Public Universities in Germany: Rankings, Courses & Cost
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The education system in Germany is broadly divided into public and private universities. The public universities in Germany clearly dominate the education market in the country with over 240 functional public universities offering programmes for everyone. The private universities are much smaller in number and offer specialized programmes.
Germany is famous for offering high-quality education at low or no cost. This thing makes Germany one of the best countries to study abroad for Indian students. The education system in Germany is broadly divided into public and private universities. The German public universities are highly preferred by international students. The total number of public universities in Germany is 313 out of a total of 428 institutions in German higher education
Apart from zero tuition fees, Public universities in Germany offer better research opportunities, government support, and a strong academic reputation. The number of Indian students studying in Germany has increased three-fold over the years. Indians make up the second-largest group of international students enrolled at German universities, with around 42,997 students from India currently enrolled in Germany (2024).
Public universities in Germany are funded by the government and form the major backbone of the education industry in the country. The Technical University of Munich, Ludwig Maximilian University of Munich, Heidelberg University, and Free University of Berlin are among the top public universities in Germany, which are also among the top global universities. The article is all about the list of public universities in Germany, their courses, and how to apply there.
Quick Links
- Public Universities vs Private Universities in Germany - Overview
- Best Public Universities in Germany 2025
- List of Public Universities in Germany
- Why Study at Public Universities in Germany?
- Cost of Studying at Public Universities in Germany
- How to apply to a Public University in Germany?
Public Universities vs Private Universities in Germany - Overview
In this section, we are going to look at the differences between public universities and private universities across Germany.
| Feature |
Public Universities (Staatliche Universitäten) |
Private Universities (Private Hochschulen) |
|---|---|---|
| Tuition Fees |
Free |
High Fees (€6000 to €7000 per year) |
| Semester Contribution |
Semester fee of €350 (covers admin + public transport ticket). |
Usually included in tuition fees, but sometimes extra. |
| Admission Difficulty |
High / Competitive |
Moderate / Flexible |
| Language of Instruction |
Mostly German English is common only at the Master's level. |
Mostly English |
| Class Size |
Large |
Small |
| Global Ranking |
Most German universities ranked among the top universities in the world are public universities. |
Lower |
| Intake Deadlines |
Winter Semester: (popular)
Summer Semester:
|
Rolling Admission Deadlines across most courses |
Many public universities in Germany require or accept TestAS scores as admission process. Learn more about the structure, preparation, and importance of this exam in our TestAS Exam Guide. Germany boasts various top public universities. To understand how these institutions compare to those in the Netherlands, especially regarding tuition fees and academically, check our Study in Netherlands vs Germany analysis.
Public universities in Germany offer quality education at low costs and also provide good job opportunities. Many international students find part-time jobs while studying and full-time jobs after graduation because of Germany’s strong job market.
To get your student visa, you must show proof of funds. You have to open a Blocked Account and deposit €11,904 (approx ₹11 Lakhs). You cannot use this money all at once. The bank will give you back €992 per month for your living expense. This is mandatory rule.
Not everywhere. Most public universities are free (only €200-€300 semester fee). But in Baden-Württemberg state (universities like Heidelberg, KIT), Indian students must pay €1,500 tuition fee per semester. Also, TUM (Munich) has started charging fees recently. Always check official website before applying.
Statement of Purpose
Letter of Recommendation
Student Visa Application
Admission Essay Writing
Student Curriculum Vitae
Comments
(2)
E
3 weeks ago
M
4 years ago
R
4 years ago
Hello John. To know about public universities that teach in English visit: https://studyabroad.shiksha.com/universities-in-germany-that-teach-in-english-articlepage-2073 Do keep in mind that this is a select list and does not include all universities. Do note that public universities do not have a
It depends on your course. If you choose English taught programme (mostly for Masters), then you don't need advanced German. But, life outside college is hard without language. For grocery shopping, talking to landlord, or finding part-time jobs, you need at least A1 or A2 level German. Also, many companies prefer candidates who speak little bit German.