5 Best Student Cities in Germany
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5 Best Student Cities in Germany

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Updated on Aug 9, 2024 15:52 IST

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 5 best student cities in Germany, read on.

Germany offers many advantages to international students. Low tuition costs, excellent infrastructure and research facilities, a truly global outlook and world’s best universities makes it an ideal student destination. However, many things decide which country is ideal for you and one of the biggest concerns becomes the cost of studying in that country. No tuition or very low tuition removes a big chunk of that cost from studying in Germany, making the cost of living the all important factor of understanding how much would it cost to study in Germany. Having said that, it is important to note that while the cost of living in Germany is a moderate amount, the same would vary on the city you choose. Here’s a look at 5 of the best student cities in Germany, the universities in the city as well as how staying there would impact your cost of living.

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!

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We all know that the biggest determinant of the Cost of Living is the Student Accommodation in Germany. A rental in the city averages at about EUR 500 - EUR 900 (INR 45.8 K - 82.5 K), which is perhaps on the higher side of the country average of EUR 250 - EUR 500 (INR 23 K - 45.8 K). 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.








Famous Universities in Berlin that are amongst the Top 10 Universities of Germany

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. 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:

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.

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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!

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.

Staying in the city is not that expensive either. There are ample student accommodation options available in the city that you can look into. The rentals are perhaps a bit higher but with the right search a student should be able to find something for lesser than EUR 350 - EUR 800 (INR 32 K - 73.3 K) for a single room accommodation.

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Cologne

Another, perhaps lesser known city which is an excellent destination is Cologne. 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.

Comparatively cheaper than the other cities, a student can easily find student accommodation in the city. Living in the city centre would be a bit expensive at around EUR 800 - EUR 1,000 (INR 73.3 K - 91.6 K) per month for a single room accommodation.

Frankfurt Am Main

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.

On the flip side, however, it can be a costly affair to stay in the financial hub. The rentals in the city can go up to EUR 800 - EUR 1,000 (INR 73.3 K - 91.6 K) per month for a single room accommodation. However, if you are comfortable sharing, than there are options available that would cost you around EUR 500 (INR 45.8 K) a month.

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

Conversion Rate: 1 EUR = INR 91.70

5 Best Student Cities in Germany FAQs

Q. Which city is better for students in Germany?

A. Berlin, Munich, Stuttgart, Heidelberg, Frankfurt, Cologne, Hamburg, Aachen, Bonn, and others are some of the best student cities in Germany. If we take under consideration the list of top universities, cost of living, courses offered, jobb opportunities, return on investmen, etc., then Munich and Berlin prove to be the top two cities in Germany for international students. Some of the best universities in Munich and Berlin are Technical University of Munich, Technical University of Berlin, Free University of Berlin, Humboldt University of Berlin, etc.

Q. Which city in Germany is cheapest for international students?

A. Some of the most affordable student cities Germany are Dresden, Leipzig, Bielefeld, Erfurt, Potsdam, etc. Germany in itself one of the cheapest study abroad destination for international student as the public universities do not charge any tuition fee. This cuts down the major part of the expenses. Also, the cost of living in Germany is comparitively cheaper to other popular countries. Hence, it is overall quite profitable to study in Germany as the students receive huge ROI through placements.

Q. Which city in Germany has more job opportunities for students?

A. In Germany, Frankfurt offers the best job opportunities for international students as it is the financial hub of Germany and is home to the banks, all the major commercial brands, and more. Apart from Frankfurt, Berlin offers impressive return on investment due to its strong networking system and scope for expansion.

Q. Is Munich or Berlin better for students?

A. Berlin is the capital of Germany and is home to world-class universities. Munich, on the other hand is the most popular city in Germany and has some of the best universities around the globe. When it comes to education and the cost of living, Berlin has an upper hand among the two as it offers world-class programs and is cheaper in comparison to Munich. However, in terms of best student cities rankings by QS, Munich has an edge over Berlin with the rank #4. Whereas, the latter has been ranked #9. Nonetheless, both the cities are a part of the top 10 global cities for international students.

Q. Which city in Germany is best for Indians?

A. As per the QS Best Student Cities Rankings 2025, some of the best cities in Germany for international students are Munich (#4), Berlin (#9), and Stuttgart (#102). QS ranks the cities on the basis of six key parameters, and they are: university rankings, student diversity, desirability, employer activity, affordability, and student view. Some other cities such as Heidelberg, Frankfurt, Cologne, Hamburg, Aachen, Bonn, etc. are also really good for Indians students as they offer top-notch education in very affordable prices.

Q:   Is BSBI degree valid in Germany?

A:

BSBI does not hold degree-awarding powers in Germany and its programmes are validated by private Italian distance learning institution UniNettuno International Telematic University. BSBI has also partnered with Concordia University Chicago to deliver programmes at its Berlin campus.

Q:   What is the cost of a student visa in Germany?

A:

International students going to pursue higher education in Germany are required to apply for a German study visa. The cost of  study visa for Germany is EUR 75 per applicant. Below we have provided a check list for German student visa:

  • Valid passport
  • Application form
  • Declaration for additional contact and legal representation information
  • Copy of passport
  • Proof of admittance to the study course
  • Curriculum Vitae
  • Proof of Financial Means

Q:   Why study at IU International University of Applied Sciences Germany?

A:

IU International University of Applied Sciences courses are state accredited and recognized internationally. The university is known as Germany’s largest private state-accredited university. Students can learn a mix of online self-study and classroom learning (2-3 days per week) alongside their peers. IU University Germany is the 1st German university to be a member of the Association of Indian Universities (AIU). Hence, it is one of the best study abroad universities for international students.

Q:   Why study at UE Germany?

A:

Some of the reasons to study at the University of Europe for Applied Sciences are:

  • UE Germany is one of the most diverse student bodies in Europe with students from more than 100 nationalities represented on campus
  • Students at the university are globally connected through international projects, innovative digital learning projects or by directly interacting with international fellow students
  • The university also provides a practice-oriented environment. In other words, the consistent combination of international theoretical requirements and practical implementation promoted professional curiosity and provides orientation in the development of a unique profile
  • UE Germany offers a practice-oriented degree that supports the individual development
  • 4 out of 5 stars has been given to the university by students for overall satisfaction

Q:   Is KIT Germany free for international students?

A:

As per Article 3 LHGebG (Baden-Württemberg Act on State University Fees), international students from third-countries / Non-EU countries attending bachelor’s, teacher’s, and consecutive master’s programs and free movers will have to pay the tuition fee of amount EUR 1,500 per semester. Students can check the cost of living in Germany for International Students from here.

Q:   How can I get admission to IU Berlin?

A:

International students who wish to study at IU Berlin can apply for admission online through official wesbite. Students must follow the below points to apply easily for IU International University of Applied Sciences admissions:

  • Visit the website and check the list of IU Germany courses
  • Choose your programme
  • Apply online using official website
  • Submit your contract
  • Start your studies

Q:   Why choose to study in BSBI Germany?

A:

A few of the reasons to study at BSBI Germany campus are:

  • Central Location: The main campus of BSBI Germany is located in the heart of Berlin. It is located in the historical building of Alte Post. The neighborhood surrounding the campus has shops, restaurants, and cafes
  • Diverse community: When students join BSBI, they are going to witness a diverse student cohort of over 100 nationalities
  • Affordable education: Berlin is one of the best value European cities that lead to high-quality education, making it one of the most affordable cities in Europe to live and study in
  • Dedicated career and employment support: BSBI Berlin a range of career support services to its students
  • Academic excellence: The teachers at the school are experienced industry professionals who pass on their expertise through hands-on teaching methods

Q:   What is the ranking of Heidelberg University Germany?

A:

According to the QS World Rankings 2024, Heidelberg University Germany has a ranking of #87 in the world. Some of the world rankings at the university are given as follows:

Year QS World Rankings 
202066
2021NA
202263
202365
202487
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Comments

(2)

A

Anushka Shukla

5 years ago

Can you give me details on Frankfurt University Of Applied Sciences?

Reply to Anushka Shukla

8 years ago

What is the minimum cost of single room rentals and that of student sharing rentals?

Reply to

K

Kanika Khurana

8 years ago

Hi Ritika, On an average, a shared accommodation would cost you around €280 a month. Please refer to the link below for various types of accommodation and how much they would cost you. https://studyabroad.shiksha.com/student-accommodation-in-germany-kinds-and-costs-articlepage-486