10 Best Student Cities in Germany

Known for its rich heritage, scenic landscapes, and a welcoming environment, Germany is home to various student friendly cities, which offer a very warm and secure environment to international students. Munich, Berlin, Stuttgart are just to name a few. If you wanna know more about the best cities in Germany for international students, read on.

Germany offers many advantages to international students. It is increasingly becoming a top choice for international students seeking high-quality education and a vibrant cultural experience. Top cities of Germany like Munich, Berlin, and Frankfurt are leading the way in attracting students from around the globe. According to recent data, Munich is home to over 55,000 international students and is renowned for its excellent universities, including the Technical University of Munich (TUM), which is ranked among the best universites in the world.

Studying in Germany goes beyond just academics; it also includes low tuition fees at public universities in Germany, which are often free or minimal for both local and international students. The living costs in major cities of Gemany typically range from €800 to €1,200, making it a reasonable option for many students. No tuition or very low tuition removes a big chunk of that cost of studying in Germany, making the cost of living the all important factor of understanding how much would it cost to study in Germany. 

Low tuition costs, excellent infrastructure and research facilities, a truly global outlook and world’s best universities makes it an ideal student destination. The article includes the best cities in Germany for international students, which includes details such as university rankings, quality of life, cultural offerings, and living costs. 

Best Cities in Germany for International Students 2025

Ranking	City	Studying in Germany City Score
1	Munich	53.2
2	Aachen	52.4
3	Cologne	43.3
4	Bonn	40.5
5	Stuttgart	35
6	Berlin	30.4
7	Frankfurt	29.7
8	Dresden	26.7
9	Leipzig	20.7
10	Hamburg	19.5

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1. Munich

If you know something about Germany then you must have heard about the famous Oktoberfest! And if you have heard of that…then Munich is a name you are well familiar with. Munich is consistently ranked as the best city for international students in Germany. Munich offers a wide range of programs and attracts over 55,000 international students. The city attracts students from all over the world and there are many reasons to it. The beautiful Bavarian countryside, the excellent living conditions and the multicultural diversity. A friendly place, this is also home to some of the top universities in the world and recognized for the same.

Some of the famous universities in Munich include:

• Ludwig Maximillian’s University
• Technical University of Munich

These are not merely the top universities of Germany but also feature in the top Universities of the World and offer excellent research facilities that are truly top of the charts. Known for its low crime rates and high quality of life, it ranks third in these categories among student cities.

On the cost side, the city is a bit expensive with rentals a bit on the higher side. Much like Berlin, the rentals can cost you somewhere around EUR 800 - EUR 1,000 (INR 73.3 K - 91.6 K) per month for a one room apartment. Being one of the most liveable cities of the world does come with a price tag but at the end of the day, if you look at the return on investments, then this is one city you cannot miss out on!

Particular	Details
No. of International Students (State-level)	55,291
Approx. No. of Universities	20
No. of top Universities	44
Top Public University	Technical University of Munich
Safety Score	79.01
Quality of Life Score	181.43
Cost of Living Score	69.83
Crime Rate Score	20.99
Health Care Score	76.78
Studying in Germany City Score	53.2

2. Aachen

Aachen ranks second due to its rich history and academic opportunities. RWTH Aachen University is among the popular university of Achen. Compared to larger cities, Aachen is relatively affordable, with monthly living costs around €800-€900. The city features historical landmarks like the UNESCO-listed Aachen Cathedral. Aachen follows closely behind as a top choice for international students, with a total of 77,199 international students attending five universities, including RWTH Aachen University, which is renowned for its engineering programs. The city has a safety score of 66.22 and a quality of life score of 188.56. Living costs in Aachen are approximately €800-€900 per month, making it more affordable than Munich. Aachen's historical significance and its location near the borders of Belgium and the Netherlands make it an exciting place for exploration.

Particular	Details
No. of International Students (State-level)	77,199
Approx. No. of Universities	5
No. of Top HE Institutions (State-level)	64
Top Public University	RWTH Aachen University
Safety Score	66.22
Quality of Life Score	188.56
Cost of Living Score	62.72
Crime Rate Score	33.78
Health Care Score	80.54
Studying in Germany City Score	52.4

3. Cologne

Cologne is another excellent option for international students, hosting around 77,199 international students across 12 universities, including the University of Cologne. The city has a safety score of 58.36 and a quality of life score of 166. Cologne offers a vibrant atmosphere with a cost of living around €900 per month. Comparatively cheaper than the other cities, a student can easily find student accommodation in the city. The famous Cologne Cathedral and numerous cultural festivals contribute to its appeal, while the city's welcoming attitude towards newcomers makes it an ideal place for Indian students.

The quaint city has many things to offer to the students from around the world. It is home to another of the oldest universities of Germany, The University of Cologne. This lesser known university of Germany offers excellent facilities to its students including its Nobel Prize Winning Faculty.

Looking at the city, it has a string of museums and cultural attractions that would entrance the students. There is enough to explore in the city and if that is not enough, you can escape. Direct trains to the famous European cities of Paris, Brussels and Amsterdam would help you explore the Western Europe.

Particular	Details
No. of International Students (State-level)	77,199
Approx. No. of Universities	12
No. of Top HE Institutions (State-level)	64
Top Public University	University of Cologne
Safety Score	58.36
Quality of Life Score	166
Cost of Living Score	65.29
Crime Rate Score	41.64
Health Care Score	73.57
Studying in Germany City Score	43.3

4. Bonn

Bonn is known for its quieter environment compared to other major cities but still provides excellent educational opportunities at University of Bonn. With about 77,199 international students enrolled across three universities, Bonn boasts a safety score of 59.17 and a quality of life score of 173.2. The cost of living in Bonn, Germany are approximately €900 per month. The city's rich history as the former capital of West Germany adds to its charm, with many museums and cultural sites to explore.

Particular	Details
No. of International Students (State-level)	77,199
Approx. No. of Universities	3
No. of Top HE Institutions (State-level)	64
Top Public University	Rheinische Friedrich-Wilhelms-Universität
Safety Score	59.17
Quality of Life Score	173.2
Cost of Living Score	68.65
Crime Rate Score	40.83
Health Care Score	73.52
Studying in Germany City Score	40.5

5. Stuttgart

Stuttgart is known as Germany's automotive capital. It has around 34,375 international students students enrolled across 15 universities. The city is safe and has a safety score of 66.18, it also offers a good quality of life. The cost of living in Stuttgart is estimated at €1,000 per month. Many major car companies, like Mercedes-Benz and Porsche are located here, providing great internship opportunities for engineering students.

Particular	Details
No. of International Students (State-level)	34,375
Approx. No. of Universities	15
No. of Top HE Institutions (State-level)	61
Top Public University	Universität Stuttgart
Safety Score	66.18
Quality of Life Score	178.81
Cost of Living Score	61.2
Crime Rate Score	33.82
Health Care Score	74.5
Studying in Germany City Score	35

6. Berlin

The city is more than just the capital of the country. It is Germany at its best. One of the best student cities in the world to study in, the city has everything that appeals to a student. In terms of the “cool quotient”, the city is a contemporary to the likes of London and New York. History, architecture and culture, all adorn the city and adds to its many values. And what’s more…it is not that costly either!

With approximately 39,595 international students studying at 33 universities—including Free University Berlin—Berlin offers numerous programs in English alongside German-language courses. The safety score stands at 55.95 while the quality of life score is at 162.44; however, living costs are higher at around EUR 1,000- EUR 1,200 per month. But it is still on the cheaper side when compared to other European cities like Paris and London! What’s more, if you start early and search well, you should be able to find a place to stay in. And if you are looking for only the top universities in Berlin, then the following can be an excellent place to start your search from.

Particular	Details
No. of International Students (State-level)	39,595
Approx. No. of Universities	33
No. of Top HE Institutions (State-level)	33
Top Public University	Free University Berlin
Safety Score	55.95
Quality of Life Score	162.44
Cost of Living Score	72.76
Crime Rate Score	44.05
Health Care Score	68.28
Studying in Germany City Score	30.4

Famous Universities in Berlin that are amongst the best universities of Germany

• Humboldt University of Berlin
• Free University of Berlin
• Technical University of Berlin

7. Frankfurt

There is no introduction required to this city. Not only is it the financial capital of Germany but easily also of Europe. It is home to the famous European Central Bank which drives the who’s who of businesses to this city. It is every bit a city of the modern age. Skyscrapers, a vibrant nightlife and plush standards of living all add to the awe of the city.

For a student, there is a lot as well. If culture is something that attracts you, then the city would keep you busy with chain of festivals that are celebrates round the year. There is diversity, culture and modernization all rolled into one in this city. Add to that the word famous Goethe University, and you are set. This university attracts about 28,280 international students. The city has a safe environment and a good quality of life, but living costs are higher at around €1,200 per month. As a global financial hub, Frankfurt provides many networking opportunities for business students.

Particular	Details
No. of International Students (State-level)	28,280
Approx. No. of Universities	11
No. of Top HE Institutions (State-level)	22
Top Public University	Goethe-University Frankfurt am Main
Safety Score	68.2
Quality of Life Score	177.95
Cost of Living Score	65.36
Crime Rate Score	31.73
Health Care Score	74.16
Studying in Germany City Score	29.7

8. Dresden

Dresden combines beautiful architecture with strong academics at Dresden University of Technology. Around 16,878 international students study here. With a safety score of 67.89 and an impressive quality of life score of 192.65 while maintaining lower living costs at about €700-€800 per month, Dresden is an attractive option for many students seeking affordability without compromising on educational quality.

Particular	Details
No. of International Students (State-level)	16,878
Approx. No. of Universities	10
No. of Top HE Institutions (State-level)	19
Top Public University	Technische Universität Dresden
Safety Score	67.89
Quality of Life Score	192.65
Cost of Living Score	60.74
Crime Rate Score	32.11
Health Care Score	81.12
Studying in Germany City Score	26.7

9. Leipzig

Leipzig is gaining popularity among international students due to its vibrant arts scene and historical significance with about 16,878 international students enrolled at ten universities like the University of Leipzig. It has a safety score of 58.98 and a quality of life score of 177.5. The cost of living in Leipzig is around €800 per month, making it affordable for many students. The city's atmosphere encourages innovation among its student population.

Particular	Details
No. of International Students (State-level)	16,87
Approx. No. of Universities	10
No. of Top HE Institutions (State-level)	19
Top Public University	University of Leipzig
Safety Score	58.98
Quality of Life Score	177.5
Cost of Living Score	61.2
Crime Rate Score	41.02
Health Care Score	71.36
Studying in Germany City Score	20.7

10. Heidelberg

The city is an ancient testament to Germany’s education sector. Home to the famous and Germany’s oldest Ruprecht-Karls-University which is also famous as the Heidelberg University, this is a city that has success written all over it. This is also, incidentally, Germany’s top ranked university.

If you are still looking for more reasons to study in Heidelberg, then you would not be disappointed. A modern city in terms of technology and practices, it still has the architecture and look of the medieval times. Calling out to the romantics and the geeks alike, this city promises enough places to explore and contemplate in. A haven for academicians, the city is home to over 50 Nobel laureates…of which more nearly 10 continue to teach in the famous university.

It has about 12,208 international students studying at University of Hamburg. The city is safe with a good quality of life; however, living costs are around €1,200 per month. Hamburg’s rich history as one of Germany's major ports offers plenty of cultural experiences for students.

Particular	Details
No. of International Students (State-level)	12,208
Approx. No. of Universities	19
No. of Top HE Institutions (State-level)	16
Top Public University	Universität Hamburg
Safety Score	57.76
Quality of Life Score	173.83
Cost of Living Score	69.04
Crime Rate Score	42.24
Health Care Score	75.15
Studying in Germany City Score	19.5

So decide well! Remember, there is so much more to the country you choose than the university. Think well and all the best!