List of Public Universities in Germany
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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 public universities clearly dominate the education market in Germany with over 240 functional public universities offering all sorts of courses. The private universities are much smaller in number and offer specialized programmes.
Apart from zero tuition fees, Public universities in Germany offer a 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. Technical University of Munich, Ludwig Maximilian University of Munich, Heidelberg University, Free University of Berlin are among top public universities in Germany which are also among top global universities. In this blog, we are going to tell you about public universitiesties in Germany, their courses and how to apply there.
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Public Universities vs Private Universities - Overview
In this section, we are going to look at the differences between public universities and private universities across Germany.
| Parameters | Public Universities | Private Universities |
|---|---|---|
| Cost of Studying | Public Universities in Germany do not charge students with a tuition fee. These are government-funded study institutions and students are only required to pay a semester fee of €350 euros. | Private Universities in Germany offer specialized courses to students and charge a tuition fee. Students studying at private universities would be required to shell out anywhere between €6000 - €7000 euros per year. |
| Admissions Requirements | Tuition-free public universities have put Germany on the global education map. Hence, every year thousands of international and domestic students apply to Public Universities. This is why the admission process is complex and has higher admission requirements. | The admission process to private universities in contrast is less complex. Candidates looking to study across private universities in Germany are required to simply qualify for the minimum admission requirements to go ahead with their admission process. |
| Language Requirements | Candidates looking to take admission to public universities in Germany are required to know German. All public universities in Germany use German as their medium of communication and teaching hence knowing the German Language - (certificate level) is mandatory. | One of the biggest advantages of studying in private universities in Germany is that students are provided with quality education which is at par with private universities and students are not required to learn the German language. The main mode of communication is English. However, knowing German will only help you manoeuvre through the foreign land. |
| Intake Season | Winter Semester: (popular)
Summer Semester:
|
Rolling Admission Deadlines across most courses |
| Courses Offered | Public Universities in Germany offer a large variety of courses as compared to private universities. For example - the Free University of Berlin is a public university in Germany that offers more than 150 academic courses. |
Private universities offer a much smaller number of courses to students looking to study in Germany. However, the courses offered by private universities in Germany are specialized programmes which are targeted towards providing employment. |
| University Rankings | Most German universities ranked among the top universities in the world are public universities. |
Private universities enjoy a much lesser mention across top universities ranking around the world. |
Best Public Universities in Germany 2025
In this section, we are going to list the best public universities in Germany as per leading ranking aggregators.
| Public Universities in Germany | QS World University Rankings 2025: Top Global Universities | World University Rankings 2025 - Times Higher Education (THE) |
|---|---|---|
| Technical University of Munich (TUM) Shiksha Grade: A++ |
28 | 26 |
| Ludwig Maximilian University of Munich Shiksha Grade: A++ |
59 | 38 |
| Heidelberg University Shiksha Grade: A++ |
84 | 47 |
| Free University of Berlin Shiksha Grade: A |
97 | 104 |
| RWTH Aachen University Shiksha Grade: A+ |
99 | 92 |
| Karlsruhe Institute of Technology (KIT) Shiksha Grade: B++ |
102 | 166 |
| Humboldt University of Berlin Shiksha Grade: A |
126 | 84 |
| Technical University of Berlin (TU Berlin) Shiksha Grade: B++ |
126 | 140 |
| Albert Ludwigs University of Freiburg Shiksha Grade: A+ |
147 | 128 |
| University of Hamburg Shiksha Grade: A |
191 | 132 |
Let us know the universities in detail
Technical University of Munich
Technical University of Munich (TUM) is one of the top universities in the world and the highest-ranked university in Germany. Currently, the Technical University of Munich (TUM Germany) ranks #28in the QS World University Rankings 2025. One of the most illustrious technical universities in Germany, TU Munich was founded in 1868 and is a member of the prestigious TU9 – a group of nine distinguished technical universities in Germany. TU Munich is home to 15 academic departments/schools that offer over 200 degree programs including an extensive selection of English-taught courses and programs for the large number of international students that enrol every year.
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Ludwig Maximilian University of Munich
At the forefront of European research, Ludwig Maximilian University of Munich (LMU Munich) has been dedicated to academic excellence for over 550 years. Founded in 1472, LMU Munich is a hub of academic excellence in a vibrant network of research institutions, universities, and businesses. Its 18 faculties offer a diverse range of disciplines, from theology to the earth sciences.
University Heidelberg
Germany's oldest university and a leading European research institution, University Heidelberg is renowned for its excellence in academics, science, and research. Its success in the international rankings confirms its status as a world-class university. Heidelberg University's courses of study are informed by its strong research focus, and students are encouraged to develop independent research skills early on. With over 160 fields of study, Heidelberg offers a broad spectrum of subjects, from the humanities and social sciences to the natural and applied sciences.
Free University of Berlin
A leading German research university, the Free University of Berlin is part of the elite University Consortium of Excellence, the Berlin University Alliance. It is one of 13 German universities funded through the German government’s Excellence Strategy and has over 100 international partnerships. With 16 academic departments and central institutes offering over 150 degree programs, Freie Universität Berlin is a global destination for students and scholars.
List of Public Universities in Germany
In this section, we are going to be talking about the popular public universities in Germany.
Why Study at Public Universities in Germany?
There are close to 350 public universities in Germany. Apart from offering free education to international and domestic students alike. what makes public universities in Germany popular among international students can be attributed to the quality of education German universities provide.
Germany is known for their state-of-the-art infrastructure, availability of the latest amenities, an education system that combines theoretical knowledge along with building practical skills, renowned faculty, a stable jobs market and finally a degree that is renowned the world over. These are some of the popular reasons that make public universities in Germany stand out when it comes to making study-abroad decisions.
Popular Courses across Public Universities in Germany
While courses are part of the student's decision. However, popular courses across public universities include
- Business Administration/Management
- Computer Science
- Industrial Engineering/Business and Engineering
- Mechanical Engineering
- Mechatronics
- Medicine/health science
- Robotics/Artificial Intelligence
- Social work
Cost of Studying at Public Universities in Germany?
If you manage to get admission in any public university then the cost of studying in Germany will be zero or low. We all are aware by now that the public universities in Germany are free and do not charge tuition fees but only an administration fee of about 350 euros at the start of each semester. However, there are living expenses that candidates need to take care of. Candidates going to study in Germany are required to open a Blocked Account in Germany. A German Blocked Account is a mandatory requirement and simply put, is a closed bank account in a German Bank.
Keeping the rate of inflation in mind, the mandatory amount required in the German Blocked Account for studying in Germany is €11,904 for an entire year or €992 for a month. Along with this, candidates should also look at the miscellaneous expenditures involved in the study abroad process.
How to apply to a Public University in Germany?
The admission requirement to study in Germany is very high. Universities in Germany ask for a 90% academic score for UG programs for admission. It also has a high acceptance rate that makes it difficult for foreign students to get admission to public universities in the country. International students need to appear for IELTS or TOEFL exam as an English Language Proficiency Exam. For PG courses international students are required at least a 70-75% academic score from a reputed university. They also need to appear in exams like GRE, GMAT, ACT, SAT, etc. as per the programme requirement. Candidates can reach out to our Shiksha Study Abroad Counsellors for assistance with university admissions.
Also Read
| MBA in Germany | Bachelors of Business colleges in Germany |
| Engineering in Germany |
Candidates looking for assistance with university admissions can get in touch with our Shiksha Study Abroad counsellors for assistance with university admissions to Germany. You can also mention your queries in the comment section below:
Q: Is public university free in Germany?
Yes, public universities in Germany do not charge tuition fees for both domestic and international students, making it possible for students to study for free. However, students may need to pay a small administrative fee, ranging from €100 to €350 each semester.
Q: Which German public university has a 100% acceptance rate?
While no university can guarantee a 100% acceptance rate due to varying admission criteria, some universities, like the University of Applied Sciences Schmalkalden, are known for being more accessible to international students.
Q: What is the best university in Germany?
Technical University of Munich (TUM), Ludwig Maximilian University of Munich, among the best universities in the world. Indian students with better academic backgrounds can apply for admission at these top universities in Germany.
Q: How to check eligibility for public universities in Germany?
To check eligibility for public universities in Germany, students should review the specific admission requirements on the university's official website, which typically include academic qualifications, language proficiency (German or English), and any necessary documentation.
Q: Which is the cheapest university in Germany?
While many public universities offer free tuition, the University of Applied Sciences Schmalkalden is often considered one of the most affordable options due to its low administrative fees and living costs.
Q: Is IELTS required for Germany?
Yes, an Indian student must demonstrate their proof of proficiency in the English language while applying at universities in Germany as it is one of the major admission requirements. You can do this with the help of major English exam scores such as IELTS, TOEFL, PTE, etc. Note that IELTS is accepted by almost all the German universities and the minimum score requirements varies. On an average, the minimum IELTS score required to study in Germany is in the range 7.0 - 7.5.
Q: Is BSBI degree valid in Germany?
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?
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?
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: How can I get admission to IU Berlin?
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: What is the ranking of Heidelberg University Germany?
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 |
|---|---|
| 2020 | 66 |
| 2021 | NA |
| 2022 | 63 |
| 2023 | 65 |
| 2024 | 87 |
Q: Is Hof University Germany a good university?
Hof University is voted the most popular university in Germany for 2024. It continues to receive the highest marks for teaching. These rankings are as per the ranking published by the renowned portal Studycheck.de. More than 40 bachelor’s and master’s programs in Computer Science, Business, Engineering as well as Interdisciplinary and Innovative Science are offered by the university. Also, the teaching at this university is based on innovative methods to convey application-oriented knowledge.
Q: What are the requirements for Delft University of Technology?
TU Delft has its own criteria that vary as per the programs for international students. We have mentioned below the Delft University of Technology requirements for international students:
For Undergraduate Admission
· Must have a secondary school Diploma equivalent to the Dutch pre-university
· Required examination subjects as per the program
· English Language Proficiency test score
For Graduate Admission
· A bachelor’s degree
· Must achieve a cumulative GPA of at least 75% in bachelor’s degree
· English Language Proficiency test score
· Additional test score of GMAT/GRE (if applicable)
Q: Why study in Germany?
Germany is the third-most sought-after study abroad destination among international students. It is the top choice for students to study in Europe. The country boats the highest standard of living because of the biggest job market in Europe. Take a look some more benefits of studying in Germany below:
· An affordable cost of living
· Access to international companies
· World-class universities to study
· A high-quality educational system
· After graduation, you will be eligible to apply for 18 months post-study resident permit
Also read about the Top Reasons to Study in Germany
Raushan Kumar is a skilled writer and a Study Abroad Expert in the Editorial Team at Shiksha. He oversees various aspects of studying abroad, including educational opportunities, entrance exams, colleges, latest new... Read Full Bio
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- Universities in Germany214 Universities
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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
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