Germany is home to some of the best public universities in the world, offering internationally recognised degrees, advanced research opportunities, and an affordable education system.
For international students, public universities in Germany are especially attractive because most charge little to no tuition fees, while providing access to world-class facilities and a rich cultural experience. Whether you’re pursuing engineering, medicine, business, or the arts, these universities combine academic excellence with practical learning, helping you build a successful global career.
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?
Here are some of the top reasons to choose Germany’s public universities for your higher studies:
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 10 public universities in Germany (QS Rankings 2025)
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 for public universities in Germany
To study at a public university in Germany for international students, you need to meet these basic requirements:
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
Expense Type | Average Cost |
|---|---|
Tuition Fees (Public Universities) | Usually €0 (₹0) |
Semester Contribution | €150–€300 (₹13,241 to ₹26,483) |
Explore more: Student visa for Germany
Job opportunities after studying at public universities in Germany
Graduates from public universities in Germany are highly valued in global job markets. Popular career paths include technology, engineering, healthcare, and business.
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 helps 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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