Low tuition still needs a full budget.

Many public universities charge no tuition for standard degree programmes, but this is not universal. Baden-Württemberg generally charges non-EU students €1,500 per semester, with exemptions. Some Bavarian universities also charge fees: TUM applies tuition to many newly enrolled students from outside the EU/EEA. Private universities and certain specialised programmes have their own fees.

Semester contributions, housing, health insurance, food and transport are separate costs. For a study visa, the blocked-account benchmark is €11,904 for 2026. A recognised scholarship or declaration of commitment may be accepted instead. This funding benchmark is not a guarantee that your actual living expenses will be covered.

Check your entry route before applying.

For a master’s degree, review the required prior qualification, subject credits and course-specific conditions. For undergraduate study, Indian Class XII qualifications can require a Studienkolleg or a successful year of relevant recognised university study before subject-restricted entry.

From winter semester 2026/27, APS guidance sets at least 70% overall in Class XII for the routes it describes: Studienkolleg eligibility and direct subject-restricted admission following one successful undergraduate year. Meeting this threshold does not itself guarantee a university place. APS assessment, subject preparation and the institution’s requirements still matter.

Plan language, APS and visa documents together.

Teaching language and accepted language certificates are programme-specific. English-taught courses can have English-test requirements; German-taught courses require the university’s stated German proficiency. German skills can also help with daily life and finding work.

APS verification is generally required for Indian applicants with Indian academic qualifications, but exemptions exist. Check the applicable APS category and any intake-specific requirements. Selected master’s applicants in engineering, commerce, economics and business fields must also check the new dMAT requirement for summer 2027 and later; transitional exemptions apply. Prepare admission documents, accepted financial evidence and appropriate health insurance alongside the visa application.

Intakes and work opportunities.

Winter semester commonly begins in September or October, and summer semester in March or April. Some programmes admit students only once a year; application deadlines can be much earlier than the start date.

Students from outside the EU can generally work up to 140 full days or 280 half days per year, or use the permitted 20-hours-per-week arrangement. The counting rules and exceptions matter. After a German degree, eligible graduates can receive up to 18 months to look for qualified employment. A job or residence outcome is not automatic.

Your questions, answered.

Is university education in Germany free?

Many public programmes have no tuition, but exceptions, semester contributions and living costs apply. Check the exact programme and your fee status.

Do I need German for an English-taught programme?

Follow the programme’s entry requirements. German may not be an admission condition for an English-taught course, but it is useful outside the classroom.

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