Cost of Studying in Germany for International Students (2027)

Germany runs one of the world's largest public higher education systems, with several hundred state-recognised universities and universities of applied sciences. Most public universities charge no tuition fee to students of any nationality, though Baden-Wurttemberg and, since 2024, Bavaria charge non-EU students a fee at their state universities. International applicants use two annual intakes and apply either directly to a university or through the central service uni-assist.

Verified 7 Sep 2026 Sources

Tuition is the exception rather than the rule in Germany. Most public universities charge no tuition fee to any student, only a semester contribution of roughly EUR 100 to EUR 400 that covers administration, student services and often a public transport ticket for the semester. Two states charge non-EU students directly. Baden-Wurttemberg charges EUR 1,500 a semester at its state universities. Bavaria has allowed its universities to set their own non-EU fee since the 2024/25 winter semester, with fees at individual universities running up to about EUR 6,000 a semester for some Master's programmes. Private universities set their own tuition and are usually far more expensive than public ones.

Living costs run from about EUR 900 to EUR 1,200 a month, depending mostly on rent, which varies a great deal between a large city such as Munich and a smaller university town. Students from outside the EU/EEA must show proof of financial resources for their student visa, most commonly through a blocked account holding EUR 11,904, released at EUR 992 a month over one year.

International students can work up to 20 hours a week during term time to help cover costs, and DAAD, the federal and state governments, and individual universities all offer scholarships that can cover some or all of these costs.