List of German Public Universities | Study in Germany for Free

Are you dreaming of getting a world-class degree without breaking the bank? Then studying at a German public university might be your best option! In fact, most public universities in Germany are tuition-free — even for international students.

Germany has long been a hub for top-notch education, cutting-edge research, and international academic collaboration. Whether you’re aiming for engineering, business, computer science, or humanities — there’s a German university for you.

Let’s dive into everything you need to know about Germany public university free education and check out the full list of tuition-free universities in Germany.

Why Choose a German Public University?

Studying at a German public university means you get:

• World-class education

• Globally recognized degrees

• Tuition-free or low-cost learning

• Opportunities to work while studying

• Pathway to stay and work in Germany post-graduation

Most public universities in Germany do not charge tuition fees, even for non-EU students. You may only have to pay a small semester contribution (100–350 EUR) for administration, transportation, and student services.

Example: At TU Munich, the semester fee is only around €150–€250 — that's it!

Are Public Universities in Germany Really Free?

Yes! As of now, public universities in most German states offer free education for both domestic and international students. The policy was introduced to promote equal access to higher education.

However, a few states (like Baden-Württemberg) charge minimal tuition for non-EU students — around €1,500 per semester. Still, this is far more affordable than tuition fees in the U.S., UK, or Australia.

Who Can Apply to a Germany Public University Free?

If you are:

• A high school graduate

• A bachelor’s degree holder

• An international student from any country

• Fluent in English or German (depending on the program)

… then you can apply to public universities in Germany.

Many programs, especially at the master’s level, are offered in English, making them ideal for international students.

Full List of German Public Universities (Tuition-Free)

Here’s a categorized list of top public universities in Germany where you can study for free or at a very low cost:

Note:

This list includes traditional research universities only. Germany also has over 200 Universities of Applied Sciences (Hochschulen/Fachhochschulen), which are excellent for practical education in engineering, business, IT, and social sciences.

Best Courses to Study in German Public Universities

Looking for a degree that’s globally in demand? These fields are especially popular in German public universities:

• Engineering (Mechanical, Electrical, Civil)

• Computer Science and Data Science

• Business and Management

• Medicine and Public Health

• Natural Sciences (Physics, Chemistry, Biology)

• Social Sciences and Humanities

• Architecture and Urban Planning

• Environmental Sciences and Sustainability

How to Apply to a German University

Here’s a basic application process:

1. Choose your program and university

2. Check eligibility and admission requirements

3. Prepare your documents:

   • Academic transcripts

   • Language certificates (IELTS, TOEFL, or TestDaF)

   • Passport

   • Motivation letter/CV

4. Apply via the university website or Pacific Educational Consultant

5. Wait for the admission letter

6. Apply for a student visa

7. Get health insurance and arrange accommodation

Cost of Living in Germany (Besides Tuition)

While tuition is free, you should plan for living expenses, such as:

Total monthly budget: Approx. €700 – €1,000

Language of Instruction

Many master’s programs are taught in English, while bachelor’s programs are mostly in German.

If you’re applying to a German-taught program, you’ll need:

• DSH, TestDaF, or Goethe-Zertifikat

For English-taught programs, you’ll need:

• IELTS, TOEFL, or Cambridge English

Final Thoughts

Studying at a German public university is one of the smartest and most affordable choices for international students. With high-quality education, no tuition fees, and countless career opportunities, Germany has become a top destination for global talent.

If you're looking for a Germany public university free experience, start shortlisting universities today — and take the first step toward building your future at a world-class German university.

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ) About German Public Universities

Are public universities in Germany really free?

Yes! Most German public universities do not charge tuition fees for domestic and international students. You only pay a small semester contribution (around €100–€350), which often covers administrative costs and public transport.

Do international students have to pay fees at a German public university?

Generally, no. International students can study at a Germany public university free of tuition charges. The only exception is the state of Baden-Württemberg, where non-EU students pay about €1,500 per semester.

What are the admission requirements for German public universities?

Requirements vary by program, but typically you’ll need:

• Academic transcripts (high school or bachelor’s degree)

• Proof of language proficiency (IELTS/TOEFL for English or TestDaF/DSH for German)

• Valid passport

• Motivation letter and CV

Can I study in English at a German university?

Yes. Many master’s programs at public universities in Germany are taught in English. However, most bachelor’s programs are in German, so you may need proof of German language skills (DSH, TestDaF, or Goethe-Zertifikat).

What is the cost of living for students in Germany?

While tuition is free, living costs average between €700–€1,000 per month, covering rent, food, transportation, health insurance, and personal expenses.

How do I apply to a German public university?

Applications are usually submitted online through the university portal or Uni-Assist. After acceptance, you can apply for a student visa and start preparing for your studies.

Which are the top German public universities?

Some of the best German universities include:

• Ludwig Maximilian University of Munich (LMU)

• Technical University of Munich (TUM)

• Heidelberg University

• RWTH Aachen University

• Humboldt University of Berlin

• University of Freiburg

Do German public universities provide scholarships?

Yes. While tuition is already free, students can apply for scholarships to cover living expenses. The most popular provider is DAAD (German Academic Exchange Service).

Can I work while studying at a German university?

Yes. International students can work up to 120 full days or 240 half days per year. Many students take part-time jobs to help cover living costs.

Can I stay in Germany after graduation?

Absolutely. Graduates from a German public university can apply for an 18-month post-study work visa to find a job in Germany. If employed, you can later apply for permanent residency.