Many students prefer to study in Europe and many more end up choosing Germany as a choice location for studies. Here, we have compiled the top 15 English universities in Germany for International students to make the search easier.
But first, here are the things you need to know about German universities.
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Things to know about the Top English Universities in Germany for International students
- Education in public universities in Germany is tuition-free for almost every student, especially for students running a bachelor’s degree program
- Although tuition is free, every student is required to pay a semester fee which covers the cost of the public transportation ticket and for some institutions, basic feeding plans amongst others.
- English is not the official language in Germany and most natives do not speak English.
Can an English Student Live and Study in Germany?
Truthfully, having knowledge of only the English language could help you communicate (sparingly) for a few weeks to a few months as up to 56% of German natives know English.
You must however try to learn standard German as it is the official language of the country with about 95% of the country’s population speaking it.
Top 15 English Universities in Germany for International Students
1. Karlsruhe Institute of Technology (KIT)
Average Tuition: EUR 1,500 per semester
About: The Karlsruhe Institute of Technology (KIT) is a German university of excellence popular for being “The Research University in the Helmholtz Association.”
The institution has a national large-scale research sector that is able to offer students and researchers a unique learning environment.
The Karlsruhe Institute of Technology (KIT) offers courses in English Language.
2. Frankfurt School of Finance & Management
Average Tuition: EUR 36,500 for masters
About: The Frankfurt School of Finance & Management is one of the top 15 English universities in Germany for International students and is one of Europe’s leading business schools.
The institution is globally recognized for its reputation in undertaking relevant research programs.
The institution pools together the most talented and the most brilliant doctoral students in accounting, finance, and management within a stimulating academic environment.
3. Technische Universität München (TUM)
Average Tuition: Free
About: Technische Universität München is one of the top innovative, research-oriented universities in Europe. The institution offers over 183 programs across a vast range of subjects – from engineering, natural sciences, life sciences, medicine as well as economics and social sciences.
Some of these courses are taken in English to accommodate international students.
The institution is known globally as the “entrepreneurial university” and is a great place for studies.
There is no tuition at Technische Universität München but all students are however required to pay an average of 144.40 Euro per semester as semester fees, which consist of the basic student union fee and the fees for the basic semester ticket.
All students must pay this fee before beginning the semester program.
4. Ludwig-Maximilians-Universität München
Average Tuition: EUR 300 per Semester
About: Also part of the 15 English universities in Germany for International students is the Ludwig-Maximilians-Universität München, another leading research university in Europe.
The institution is one that celebrates its diversity. International students are accommodated at LMU and many programs are taken in English.
Since its founding in 1472 Ludwig-Maximilians-Universität München has been committed to providing the highest international standards of excellence in education and research.
5. Ruprecht-Karls-Universität Heidelberg
Average Tuition: EUR 171.80 per semester for students from the EU and EEA
EUR 1500 per semester for international students from non-EU and non-EEA.
About: The University of Heidelberg is an institution that understands and implements high theoretical and methodological approaches to learning.
The institution is one that focuses on improving the competence of its students through thorough scientific work.
6. Rhine-Waal University of Applied Sciences
Average Tuition: Free
About: The Rhine-Waal University of Applied Sciences is an institution of learning driven by interdisciplinary applied research. The institution is really invested in the meaningful transfer of knowledge and experience in both teaching and research to all students who pass through her schools.
Rhine-Waal University of Applied Sciences is also one of the top 15 English universities in Germany for International students.
Although tuition is free, every student is required to pay the average semester fee is EUR 310.68
7. Universität Freiburg
Average Tuition: Masters tuition EUR 12, 000
Bachelor’s tuition fees EUR 1, 500
About: The University of Freiburg is one institution in which free spaces are allocated to students who wish to take courses in German, English, or French.
As an institution of excellence, the University of Freiburg has received numerous awards for its outstanding education and research programs.
The University of Freiburg offers a wide range of subjects and offers excellence across all fields. Some of its programs include courses in the humanities and social sciences, courses in natural science and technical disciplines, and courses in medicine.
8. Georg-August-Universität Göttingen
Average Tuition: EUR 375.31 per semester
About: Georg-August-Universität Göttingen is an institution committed to developing students who take up social responsibility in Sciences and Arts while fulfilling their professional careers.
The institution offers a vast range of professional programs ( more than 210 degree programs) across its 13 faculties.
With a population of over 30,000 students, including foreign students, the University is one of the largest in Germany.
9. Universitat Leipzig
Average Tuition: N/A
About: Universitat Leipzig as one of the top 15 English universities in Germany for International students is committed to reflecting the diversity of the world in science.
The University’s motto “Crossing borders by tradition” succinctly describes this goal.
Academic learning at Universitat Leipzig is a deep dive for students on a quest for knowledge.
The institution is particularly interested in educating students from international communities through joint study programs and doctoral programs with foreign partner institutions.
Universitat Leipzig equips students with skills required in the globalized job market.
10. Berlin International University of Applied Sciences
Average Tuition: EUR 3,960
About: Berlin International University of Applied Sciences is an institution that offers a challenging, innovative, and practice-oriented education to students.
With this orientation and approach, the institution is able to develop the academic, cultural and linguistic potential of students.
Berlin International University of Applied Sciences prepares students to become qualified professionals who carry out responsible tasks in the global community.
11. Friedrich-Alexander University Erlangen-Nürnberg
Average Tuition: EUR 6,554.51
About: Knowledge in motion is the Motto of Friedrich-Alexander University. At the FAU students are shaped through generating knowledge responsibly and sharing knowledge openly.
The FAU works hand in hand with all stakeholders in the society to drive prosperity and create value.
At the FAU it’s all about using knowledge to drive the world for future generations.
12. ESCP Europe
Average Tuition: N/A
About: As a top 15 English university in Germany for International students, ESCP’s focus is on educating the world.
There are several study programs for students at the ESCP.
Asides from its 6 European campuses, the institution has affiliations with several other institutions across the globe. It is often commonly said that ESCP’s identity is deeply European but yet its destination is the World
ESCP offers diverse interdisciplinary programs which go beyond pure business education. Students can also enroll for a degree in law, design, and even mathematics.
13. Universität Hamburg
Average Tuition: EUR 335 per semester
About: At the Universität Hamburg, it is an Excellence Strategy. As a top-level research university, Universität Hamburg strengthens Germany’s scientific standing through top-level research.
14. Freie Universität Berlin
Average Tuition: Free
About: The Freie Universität Berlin, one of the top 15 English universities in Germany for International students, is an institution that has a vision of achieving a global reach through its students.
Freie Universität Berlin is one of Europe’s leading research universities and students from across the world choose the institution as a place for study and research.
Founded in 1948, students of over 100 nationalities have passed through Freie education. The diverse student population has improved and shaped the everyday experience of all members of the academic community.
At Freie University, there is no tuition but the semester fees are put at an average of EUR 312.89.
15. RWTH Aachen University
Average Tuition: N/A
About: The RWTH Aachen University is also one of the top 15 English universities in Germany for International students. The institution is a University of Excellence and applies knowledge, impact, and networks to give students a shot at becoming outstanding professionals in their various fields.
The RWTH Aachen University is a great institution for international students.
Application requirements at English-taught universities in Germany
There are application requirements for foreign students who choose to study in an English-taught university in Germany.
Some of these requirements may include one or more of the following;
- High-school certification, Bachelor’s certification and/or Master’s certification.
- The academic transcripts
- Proof of proficiency in English language
- A copy of an ID or passport
- Up to 4 passport-size photos
- Letters of recommendation
- Personal essay or statement
The average cost of living in Germany
The cost of living in Germany is not really high. On average, paying for clothes, rent, health insurance, and feeding is about 600-800 € per month.
Students who choose to stay at a student’s residence will spend even less on rent.
Visa Information
As a Foreign student who is not from the EU or from the EFTA member countries, you will be required to present your visa as an entry requirement into Germany.
Asides from students who are citizens of the EU and EFTA member countries, students from the following countries are exempted from obtaining a student visa,
- Australia
- Canada
- Israel
- Japan
- South Korea
- New Zealand
- USA.
They must however register at the alien’s office and apply for a residence permit after being in the country for a certain number of months.
For students who are neither Europeans nor citizens of the other exempted countries, they are required to obtain an entrance visa which will be converted to a residence permit.
Tourist visas however cannot be converted to a residence permit, and students should be mindful of that.
Conclusion
Now you know the Top 15 English universities in Germany for International students, which university will you choose?
Let us know in the comment section below.
Germany is one of the best countries for studies in Europe, but there are other countries too. You may want to check out our article which informs you about studying in Europe.
We wish you success as you begin the application process to your dream English university in Germany.