Explore Germany
Study in Germany.
From riverside cities to contemporary cultural spaces, imagine a different setting for your ideas. Begin with your subject, then discover the places and routines you would like to call your own.
At a glance
Studying in Germany, at a glance.
Main intakes
Winter semester (October) and summer semester (April)
Bachelor’s degree
Usually 3 years (6 to 7 semesters)
Master’s degree
Usually 2 years
Teaching language
German, with many English-taught master’s programmes
Tuition (indicative)
No tuition fees at most public universities
Students usually pay a semester contribution of a few hundred euros. Baden-Württemberg charges many non-EU students €1,500 a semester, and private universities charge fees.
Living costs (indicative)
€11,904 a year (€992 a month)
The blocked account amount used for German student visas in 2026, based on the government’s student living allowance. Munich and Hamburg cost more.
General guidance, reviewed in November 2026 against official and published sources. Fees, living-cost figures and requirements change and differ by institution and course, so always confirm with the institution and official sources such as Study in Germany (DAAD) and DAAD before making decisions.
Why Germany
What draws students to Germany.
Low or no tuition
Most public universities do not charge tuition fees, even for many international students.
Engineering and research strength
Germany is known for engineering, applied sciences and research-led teaching.
Central in Europe
Easy travel to neighbouring countries and a rich cultural life in cities large and small.
Study opportunities
Subject areas with a wide choice of programmes.
English-taught options are widest at master’s level. Many bachelor’s programmes are taught in German. Start with what you want to learn, then check each course’s modules, teaching approach and entry requirements.
- Mechanical and electrical engineering
- Computer science
- Automotive and production engineering
- Natural sciences
- Economics and business
- Architecture
Where to study
Examples of well-known institutions in Germany.
In no particular order. These are examples to start your research, not rankings or recommendations, and many other excellent institutions exist.
Technical University of Munich
- City
- Munich
- Type
- Public technical university
LMU Munich
- City
- Munich
- Type
- Public research university
Heidelberg University
- City
- Heidelberg
- Type
- Public research university
RWTH Aachen University
- City
- Aachen
- Type
- Public technical university
Humboldt-Universität zu Berlin
- City
- Berlin
- Type
- Public research university
Karlsruhe Institute of Technology
- City
- Karlsruhe
- Type
- Public technical university
Check programmes, entry requirements and fees on each institution’s official website.
Admission requirements
What applications usually ask for.
Requirements are set by each institution and course. Use this as a starting checklist, then follow the official course page.
Most applications
- Academic transcripts and certificates from your previous study.
- Evidence of your proficiency in the language of instruction.
- A personal statement or statement of purpose, written in your own words.
- One or two academic or professional references.
- A CV, particularly for postgraduate applications.
- A valid passport.
Specific to Germany
- Your school-leaving qualification must be recognised for direct entry; some students first attend a foundation course (Studienkolleg).
- Many universities process international applications through uni-assist.
- German-taught courses usually need TestDaF, DSH or an equivalent.
- Check whether your course has restricted places (NC) and its own deadline.
Scholarships
Scholarships worth researching.
Public information only. Eligibility, deadlines and amounts are set by each provider; WINAR does not provide or arrange funding.
DAAD scholarships
The German Academic Exchange Service funds many postgraduate and research scholarships for international students.
Deutschlandstipendium
Merit-based scholarships awarded through participating universities.
University and foundation awards
Many universities and political or private foundations offer their own scholarships.
Student life
Everyday life in Germany.
Find your city context
Compare student cities such as Berlin, Munich, Aachen or Leipzig for cost, housing and atmosphere.
Language in daily life
Even on an English-taught course, basic German helps with housing, administration and part of everyday life.
Start your housing search early
Student halls and shared flats (WG) can be competitive. Treat prices as unconfirmed until you have current offers.
Visas and immigration
Visa and immigration rules are set by the government of Germany and change regularly. WINAR does not provide immigration advice or services. Read the official guidance published by German Federal Foreign Office, and speak to a suitably qualified and regulated adviser if you need advice on your own circumstances.
Questions, answered plainly
Questions about studying in Germany.
What would your Germany chapter need?
Discuss your study goals, the information still to verify and possible next steps with WINAR. Support scope and destination coverage are subject to confirmation.