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Top Courses in Germany for International Students (2025)

Planning to study in Germany but unsure which course aligns with your goals? This guide covers the top courses in Germany—from engineering and data science to healthcare and design. German universities are globally recognized for research-led teaching, practical training, and low or no tuition—especially in STEM and management fields. Master’s programs typically run for 1.5 to 2 years, while most Bachelor’s degrees last 3 years. 

If you’re a recent Class 12 graduate or a professional aiming to upskill, you’ll find English-taught options with global career scope. Here's a breakdown of the most in-demand and affordable programs for international students.

Highlights – Best Courses to Study in Germany

Feature

Details

Popular Programs

Engineering, Data Science, AI, Management, Healthcare, Renewable Energy, Design

Top Universities

TU Munich, RWTH Aachen, LMU Munich, Heidelberg, University of Freiburg

Course Types

BSc, MSc, MBA, MD, PhD, and vocational training programs

Language of Instruction

Many Master’s programs offered in English; some UG programs require German

Eligibility

UG degree (for Master’s), IELTS/TOEFL, some courses require German proficiency (TestDaF/DSH)

Tuition Fees

Public universities: €0–€3,000/year (₹0–₹2.7 lakhs); Private: €10,000–€20,000/year (₹9–₹18 lakhs)

Living Costs

Around €10,000–€12,000/year (₹9–₹11 lakhs), varies by city

Post-Study Work Visa

18-month job-seeking visa after graduation

Intakes

Winter (Oct), Summer (April) – applications typically close 4–6 months prior

Career Scope

High demand in STEM, IT, manufacturing, and healthcare sectors

PR Advantage

German degrees support long-term residency and Blue Card eligibility in EU

Also read about: Why Choose Germany for Higher Studies?

Types of Courses in Germany for International Students

Germany offers structured, internationally recognized degrees with minimal tuition at public universities. Indian students can apply for engineering courses in Germany, business management in Germany, and IT and computer science courses in Germany through English-taught programs. 

Most bachelor’s are 3 years long, while master’s programs take 1–2 years. For those looking at skill-based or research careers, diploma and PhD options are also available.

Major Course Types in Germany for International Students

Course Type

Duration

Highlights

Bachelor’s Degrees (BA/BSc)

3 years

Entry after Class 12. Options in engineering, computer science, economics. May include 1-year foundation for non-EU applicants.

Master’s Degrees (MA/MSc/MBA)

1–2 years

Offered in English. Covers business management, AI, renewable energy, etc. Thesis or non-thesis tracks.

PhD Programs

3–5 years

Requires a master’s. Available in structured (with coursework) or individual (research-led) models. High focus on innovation and industry relevance.

Diploma & Certificate Programs

6 months–1 year

Short-term, practical programs in applied sciences, tech, design, or language prep. Popular among professionals.

Professional Courses

3–6 years

Includes regulated fields like medicine, law, and architecture. Requires German proficiency and recognition of prior academics.

Also read about: Education Structure & Eligibility

Top Course Specializations to Study in Germany

Over 450 public universities in Germany offer programs in English across engineering, tech, business, health, and design. Many of these are tuition-free or cost less than €3,000/year (₹2.7 lakhs). Specializations like mechanical engineering, data science, and public health are especially popular due to job demand and global recognition.

Engineering Courses in Germany for Indian Students (Mechanical, Automotive, Electrical, Civil) (H3)

Engineering remains one of the best study programs in Germany for Indians, particularly in automotive and mechanical domains. Public universities offer free education in Germany for international students in these fields, with top-tier research facilities.

University

Specializations

Tuition (per year)

RWTH Aachen

Mechanical, Civil, Electrical

€0 (only semester fee €300 ≈ ₹27,000)

TU Munich (TUM)

Automotive, Robotics

€0 + semester fee €144 ≈ ₹13,000

TU Berlin

Civil, Energy, Structural

€0 + semester fee €307 ≈ ₹27,500

  • Entry: UG – Class 12 with Physics, Math; PG – B.Tech with min. 70%
  • Language: Many programs in English; some may require A2–B1 German

Popular Programs:

  • BSc/MSc in Mechanical Engineering
  • MSc in Automotive Systems
  • BSc in Electrical & Electronics Engineering
  • MSc in Civil Infrastructure Engineering
  • MSc in Mechatronics & Robotics

Computer Science & IT Programs in Germany

Germany is a hub for IT and computer science courses, with links to top employers like SAP, Bosch, and startups in Berlin and Munich. These are high ROI degrees with good post-study job scope.

University

Focus Areas

Tuition (per year)

TU Darmstadt

AI, Systems, Robotics

€0 + semester fee €270 ≈ ₹24,000

University of Freiburg

Cybersecurity, ML

€0 + semester fee €150 ≈ ₹13,000

LMU Munich

Software Systems

€0 + semester fee €138 ≈ ₹12,000

  • Eligibility: UG – CS/Math background; PG – BSc in CS/related + IELTS 6.5+
  • GRE not mandatory, but helpful for select programs

Popular Programs:

  • MSc in Computer Science
  • MSc in Software Engineering
  • MSc in Cybersecurity
  • MSc in Artificial Intelligence
  • BSc in Applied Computer Science

Business and Management Courses in Germany (MBA, International Business)

Many business management courses in Germany for international students are offered in English, especially at universities of applied sciences. 

University

Courses

Tuition (per year)

University of Mannheim

MBA, Strategy, IB

€6,500 ≈ ₹5.7 lakh

Frankfurt School of Finance & Mgmt

MBA, Finance, Sustainability

€35,000 ≈ ₹30.7 lakh

ESCP Europe (Berlin campus)

Master in Management

€21,850 ≈ ₹19 lakh

  • Admission Requirements: GMAT (for top MBAs), IELTS 6.5+, SOP, LORs
  • Internship or thesis options are embedded in most programs

Popular Programs:

  • MBA in International Business
  • MSc in Logistics and Supply Chain Management
  • MSc in Strategic Marketing
  • MSc in Finance and Accounting
  • Bachelor in Business Administration (BBA)

Data Science and AI Courses in Germany

Germany is rapidly scaling its data science and AI programs. Public universities offer affordable MSc programs with access to research labs and real-world projects.

University

Specializations

Tuition (per year)

TU Munich

Data Engineering, ML

€0 + semester fee ≈ ₹13,000

University of Potsdam

AI, NLP, Big Data

€3,000 ≈ ₹2.6 lakh

FAU Erlangen-Nürnberg

Computational Analytics

€0 + semester fee ≈ ₹15,000

  • Entry Criteria: Bachelor’s in CS, Engineering, Math or Stats
  • Jobs after graduation include data analyst, ML engineer, AI researcher

Popular Programs:

  • MSc in Data Science
  • MSc in Machine Learning and AI
  • MSc in Computational Data Analytics
  • MSc in Big Data and Business Analytics
  • MSc in Data Engineering

Natural Sciences Programs in Germany (Physics, Chemistry, Biology)

Germany is known for its rigorous natural science programs, especially at research-focused universities. Fields like molecular biology and quantum physics offer academic depth and lab-based training.

University

Specializations

Tuition (per year)

Heidelberg University

Molecular Biology, Physics

€0 + semester fee ≈ ₹26,000

LMU Munich

Chemistry, Astrophysics

€0 + semester fee ≈ ₹12,000

University of Göttingen

Biochemistry, Genetics

€0 + semester fee ≈ ₹28,000

  • Eligibility: UG – Class 12 with high science marks; PG – BSc in related field, IELTS 6.5+
  • Research programs may require a research proposal and supervisor consent

Popular Programs:

  • MSc in Physics
  • MSc in Chemistry
  • MSc in Molecular Biology
  • BSc in Biochemistry
  • MSc in Applied Geosciences

Health and Medicine Courses in Germany (Public Health, Biomedicine)

Health-related degrees—especially public health and biomedicine—are among the best study programs in Germany for Indians planning to work in healthcare policy, diagnostics, or biomedical research.

University

Courses

Tuition (per year)

Charité – Berlin

Public Health, Biomedicine

€0 + semester fee ≈ ₹27,000

University of Bonn

Immunobiology, Global Health

€0 + semester fee ≈ ₹25,000

Bielefeld University

Public Health, Health Policy

€0 + semester fee ≈ ₹24,000

  • Note: Clinical medicine programs are in German; most English-taught courses focus on public health or bioresearch
  • Admission: BSc in life sciences/health sciences, IELTS 6.5+, well-written SOP

Popular Programs:

  • MSc in Public Health
  • MSc in Biomedical Sciences
  • MSc in Health Informatics
  • MSc in Molecular Medicine
  • Master in Global Health

Architecture and Design Degrees in Germany

German universities offer applied and conceptual design programs, blending traditional architecture with urban planning, interior design, and digital design tools.

University

Specializations

Tuition (per year)

TU Berlin

Architecture, Urban Planning

€0 + semester fee ≈ ₹27,500

Bauhaus University Weimar

Architecture, Media Architecture

€0 + semester fee ≈ ₹24,000

FH Aachen

Industrial Design, Interior

€0 + semester fee ≈ ₹28,000

  • Entry: UG – Class 12 + portfolio; PG – B.Arch or B.Des + portfolio, IELTS 6.0+
  • Portfolio and technical drawing skills are mandatory for most design programs

Popular Programs:

  • MSc in Architecture
  • MSc in Urban Design and Planning
  • MSc in Sustainable Building Technology
  • BA in Industrial Design
  • MSc in Interior Architecture

Economics and Social Science Programs in Germany

Germany’s economics and social science programs are highly respected across Europe. They offer exposure to global development, policy, sociology, and international economics.

University

Focus Areas

Tuition (per year)

University of Mannheim

Economics, Political Science

€6,500 ≈ ₹5.7 lakh

University of Cologne

Sociology, Public Economics

€0 + semester fee ≈ ₹27,000

Humboldt University Berlin

Development Studies, IR

€0 + semester fee ≈ ₹25,000

  • Admission Requirements: Bachelor’s in economics/political science/sociology
  • Language: Many Master’s programs are English-taught, especially in policy and international studies

Popular Programs:

  • MSc in Economics and Public Policy
  • MA in Political Science
  • MSc in Development Studies
  • MA in Sociology
  • BSc in International Relations

Environmental Science and Sustainability Courses in Germany

If you're targeting careers in climate policy, renewable energy, or environmental impact assessment, Germany offers some of the most applied and research-backed master's in this field. 

Programs are structured around EU climate mandates, resource management, and sustainability tech—ideal for students with a science or engineering background.

University (Germany)

Focus Area

Fees (INR/year)

TU Munich Resource efficiency, energy systems ₹25,000 (semester fee only)
University of Freiburg Forest ecology, climate resilience ₹24,000
University of Bayreuth Biodiversity, global change, GIS tools ₹22,000
  • Eligibility: BSc in environmental science, life sciences, geography, or civil/mechanical engineering
  • English-taught, requires IELTS 6.5+ or TOEFL 80+
  • Placement into research institutes, UN climate agencies, and NGOs
  • Public universities = zero tuition, only semester fees

Popular Programs:

  • MSc in Environmental Engineering
  • MSc in Renewable Energy Systems
  • MSc in Sustainability Science
  • MSc in Global Change Ecology
  • MSc in Climate and Environmental Studies

Intakes for Courses in Germany

Germany follows a two-intake academic calendar: Winter (October) and Summer (April). The Winter intake is the primary one, with more courses available across public universities, especially for engineering, IT, and business. The Summer intake offers limited programs, mostly in applied sciences or technical fields.

For Indian students applying to top courses in Germany, it's essential to begin the application process at least 8–10 months in advance to account for document prep, English or German test results, and student visa application timelines.

Major Intakes for German Universities

Intake Season

Application Deadline

Key Highlights

Winter (October)

May–July (varies by university)

Main intake. Maximum number of Master's programs in Germany 2025 open. Better chances for admission and scholarships.

Summer (April)

November–January

Fewer course options. Ideal for IT and applied sciences programs. Shorter visa wait times.

Eligibility for Top Courses in Germany

Admission to universities in Germany with English courses requires good academic records and proof of language proficiency. For engineering courses in Germany or Master's programs in Germany 2025, Indian students must have relevant academic backgrounds, GPA of 2.5+ on a 4.0 scale (or equivalent), and standardized test scores (if required).

Applicants for English-taught programs must submit IELTS (6.5+) or TOEFL (80+) scores. For German-taught programs, B2–C1 level German proficiency is mandatory. Some undergraduate programs also ask for TestAS scores, especially in competitive fields.

Admission Requirements for German Universities in 2025

Study Level

Requirements

Bachelor’s

Class 12 with math/science scores, IELTS 6.0+, TestAS (some courses). May need 1-year Studienkolleg.

Master’s

4-year bachelor’s degree, GPA ≥ 2.5/4.0, IELTS/TOEFL, GRE/GMAT (for MBA), subject alignment.

PhD

Master’s degree, research proposal, supervisor acceptance, IELTS 6.5+ or German B2.

Eligibility for English-Taught Courses in Germany

If you're applying to universities in Germany with English courses, you’ll need:

  • A good academic profile (min. 2.5 GPA on a 4.0 scale or equivalent)
  • IELTS (6.5+) or TOEFL iBT (80+)
  • Course alignment between your previous degree and chosen program
  • For MBAs or business degrees: GRE or GMAT may be required

Eligibility for German-Taught Courses in Germany

If the program is in German (common for free education in Germany for international students), you'll need:

  • B2 or C1-level German language certificate (Goethe, TestDaF, or telc)
  • May require a Studienkolleg (one-year foundation course) if you studied in India under CBSE/ICSE/state boards
  • Additional TestAS for undergrad admission in technical or science fields

Application Process for German Universities

The application process for German universities differs by course level and university type. Most international students apply through Uni-Assist, the DAAD portal, or directly to the university. Public universities in Germany with English courses usually require notarized academic records, English or German proficiency scores, and essential documents like SOPs and LORs. Applications open 4–6 months before intake.

Step-by-Step Application Process for German Universities

Stage

Details

Application Portal

Uni-Assist (most universities), DAAD, or university website

Language Test

IELTS 6.5+/TOEFL 80+ for English-taught programs; B2–C1 for German-taught

Docs Required

SOP, 1–2 LORs, academic transcripts, CV/resume, passport copy

Intake Timeline and Processing for German Universities

Intake

Application Window

Decision Time

Winter (Oct)

April to July

August to September

Summer (April)

November to January

February to March

For Master's programs in Germany 2025, especially in engineering or IT, apply as early as possible to secure a visa and housing.

Scholarships for International Students in Germany

While many public universities in Germany offer tuition-free education, international students still need around €850–€1,100 (₹75,000–₹97,000) per month for living expenses. Scholarships in Germany for Indian students can help offset these costs by covering 25% to 100% of total expenses, depending on merit, academic background, and program level. 

Most grants support Master’s and PhD students, but there are a few for undergraduates as well—especially through DAADDeutschlandstipendium, and Erasmus+.

Scholarships for Top Courses in Germany

Scholarship Name

Coverage

Target Group

DAAD EPOS

Full tuition + €934–€1,200/month + travel

Master’s programs in development, STEM

Erasmus+

Tuition + living stipend

Students at Erasmus-partner universities

Deutschlandstipendium

€300/month for 1 year

High-achieving students (all levels)

Heinrich Böll Foundation

Full + research funds

Master’s/PhD in environment, democracy

Inlaks Shivdasani (partial)

Tuition/living support

Indian citizens, selective programs

Application Tips for Scholarships in Germany

  • Postgraduate students in STEM, business, social sciences, or sustainability
  • High GPA (≥ 2.5 on a 4.0 scale or 70%+ in Indian terms)
  • Language proficiency (IELTS 6.5+ or German B2+)
  • Clear study or research goals (via SOP or proposal)

Career Scope After Studying in Germany

Graduates from top courses in Germany—especially in engineering, IT, business management, and research—can access one of the most open job markets in Europe. International students get an 18-month post-study work visa to find jobs aligned with their degree. Roles in STEM and business are in high demand. 

Knowledge of German language boosts employability and salary negotiation, especially outside multinational hubs.

Blue Card Germany eligibility begins at an annual gross salary of €45,300 (approx. ₹40 lakh). Sectors like IT and healthcare offer fast-track pathways.

Average Salary in Germany by Field (2025)

Field of Study

Average Annual Salary (EUR)

INR Equivalent (₹)

Engineering Courses in Germany

€52,000

₹46–48 lakh

IT and Computer Science Courses in Germany

€55,000

₹49–51 lakh

Business Management in Germany for International Students

€50,000

₹44–46 lakh

Life Sciences / Pharma

€47,000

₹42–44 lakh

Social Sciences / Humanities

€38,000

₹33–35 lakh

Note: Salaries vary by city, company size, and German proficiency.

Top Hiring Sectors for International Graduates

Sector

Examples

Preferred Courses

IT & Tech

SAP, Siemens, Zalando, Bosch

Computer science, software engineering

Engineering & Auto

BMW, Volkswagen, Bosch

Mechanical, electrical, automotive

Finance & Consulting

Deutsche Bank, EY, PwC

MBA, finance, economics

Pharma & Research

Bayer, BioNTech, Max Planck Institute

Biotechnology, chemistry, life sciences

Startups & Innovation

Berlin startup ecosystem

Data science, digital marketing, IT

Work Visa and Blue Card After Graduation in Germany

  • Post-Study Work Visa: 18-month residence permit to find a job after graduation.
  • EU Blue Card: Fast-track residency with €45,300/year salary offer (lower for STEM fields).
  • PR Path: Can apply for permanent residency in 33 months (or 21 months with B1-level German).

Need Help with University Selection or Visa Process?
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398 results found

Bachelor of Science (B.Sc.) Informatics

Technical University of Munich, Germany

  • DURATION
    3 Years
  • FEES
    INR 2.64L/yr
  • EXAMS
    -
  • INTAKE SESSION
    OCT 2025
View details

Master In Management

Frankfurt School of Finance & Management, Germany

  • DURATION
    2 Years
  • FEES
    INR 62.48L/yr
  • EXAMS
    -
  • INTAKE SESSION
    AUG 2024
View details

Mathematics-Bachelors

Heidelberg University, Germany

  • DURATION
    3 Years
  • FEES
    INR 0.27L/yr
  • EXAMS
    -
  • INTAKE SESSION
    JUN 2025
View details

Master of Business Administration-90 ECTS

International School of Management, Germany

  • DURATION
    Online:7 Months
    On-campus:1 Year
  • FEES
    Online: INR 4,50,000
    On-campus: Euro 16,620 (including thesis)

B.A. Eco honours

Reutlingen University, Germany

  • DURATION
    3 Years
  • FEES
    INR 10.56L/yr
  • EXAMS
    -
  • INTAKE SESSION
    SEP 2025
View details

MSc in Mechanical Engineering

Karlsruhe Institute of Technology (KIT), Germany

  • DURATION
    2 Years
  • FEES
    INR 5.28L (Total)
  • EXAMS
    -
  • INTAKE SESSION
    SEP 2025
View details

Masters of Business Administration

Steinbeis University School of Management and Innovation, Germany

  • DURATION
    1 Year 5 Months
  • FEES
    INR 22.70L (Total)
  • EXAMS
    -
  • INTAKE SESSION
    OCT 2024
View details

MSc Business Intelligence and Data Science (PGMP)

International School of Management, Germany

  • DURATION
    Online:7 Months
    On-campus:1 Year 4 Months
  • FEES
    Online: INR 4,50,000
    On-campus: EUR 17,052

Computer Science Master of Science (M.Sc.)

University of Freiburg, Germany

  • DURATION
    2 Years
  • FEES
    INR 2.64L/yr
  • EXAMS
    -
  • INTAKE SESSION
    JUL 2025
View details

Bachelor of Arts in Economics

University of Bonn, Germany

  • DURATION
    3 Years
  • FEES
    INR 0.75L (Total)
  • EXAMS
    -
  • INTAKE SESSION
    OCT 2025
View details

B.A. in History

University of Augsburg, Germany

  • DURATION
    3 Years
  • FEES
    INR 11.70L/yr
  • EXAMS
    -
  • INTAKE SESSION
    SEP 2025
View details

MSc International Management (PGMP)

International School of Management, Germany

  • DURATION
    Online:7 Months
    On-campus:1 Year 4 Months
  • FEES
    Online: INR 4,50,000
    On-campus: EUR 17,052

b.eng. in industrial engineering

Deggendorf Institute of Technology, Germany

  • DURATION
    4 Years
  • FEES
    INR 7.92L/yr
  • EXAMS
    -
  • INTAKE SESSION
    SEP 2024
View details

Bachelor of Science in Aerospace Engineering

University of Stuttgart, Germany

  • DURATION
    3 Years
  • FEES
    INR 7.92L (Total)
  • EXAMS
    -
  • INTAKE SESSION
    OCT 2025
View details

Bachelor of Science in Management, Economics and Social Sciences

University of Cologne, Germany

  • DURATION
    3 Years
  • FEES
    INR 1.98L (Total)
  • EXAMS
    -
  • INTAKE SESSION
    SEP 2025
View details

MSc International Management

International School of Management, Germany

  • DURATION
    Online:7 Months
    On-campus:1 Year 4 Months
  • FEES
    Online: INR 4,50,000
    On-campus: EUR 17,052

BSc Computer Science

Technical University of Ilmenau, Germany

  • DURATION
    3 Years
  • FEES
    INR 0.72L (Total)
  • EXAMS
    -
  • INTAKE SESSION
    OCT 2025
View details

BSc in Computer Science

Goethe University, Germany

  • DURATION
    3 Years
  • FEES
    INR 1.86L (Total)
  • EXAMS
    -
  • INTAKE SESSION
    AUG 2025
View details

Bachelor Of Arts in Philosophy

University of Wurzburg, Germany

  • DURATION
    3 Years
  • FEES
    INR 0.82L (Total)
  • EXAMS
    -
  • INTAKE SESSION
    OCT 2025
View details

MSc Finance

International School of Management, Germany

  • DURATION
    Online:7 Months
    On-campus:1 Year 4 Months
  • FEES
    Online: INR 4,50,000
    On-campus: EUR 17,052

MSc in Data Science

Leipzig University, Germany

  • DURATION
    2 Years
  • FEES
    INR 0.00L (Total)
  • EXAMS
    -
  • INTAKE SESSION
    SEP 2024
View details

Master in Data Science

University of Mannheim, Germany

  • DURATION
    2 Years
  • FEES
    INR 17.98L/yr
  • EXAMS
    -
  • INTAKE SESSION
    SEP 2025
View details

B.Sc in Astrophysics

University of Regensburg, Germany

  • DURATION
    3 Years
  • FEES
    INR 12.76L/yr
  • EXAMS
    -
  • INTAKE SESSION
    SEP 2025
View details

M.A Digital Marketing (PGMP)

International School of Management, Germany

  • DURATION
    Online:7 Months
    On-campus:1 Year 4 Months
  • FEES
    Online: INR 4,50,000
    On-campus: EUR 17,052

Bachelor in Business Administration

Technische Universitat Darmstadt, Germany

  • DURATION
    3 Years
  • FEES
    INR 12.58L/yr
  • EXAMS
    -
  • INTAKE SESSION
    SEP 2024
View details

Master of Science in Computational Sciences in Engineering

Braunschweig University of Technology, Germany

  • DURATION
    2 Years
  • FEES
    INR 4.22L (Total)
  • EXAMS
    -
  • INTAKE SESSION
    OCT 2025
View details
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