15 Free and Cheap Universities in Germany for International Students

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In Germany, there are a lot of affordable universities that you can find. Enrolling in these schools will help you fulfill your dream of studying in Germany without paying a lot. These institutions also provide well-rounded academic programs and curriculums, allowing students to earn a degree with less burden on their pockets.

Now, if you’re planning to study in Germany, you’ll have a lot of school options, as they are home to 359 universities. But if you’re looking for cheap universities in Germany, make sure to read more!

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Cheap Bachelor's Colleges and Universities in Germany for International Students

Here is the list of affordable institutions in Germany ordered by their tuition fee for international bachelor's students.

University Annual Bachelor’s International Tuition % Cheaper than Average*
University of Trier 0 Euros 100%
University of Kassel 0 Euros 100%
Koblenz University of Applied Sciences 0 Euros 100%
University of Bremen 0 Euros 100%
Friedrich Schiller University Jena 0 Euros 100%
Catholic University of Eichstätt-Ingolstadt 0 Euros 100%
Technische Hochschule Mittelhessen University of Applied Sciences 0 Euros 100%
Bochum University of Applied Sciences 0 Euros 100%
Merseburg University of Applied Sciences 0 Euros 100%
Christian-Albrecht University of Kiel 0 Euros 100%
Heinrich Heine University Düsseldorf 0 Euros 100%
Hamburg University of Applied Sciences 0 Euros 100%
Westsächsische Hochschule Zwickau – University of Applied Sciences Zwickau 0 Euros 100%
Technical University of Applied Sciences Wildau 0 Euros 100%
University of Applied Sciences in Neubrandenburg 0 Euros 100%

* Average Bachelor’s International Tuition is 1,977 Euros for universities in Germany.

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1. University of Trier

Universität Trier, or the University of Trier in English, is a public institution in Rhineland-Palatinate, Germany. The history of this ancient university can be traced back to 1473, when it was established through a mandate from Pope Nicholas V. No English-taught undergraduate programs are available at the university. However, there are a limited number of English-taught master’s programs available.

2. University of Kassel

University of Kassel is a flourishing institution located in Hessen, Germany. As the institution is serious about helping combat current global issues, it puts great effort into promoting sustainability and climate change on its campus. In addition, it is even recognized for forming multidisciplinary programs concentrating on natural and agricultural sciences. The University of Kassel is fast becoming a first-rate university in the Hesse region. Many local and international students prefer obtaining a degree at the university even if it can still be considered a young university.

3. Koblenz University of Applied Sciences

The Koblenz University of Applied Sciences offers a wide range of courses to students. Programs of this outstanding institution range from engineering to the social sciences. The university is also particularly known for its course on ceramics and glass.

4. University of Bremen

The University of Bremen carries out research-based learning in a wide range of disciplines. For years, it has already established an excellent reputation in engineering, social sciences, and humanities. The university has ambitious and agile goals, making it one of the eleven recipients of the Universities of Excellence award.

5. Friedrich Schiller University Jena

The Friedrich Schiller University Jena, simply known by most as the University of Jena, is a public center of learning in Germany. It is situated in the lovely state of Thuringia. Additionally, it is popular for being one of the oldest universities in the country as it was founded in the year 1558.

6. Catholic University of Eichstätt-Ingolstadt

The Catholic University of Eichstätt-Ingolstadt traces back its roots in two institutions: Collegium Willibaldum founded in 1472, and the University of Ingolstadt founded in 1564. In 1980, the Catholic University of Eichstätt-Ingolstadt officially became a university. They offer courses from different disciplines such as sciences, literature, theology, philosophy, languages, history, and mathematics, among others.

7. Technische Hochschule Mittelhessen University of Applied Sciences

Technische Hochschule Mittelhessen (THM) is a specialized university that offers numerous degree programs in applied science. The university educates more than 18000 full-time students at the undergraduate and postgraduate levels on three campuses in Hesse, Germany. Each of its campuses promotes an open-minded environment between instructors and students. The faculty encourages students to participate in social interactions and activities to help develop their capabilities and skills. This ensures that students will reach their full potential upon completion of their studies at the university.

8. Bochum University of Applied Sciences

As one of the largest universities in Bochum, the Bochum University of Applied Sciences houses nearly 10,000 students and approximately 1,000 faculty & staff. Also known as BO, this institution primarily focuses on three different areas: engineering, space & construction, and economics. To further strengthen its academic renown, BO has partnered with universities around the globe, and it currently implements study abroad programs in Great Britain, France, and Spain. In order to replicate institutions in the United States, the university has remodeled the academic facilities to create individual workstations for each of its students.

9. Merseburg University of Applied Sciences

Merseburg University of Applied Sciences is a higher educational institution that grants vocational and academic education. It was established in 1992 and was built from its predecessor Technical University Leuna-Merseburg. The institution is considered the center of applied sciences and research in the vibrant town of southern Saxony-Anhalt. It offers high-quality education and research in various disciplines, including science, mathematics, engineering, business administration, and management.

10. Christian-Albrecht University of Kiel

The Christian-Albrecht University of Kiel, more commonly known as the University of Kiel, is a prestigious public institution for tertiary studies in Germany. It is based in the scenic state of Schleswig-Holstein. Furthermore, it is famed for its high-quality education and impactful contributions to research.

11. Heinrich Heine University Düsseldorf

Heinrich Heine University Düsseldorf is a German educational institution that is open to students at all tertiary levels. It is located in the state of North Rhine-Westphalia. Moreover, the institution specializes in arts, business, humanities, law, mathematics, and more.

12. Hamburg University of Applied Sciences

The Hamburg University of Applied Sciences is a public center of learning in Germany. It is located in one of the country’s most famous tourist cities. Furthermore, it had its humble beginnings way back in the year 1970, and today, it is now known by many as a prominent institution.

13. Westsächsische Hochschule Zwickau – University of Applied Sciences Zwickau

Westsächsische Hochschule Zwickau – University of Applied Sciences Zwickau, a public institution in Saxony, Germany, is also known as Zwickau University of Applied Sciences or Westsächsische Hochschule Zwickau in German. The university covers four disciplines: technology, economics, arts, and life sciences. There are three campuses: Zwickau, Reichenbach and Schneeberg.

14. Technical University of Applied Sciences Wildau

Technical University of Applied Sciences Wildau is the state of Brandenburg’s largest educational institution for the applied sciences. Having existed only for a little over 30 years, the university has become one of the top partners of choice among many domestic and international businesses and organizations of all sizes. The Technical University of Applied Sciences Wildau currently has more than 70 international partner universities for exchange programs and research. 

15. University of Applied Sciences in Neubrandenburg

Being one of the youngest institutions in the region, the University of Applied Sciences in Neubrandenburg puts high emphasis on research and teaching while adopting a practical outlook on academic matters. Offering over 30 academic programs in Bachelor’s and Master’s, this university wants the best for its students, and each of its courses contains at least one semester of hands-on practical research that helps students to gain experience for their future work prospects. In addition, this institution is located close to the modern region of Germany, which makes it quite attractive to younger generation of students.

Cheap Master's Colleges and Universities in Germany for International Students

Here is the list of affordable institutions in Germany ordered by their tuition fee for international master's students.

University Annual Master's International Tuition % Cheaper than Average*
Osnabrück University 0 Euros 100%
University of Applied Sciences Düsseldorf 0 Euros 100%
RheinMain University of Applied Sciences 0 Euros 100%
University of the Arts Bremen 0 Euros 100%
Cologne University of Music 0 Euros 100%
Brandenburg University of Applied Sciences 0 Euros 100%
Otto von Guericke University Magdeburg 0 Euros 100%
Technical University of Kaiserslautern 0 Euros 100%
HAWK University of Applied Sciences and Arts 0 Euros 100%
Rhine-Waal University of Applied Sciences 0 Euros 100%
Technical University of Darmstadt 0 Euros 100%
Brandenburg University of Technology Cottbus–Senftenberg 0 Euros 100%
Regensburg University of Applied Sciences 0 Euros 100%
University of Applied Sciences Bremerhaven 0 Euros 100%
Rostock University of Music and Drama 0 Euros 100%

* Average Master's International Tuition is 2,576 Euros for universities in Germany.

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1. Osnabrück University

Osnabrück University is proud to offer a wide variety of courses to its students. It is also particularly known for being an outstanding research center in Germany. The university also believes in equality among men and women, with an Equal Opportunity Office dedicated to overseeing projects on gender equality.

If you're looking to save the most on your graduate studies abroad, Osnabrück University should be at the top of your list. International students here pay only 0 Euros annually for their master's degree.

2. University of Applied Sciences Düsseldorf

One of the universities you should definitely check out for practical reasons is University of Applied Sciences Düsseldorf. Here, you can finish your master's degree with minimal stress on your finances. After all, the tuition rate for graduate studies at University of Applied Sciences Düsseldorf is 0 Euros.

University of Applied Sciences Düsseldorf, or Hochschule Düsseldorf (HSD) in German, is among the premier applied sciences institutions in the country. HSD takes an interdisciplinary approach when it comes to education and research, imparting practical knowledge and skills to students. As a global institution, HSD has also multiple partnerships with various universities abroad in order to facilitate different programs and encourage international exchange.

3. RheinMain University of Applied Sciences

Hochschule RheinMain or RheinMain University of Applied Sciences is a public institution in Wiesbaden City, Germany. The university is conveniently part of Europe’s Silicon Valley: IT-Cluster Rhine-Main-Neckar. Moreover, it has two locations: Wiesbaden and Rüsselsheim. The Wiesbaden location is further subdivided into three campuses.

The tuition fee at RheinMain University of Applied Sciences for incoming international master’s students is 0 Euros. With its cheap rates, you can guarantee you’ll get a quality education without breaking the bank!

4. University of the Arts Bremen

Another affordable university to consider in Germany is University of the Arts Bremen.

The University of the Arts Bremen offers a unique and competitive learning environment when it comes to design, science, music, and art degrees. The university aims to cultivate creativity and individualism among students with the help of well-adept teaching staff. The University of the Arts Bremen has a strong relationship with numerous institutions around the globe, enabling students to gain practical experience and become socially aware.

The tuition fee in University of the Arts Bremen for master’s program for foreign students starts from 0 Euros.

5. Cologne University of Music

Aside from its outstanding quality of education, Cologne University of Music has some of the lowest tuition fee prices for foreign students who are planning to take a master's degree here. International master's students only pay as low as 0 Euros yearly.

Known in German as Hochschule für Musik und Tanz Köln, the Cologne University of Music is one of the biggest music schools in Europe and one of the leading institutions in performing arts. Since it was among the first music schools in Europe, this university has gained several accolades and awards from the government, and even now, many musicians around the world compete for a place to perform in this prestigious music academy. If you are interested in music, applying for the Cologne University of Music can be a great career choice.

6. Brandenburg University of Applied Sciences

The Technical University of Brandenburg is the first established higher education institution in Brandenburg an der Havel. It was built in 1992 as the Brandenburg University of Applied Sciences, and its education and research revolve around science, technology, mathematics, and engineering (STEM). The institution is considered a young, vibrant, modern university, providing an excellent learning environment. Moreover, it aims to train young people with labor-market-related and application-oriented skills to apply and help with the regional economy.

7. Otto von Guericke University Magdeburg

Otto von Guericke University Magdeburg strongly aims to continue the legacy of German education and raise its standards through teaching and research. The university has a firm educational structure with a focus on engineering, medicine, and natural sciences field. The university highly ensures free and equal study opportunities for all students.

8. Technical University of Kaiserslautern

The Technical University of Kaiserslautern (TUK) is a German public research university. It is located in the breathtaking state of Rhineland-Palatinate. Furthermore, TUK is a known institution for providing top-quality education as well as for its contribution to numerous studies throughout the years.

9. HAWK University of Applied Sciences and Arts

HAWK University of Hildesheim/Holzminden/Goettingen was established in 1971. It has three campuses, each one located in Hildesheim, Holzminden, and Göttingen. They offer courses across different fields of discipline such as engineering, architecture, education, design, and management, among others.

10. Rhine-Waal University of Applied Sciences

Founded in 2009, Rhine-Waal University of Applied Sciences is a public institution of higher learning in North Rhine-Westphalia, Germany. The university is known for its global academic orientation, as proven by its wide selection of English-taught courses. At present, its student population consists of more than 7,000, with over 50% international students.

11. Technical University of Darmstadt

The Technical University of Darmstadt (TU Darmstadt) is a public institute of higher studies in Germany. It is a prestigious center of learning, mainly due to its rich historical background and top-quality courses and programs. Adding to this, TU Darmstadt is also consistently included in lists of top universities worldwide.

12. Brandenburg University of Technology Cottbus–Senftenberg

The Brandenburg University of Technology Cottbus–Senftenberg’s (BTU) early beginnings can be traced back to 1991. The university merged with another institution, Hochschule Lausitz, and was later re-established in 2013. BTU leads in providing advanced programs in applied science. Study programs in engineering, information technology, architecture, and natural sciences are some of the university’s key disciplines. Additionally, students will enjoy the vibrant and supportive learning environment on campus. The institution encourages its students to be open-minded, and the general community shows mutual admiration for their colleagues and academic staff.

13. Regensburg University of Applied Sciences

Regensburg University of Applied Sciences (OTH) is a specialized German university fully concentrating on areas of engineering, social studies, and business administration. First-class higher education and modern laboratories are some of the best features of OTH. At present, it is considered one of the most prominent applied science universities in the state of Bavaria, with numerous partnerships from different industry sectors in the region.

14. University of Applied Sciences Bremerhaven

The University of Applied Sciences Bremerhaven was founded in 1975 and is especially known for its world-class programs in economics and engineering. Courses at the university are designed to develop skills that would make their students prepared to thrive in the international labor market. The university also supports international mobility, which is why it also offers language courses that would be helpful in different industries such as English, French, and Spanish. 

15. Rostock University of Music and Drama

Still considered a young university, Rostock University of Music and Drama (HMT) is a well-respected music and theater university in Germany and across the globe. It is one of creative and artistic students’ most preferred training institutions. In addition, only a handful of talented students are admitted yearly as the university’s admissions can be quite strenuous but very well worth it.

Frequently Asked Questions

1. How do I get admission to affordable universities in Germany?

Applying to cheap universities in Germany requires you to complete different requirements depending on your degree and chosen university. These usually include admission forms, language proficiency scores, and a visa. Check out our full guide to studying in Germany for a more comprehensive guide!

2. What can I study at Best affordable universities in Germany?

International students can study a variety of programs at the undergraduate and graduate levels in Germany. For example, one of the best affordable schools in Germany is the Bochum University of Applied Sciences, which offers Civil Engineering, Electrical Engineering, and Environmental Engineering to students seeking a bachelor’s degree. At the master’s level, the Brandenburg University of Applied Sciences offers Business and Information Systems Engineering, Computer Science, and Digital Media.

It's important to take a look at all your options when selecting where to attend post-secondary school. With so many different types of schools, degrees, and universities in Germany, it can be tough to know where to start looking.

So, make sure to explore the best public universities in Germany as well if you're looking for affordable education!

We hope that this article on free and affordable institutions in Germany for international students was helpful!