Germany is renowned for its world-class education system, and its public universities are at the heart of this excellence. Offering tuition-free or low-cost education to international students, German public universities provide access to innovative research facilities, globally recognised degrees, and diverse cultural experiences. Whether you're pursuing engineering, business, arts, or sciences, these institutions combine academic rigor with a strong focus on innovation, making Germany a top destination for higher education. With their emphasis on quality and affordability, studying at public universities in Germany opens doors to a future filled with opportunities.
Study in Germany with IELTS
From choosing the university to meeting application requirements and securing visa, learn everything about studying in Germany.
Why study at public universities in Germany?
There are several reasons why you should choose Germany to start your study journey:
World-class education: German public universities are globally recognised for academic excellence, cutting-edge research, and innovative teaching methods.
Affordable tuition fees: Many public universities charge minimal or no tuition fees, making them an attractive option for international students.
Wide range of courses: From engineering to humanities, public universities in Germany offer diverse courses catering to various interests.
Global opportunities: Studying in Germany opens doors to global networking, internships, and employment opportunities.
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Top public universities in Germany
Here are the top 10 public universities in Germany, as per the QS World University Rankings 2025:
Rank | University | Minimum IELTS score required |
|---|---|---|
1 | Technische Universität München | 6.5 |
2 | Ludwig Maximilians Universität München | 6.5 |
3 | Ruprecht-Karls-Universität Heidelberg | 7.0 |
4 | Humboldt-Universität zu Berlin | 6.5 |
5 | Freie Universität Berlin | 6.5 |
6 | Karlsruhe Institute of Technology (KIT) | 6.5 |
7 | RWTH Aachen University | 6.5 |
8 | Universität Freiburg | 6.5 |
9 | Eberhard Karls Universität Tübingen | 6.5 |
10 | Universität Stuttgart | 6.0 |
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Admission requirements to study at public universities in Germany
Below are some of the common requirements that you need to fulfil when planning to study in Germany:
Academic qualifications: A recognised secondary school certificate or bachelor’s degree equivalent to the German system.
Language proficiency: Proficiency in English (IELTS) or German (TestDaF or DSH), depending on the course you choose to study.
Proof of financial resources: A blocked account or proof of scholarship to cover living expenses.
Application via Uni-Assist: Many universities require applications through the centralised Uni-Assist portal.
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Cost of studying at public universities in Germany
Public universities in Germany typically charge no tuition fees, especially for undergraduate programs. Students may, however, pay a nominal semester fee ranging from €150 to €300 (₹13,241 to ₹26,483), which covers administrative costs and public transport.
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Job opportunities after studying at public universities in Germany
Germany offers numerous job opportunities for graduates, particularly in fields like engineering, IT, healthcare, and business. Here are average salaries for popular roles:
Job role | Average annual salary (in EUR) | Average annual salary (in INR) |
|---|---|---|
Software Engineer | €60,000 | ₹52,96,740 |
Mechanical Engineer | €55,000 | ₹48,55,345 |
Data Scientist | €58,000 | ₹51,20,182 |
Business Analyst | €50,000 | ₹44,13,950 |
Healthcare Professional | €70,000 | ₹61,79,530 |
*Source: PayScale 2024
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How IELTS can help you study at public universities in Germany
IELTS is widely accepted by German public universities for courses taught in English. Achieving a high band score in IELTS demonstrates your language proficiency, which is crucial for securing admission and thriving in an international academic environment. Additionally, preparing for IELTS trains you with the communication skills needed to excel in your studies and future career.
Germany’s public universities offer a unique combination of quality education, affordability, and promising career prospects, making them a top choice for international students. With the right preparation, including a good IELTS score, you can turn your dream of studying at Germany’s public universities into reality.
Start your journey today with IELTS and explore the opportunities awaiting you at Germany public universities for international students! Also, if you are planning to take an IELTS test and have questions related to the same then you can get in touch with your nearest IDP IELTS test centre. Our team of IELTS experts will clear all your doubts.
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