Who can study in Germany for free?
Everyone can study in Germany tuition-free! That’s right — Germans, Europeans, and all non-Europeans can study in Germany free of charge without tuition fees. It doesn’t matter if you are from the EU or EEA. This policy applies to almost all study programes at Germany public universities, making Germany study one of the most affordable options in Europe for international students.
Students from across the globe choose Germany universities for their high-quality education and practical learning environment. Whether you’re planning to study abroad Germany for your bachelor degree in Germany or master degree in Germany for international students, you can access a free university education if you meet the eligibility criteria.
There’s only a small requirement: if you are from outside the EU, you will need to obtain a residence permit before you arrive and complete your studies in Germany.
At which universities in Germany can I study for free?
In Germany, you can generally study for free at public universities. There are around 400 Germany public universities offering more than 2,000 study programmes, making Germany one of the most popular destinations for study abroad aspirants.
Some of the largest Germany universities include:
- University of Cologne
- Ludwig Maximilians University Munich (LMU)
- Goethe University Frankfurt
- RWTH Aachen University
- University of Münster
- Ruhr University Bochum
- University of Duisburg-Essen
- Universität Hamburg
- FAU Erlangen-Nürnberg
- Technical University of Munich (TUM) (free only for EU/EEA citizens)
- University of Würzburg
These institutions are among the most prestigious Germany public universities, known globally for their research excellence. While there are also private universities in Germany, they typically charge tuition fees. Students seeking free universities in Germany should focus on public institutions to take advantage of Germany free education opportunities.
One of the biggest attractions for international students is Germany free education. Compared to other Europe university options, the Germany university fees at public institutions are almost zero, apart from a nominal semester contribution.
Free universities in Germany welcome students from all over the world, and this policy reflects Germany’s commitment to equal educational opportunities. By studying at a free university, you can enjoy a world-class education without the financial burden faced in many other countries.
The Germany free education system continues to be a model for the world, ensuring access to quality education for both local and international students.
While many countries in Europe charge tuition fees for foreign students, Germany best universities stand apart. The belief that education should not be treated as a commercial product is deeply rooted in German values.
Public universities in Germany are funded by the government to support study in Germany for international students and ensure that everyone has access to tuition free universities in Germany. The idea is that by providing free access to education, the country promotes economic growth, innovation, and societal well-being.
Though there was a brief period when Germany public universities charged small tuition fees (around €1,000 per year), this policy was reversed in 2014 following strong public demand. Today, the vast majority of universities offer study it in Germany opportunities completely free of charge.
Germany also views education as a strategic tool to attract global talent — encouraging international students to study, stay, and contribute to its growing economy.
Generally, you can study in Germany for free. However, there are a few exceptions to this rule:
- Only public universities in Germany for international students free of charge. If you study at one of the roughly 100 private universities, you will have to pay tuition fees comparable to those in the UK or Ireland.
- Non-consecutive Master’s programmes — such as Executive MBAs — typically come with tuition fees, even at public universities.
- Since 2017, Germany government university policies in the state of Baden-Württemberg allow universities to charge non-EU/EEA students €1,500 per semester. This includes universities in Stuttgart, Karlsruhe, Mannheim, Freiburg, and Heidelberg.
- Since 2023, Bavaria (Bayern) has permitted tuition fees for non-EU/EEA students, with the Technical University of Munich (TUM) being the first to announce it.
- Some federal states charge €500–€650 per semester for a secondary degree (“Zweitstudium”).
Despite these exceptions, studying at free German universities for international students remains one of the most affordable and high-quality options in Europe.
Germany continues to be a top destination for study abroad aspirants who want access to free education in Germany without compromising on quality. The Germany study cost is minimal compared to other countries, with only living expenses and semester contributions to consider.
Whether you’re looking to pursue a bachelor degree in Germany or a master degree in Germany for international students, the opportunities at Germany public universities for international students are vast. With many top universities in Germany ranked among the best globally, students can experience world-class teaching and facilities through free education in Germany for international students.
From universities in Europe for international students to Germany free universities for international students, the country continues to champion accessible education for all. Start your journey today — explore Germany education and learn more about how to study abroad in Germany for free!
Why should you Join here?
Focus on Learner- based Environment.
Continuous assessments
Interactive sessions are conducted.
Advancement towards your progression is tracked.
Mock tests are given periodically
Online/Offline Classes
Certified Experts | Free Demo Class
Scholar Overseas is the one-stop solution for all your training needs. Book a free trial class to enroll in any of our courses.
Default title
This will close in 0 seconds