According to the German Federal Statistical Office, in 2023-24 Germany recorded over 4,60,000 international students across its higher education institutions.
Germany is a popular study destination due to its high-quality education and affordable overall cost. While pursuing your Master’s in Germany, you can take advantage of its strong job market and take up part-time employment to support your finances.
Key takeaways
- Germany has several prestigious universities with rigorous Master’s programmes that offer an industry-focused curriculum and enhance your employability.
- Higher education in Germany is affordable due to the presence of public universities with no tuition fees and private universities with low tuition fees. Additionally, the cost of living is lower compared to countries such as the USA or the UK.
- Germany has a strong economy with numerous career opportunities. Most universities have excellent industry links facilitating internships and job placements.
- Germany provides a supportive and inclusive environment for international students. You’ll benefit from the affordable health insurance, language course, career counselling, and multicultural environment.
- Germany offers several English-taught programmes which can be pursued without English language proficiency. The consecutive and non-consecutive programmes offer academic flexibility.
Table of Contents
- Benefits of studying a Master's in Germany
- Types of Master's programmes in Germany
- Best universities in Germany for a Master’s programme
- WHU – Otto Beisheim School of Management
- Technical University of Munich
- Frankfurt School of Finance & Management
- Ludwig Maximilian University of Munich
- HHL Leipzig Graduate School of Management
- Berlin School of Business and Innovation
- UE - University of Europe for Applied Sciences
- GISMA University of Applied Sciences
- RWTH Aachen University
- University of Freiburg
- Top Master’s courses in Germany for international students
- Eligibility requirements for studying a Master's in Germany
- Finding the right Master's programme in Germany
- How to apply for a Master's in Germany
- Student visa process to study in Germany
- Tuition fees and living costs in Germany
- Scholarships you can apply for to study a Master's in Germany
- Student life in Germany
- Post-study work and PR options in Germany
- Final thoughts
- Frequently asked questions
In this article, we’ll explore the details about Master’s courses in Germany, including the best universities, programmes, eligibility, and application process.
Benefits of studying a Master's in Germany
When you study in Germany, you get a well-rounded educational experience with prestigious universities, a strong research focus, and a vibrant student life. Here are the top benefits of pursuing a Master’s in Germany:
High academic standards
Germany has several world-class universities providing highly ranked academic programmes across various in-demand disciplines. Additionally, higher education curriculum is designed based on the specific goals of the programme, ensuring that you are industry-ready through professional development opportunities.
Affordability
Higher education in Germany is affordable due to the public universities with no tuition fees and the many private universities with low-cost tuition fees. The cost of living in Germany is also affordable, especially when you compare it with the USA or the UK. You can also take up part-time jobs during your studies for financial support.
Strong career prospects
Germany has a strong and stable economy, ensuring excellent career prospects for international students like you. The rigorous and industry-focused courses enhance your employability. Most universities have strong industry connections, making it easy to secure good internships and jobs.
Multicultural environment
Germany welcomes students from across the world. You are assured of an inclusive and welcoming environment and a high quality of living. The country provides you with abundant cultural exposure and opportunities for overall development.
Excellent support for international students
As an international student in Germany, you can enjoy several benefits such as affordable health insurance, orientation programmes, career counselling, and language courses. The universities also ensure that you have sufficient time for social life and entertainment, for your overall well-being.
Types of Master's programmes in Germany
The Master’s programmes in Germany are of two types: consecutive and non-consecutive.
Consecutive programmes
A consecutive programme is designed as a continuous path from a Bachelor’s to a Master’s degree. Both levels are connected, where the Master’s programme curriculum is a continuation of the bachelor’s programme. A Master’s degree in this programme is of 1 to 2 years duration.
Non-consecutive programmes
Non-consecutive programmes do not come with continuity in Bachelor’s and Master’s programmes. These programmes allow you to change into a field that is different from your Bachelor’s degree. The duration of such a Master’s programme is 1 to 2 years.
Curious to know more about the Master’s courses in Germany? Talk to our experts.
Best universities in Germany for a Master’s programme
Germany has several reputed universities offering a wide range of academic programmes. Here’s the list of the popular universities in Germany that you should consider for your Master’s:
- WHU – Otto Beisheim School of Management
- Technical University of Munich
- Frankfurt School of Finance & Management
- Ludwig Maximilian University of Munich
- HHL Leipzig Graduate School of Management
- Berlin School of Business and Innovation
- University of Europe for Applied Sciences
- GISMA University of Applied Sciences
- RWTH Aachen University
- University of Freiburg
WHU – Otto Beisheim School of Management
WHU—Otto Beisheim School of Management is renowned for its management courses and global outlook. It offers state-of-the-art campuses and has strong industry links that serve to enhance your career prospects.
Technical University of Munich
The Technical University of Munich places a strong focus on research and maintains an interdisciplinary approach to academics. It’s a popular choice for technical programmes and provides state-of-the-art facilities to enhance your learning.
Frankfurt School of Finance & Management
The Frankfurt School of Finance & Management is a leading university offering world-class programmes across disciplines such as Finance, Data Science, and Management. It provides excellent access to reputed financial institutions and focuses on your employability.
Ludwig Maximilian University of Munich
Ludwig Maximilian is a leading research university with more than 200 degree programmes. The popular specialisations include Humanities, Natural Sciences, and Law.
HHL Leipzig Graduate School of Management
HHL Leipzig Graduate School of Management is a renowned business school that prioritises leadership, entrepreneurship, and innovation. Popular specialisations include Finance, Management, and Entrepreneurship.
Berlin School of Business and Innovation
Berlin School of Business and Innovation provides academic excellence and maximises your student outcome by developing your leadership and professional skills. The popular specialisations include Business Administration and Computer Science.
UE - University of Europe for Applied Sciences
UE - University of Europe for Applied Sciences is among the world’s leading universities and is government-accredited. It offers future-focused programmes in Business, Engineering, Data Science, Art, and Design.
GISMA University of Applied Sciences
GISMA University of Applied Sciences focuses on experimental learning that prepares you to meet real-world challenges. Popular specialisations include Business Management, Computer Science, and Marketing.
RWTH Aachen University
It’s a public university with a global outlook and offering high-quality education. The university also focuses on delivering impactful research. Popular specialisations include Mathematics, Engineering, Architecture, Business, Economics, Humanities, and Medicine.
University of Freiburg
It’s a public university renowned for its teaching and research. Popular specialisations include Business, Economics, Computer Science, Mathematics, and Media.
Top Master’s courses in Germany for international students
German universities offer a wide selection of Master’s courses across diverse disciplines that maximise your career prospects. Some of the popular Master’s courses in Germany include:
Engineering
Germany has a strong economy with many leading industries and a huge demand for technology graduates. It employs more than 1.5 million engineers, with the demand expected to rise further. Popular engineering courses you can pursue in Germany include Mechanical engineering, Electrical engineering, Civil engineering, and Automotive engineering.
Business and management
German business schools offer specialised courses in management, preparing you for a rewarding business career. The prosperous business sector in Germany provides you with numerous career opportunities after successful course completion. You can take up business and management courses with specialisations in international business, marketing and sales, finance and accounting, and supply chain management.
Humanities and art
Germany has a rich cultural environment, providing the ideal platform for pursuing humanities and art courses. You can pursue courses in history, philosophy, music, art and design, and film studies. Most of the courses provide exciting career opportunities, including archaeologist, museum director, and more.
Social sciences
Germany offers a wide selection of Master’s courses in social sciences. Most universities are investing heavily in research in social sciences, ensuring excellent career opportunities in the field. You can take up courses in Psychology, Philosophy, Sociology, Politics, and Economics.
Law
Germany has a robust legal services market, which ensures numerous career opportunities for its law students. You can choose corporate law, private practice, or public services. Popular legal courses cover business law, corporate law, IT and IP law, international law, and intellectual property law.
Know more about the Master’s courses in Germany by talking to our experts.
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Eligibility requirements for studying a Master's in Germany
Eligibility requirements vary based on the programme and university. However, there are certain standard eligibility requirements that you should meet for admission to a Master’s in Germany.
You should hold a Bachelor’s degree or an equivalent qualification that is recognised in Germany. Furthermore, you should have proficiency in the language of instruction, which could be English or German or both.
Before you apply, make sure that you have the required documents demonstrating your eligibility. To support your academic eligibility, keep your official education certificates ready. Your language proficiency can be proved through standardised tests such as IELTS, TOEFL, or DSH. Other additional documents include an up-to-date CV, statement of purpose, and Letters of Recommendation (LOR).
Finding the right Master's programme in Germany
There are a variety of factors that you should assess before selecting a Master’s programme so that the course you join is fully aligned with your aptitudes and career aspirations.
Germany offers both English-taught and German-taught Master’s programmes. Ensure that you verify and select the type you are proficient in. Another factor to consider is the university’s reputation and specialisation.
Select a reputed award-winning university with programme-specific rankings that provides specialised education. Additionally, check the industry connections of the institution so that you can easily find good internship opportunities and gain practical experience.
You can also check for universities that offer dual-degree programmes, as it provides you with the opportunity to gain diverse academic exposure.
The institution you choose should have proactive student support services, as this can help you settle quickly and enhance your student experience throughout. You can also check your living quality, cost of living, and personal development. International students mostly prefer cities like Hamburg, Berlin, and Munich.
How to apply for a Master's in Germany
Follow the steps below to apply for a Master’s in Germany:
- Research programmes and universities based on the subject you are interested in. Make a list of the programmes that you would like to apply for.
- Verify the eligibility requirements of the programmes. Ensure that you meet the requirements and have the necessary documents to prove your eligibility.
Note: Documents include academic transcripts, language proficiency test results, statement of purpose, letter of recommendation, professional CV, financial statements, and passport-size photos.
- You can apply directly or through uni-assist, a centralised application platform used by many German universities. Access the platform or the university’s website as applicable.
- Complete the application process. Upload the documents and pay the necessary application fee.
- Submit the completed application.
- Once accepted, you’ll receive the letter of admission.
- Open a blocked account or Sperrkonto and deposit the required amount to demonstrate your financial capability.
Student visa process to study in Germany
There are eligibility criteria you should meet to apply for a student visa in Germany. You should be accepted to an institution in Germany for higher education. If your academic programme requires language proficiency, you must produce proof of the same.
International students must also deposit a minimum amount of EUR 11,904 in their blocked account.
The student visa processing time is around 6 to 12 weeks. Collect the required documents in advance, which include, passport, language proficiency certificates, a letter of acceptance from the institution, proof of sufficient funds, and a CV.
To apply for a German student visa, follow the steps below:
Note: You can apply online through the Consular Services Portal. If the online process is not supported in your country, apply through the German consulate in your country.
- If you are applying online, visit the Consular Services Portal. and upload the necessary documents. If you are following the offline process, download the application form and book an appointment with the German consulate.
- Open a blocked account and deposit the required amount.
- Complete the online application form and upload the necessary documents. To apply through the consulate, fill out the downloaded form, collect the documents, and submit them at the consulate office.
Tuition fees and living costs in Germany
Germany provides Master’s programmes through its public universities without any tuition fee. This is offered to all international students, ensuring that you pay only a minimal administration fee ranging from EUR 100 to EUR 350 per semester.
Note: You may have to pay the tuition fee if you do not complete the course on time or if you are studying in Lower Saxony, Bremen, Saarland, Saxony-Anhalt, Saxony, or Thuringia
The tuition fee at private universities can go up to EUR 40,000 per year.
Germany is also an affordable country compared to the USA or the UK. The cost of living for international students could range between EUR 700 to EUR 1,000 per month.
Scholarships you can apply for to study a Master's in Germany
Check out the table below for a list of scholarships you can apply for to support your Master’s education in Germany:
| Scholarship | Highlights |
|---|---|
| DAAD scholarships | DAAD scholarships are government-funded scholarships offered for international students by the German Academic Exchange Service. It’s available across German universities at various degree levels. |
| Heinrich Boll Scholarships for International Students | The scholarship is available for all international students wishing to pursue a course in an accredited institution in Germany. It’s available at all levels of study. |
| Konrad-Adenauer-Stiftung Scholarships | The scholarship is available for international students below 30 for pursuing a Master’s or PHD. It’s provided monthly to students who have completed their graduation from their home country with good academic performance and active involvement in voluntary work. |
| Deutschland Stipendium | The scholarship is provided to talented students at German universities on a merit basis. If selected, you’ll be eligible for an amount of EUR 300 per month. |
| Hamburg University of Applied Sciences Master’s Scholarships | The scholarship is available for international students enrolled in a Master’s programme at Hamburg University of Applied Sciences. It’s not provided for design, public management, and public health. |
Student life in Germany
Student life in Germany is an exciting blend of academics, fun, and entertainment. With its world-renowned universities and affordable cost of living, Germany attracts students from all over the world. The German universities maximise your learning by encouraging critical thinking and independent research. Besides, the strong German economy ensures you excellent internships and career prospects.
German cities provide you with the right platform to explore various cultures and build connections. The vibrant lifestyle ensures your overall development through numerous options to engage in art, music, and festivals.
Post-study work and PR options in Germany
Once you complete your full-time Master’s programme, you can secure a post-study work visa and seek employment. With a post-study work visa, you can extend your stay for 18 months after your course completion. During these 18 months, you can take up any job to support yourself.
Note: You must apply for the post-study work visa before the expiry of your student visa.
Once you secure employment, you can apply for a work permit. If you wish to settle down in Germany permanently, you can apply for an ‘EU Blue Card’ - Residence Permit.
Final thoughts
Germany is an ideal destination for pursuing a Master’s degree. The academic excellence, along with the affordable education and living costs, makes it a preferred choice among international students. German universities focus on your overall development and ensure that you gain a solid academic foundation and valuable practical exposure.
Most German universities have excellent industry connections for securing excellent internships and supporting your future career aspirations. In addition, the strong and stable economy of Germany brings you several exciting career opportunities with high growth potential.
Frequently asked questions
Is a Master's in Germany free?
That depends on whether you are choosing a public university or a private university. A Master’s from a public university is offered free of tuition cost for most categories of students. If you’re opting for a private university, it might cost you anywhere between EUR 7,000 and EUR 15,000 per year.
How long does a Master’s in Germany usually take?
A Master’s course in Germany can usually be completed within 2 years. Fast-track courses can be completed within 1 year.
Do I need health insurance to study in Germany?
Yes, if you wish to study in Germany, it is mandatory to get health insurance. The proof of health insurance should be provided for admission to the programme.
Can I get a PR after studying in Germany?
You are eligible to get a PR if you hold a degree from a German university and have worked in Germany for at least two years. In addition, you also need to achieve a B11-level proficiency in the German language.
Can I work while studying in Germany?
Yes, you can take up a part-time job during your studies in Germany. Without paying taxes, you can earn up to EUR 538 per month through a short-term job.
