Check Best Private Universities in Germany

Looking to study at a Private university in Germany? Your search for the same ends here. The Best German universities for English-speaking students, according to US news reports, are the Berlin School of Business and Innovation, Munich Business School, and Bard College of Berlin. The number of private students has reached a new high and has increased by 58% in the last 5 years. Private universities in Germany offer a unique academic environment that emphasizes quality education, specialized programs, and a flexible approach to learning. Around 8.5% of all students in Germany study at private universities Germany best private universities offer more than 150 courses, including very specialized courses such as orthodontics or music therapy. However, it has been observed that almost 70% of the students pursue business management courses in private universities in Germany.

  • There are currently around 400 higher education institutions in Germany, out of which 115 are private universities.
  • 20 are private universities, 87 are private universities of applied sciences and three each are private colleges of art and music or universities of their type. A total of 15 private universities in Germany even offer the possibility of doctoral studies.
  • Germany best private universities offer modern infrastructure and national accreditation as compared to public universities in Germany.
  • Some of the private universities in Germany have English-taught programs. They even offer free German classes to international students wishing to learn German
  • The average cost of studying at a private university in Germany usually ranges from 10,000 Euros to 20,000 Euros per year, depending on the level of study.

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Why Study in Private Universities in Germany?

  • Smaller Class Sizes and Personalized Attention: Private universities offer more interactive learning environments with fewer students per class.
  • Specialized Programs and Applied Learning: They provide unique, industry-specific programs emphasizing practical skills and real-world application. 12.6% of all students in Germany were enrolled at private universities as of 2022/2023
  • Strong Industry Connections and Career Support: The best private universities in Europe have close ties with businesses, offering valuable internship and job placement opportunities.
  • International Environment and English-Taught Programs: These universities attract a diverse, multicultural student body and offer many programs in English.
  • Faster Application Process and Flexible Admissions: Private universities often have more streamlined application processes and flexible admissions criteria.
  • Placement opportunities - you can get many placement opportunities if studied in a private college in Germany. They prepare you for real-world exposure through practical and modern methods of teaching.

Top 10 Private Universities in Germany

German, being a center for higher education, provides ample opportunities to explore through various courses at both undergraduate and postgraduate levels. Some of the top 10 private universities in Germany

University Popular Courses Tuition Fees (EUR)
Berlin School of Business and Innovation (BSBI) B.Sc. (Hons) Business and Management
B.Sc. (Hons) Digital Marketing and Social Media Global MBA
M.Sc. Finance & Investment
M.Sc. in International Health Management.
Jan-July - 9,450 August to December - 9,925 PG - 13,250
GISMA Business School B.Sc. International Business Management
B.Sc. Data Science, AI & Digital Businesses Global MBA
M.Sc. International Marketing
M.Sc. Strategic Business Management
UG - 13,125 PG- 15,500
Bard College of Berlin B.A. Economics, Politics and Social Thought
B.Humanities, the Arts and Social Thought
36,375.
Hertie School of Governance Master of International Affairs (MIA)
Master of Public Policy (MPP)
Master of Data Science for Public Policy (MDS)
18,250
Munich Business School B.A. International Business
M.A. International Business
MBA General Management
M.A. Innovation and Entrepreneurship
M.A International Marketing and Brand Management.
32,000 -PG 41,790 - UG
SRH Hochschule Berlin B.A. International Business Administration
B.A. Marketing M.Sc Software Engineering
M.A International Management MBA
10,389 - UG 14,666 -PG
Witten/Herdecke University B.Sc. in Psychology
M.A in Management
M.Sc. in Nursing
M.Sc. in Psychology
33.264,00-UG 12.756,00- PG
WHU – Otto Beisheim School of Management B.Sc. in International Business Administration
Bachelor in Business Psychology MBA
M.Sc in Management
M.Sc. in Finance
47,500
Jacobs University Bremen B.A. in International Business Administration
B.Sc. in Computer Science
M.Sc. Data Engineering: MA International Relation
MSc Supply Chain Management
20,000
CODE University of Applied Sciences B.Sc. in Software Engineering
B.A in Interaction Design
B.A in Product Management
10,000 - 11,000

Top Private Universities in Germany for Engineering

Germany is in high demand for engineering courses. So let's take a look at some of the Best German universities for English-speaking students, providing engineering courses at both UG and PG levels-

University Post-graduate Undergraduate
RFH University of Applied Sciences Cologne Master Technical Management (M.Eng.)
Engineering Management
Information Technology Management
Bachelor of Mechanical Engineering (B.Eng.)
Bachelor of Electrical Engineering (B.Eng.)
Bachelor of Industrial Engineering (B.Eng.)
International University of Applied Science Masters in Engineering Management B.eng Engineering
B. eng Industrial Engineering and Management 
AKAD University of Applied Sciences Industrial Engineering (M.Eng.)
Mechanical Engineering (M.Eng.)
Sustainability and Systemic Management (M.Sc.)
Technology and Innovation Management (M.Sc.)
Mechanical Engineering (B.Eng.)
Electrical Engineering (B.Eng.)
Automotive Engineering (B.Eng.)
Industrial Engineering (B.Eng.)
Wilhelm Büchner University of Applied Sciences (WBH) Mechanical engineering
Automotive Engineering (vehicle technology)
Electrical and Computer Engineering
Mechatronics Industrial Engineering (for economists)
Industrial Engineering (for engineers)
Innovation and technology management
Sustainability technologies and management
Digital Transformation Management
Mechanical engineering
Automotive engineering
Electrical and Computer Engineering
Medical technology
Mechatronics
Industrial Engineering Renewable Energies
Energy economics and management
Industrial Engineering Construction Management
Industrial Engineering
Industrial Management

Top Private Universities for Computer Science

Private Universities in Germany for Computer Science offers both postgraduate and undergraduate courses. The table below shows some of the top private universities offering CS-

University Post Graduate Undergraduate
International School of Applied Science Computer Science
Cyber Security
Data Management
Data Science
DevOps and Cloud Computing
DevOps and Cloud Computing Management
Computer Science
Cyber Security
Data Science
AKAD University of Applied Sciences Business Information Systems and IT Management (M.Sc.)
Artificial Intelligence (M.Sc.)
Data Science (M.Sc.)
Computer Science (M.Sc.)
Business Information Systems (B.Sc.)
Digital Engineering and Applied Computer Science (B.Eng.)
Computer Science (B.Sc.)
Data Science (B.Sc.)
Wilhelm Büchner University of Applied Sciences (WBH) Business Informatics
Embedded Systems and Digital Technologies
CyberSecurity
Mobile and Distributed Computing
Human-computer interaction
Business Informatics
AI and Machine Learning
Computer Science
IT security
Medical informatics

Top Private Universities in Management

Private Universities in Germany offer various management courses that give you practical exposure. Some of them are -

University Postgraduate Undergraduate
Fresenius University of Applied Sciences M.Sc in Digital Management 
Master in International Business Management 
MBA
Marketing and Brand management
Frankfurt School of Finance & Management Executive MBA
MBA
MBA International Healthcare Management
B.Sc in Computational Management Analytics
BBA
AKAD University of Applied Sciences Controlling (M.Sc.)
Project Management (MA)
Business Administration (MA)
Master of Business Administration (MBA)
Digital Management and Leadership
Business Administration (BA)
Business Psychology (B.Sc.)
Human Resources Management (BA)
Wilhelm Büchner University of Applied Sciences (WBH) Cyber ??Security Management (MBA)
Engineering Management (MBA)
Sustainability Management (MBA)
Master of Business Administration (MBA)
Macromedia University of Applied Sciences MBA Brand Management Media Management
Fashion Management business management

Admissions to Private Universities in Germany

Admission requirements for private colleges in Germany vary for courses and universities. Usually, there are two rounds of applications for two semesters during which you need to apply. However, the eligibility criteria differ for undergraduate and postgraduate studies -

Undergraduate requirements to get into a private university in Germany are -

  • All academic transcripts of your year 12
  • Co-curricular and extracurricular activities and certificates
  • Resume
  • IELTS / TOEFL scores
  • Birth certificate
  • Recent passport-size photos
  • A Studienkolleg exam may be required
  • Other relevant entrance exams

Postgraduate requirements to get into a private university in Germany are

  • All academic records of your year 12 and bachelor’s degree
  • Co-curricular and extracurricular activities and certificates
  • Resume
  • IELTS / TOEFL scores
  • Birth certificate
  • Letters of Recommendation
  • Work experience, if any (recommended)
  • Other relevant entrance exams

ELP Requirements for Top Private Universities

The table below contains the ELP requirements for best German universities for English-speaking students-

University IELTS TOEFL
Berlin School of Business and Innovation (BSBI) 6 Not considered
GISMA Business School 6.5 (overall, with no less than 6.0 in each component)
Bard College of Berlin 7 100
Hertie School of Governance 7 overall score 7.0 in writing 100 overall score 25 in writing
Munich Business School 6.5 85
SRH Hochschule Berlin 6.5 87
Witten/Herdecke University 6.5 83
WHU – Otto Beisheim School of Management 7.0 100
Jacobs University Bremen 6.0 90
CODE University of Applied Sciences 6.5 100

Fully Accredited Private Universities in Germany

These universities are granted the highest level of accreditation by the Russian government. Some of the universities are mentioned below -

Deutsche Journalistenschule EBC Hochschule
FOM University of Applied Sciences, Economics and Management Friedensau Adventist University k5
International Psychoanalytic University Berlin Munich University of Applied Languages
Munich Business School Natural Science and Academy Isny
SRH Hochschule Berlin Steinbeis-Hochschule Berlin
Steinbeis Business Academy Gustav Siewerth Academy
WHU – Otto Beisheim School of Management Witten/Herdecke University
CODE University of Applied Sciences University of Europe for Applied Sciences

State-Accredited Private Universities of Applied Sciences in Germany

In Germany, state-accredited private Universities of Applied Sciences, or Fachhochschulen, complement the public universities by offering specialized and career-oriented programs.

IUBH University of Applied Sciences FOM College
Hamburger Fern-Hochschule College Fresenius
German University for Prevention and Health Management European Fernhochschule Hamburg
Rheinische Fachschule Koln Wilhelm Buchner University
SRH University of Applied Sciences Heidelberg MSH Medical School Hamburg
International School of Management PFH Private University of Gottingen
Macromedia College University of Applied Management FH
University of Applied Sciences Europe APOLLON College of Health Economics
Technical College Geroge Agricola IST College of Management

Scholarships for Private Universities in Germany

Many private Universities offer scholarships to study at German universities. These scholarships cover your tuition fees, accommodation, living expenses, travel expenses, books, stationery, and other resources, registration fees, and visa fees.

Scholarships Degree Criteria Award
Deutschlandstipendium Bachelors and Masters degrees High-achieving students who have overcome personal challenges 300 euros per month
DAAD Master's and Doctoral Degrees Have work experience of at least two years and have completed your bachelor's degree in the last six years 850 euros for masters students and 1200 euros for doctoral students per month
Konrad Adenauer Foundation (KAS) scholarship Master's and Doctoral Degrees High-achieving students looking to complete postgraduate studies 861 euros for masters students and 1200 euros for doctoral students per month
Friedrich-Ebert-Stiftung Scholarship Bachelors, Masters and Doctoral Degrees High-achieving students with socio-political goals and a commitment to society 744 euros per month
Heinrich Boll Scholarship Master's and Doctoral Degrees High-achieving students with socio-political goals and a commitment to society 850 to 1200 euros per month
Bayer Foundation Scholarships Master's and Doctoral Degrees students continuing their higher education in certain specific science-based fields 6000 to 20000 euros
Goethe Goes Global Scholarship Masters degrees Specified list of 75 streams in German universities 1000 euros per month
EMS Undergraduate Scholarship Bachelors degrees All courses in the European Management School 50 percent off on tuition fees

Private universities in Germany offer some of the popular courses, despite being a little expensive. They follow the most trending teaching methods and believe in giving practical exposure to the students. With their autonomy, they can design innovative curricula, collaborate with industry partners, and provide a more personalized learning experience. Among private universities in Germany, applied sciences (FH) are exceptionally popular, with a striking 90.5 per cent of students choosing to enrol at these institutions during the winter semester.

FAQs

Ques. What are private universities in Germany?

Ans. Private universities in Germany are educational institutions that are not funded by the government. They operate independently and often offer specialized programs in various fields.

Ques. How do private universities in Germany differ from public universities?

Ans. Private universities in Germany typically have smaller class sizes, more specialized programs, and may offer more flexibility in terms of curriculum and scheduling. However, they usually come with higher tuition fees compared to public universities.

Ques. Are degrees from private universities in Germany recognized internationally?

Ans. Yes, degrees from reputable private universities in Germany are generally recognized internationally. It's important to ensure that the university you choose is accredited by the appropriate German authorities.

Ques. What are the admission requirements for private universities in Germany?

Ans. Admission requirements vary depending on the university and the program. Generally, applicants need to provide proof of secondary education, meet language proficiency requirements (usually German or English), and may need to pass entrance exams or interviews.

Ques. Are scholarships available at private universities in Germany?

Ans. Yes, some private universities offer scholarships or financial aid to students based on academic merit, financial need, or other criteria. Prospective students should inquire directly with the university about scholarship opportunities.

Ques. Do private universities in Germany offer programs in English?

Ans. Many private universities in Germany offer programs taught entirely in English, especially at the graduate level. This makes them attractive options for international students who may not be fluent in German.

Ques. What are the typical tuition fees at private universities in Germany?

Ans. Tuition fees at private universities in Germany vary widely depending on the institution and the program of study. On average, tuition fees can range from a few thousand euros per semester to over ten thousand euros per year.

Ques. Do private universities in Germany offer student housing?

Ans. Some private universities in Germany provide student housing, while others may assist students in finding accommodation in the surrounding area. Availability and options vary, so it's important to inquire with the university directly.

Ques. Can international students work while studying at private universities in Germany?

Ans. Yes, international students in Germany are generally allowed to work part-time while studying, subject to certain restrictions. However, the amount of hours permitted may vary depending on nationality and other factors.

Ques. What kind of support services do private universities in Germany offer?

Ans. Private universities typically offer a range of support services to students, including academic advising, career counseling, tutoring, and access to libraries and other resources.

Ques. Do private universities in Germany have exchange programs with other institutions?

Ans. Many private universities in Germany have partnerships with other universities around the world, allowing students to participate in exchange programs or study abroad opportunities.

Ques. How can I evaluate the quality of education at a private university in Germany?

Ans. It's important to research the reputation of the university, accreditation status, faculty qualifications, student satisfaction rates, and employment outcomes for graduates. Additionally, you can look for rankings and reviews from reliable sources.

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#1IU International University of Applied Sciences logo

IU International University of Applied Sciences, Berlin

Berlin, Germany72%Acceptance Rate
Tuition:  $7.8K/Yr (€7,193/Yr)Living$547.56/Yr (€507/Yr)Admission M.S Data Science (One year)Duolingo95IELTS6.0PTE56$4.3K/Yr
Course duration: 12 months
39+ More Programs
8.0/10(6 Users)
#2BBW University of Applied Sciences logo

BBW University of Applied Sciences, Berlin

Berlin, Germany60%Acceptance Rate
Tuition:  $22.8K/Yr (€21,090/Yr)Admission M.S International Technology Tra...IELTS5.5PTE59$17.8K/Yr
Course duration: 2 years
2+ More Programs
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#3CODE University of Applied Sciences logo

CODE University of Applied Sciences, Berlin

Berlin, Germany56%Acceptance Rate
Tuition:  $14.9K/Yr (€13,800/Yr)Admission B.A Interaction Design$14.9K/Yr
Course duration: 3 years
2+ More Programs
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#4GISMA Business School logo

GISMA Business School, Hannover

Lower Saxony, Germany85%Acceptance Rate
Tuition:  $13.9K/Yr (€12,864/Yr)Admission M.B.A GlobalIELTS6.5$19.4K/Yr
Course duration: 1 year
10+ More Programs
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#5EBS University logo

EBS University, Oestrich-Winkel

Hesse, Germany45%Acceptance Rate
Tuition:  $38.8K/Yr (€35,893/Yr)Admission M.B.AGMAT580IELTS7$38.3K/Yr
Course duration: 16 months
7+ More Programs
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#6University of Europe for Applied Sciences logo

University of Europe for Applied Sciences, Iserlohn

North Rhine-Westphalia, Germany52%Acceptance Rate
Tuition:  $12.6K/Yr (€11,713/Yr)Admission M.S Data ScienceDuolingo90TOEFL72PTE59$11.8K/Yr
Course duration: 2 years
20+ More Programs
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#7IU, International University of Applied Sciences - Online logo

IU, International University of Applied Sciences - Online, Berlin

Berlin, Germany72%Acceptance Rate
Tuition:  $3.5K/Yr (€3,197/Yr)Admission M.B.A Supply Chain ManagementDuolingo95TOEFL80$3.8K/Yr
Course duration: 2 years
57+ More Programs
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