What Does It Cost to Study in Germany

Many students dream of studying abroad, imagining a life-changing experience and quality education. But the high costs often make them reconsider. Germany, however, bucks the trend. It’s a top destination, known for its affordability compared to other major European countries.

While tuition fees in Germany were abolished in 2014, there’s a common misconception among international students that education here is entirely free. It’s affordable, yes, but there are still some expenses to consider. 

So, let’s break down all of the costs of studying in Germany as an international student.

First Things First: Proof of Financial Resources to Study in Germany

If you need a visa to study in Germany, you’ll need to show that you have enough money to support yourself. This document is called the Proof of Financial Resources (Finanzierungsnachweis). 

As of January 1, 2023, it is estimated that you should have about 11,208 euros for one year to study in Germany. This amount covers your living expenses, including accommodation, food, insurance, transportation, and more.

Most students demonstrate these funds through a blocked account (Sperrkonto), which lets you withdraw up to 934 euros per month to cover your living costs.

For more in-depth information on how to demonstrate that you possess the necessary financial resources, be sure to refer to our comprehensive guide: Proof of Financial Resources to Study in Germany. 

How Much Are Tuition Fees in Germany?

Studying in Germany can be super affordable for both local and international undergrads at public universities. The best part? Most public universities in Germany don’t have any tuition fees. Private universities, on the other hand, charge fees. These institutions are often quite expensive and as a result, a less popular choice for students.

How Much Are Tuition Fees at Public Universities in Germany?

In many public universities in Germany, the semester fees are relatively low, typically ranging from around €100 to €350 per semester.

Public universities in Germany are primarily state-funded institutions. The higher education system in Germany is funded by the government, which allows them to offer low or no tuition fees to students, including international students. 

However, there is a small fee per semester to cover administrative and other expenses.  

These fees often cover services such as student administration, student union contributions, and sometimes a public transportation pass, which allows you to use public transportation within the region.

Here are some of the semester or tuition fees at Germany’s best universities as an example:

University	Location	Fees
Technical University of Munich	Munich, Bavaria	Regular semester fee: €85-€102 depending on campus’ location. Academic year 2024/25: International students from third countries to pay €2,000-€3,000 per semester for bachelor’s programs, €4,000-5,000 per semester for master’s programs.
Ludwig-Maximilians-Universität München	Munich, Bavaria	€85 per semester
Universität Heidelberg	Heidelberg, Baden-Württemberg	Regular semester fee: €151 per semester International students (non-EU/EEA with foreign qualifications): €1,500 per semester Second degree: €650 per semester
Freie Universitaet Berlin	Berlin	€313 per semester
RWTH Aachen University	Aachen, North Rhine-Westphalia	€318 per semester
KIT, Karlsruhe Institute of Technology	Karlsruhe, Baden-Württemberg	Regular semester fee: €165 per semester International students (non-EU/EEA with foreign qualifications): €1,500 per semester Second degree: €650 per semester
Humboldt-Universität zu Berlin	Berlin	€315 per semester
Technische Universität Berlin (TU Berlin)	Berlin	€113 per semester. Continuing education master’s programs may have higher fees.
Albert-Ludwigs-Universitaet Freiburg	Freiburg, Baden-Württemberg	Regular semester fee: €180 per semester International students (non-EU/EEA with foreign qualifications): €1,500 per semester Second degree: €650 per semester
Universität Hamburg	Hamburg	€340 per semester

Discover tuition fees at officially recognized universities in Germany on your terms. Explore our full list of universities for details.

Are All Public Universities in Germany Free?

Not all public universities and not all programs are free. Here are some exceptions you should be aware of:

• Specialized Programs. Some specialized programs, often at the graduate level, may have tuition fees at public universities in Germany. These programs are typically designed to provide unique advantages, such as specialized training, language courses, or international experiences.
• Professional Study Programs. Professional programs like Executive MBAs, executive courses, and postgraduate certificates cater to working professionals seeking advanced training. They often entail tuition fees, varying from a few thousand to tens of thousands of euros based on program level and content.
• The Federal State of Baden-Württemberg. In 2017, the Federal State of Baden-Württemberg introduced tuition fees for non-EU international students pursuing various degree programs. Non-EU citizens studying in Baden-Württemberg are required to pay €1,500 per semester.
• The Federal State of Bavaria. Starting in 2023, the Federal State of Bavaria has updated its Bavarian Higher Education Innovation Act (BayHIG). This change allows universities to charge tuition fees for international students from third countries. However, not all universities have adopted this.

How Much Are Tuition Fees at Private Universities in Germany?

On average, tuition fees at private universities in Germany can range from approximately €5,000 to €20,000 per year or more. Private universities can set their own tuition fees, which vary by institution and are subject to regular review and potential changes.

Although public universities account for the largest proportion of higher education providers, several private universities are operating in Germany as well.

At some universities, all programs have the same fees, but keep in mind that your choice of program can affect your costs, especially at private universities, particularly in fields like business or technology. For instance, the cost of Master of Business Administration (MBA) programs in Germany can range from a few thousand euros to as high as €65,000 per program, which can significantly impact the cost of studying.

Below, we’ve listed some of the best universities and private business schools in Germany to illustrate their range of fees for various programs:

University/School	Location	Fees
WHU – Otto Beisheim School of Management	Düsseldorf, North Rhine-Westphalia	Bachelor’s programs: €8,500 per semester Master’s programs: €30,300 – €37,200 MBA programs: €36,000 – €46,000 Doctoral programs: No tuition fee for internal students; €1,000 (one-time admission fee) + €3,000 per semester for external students.
Frankfurt School of Finance & Management	Frankfurt, Hesse	Bachelor’s programs: €3,850 – €5,100 per semester Master’s programs: €33,000 – €39,000 MBA programs: €42,000 – €49,500 Doctoral programs: unspecified, tuition fee waivers + funding available
Gisma University of Applied Sciences	Hanover, Lower Saxony	Bachelor’s programs: Germany/EU applicants €9,600 per year; International applicants €13,125 per year Master’s programs: Germany/EU: €8,500 – €13,000 per year; International: €11,575 – €15,500 per year; Master of International Business Management: €16,500 per year Global MBA: €18,000
ESMT Berlin	Berlin	Master’s programs: €32,000 MBA programs: €28,000 – €64,800 Doctoral programs: no tuition fee
University of Europe for Applied Sciences	4 campuses: – Berlin – Potsdam, Brandenburg – Hamburg – Iserlohn, North Rhine-Westphalia	Bachelor’s programs: EU: €8,496 per year, Non-EU: €12,100 per year Master’s programs: EU: from €9,840 per year, Non-EU: from €10,938 per year MBA: EU: €11,100 per year; Non-EU: €12,332 per year
Bard College Berlin	Berlin	On-Campus Students: €33,420.60 Off-Campus Students: €23,820.60

Discover all your options with our comprehensive list of private universities in Germany.

What Is the Cost of Living in Germany for International Students?

As mentioned earlier, since January 2023, you need to show that you’ll have approximately €934 per month for your living expenses in Germany. 

But remember, having €934 per month as proof of funds doesn’t mean you must spend exactly that amount. It’s just what you need to show for visa purposes. 

According to data from DAAD, the average monthly expenses for German students amount to roughly €842. This includes costs like rent, travel, food, clothing, health insurance, transportation, tuition fees, and leisure activities.

What Are Accommodation Costs for International Students in Germany?

On average, students in Germany spend around €410 per month on accommodation. Accommodation is the biggest expense for international students in Germany, so make sure to research it thoroughly before making your choice. 

Cost of Student Dormitories

The average cost of student dormitories in Germany is €266.83 per month.

Student dormitories, known as “studentenwohnheim”, are the top choice for international students in Germany, with over 40% of them choosing dormitory living. With around 196,000 places nationwide, demand remains high due to their cost-effectiveness, with an average monthly rent of €266.83.

Cost of Shared Apartments – WGs

The average cost of rent for shared apartments (WGs) in Germany is €300 to €650 per month.

Many students prefer having a private room in a shared apartment, referred to as “WG” (Wohngemeinschaft) in Germany. Monthly room rents usually range from €300 to €650, with higher prices in major cities like Berlin, Munich, or Frankfurt and lower ones in smaller towns. 

For example, an unfurnished room in a 3-person WG averages €380 in Darmstadt, while in Munich, it can cost around €675.

Cost of Private Accommodation

On average, the rent for a one-bedroom apartment costs about €828 per month.

If you want more independence and have the budget for it, a private apartment can be a great choice. 

• In city centers, the rent of one-bedroom apartments ranges from €600 to €1,500 per month, with an average of around €952.87 per month. 
• Outside city centers, expect to pay between €450 and €1,200 per month, averaging approximately €704.70 per month.

>> We discuss rental prices in more detail in our 2024 guide on the Cost of Living in Germany.

How Much Do Food and Groceries Cost in Germany?

DAAD estimates that students in Germany usually set aside about €198 each month for their food and groceries. When it comes to eating at home, food prices in Germany are quite reasonable.

Here are some typical costs for everyday food items you might find in German grocery stores:

Item	Average Cost
Regular milk (1 liter)	€1.08
Loaf of fresh white bread (500g)	€1.90
White rice (1 kg)	€2.71
Eggs (12 pcs)	€3.32
Chicken fillets (1 kg)	€15.91
Potato (1 kg)	€1.52
Apples (1 kg)	€2.37
Domestic beer (0.5-liter bottle)	€0.91

Cost of Eating at Restaurants

When you’re in Germany, you can grab a meal at an inexpensive restaurant for around €12. 

If you’re looking for a mid-range dining experience with a three-course meal for two, it’ll be around €60. Now, if you’re in a rush or craving some fast food, you can grab a meal at McDonald’s or a similar place for roughly €9.

For drinks, a domestic beer is about €4, an imported beer is around €3.80, and a cappuccino is roughly €3.24. Soft drinks like cola or Pepsi are about €2.66 for a 0.33-liter bottle, and bottled water is around €2.37 for the same size. 

Cost of Eating at Student Cafeterias

If you’re a student in Germany, student cafeterias (Mensas) are your go-to for affordable eats. 

Compared to dining out, you’ll spend a mere €3 to €4 on average for a meal. Mensas serve a diverse menu, from classic German fare to global flavors, so there’s something for everyone.  

You can typically pay with your student ID, which you can top up with cash. There will usually be three pricing categories, with student rates being the most budget-friendly, followed by staff and guest rates.

How Much Does Transportation Cost for Students in Germany?

Local transport in Germany is quite affordable, with a one-way ticket at around €3 and a monthly pass for €49. Taxis are also accessible, starting at €4.25 and around €2 per kilometer.

However, as a student, the semesterticket is your best bet. If your university offers it, you’ll pay for it through your semester fees and get access to local and select regional routes in your area.

If you’re planning to travel a lot within Germany, consider the Deutschland-Ticket (D-Ticket) monthly pass, which grants you unlimited access to local public transport throughout Germany for just €49 a month.

How Much Does Student Health Insurance Cost in Germany?

In general, international students in Germany can expect to pay approximately €120 per month for health insurance through public providers. The cost of health insurance in Germany depends on your age, whether you have children and the specific health insurance provider you choose.

International students must have health insurance coverage to enroll in a German university and obtain a student visa. You can either choose to enroll in the public German health insurance system (statutory health insurance) or decide on private health insurance, provided it meets the requirements set by German authorities. 

 

Take a look at these popular health insurance providers in Germany and the fees they charge for students:

Health insurance provider	Health insurance contribution	Long-term care insurance contribution	Total amount per month
Techniker Krankenkasse (TK)	€92.73	€27.61 (up to 23 y/o) €32.48 (from 23 y/o)	€120.34 €125.21
Barmer	€95.17	€27.61 (up to 23 y/o) €32.48 (from 23 y/o)	€122.78 €127.65
BKK firmus	€90.30	€27.61 (up to 23 y/o) €32.48 (from 23 y/o)	€117.91 €122.78
Kaufmännische Krankenkasse (KKH)	€95.17	€24.77	€119.94
Audi BKK	€93.14	€27.61 (up to 23 y/o) €32.48 (from 23 y/o)	€120.75

>> For more information on how German health insurance works for international students, check out our complete guide.

How Much Should I Budget for Study Materials?

According to DAAD (Deutscher Akademischer Austauschdienst), students in Germany typically spend around €31 per month on study materials, such as books and notebooks. Since you will need textbooks and materials right from the beginning of the semester, you can expect to spend more during that time and less as the semester progresses. 

In Germany, brand-new textbooks can cost anywhere from €20 to €100 or even more per book. Specialized or advanced textbooks tend to be on the pricier side. But here’s a tip: some books are available in digital formats, which can be cheaper, typically ranging from €10 to €60.

Most universities here have great libraries where you can borrow textbooks and study stuff for free or for a small fee. Plus, your university probably has a platform where you can chat with other students and find used textbooks at low prices or even for free.

You’ll also need a suitable laptop or desktop for your studies. If you need to buy one, you can find excellent new laptops for approximately €350, and older basic models can be even more affordable. Alternatively, you can explore the option of purchasing a second-hand laptop or desktop, which can be significantly cheaper.

How Much Do International Students Spend for Recreation and Entertainment in Germany?

On average, you might budget around €33.75 per month for a gym membership, about €20.83 for an hour of tennis on the weekend, and roughly €12 for a cinema ticket to catch an international release.

The amount international students spend on leisure and entertainment in Germany can vary quite a bit, depending on their lifestyle and priorities. 

However, it’s worth noting that most universities also offer their own sports clubs and activities at no charge, and many student clubs organize events with low-cost or even free entry, including snacks and beverages. So, there are plenty of affordable ways to have fun and stay active during your time in Germany!

For example, here are some of the sports activities offered free of charge at the Technical University of Munich:

• Soccer
• Basketball
• Volleyball
• Floorball/Unihockey
• Running
• Fit at KoNaRo
• Climbing
• Cycling
• Dancing (Standard + Latin)
• Yoga
• External sports facilities

Phone and Internet Bills

Mobile plans in Germany typically range from €10 to €30 or more per month. Plans typically include data, calls, and texts. Some providers also offer prepaid options, which can be cost-effective for international students.

If you’re living in shared accommodation, you may split the cost of internet with your roommates. Internet plans with speeds of 60 Mbps or more and unlimited data can range from €20 to €50 per month. 

If you intend to stay in student dormitories, it’s common for internet access to be part of the rental package, so there’s usually no extra charge for it.

What Other Expenses Should I Budget for as a Student in Germany?

Students in Germany usually spend around €144 per month on various miscellaneous expenses. While not all of these may apply to your situation, budgeting for potential costs is a smart financial move. 

Here are some common miscellaneous expenses to consider when planning your budget:

Cost of German Student Visa and Residence Permit

International students who need a visa for Germany should budget €75 for a student visa fee paid by bank transfer. 

Residence permit costs vary: 

• €110 for initial issuance, 
• €100 for extensions, 
• Free for scholarship recipients, and
• €22.80 for Turkish nationals under 24, or €37 for those over 24.

Cost of Clothing Items in Germany

Students in Germany can easily find budget-friendly clothing options. You can buy basic T-shirts for €5 to €20, and popular stores like H&M, Primark, and C&A offer jeans starting at about €20. Casual dresses can also be budget-friendly, usually around €20. 

When it comes to shoes, brands like Deichmann have you covered with options ranging from €25 to €60. If you’re looking to save, consider second-hand shops, where prices are often much lower than new items. 

If you want to invest in high-quality pieces, premium brands may have pricier options

Cost of Postage and Shipping in Germany

Postage and shipping costs in Germany vary based on package size, weight, shipping method, and destination. 

Here are some general guidelines:

• Domestic Mail. Sending a standard letter or small parcel within Germany through Deutsche Post, the national postal service, costs between €0.70 and €10, depending on the size and weight.
• International Mail. Sending an international letter may cost around €1 to €5 or more, while shipping a package internationally can range from €10 to €50 or more, depending on the destination and package size and weight. 
• Insurance and Tracking. Adding insurance or tracking services to your shipments will increase costs but provide added security and visibility for your packages.
• Courier Services. Using courier services like DHL, UPS, or FedEx for domestic or international shipments will generally be more expensive than standard postal services. 
• Online Retailers. Many online retailers in Germany offer free or reduced-cost shipping for orders above a certain value, typically around €20 to €50.

Cost of Personal Care and Hygiene Items in Germany

The cost of personal care and hygiene items in Germany can vary depending on the brand, quality, and where you choose to shop. Some affordable chain stores for such products include Rossman & DM. 

Here are approximate price ranges for some common personal care items:

• Shampoo (400ml). €1 to €5
• Body wash (500ml). €0.95 to €6
• Toilet paper (8 rolls). €2.50 to €5
• Toothpaste (75ml). €1 to €3
• Deodorant (50ml). €1.50 to €4
• Feminine hygiene products (pack of 20). €0.90 to €5
• Hand Soap (500ml). €0.50 to €3
• Razors (pack of 4). €2 to €8

Cost of Haircuts and Personal Grooming in Germany

Haircuts and grooming costs in Germany vary depending on where you go, the type of salon, and the services you pick. Prices can differ a lot, with factors like location and the stylist’s experience playing a role. 

In big cities, fancy salons may charge more, while smaller places often have budget-friendly options. Check with your salon for specific prices and services before booking.

Here are some estimated prices for some of these services:

• Basic haircut (men). €15 to €40
• Basic haircut (women). €30 to €70
• Hair coloring (full head). €40 to €100 or more
• Men’s beard trim. €5 to €20
• Manicure. €30 to €50
• Waxing (full legs). €25 to €50
• Eyebrow shaping. €5 to €15

Scholarships for International Students in Germany

Germany is generally more budget-friendly for international students than some other European countries. However, it’s worth noting that expenses can still add up, especially for those coming from regions with lower living costs or incomes.

Thankfully, there’s a diverse selection of scholarships designed to help you manage these costs. These scholarships come in various forms, including partial funding, full funding, merit-based awards, and those specific to particular regions.

Scholarships are offered by both government and non-governmental organizations, as well as universities. Depending on your situation, you might be eligible for one of them. 

Here are some of the most popular scholarships offered for international students in Germany: 

Deutschlandstipendium (Germany Scholarship) 

This scholarship supports both German and international students, offering financial assistance of €300 per month. 

DAAD Scholarships 

The German Academic Exchange Service (DAAD) offers various scholarships for international students at different academic levels, including undergraduate, postgraduate, and doctoral studies. These scholarships can cover tuition fees, living expenses, and travel costs.

Erasmus+ Scholarships 

The Erasmus+ program provides funding opportunities for international students to study in Germany and other European countries. Scholarships typically cover tuition fees and offer a monthly stipend for living expenses.

Heinrich Boll Foundation Scholarships 

These scholarships support undergraduate, master’s, and doctoral students, including Germans, foreign students educated in Germany, and international students in Germany. 

Undergraduates and graduates may receive up to €812 per month, potentially reaching €934 with extra allowances. Ph.D. students can get up to €1,350 monthly, along with a €100 monthly research allowance.

Humboldt Research Fellowship 

The Humboldt Research Fellowship offers support for postdoctoral researchers, covering research expenses and providing a monthly fellowship of €2,670 for postdoctoral researchers and €3,170 for experienced researchers.

Friedrich Ebert Foundation Scholarships

The Friedrich Ebert Foundation offers scholarships to outstanding students from various regions, including the Global South and post-Soviet states, pursuing bachelor’s or master’s programs in Germany. 

These scholarships cover health insurance and provide monthly stipends of €830 for bachelor’s programs, €850 for master’s programs, and a family allowance of €276 for students with children.

>> If you want to discover more about scholarships for international students studying in Germany, don’t miss our detailed guide.

What’s the Cost of Studying in Germany for Indian Students?

Indian students comprise the largest group of international students in Germany, totaling 42,578 in 2023. Many students from this country have questions about Germany university fees for Indian students and the cost of living in Germany vs India, which significantly differs.

Consumer prices in India are approximately 64.9% lower than in Germany (excluding rent), and rent prices are 76.6% lower. However, the average monthly net salary in Germany is €2,780.79, significantly higher than the €536.49 in India (after tax). This means that if you work in Germany or secure a scholarship, you will comfortably afford your studies here. 

Below, we have provided a summary of the total cost of study in Germany for Indian students:

Item	Average or estimated cost	Estimated cost in INR
Sufficient funds required	€934 per month	INR 84.88 thousand per month
Cost of living	€842 per month	INR 76.51 thousand per month
Semester fees (public Universities)	€100 to €350 (can go up to €5,000 at some Bavarian universities, €1,500 at Baden-Wurttemberg universities)	INR 9.08 thousand to INR 31.80 thousand (can go up to INR 4.55 lakhs at some Bavarian universities, INR INR 1.37 lakhs at Baden-Wurttemberg universities)
Tuition fees (private universities)	€5,000 to €20,000 per year	INR 4.55 lakhs to INR 18.20 lakhs per year
Food and groceries	€198 per month	INR 18.02 thousand per month
Transportation (monthly pass)	€49 or included in semester fees (semesterticket)	INR 4.54 thousand or included in semester fees (semesterticket)
Health insurance	€120 per month	INR 10.92 thousand per month
Study materials	€31 per month	INR 2.82 thousand per month
Recreation and entertainment	€65 per month	INR 5.9 thousand per month
Phone and internet bills	€32 per month	INR 2.9 thousand per month
Miscellaneous expenses	€144 per month	INR 13.11 thousand per month

Please keep in mind that the currency exchange rates mentioned are based on December 2023 and might fluctuate. However, these insights can still give you a rough idea of the cost of studying in Germany for Indian students.

Cost of Masters in Germany for Indian Students

While we’ve covered the typical expenses, it’s important to know that the cost of studying in Germany for Indian students can vary, with exceptions to tuition fees. Some specialized master’s or MSc programs in Germany for Indian students (including those from third countries) might have higher fees.

For instance, let’s take the Technical University of Munich fees for Indian students as an example. Their Master of Bioinformatics program doesn’t have any tuition fees, but the Master of Aerospace program costs €6,000 (INR 5.46 lakhs) per semester. On the other hand, the Master of Aerospace Engineering program at the same university is fee-free, and the Master of Chemical Biotechnology program costs €4,000 (INR 3.64 lakhs) per semester.

This is just one scenario. Many German universities offer Master of Science programs without tuition fees for international students. The key point here is that you might encounter programs with extra fees in addition to the standard semester fee.

Final Note

If you’re overwhelmed by all these costs, we totally understand. However, there’s no need to stress because there are numerous ways to fund your studies in Germany, and many international students are thriving here doing so. 

We have a great guide with resources on ways to finance your studies if you want to learn more.

---