3

If you do not meet the language requirements, some universities offer preparatory courses to improve your proficiency before starting the degree.

Work Experience (If Required)

• Most bachelor’s and master’s programs do not require work experience.
• However, some specialized courses, particularly non-consecutive master’s degrees, may prefer or require relevant work experience.

How to Apply to Public Universities in Germany 

1. Research & Shortlist Universities: Find top public universities in Germany that match your academic background and career goals.

2. Check Eligibility & Language Requirements: Ensure you meet the academic requirements and prepare for TOEFL/IELTS (English-taught) or TestDaF/DSH (German-taught) programs.

3. Prepare Application Documents: Gather academic transcripts, proof of language proficiency, SOP, LORs, resume, and proof of finances (if required).

4. Apply via Uni-Assist or University Portals: Submit your application through Uni-Assist or directly on the university’s website before the deadline.

5. Receive Admission & Apply for Visa: Upon acceptance, secure your student visa, health insurance, and accommodation for a smooth transition to Germany.

• Visa Fee: EUR 75 (~INR 6,815)

Read More: Requirements to study in Germany for Indian students

Cost of Studying at Top Public Universities in Germany

When planning to study bachelors in Germany, it's important to understand the cost of living, which includes accommodation, food, transportation, and other essential expenses. 

Public universities in Germany offer high-quality education with no tuition fees, making them a preferred choice for international students. However, students must cover semester fees and living expenses.

Tuition Fees

Public universities in Germany do not charge tuition fees, making them a top choice for international students.

Semester Fees

Students must pay a semester contribution of EUR 100 – EUR 350 (INR 9,327 – INR 32,644), covering administrative costs and a public transport ticket.

Living Expenses

The cost of living varies by city, but on average, expect to spend EUR 850 – EUR 1,200 per month (INR 79,280 – INR 1,11,924) on:

• Accommodation: EUR 300 – EUR 500/month (INR 27,981 – INR 46,635)
• Food & Groceries: EUR 200 – EUR 300/month (INR 18,654 – INR 27,981)
• Health Insurance: EUR 120 – EUR 130/month (INR 11,192 – INR 12,125) (mandatory for international students)
• Transportation: Covered by the semester ticket, but extra travel may cost more
• Other Expenses: Study materials, entertainment, and personal costs

Note: The exchange rate used for conversion is EUR 1 = INR 93.27 as on 18th Mar 2025. Exchange rates fluctuate, so check current rates before making financial plans.

Scholarships and Financial Aid for Indian Students in Germany

Indian students studying at public universities in Germany can apply for various scholarships and financial aid programs to support their education. Here are some of the best funding options available:

1. DAAD Scholarships (German Academic Exchange Service)

• One of the most prestigious scholarships for international students, including Indians.
• Covers tuition fees (if applicable), living expenses, and travel costs.
• Available for undergraduate, master’s, and Ph.D. programs at top public universities in Germany.

2. Erasmus+ Program

• A European Union-funded program that provides financial support for students pursuing master’s degrees in Germany.
• Offers funding for international exchange programs and joint degree courses.
• Ideal for students looking to study at some of the best public universities in Germany for master's.

3. Deutschlandstipendium National Scholrship

• A merit-based scholarship funded by the German government and private sponsors.
• Provides EUR 300 per month (INR 27,981) to high-achieving students enrolled in top 10 public universities in Germany.
• Open to both domestic and international students in public universities in Germany.

Know More: Scholarships in Germany for Indian students

Top Jobs After Studying at the Best Public Universities in Germany

Germany has one of the lowest unemployment rates in Europe, making it a prime destination for international students seeking career opportunities. Graduates from top public universities in Germany are highly sought after across various industries, securing well-paying jobs in tech, finance, and engineering.

Read on to discover the top jobs in Germany:

Job Title	Average Annual Salary
Data Scientist	INR 56L- 71L EUR 60k - 76k
Financial Analyst	INR 47L- 65L EUR 50k-70k
Software Developer	INR 49L- 65L EUR 53k-70k
Mechanical Engineer	INR 47L- 66L EUR 50k -71k
Marketing Manager	INR 41L- 59L EUR 44k-63k

Take some time to explore 11 Highest-Paying Part Time Jobs in Germany for Students (2025)

Public vs. Private Universities in Germany: Key Differences

Choosing between public universities in Germany and private institutions depends on factors like cost, program availability, and career prospects. Below is a detailed comparison between private and public universities in Germany:

Feature	Public Universities in Germany	Private Universities
Tuition Fees	Tuition-free for most programs (only semester fees of EUR 150–EUR 300 / INR 14,000–INR 28,000).	High tuition fees, ranging from EUR 10,000–EUR 20,000 per year / INR 9.3L–INR 18.6L.
Funding Sources	Government-funded.	Privately funded through tuition fees and endowments.
Program Options	Offer a wide range of programs, especially in engineering, science, and research.	Specialize in business, management, and design courses.
Admissions Requirements	Highly competitive, based on academic performance and language proficiency.	Easier admission with less focus on grades (varies by university).
Class Sizes	Larger class sizes, mean less individual attention.	Smaller class sizes with more student-professor interaction.
Global Recognition	Degrees from top public universities in Germany are globally recognized.	Some private universities lack strong global recognition.
Career Opportunities	Strong alumni networks and industry partnerships for job placements.	Career-oriented programs with industry collaborations, but smaller networks.

How upGrad Abroad Can Help You Apply and Prepare for Courses in Germany

Planning to study at a public university in  Germany? upGrad Abroad is here to make it easy for you. From applications to language preparation and finding the right course, we’ve got you covered. Here’s how we can help:

Application Support

Writing an impressive SOP, getting strong LORs, and submitting the right documents can be tricky. upGrad offers step-by-step guidance to ensure your application stands out.

• How to Write an SOP
• LOR Tips and Format
• Checklist of Required Documents

Language Preparation

If you’re applying to English or German-taught programs, we’ve got resources to help you. upGrad provides guidance for IELTS and basic German language skills to meet university requirements.

• IELTS Preparation Resources

Courses with upGrad Abroad

Looking for flexible learning? upGrad Abroad offers hybrid programs with top German universities. You can start online and continue on campus in Germany, combining convenience with international exposure.

• BSc Biotechnology in Germany
• Bioinformatics Masters Germany
• MBA in General Management
• MSc in Business Intelligence and Data Science
• MSc in International Logistics and Supply Chain Management
• MSc in International Management

Want to Study and settle in Germany – Consult Experts Now!