| Updated On - Nov 19, 2024
Germany is a global education hub with over 400 state-recognized higher education institutions, offering around 20,000 degree programs. The country is home to 8 of the top 100 universities in the world according to THE World University Rankings, 2025, making it one of the top choices for Indian students. Currently, 2.8 million students are enrolled in colleges and universities in Germany. This includes 469,485 international students, of which 49,008 students are Indian, making India the leading source of international students in Germany. The number of Indian students in Germany has witnessed a significant rise of 262% in the last 8 years.
The German education system is known for its research excellence, and affordable education. A wide range of English taught programs are offered by the universities in Germany across all the 16 states. The global recognition of the German universities and colleges help graduates to secure employment across the globe after completing education.
Types of Universities in Germany
The higher education system of Germany is divided into 4 main types of institutions. Each has its own focus, structure, and areas of expertise. Below are the various types of institutes and top universities in Germany:
| Type of Institution | Total | Focus | Top Institutes | Degrees Offered |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Universities | 109 | Research-oriented education covering all disciplines. | Heidelberg University | Humboldt University of Berlin | RWTH Aachen University | Bachelor’s, Master’s, Doctorate. |
| Universities of Applied Sciences | 215 | Practice-oriented education with industry connections. | Technical University of Munich | Frankfurt University of Applied Sciences | Hamburg University of Applied Sciences | HTW Berlin - University of Applied Sciences | Bachelor’s, Master’s, Doctorate |
| Colleges of Art and Music | 52 | Artistic and creative development in specialized fields. | The University of Music and Theatre Munich | University of Music and Theatre Leipzig | Nuremberg University of Music | Degrees in art, design, music, etc. |
| Other Institutions (Like Colleges of Public Administration, Theology, & Education) | 52 | Specialized professional training in niche fields. | Elstal Theological Seminary | Professional degrees and certifications. |
Best Universities in Germany for Indian Students
Germany is home to 50 universities ranked among the world's best, according to THE World University Rankings, 2025. Many good universities in Germany offer English-taught programs, making them attractive for Indian students. Here is a list of the most prestigious universities in Germany based on Times Higher Education Rankings for 2025:
| THE Germany Rank 2025 | THE World University Rankings 2025 | University | City |
|---|---|---|---|
| #1 | #26 | Technische Universität München (Technical University of Munich) | Munich |
| #2 | #38 | Ludwig Maximilian University | Munich |
| #3 | #=47 | Universität Heidelberg (Heidelberg University) | Heidelberg |
| #4 | #=84 | Humboldt University of Berlin | Berlin |
| #5 | #89 | University of Bonn | Bonn |
| #6 | #92 | RWTH Aachen University | Aachen |
| #7 | #=93 | Charité - Universitätsmedizin (Charité – Berlin University Medicin) | Berlin |
| #8 | #=100 | University of Tübingen | Tübingen |
| #9 | #=104 | Free University of Berlin | Berlin |
| #10 | #121 | University of Göttingen | Göttingen |
Admission Requirements in Universities in Germany
Admission to German universities varies based on the type of institution and program. You need to check and satisfy the entry requirements, prepare the necessary documents, and complete the application process accurately. Here are the general admission requirements for Indian students to get admitted to the universities in Germany:
- Academic Achievement:
- Undergraduate Programs:
- Class 12 certificate with strong academic performance.
- For technical universities, JEE Advanced may be required.
- Postgraduate Programs:
- Bachelor’s degree with relevant GPA.
- GRE/GMAT scores (for some programs).
- Undergraduate Programs:
- Language Proficiency:
- English-Taught Programs: IELTS (6.5+), TOEFL (90+).
- German-Taught Programs: TestDaF or DSH certification (Level 2 or 3) required.
- Visa and Financial Proof: A student visa and proof of sufficient funds (around €11,208 in a German blocked account) are mandatory for Indian students.
Note: Some courses, especially in medicine or engineering, may require specific entrance tests.
How to Apply to Universities in Germany?
A step-by-step application process for the universities in Germany is provided in the table below:
| Steps | Activity | Details |
|---|---|---|
| 1. | Research Universities and Courses | Use platforms like DAAD and Hochschulkompass to identify programs matching your interests. Check language requirements and deadlines. |
| 2. | Check Eligibility Criteria | Ensure your academic qualifications meet the specific university and program requirements. Confirm if you need a foundation course. |
| 3. | Prepare Required Documents | Gather transcripts, certificates, language test scores, CV, SOP for Germany, letters of recommendation, and a passport. |
| 4. | Learn German (if necessary) | Enroll in German language courses if your program is taught in German or requires basic language skills for integration. |
| 5. | Apply via Uni-Assist or Directly | Submit applications through Uni-Assist (a centralized platform for many universities) or directly to the university. Pay the application fees. |
| 6. | Attend Interviews (if applicable) | Some programs may require an online or in-person interview as part of the selection process. |
| 7. | Receive Admission Offer | Successful applicants will receive an admission letter. Review it carefully and follow any additional instructions. |
| 8. | Apply for a Student Visa | Schedule a visa appointment at the German consulate, submit your admission letter, proof of finances, and other required documents. |
| 9. | Arrange Accommodation | Book student housing or private accommodation. Many universities provide support in finding suitable living arrangements. |
| 10. | Prepare for Arrival | Complete formalities such as health insurance and travel plans. Attend orientation programs or welcome weeks offered by universities for international students. |
Know More: Exams to Study in Germany
Cost of Studying in Germany
The German education system is one of the most affordable in the world. While public universities generally do not charge tuition fees, students need to consider semester fees, living expenses and administrative costs in these institutes. A breakdown of the Germany University tuition fees, and cost of living in Germany for Indian students is provided below:
| Expense | Average Annual Cost (EUR) | Equivalent Cost for Indians (INR)* |
|---|---|---|
| Average Tuition Fees - Public Universities | No tuition, semester fee: €150–€500 per semester or €300-€1000 p.a. | 26,762 to 89,206 |
| Average Tuition Fees - Private Universities | €15,000–€30,000 | 13.38 to 26.76 lakhs |
| Rent (Shared Apartment) | €4,800–€8,400 | 4.28 to 7.49 lakhs |
| Food | €1,800–€2,400 | 1.60 to 2.14 lakhs |
| Health Insurance | €1,320 | 1.17 lakhs |
| Transport | €600–€1,200 | 53,523 to 1.07 lakhs |
*Note: Considering 1 EUR = 89.21 INR as of November 18, 2024
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International Programs in German Universities
German higher education institutions offer several international programs to make education in Germany accessible and globally competitive. International programs need to satisfy the following features:
| Criteria | Details |
|---|---|
| Language of Instruction | Courses that are taught in English or another non-German language, requiring minimal German proficiency. |
| Double Degree Programmes | Students earn degrees from both the German university and a partner institution abroad. |
| Dedicated Services for International Students | Programs include Welcome Weeks, Buddy Programmes, and specialized academic support for global students. |
| International Curriculum or Study Abroad Opportunities | Programs include globally focused curricula or mandatory semesters abroad. |
International Office of German Universities
Every higher education institution in Germany has an international office, also known as "Akademische Auslandsämter." These offices are dedicated to supporting international students and act as their primary point of contact. The key benefits of the international offices are:
- Advisory Services: Students can get assistance with applications, course selection, and adapting to campus life.
- Events and Networking: The office organizes cultural events and connects international students with peers.
- Ongoing Support: Students get help to integrate into the academic and social environment.
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Germany offers diverse study opportunities with top-ranked institutions, affordable education, and excellent career prospects. With over 20,000 programs, students can find courses tailored to their interests. Early preparation, fulfilling admission requirements, and utilizing scholarship opportunities are essential for a successful academic journey in Germany.
FAQs
Ques. How many courses in Germany are offered in English?
Ans. Over 500 bachelor’s and master’s programs in Germany are offered in English. This makes Germany one of the preferred locations for international students to pursue higher education without requiring advanced German language skills.
Ques. Are there age restrictions for applying to German universities?
Ans. There are no specific age restrictions to study in the universities in Germany. However, some programs may prefer applicants with recent academic qualifications. For older candidates, explaining academic or professional gaps is essential during the application process.
Ques. Can Indian students transfer their credits from an Indian university to German institute?
Ans. Yes, some German public universities allow credit transfers from Indian universities, provided the courses match their curriculum and are recognized by the German institution. You need to apply for admission in higher semester of your selected degree program to get admission with transferred credits. You need to submit detailed transcripts and syllabi for evaluation.
Ques. What is the most pursued field of study in Germany?
Ans. Engineering is pursued by most of the international students in Germany. Around 43.1% of international students in Germany are enrolled in engineering programs, making it the most popular field of study among international students.
Ques. Can working professionals study in Germany?
Ans. Yes, many German universities like Humboldt University of Berlin, The Free University of Berlin and others offer part-time programs or distance-learning courses designed for working professionals. Additionally, some universities provide "dual study" programs, combining theoretical education with practical training at a company.
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