Top Universities in Berlin for International Students
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Studying in Berlin can prove to be an excellent choice for international students as it is home to some of the best universities that provide high-quality education and research opportunities. Moreover, Berlin also offers a rich cultural scene that makes it an exciting place to study and live. In this article, we will cover details of the best universities in Berlin including their costs, admission criteria, and much more.
Berlin is one of the top preferred city for international students, known for its rich history, vibrant culture, and high-quality education. With several top universities, Berlin attracts students from all over the world who is looking for an excellent academic programs and diverse experiences.
In the winter semester of 2023/2024, there were approximately 200,440 university students in Berlin, reflecting a steady increase in student enrollment over the years. Germany has become a popular study destination, ranking among the top countries for international students. As of the latest statistics, there are about 469,485 international students studying in Germany, with many choosing Berlin for its welcoming atmosphere and affordable living costs. The country is known for its tuition-free education policy at public universities, which has significantly contributed to the rise in international student numbers since 2014.
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Reasons to Study at Top Universities in Berlin
Studying in Germany is becoming extremely lucrative due to low costs and high academic standards. There are several reasons why studying at top universities in Berlin can be a great choice. Here are some of the key reasons:
- Academic Excellence: Some of Europe's top universities, renowned for their demanding curriculums and academic quality, are located in Berlin. The best universities in Berlin for international students offer a wide selection of programmes in numerous academic specialities and high-quality instruction.
- International Environment: Berlin is a multicultural city with a thriving international neighbourhood. International students make up a sizable portion of the student body at many Berlin universities, fostering a diverse and welcoming academic atmosphere. With students from various origins and cultures, this is an opportunity for interaction and collaboration.
- Research Opportunities: The best universities in Berlin are well known for their research endeavours. They provide students with access to top-notch research facilities and the opportunity to work on cutting-edge projects. Students who want to work in academics or research may find this to be especially useful.
- Affordable Education: Compared to many other nations, the cost of studying in Germany is quite low. In Berlin's public universities, tuition is frequently waived for both domestic and foreign students. For students seeking a top-notch education at a reasonable price, this makes attending a prestigious university in Berlin is an appealing alternative.
- Career Prospects: The job market in Germany is booming, especially in Berlin, which is a bustling and dynamic city. For entrepreneurs, innovation, and the creative sectors, it is renowned as a hotspot. A good university in Berlin can open doors to a wide range of internship and employment opportunities in a variety of fields. Graduates' employment chances may be improved by the city's robust economy and ties to the rest of the world.
- Cultural and Social Life: Berlin has a storied past, a thriving arts and entertainment scene, and a wild nightlife. Studying in Berlin gives you the chance to explore and fully immerse yourself in this distinctive cultural setting. The city provides a great cultural experience outside of academia with its abundance of museums, galleries, theatres, and music venues.
- Location and Travel Opportunities: Berlin is a great starting point for travelling around Europe because of its strategic location. Excellent transport connections make it simple to travel to other significant European cities and nations. As a result, students have the chance to extend their minds and encounter various cultures while studying in Berlin.
Academic excellence, exposure to other cultures, research possibilities, affordability, job chances, cultural experiences, and travel options may all be found when attending the best universities in Berlin.
Top Universities in Berlin
In this section of the article, let us look at the best universities in Berlin for international students:
1) Freie Universität Berlin
The following are the details of the Free University of Berlin:
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Freie Universität Berlin (Free University of Berlin) |
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2) Humboldt University of Berlin
The following table provides details of the Humboldt University of Berlin:
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Details |
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Humboldt University of Berlin |
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3) Technical University of Berlin
The following table provides details, of the Technical University of Berlin, which are important from the perspective of international students:
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Details |
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Technical University of Berlin |
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4) ESMT Berlin
The table given below provides information, about ESMT Berlin, which is relevant from the perspective of international students:
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ESMT Berlin (European School of Management and Technology) |
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5) Charité – Berlin University Medicine
Charité – Berlin University Medicine is also known as Charité – Universitätsmedizin Berlin. The following table provides details of the university:
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Details |
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Charité – Berlin University Medicine |
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6) Berlin International University of Applied Sciences
Here are the important details of the Berlin International University of Applied Sciences:
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Details |
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Berlin International University of Applied Sciences |
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7) Steinbeis University
The table given below provides the details of Steinbeis University:
| Head |
Details |
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Steinbeis University |
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Cost of Studying in Berlin for International Students
The following points will provide an overview of the cost of studying in Berlin (including the cost of living) for international students:
- Tuition Fees: Numerous universities in Berlin do not charge tuition, notably for undergraduate programmes, which is one of the benefits of studying there. For instance, most programmes at the Freie Universität Berlin are tuition-free. It is crucial to remember that some postgraduate and specialised programmes could charge tuition. For precise information on tuition costs, it is advised to check the particular programme and university.
- Semester Fees: University tuition prices in Berlin are normally eliminated, but there is a small semester fee. The administrative expenses, student services, and use of public transit are all covered by this price. In Berlin, the semester price may reach close to € 300.
- Accommodation: The cost of lodging in Berlin varies based on the type and location. International students should expect to pay between 500 and 800 EUR per month on average for housing. Rent, utilities, and other living expenditures may be included in this cost. It is best to start looking for housing as soon as possible and to look at various options such as student dorms, shared apartments, and private rentals.
- Living Expenses: Personal lifestyle choices can also affect Berlin's living expenditures. International students should budget between 200 and 400 EUR per month for living expenses. Food, transportation, entertainment, and other everyday necessities are all included. To have a comfortable stay in Berlin, it is critical to prepare and manage your spending correctly. It is important for students to know about Blocked Account in Germany. A German blocked account is a bank account into which international students planning to study in Germany must deposit at least €11,904 in order to demonstrate that they will be able to finance themselves throughout the first year of their studies in the country. This sum will be held in a bank until the student arrives in Germany. The student would be able to take €992 each month to meet living costs in the country.
- Health Insurance: International students in Germany are required to have health insurance coverage. The cost of health insurance for international students is approximately 110 EUR per month.
- Other Costs: In addition to the fees listed above, there may be extra costs to consider. These can include study materials, novels, city transportation, and recreational activities. The cost of these extra fees varies according to personal preferences and academic requirements.
It is important to note that these prices are estimates and may vary depending on individual circumstances, lifestyle preferences, and the specific programme or university. Before studying in Berlin, it is recommended to conduct research and organise your budget accordingly. Furthermore, for the most up-to-date and correct information on prices and fees, it is advisable to visit the official websites of universities as well.
Scholarships for the Best Universities in Berlin
Scholarships for studying in Berlin are an excellent way to reduce the cost of studying abroad. If the scholarship amount is sufficient, students may skip the part-time work in Germany and completely focus on their studies only. Here are some of the top scholarships for studying in Berlin:
- Friedrich-Ebert-Stiftung e.V.: Maximum scholarship amount is € 1,200.
- Konrad Adenauer Foundation: Maximum scholarship amount is € 861.
- C. Mahindra Scholarships For Post-Graduate Studies Abroad: Maximum scholarship amount is Rs. 8,00,000.
- Unimoni Student Stars 2023: Maximum scholarship amount is Rs, 3,00,000.
- Hani Zeini Scholarship: The maximum scholarship amount is USD 1,000.
Jobs after Studying at the Best Universities in Berlin
Students may obtain a work permit after completing their studies in Germany, as there are several job opportunities in Berlin. Berlin is a vibrant and cosmopolitan city with a growing job market, particularly in sectors such as technology, startups, creative industries, and research. Here are some job opportunities for international students in Berlin:
- Technology and IT: Berlin boasts a thriving tech scene that includes both startups and established businesses. There are job prospects in software development, data analysis, cybersecurity, and IT consulting.
- Research and Academia: Several famous research institutions, universities, and think tanks are located in Berlin. International students might explore chances in research positions, academic roles, and research institute collaborations.
- Creative Industries: Berlin has a thriving creative industry that includes advertising, design, media, cinema, and music. International students with creative abilities and capabilities may find employment in these fields.
- Hospitality and Tourism: Berlin is a major tourist destination, and the hospitality industry provides employment opportunities in hotels, restaurants, event management, and tourism businesses.
- Business and Finance: Berlin is a start-up and entrepreneurship hotspot. International students with expertise in business and finance can look for work in consulting businesses, financial institutions, and venture capital firms.
- Language Teaching: International students who are fluent in languages like English, Spanish, or French can find work as language teachers in language schools or as individual tutors.
It should be noted that the employment market can be competitive, and knowledge of the German language can be advantageous in many fields. Additionally, it is recommended that you network, attend career fairs, and look into internship opportunities during your studies to improve your chances of finding work after finishing your school in Berlin.
Eligibility to Study at Top Universities in Berlin
To study at Berlin best universities in Germany, you generally need to meet certain eligibility criteria. Here are some common requirements:
- Academic Background: You must complete your formal schooling and an undergraduate degree (if you are applying for a Master’s degree).
- Language Proficiency: Most Berlin colleges need competency in the language of instruction, which is typically German. Language proficiency examinations such as TestDaF or DSH will be required to demonstrate your language skills. Some universities may also offer English-taught programmes, therefore fluency in English may be required.
- Entrance Exams: Some programmes or universities may ask you to take entrance exams or submit standardised test scores, such as the SAT or ACT for undergraduate programmes or the GRE or GMAT for graduate programmes. Specific requirements differ per university and programme.
- Application Documents: Academic transcripts, letters of recommendation, a statement of purpose or motivation letter, and a CV/resume are all required application documents. Some programmes may additionally include the submission of a portfolio or other material relevant to the topic of study.
Application Process for Berlin Best Universities in Germany
The application process for the best universities in Berlin will require the following documents:
- Bachelor’s degree with a certain CGPA (if applying for a Master’s)
- Academic or Professional experience (course-specific)
- GRE or GMAT scores
- English language proficiency test scores: IELTS, TOEFL, or PTE
- Latest resume
- Statement of Purpose (SOP)
- LORs (Letters of recommendation)
- Admission Essays
- Work Samples and/or Video Samples for creative courses
Now that students are aware of the top universities in Berlin and various other important aspects of studying at the best universities in Berlin, it is important for them to conduct their own research as well. Make sure to keep an eye on the admission deadlines and other important factors. For help with university applications, students seeking to study abroad can contact our Shiksha Study Abroad Counsellors. The comments section below allows candidates to contact us as well.
Q: Is the University of Berlin free for international students?
Q: Is Berlin a good place for international students?
Absolutely! Berlin is a vibrant and multicultural city that offers a rich cultural experience, excellent public transport, and a variety of activities. The city is home to many international students and provides a welcoming atmosphere with numerous support services for newcomers. Additionally, the cost of living is relatively affordable compared to other major European cities.
Q: How much does it cost to study in Berlin?
While tuition fees are generally waived at public universities in Berlin, students should budget for living expenses. On average, students need about €1,200 per month to cover rent, food, transportation, and other personal expenses. This amount can vary depending on lifestyle and accommodation choices.
Q: Is Berlin expensive for Indian students?
Berlin is considered to be affordable compared to other major cities in Europe. While the cost of living can be higher than in some parts of India, many Indian students find it manageable due to the absence of tuition fees at public universities. However, it is essential for students to plan their budgets carefully to cover living costs.
Q: Is IELTS required for admission in Germany?
Yes, many universities in Germany require proof of English language proficiency for international students whose first language is not English. The IELTS (International English Language Testing System) is commonly accepted, with most programs requiring a minimum score of 6.0 to 7.0, depending on the course.
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: 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 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)
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Statement of Purpose
Letter of Recommendation
Student Visa Application
Admission Essay Writing
Student Curriculum Vitae
Yes, universities in Berlin, including the Free University of Berlin and the Technical University of Berlin, do not charge tuition fees for most programs, including those for international students. However, students are required to pay a semester fee that typically amounts to around €304 per semester, which covers administrative costs and student services.