Studying in Germany: public universities, costs and what to know

Germany is a popular choice for Indian students, particularly for engineering, computer science and the sciences. Much of that interest comes from the fact that most public universities charge little or no tuition for many programmes. That is true, but it is not the whole picture. This guide explains how the system works, what you are likely to pay for, and the steps that Indian applicants should plan for.

Types of institutions

Germany has several types of higher education institutions. The two you will come across most often are:

• Universities, which tend to be more research-focused and offer a wide range of subjects, including doctoral study.
• Universities of applied sciences, which focus on practical, career-oriented teaching and often include projects or placements with industry.

There are also colleges of art, film and music, and a number of private universities. Private institutions generally charge tuition fees, which can be substantial.

Tuition at public universities

According to the DAAD, most state-funded universities in Germany do not charge tuition fees for most regular degree programmes. There are exceptions. Some continuing education master’s programmes charge fees, and the state of Baden-Württemberg charges tuition fees to most students from outside the EU. Rules can change, so check the fee page of each university you are considering.

The semester contribution

Even where there is no tuition fee, all students pay a semester contribution each semester. It covers things such as student services and administration and, at many universities, includes a public transport ticket for the local area. The amount varies by university, so check the figure on the university’s website.

Living costs and proof of funds

Living costs are usually the largest expense. Rent varies a great deal between cities, and larger cities tend to be more expensive. You will also need to budget for health insurance, food, travel, books and a deposit for accommodation.

To get a student visa, you must show that you can cover your living costs. A common way to do this is a blocked account, which holds a set amount that you can withdraw in monthly portions after arriving. According to the German Federal Foreign Office, the required amount depends on the purpose of your stay and is linked to the support rates for German students, so it can change. A recognised scholarship can also be used as proof in some cases. Always check the current requirement on the German mission’s website for India before you transfer money.

APS certificate for Indian applicants

Indian applicants should be aware of the Academic Evaluation Centre (APS) at the German Embassy in New Delhi. APS verifies Indian academic documents for students who intend to study in Germany, and the APS certificate is part of the documentation generally required for the German student visa. For master’s applicants in certain fields, an additional digital test may be part of the APS process.

APS processing takes time, so build it into your plan early. Use the checklists on the official APS India website to see which procedure applies to you.

Start early. Between APS verification, university applications, the blocked account and the visa appointment, applying to Germany often takes longer than students expect.

Language of instruction

Many bachelor’s programmes at public universities are taught in German, while a growing number of master’s programmes are taught in English. For English-taught programmes, universities usually ask for an English test such as IELTS. For German-taught programmes, you will need to show German language skills at the level the university requires.

Even on an English-taught course, learning German helps with daily life, part-time jobs and future career options. It is worth starting basic German before you leave.

Entry requirements for Indian students

For bachelor’s study, Indian school qualifications are not always accepted for direct admission, depending on your results and the course. Some students first complete a foundation course or a year of university study in India. For master’s study, universities assess whether your bachelor’s degree matches the content of their programme, so the subjects you studied matter as much as your grades.

Each university sets its own requirements and some use a central application service called uni-assist. Read each course page carefully.

Finding programmes

• The DAAD International Programmes database lists internationally oriented programmes, including many taught in English.
• The Study in Germany website, run by the DAAD, explains the main search tools and how to use them.
• University websites remain the final source for deadlines, fees and entry requirements.

Health insurance

Health insurance is required for students in Germany, both for the visa and for enrolment at the university. Depending on your age and course, you may be able to join statutory health insurance or you may need a private policy. Ask your university’s international office which option applies to you, and check the visa requirements carefully before buying cover.

A simple budgeting list

• Application costs, including uni-assist fees if you apply through it, and APS fees.
• Language test fees.
• Visa fee, travel and initial accommodation.
• Blocked account or other proof of funds.
• Semester contribution and any tuition fees.
• Monthly rent, food, insurance, phone and study materials.

Typical steps for Indian applicants

1. Shortlist programmes and check entry and language requirements.
2. Apply for APS verification early.
3. Take any required language tests.
4. Apply to universities directly or through uni-assist, as each university specifies.
5. Once you have an admission letter, arrange proof of funds and health insurance.
6. Book a visa appointment and prepare your documents as listed by the German mission.
7. Arrange accommodation and plan your arrival and city registration.

Work and life after study

International students in Germany are generally allowed to work part time within limits set by German law, and graduates may be able to stay on to look for work. These rules change from time to time. Check the current position on official German government sources rather than relying on figures shared online.

Our counsellors can help you shortlist programmes, prepare your documents and plan your timeline. Admission decisions are made by the universities and visa decisions by the German authorities, so we always encourage you to confirm the details on official websites.