15 Free and Cheap Universities in Lower Saxony for International Students

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In Lower Saxony, 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 Lower Saxony, you’ll have a lot of school options, as they are home to 25 universities. But if you’re looking for cheap universities in Lower Saxony, make sure to read more!

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Cheap Bachelor's Colleges and Universities in Lower Saxony for International Students

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

University Annual Bachelor’s International Tuition % Cheaper than Average*
University of Vechta 0 Euros 100%
Georg August University of Göttingen 0 Euros 100%
Clausthal University of Technology 0 Euros 100%
Leibniz University Hannover 0 Euros 100%
Carl von Ossietzky University of Oldenburg 0 Euros 100%
Osnabrück University 0 Euros 100%
Technical University of Braunschweig 0 Euros 100%
University of Applied Sciences Emden/Leer 0 Euros 100%
HAWK University of Applied Sciences and Arts 0 Euros 100%
Leuphana University of Lüneburg 0 Euros 100%
University of Hildesheim 0 Euros 100%
Hannover University of Applied Sciences and Arts 0 Euros 100%
Ostfalia University of Applied Sciences 0 Euros 100%
Hochschule 21 2,940 Euros - 7,560 Euros -211%
University of Applied Sciences and Arts in Ottersberg 3,744 Euros - 4,836 Euros -296%

* Average Bachelor’s International Tuition is 944 Euros for universities in Lower Saxony.

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1. University of Vechta

The University of Vechta, or Universität Vechta in German, is a public research institution in Lower Saxony, Germany. It is also an ancient university whose history goes back to 1830. The available study programs are concentrated on teaching, social sciences, gerontology, social work, and philosophy. The university takes pride in being a family-friendly and sustainable institution.

2. Georg August University of Göttingen

The Georg August University of Göttingen is the premier institution of higher learning in Gottingen, Germany. Founded in 1734 during the ‘Age of Enlightenment in Europe’, the university has remained dedicated to the pursuit of truth. As a result, it emphasizes research, critical thinking, and experimentation in all aspects of its operation. One of the aims of the university is to implement research in all forms of teaching and learning that goes on in the university. It hopes to achieve this by developing research-related study programmes and supporting the creation and sustenance of research groups at all levels of study.

3. Clausthal University of Technology

The Clausthal University of Technology, also known as Technische Universität Clausthal or TU Clausthal in German, is a specialized public institution in Lower Saxony, Germany. It is a leading institution in engineering and is known to be very welcoming to international students. Most of its specialized programs are in German, but some courses may be taught in English. TU Causthal is ranked 68th in Germany and 8th in Lower Saxony.

4. Leibniz University Hannover

Leibniz University Hannover has a rich and profound history that dates back to 1831. The university has gone through numerous redevelopments and improvements and has been renamed several times. As one of the oldest universities in Germany, and with its continuous progress in delivering top-quality higher education, the institution has become one of the most prominent universities in the world. In addition, the university offers internationally recognized academic programs, and it is best known for providing superior education in science and technology.

 

5. Carl von Ossietzky University of Oldenburg

The Carl von Ossietzky University of Oldenburg is an academic institution that aims to contribute to addressing society’s most pressing challenges by conducting interdisciplinary research. Research at the university strategically focuses on sustainability, technology, and other social issues. This university is also known for promoting equality and diversity in its campus by providing equal opportunities and support to every one of its students and staff. 

6. 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.

7. Technical University of Braunschweig

The Technical University of Braunschweig, or TU Braunschweig, was established in 1745. The university has different courses and specializations to offer that are spread across various areas. The Technical University of Braunschweig offers courses such as economics, mathematics, sciences, engineering, education, etc.

8. University of Applied Sciences Emden/Leer

University of Applied Sciences Emden/Leer is a young institution founded in 2009. It currently offers academic disciplines in marine sciences, social work and health, technology, and business studies. Although still considered a young university, its interdisciplinary and high-quality programs have cultivated graduates that now have successful careers in various industry sectors. The university truly is committed to providing excellent higher education to its students.

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. Leuphana University of Lüneburg

The Leuphana University of Lüneburg is a public center of excellence in Germany. It opened its doors to students in the year 1946. Today, it is a globally recognized institution with a college, graduate school, and professional school.

11. University of Hildesheim

The University of Hildesheim was established in 1946, originating from the University of Education, which was located in the city of Alfeld. It officially became a public university in 2003. The University of Hildesheim has a number of research centers dedicated to different areas such as education, music, arts, language, etc.

12. Hannover University of Applied Sciences and Arts

Hannover University of Applied Sciences is a public university offering over 60 degree programs in different areas of economics, communications, engineering, and social sciences. It is the second-largest university in the city and is known for having multiple international projects and exchange programs with its partner universities and organizations. Education and research at Hannover University of Applied Sciences are application-oriented and geared towards meeting the needs of industries and society.

13. Ostfalia University of Applied Sciences

Established in 1971 in Lower Saxony, Germany, Ostfalia University of Applied Sciences is considered one of the state’s largest educational institutions that offer programs in the applied sciences. It currently has 12 faculties on its 4 campuses in the region of Eastphalia. It also provides students with numerous opportunities for international experience through exchange programs and internships. 

14. Hochschule 21

Hochschule 21 is an institution that provides interdisciplinary programs in applied sciences. It was established in 2004 and has maintained close partnerships with over 1000 companies where students can gain practical work experience. Education at the university has a strong orientation to practical application and is based on the latest research.

15. University of Applied Sciences and Arts in Ottersberg

The University of Applied Sciences and Arts in Ottersberg is a private higher education institution run by a non-profit limited liability company. It was established in 1967 as an Independent Fine Arts Study Centre, which later became accredited as a university of applied sciences and arts. Later during its years of operation, it started offering programs in art therapy and performing arts pedagogy and became one of the largest training centers for art therapists in Europe. The university looks forward to bringing out every individual’s creative potential, which will help them grab various career opportunities.

Cheap Master's Colleges and Universities in Lower Saxony for International Students

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

University Annual Master's International Tuition % Cheaper than Average*
University of Vechta 0 Euros 100%
Georg August University of Göttingen 0 Euros 100%
Clausthal University of Technology 0 Euros 100%
Leibniz University Hannover 0 Euros 100%
Carl von Ossietzky University of Oldenburg 0 Euros - 13,000 Euros 100%
Osnabrück University 0 Euros 100%
University of Applied Sciences Emden/Leer 0 Euros - 3,000 Euros 100%
Technical University of Braunschweig 0 Euros 100%
HAWK University of Applied Sciences and Arts 0 Euros 100%
Leuphana University of Lüneburg 0 Euros 100%
University of Hildesheim 0 Euros 100%
Hannover University of Applied Sciences and Arts 0 Euros 100%
Ostfalia University of Applied Sciences 0 Euros 100%
University of Applied Sciences and Arts in Ottersberg 4,992 Euros -458%
PFH Private University of Applied Sciences 8,400 Euros - 11,800 Euros -839%

* Average Master's International Tuition is 894 Euros for universities in Lower Saxony.

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1. University of Vechta

The University of Vechta, or Universität Vechta in German, is a public research institution in Lower Saxony, Germany. It is also an ancient university whose history goes back to 1830. The available study programs are concentrated on teaching, social sciences, gerontology, social work, and philosophy. The university takes pride in being a family-friendly and sustainable institution.

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

2. Georg August University of Göttingen

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

The Georg August University of Göttingen is the premier institution of higher learning in Gottingen, Germany. Founded in 1734 during the ‘Age of Enlightenment in Europe’, the university has remained dedicated to the pursuit of truth. As a result, it emphasizes research, critical thinking, and experimentation in all aspects of its operation. One of the aims of the university is to implement research in all forms of teaching and learning that goes on in the university. It hopes to achieve this by developing research-related study programmes and supporting the creation and sustenance of research groups at all levels of study.

3. Clausthal University of Technology

The Clausthal University of Technology, also known as Technische Universität Clausthal or TU Clausthal in German, is a specialized public institution in Lower Saxony, Germany. It is a leading institution in engineering and is known to be very welcoming to international students. Most of its specialized programs are in German, but some courses may be taught in English. TU Causthal is ranked 68th in Germany and 8th in Lower Saxony.

The tuition fee at Clausthal University of Technology 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. Leibniz University Hannover

Another affordable university to consider in Lower Saxony is Leibniz University Hannover.

Leibniz University Hannover has a rich and profound history that dates back to 1831. The university has gone through numerous redevelopments and improvements and has been renamed several times. As one of the oldest universities in Germany, and with its continuous progress in delivering top-quality higher education, the institution has become one of the most prominent universities in the world. In addition, the university offers internationally recognized academic programs, and it is best known for providing superior education in science and technology.

 

The tuition fee in Leibniz University Hannover for master’s program for foreign students starts from 0 Euros.

5. Carl von Ossietzky University of Oldenburg

Aside from its outstanding quality of education, Carl von Ossietzky University of Oldenburg 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.

The Carl von Ossietzky University of Oldenburg is an academic institution that aims to contribute to addressing society’s most pressing challenges by conducting interdisciplinary research. Research at the university strategically focuses on sustainability, technology, and other social issues. This university is also known for promoting equality and diversity in its campus by providing equal opportunities and support to every one of its students and staff. 

6. 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.

7. University of Applied Sciences Emden/Leer

University of Applied Sciences Emden/Leer is a young institution founded in 2009. It currently offers academic disciplines in marine sciences, social work and health, technology, and business studies. Although still considered a young university, its interdisciplinary and high-quality programs have cultivated graduates that now have successful careers in various industry sectors. The university truly is committed to providing excellent higher education to its students.

8. Technical University of Braunschweig

The Technical University of Braunschweig, or TU Braunschweig, was established in 1745. The university has different courses and specializations to offer that are spread across various areas. The Technical University of Braunschweig offers courses such as economics, mathematics, sciences, engineering, education, etc.

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. Leuphana University of Lüneburg

The Leuphana University of Lüneburg is a public center of excellence in Germany. It opened its doors to students in the year 1946. Today, it is a globally recognized institution with a college, graduate school, and professional school.

11. University of Hildesheim

The University of Hildesheim was established in 1946, originating from the University of Education, which was located in the city of Alfeld. It officially became a public university in 2003. The University of Hildesheim has a number of research centers dedicated to different areas such as education, music, arts, language, etc.

12. Hannover University of Applied Sciences and Arts

Hannover University of Applied Sciences is a public university offering over 60 degree programs in different areas of economics, communications, engineering, and social sciences. It is the second-largest university in the city and is known for having multiple international projects and exchange programs with its partner universities and organizations. Education and research at Hannover University of Applied Sciences are application-oriented and geared towards meeting the needs of industries and society.

13. Ostfalia University of Applied Sciences

Established in 1971 in Lower Saxony, Germany, Ostfalia University of Applied Sciences is considered one of the state’s largest educational institutions that offer programs in the applied sciences. It currently has 12 faculties on its 4 campuses in the region of Eastphalia. It also provides students with numerous opportunities for international experience through exchange programs and internships. 

14. University of Applied Sciences and Arts in Ottersberg

The University of Applied Sciences and Arts in Ottersberg is a private higher education institution run by a non-profit limited liability company. It was established in 1967 as an Independent Fine Arts Study Centre, which later became accredited as a university of applied sciences and arts. Later during its years of operation, it started offering programs in art therapy and performing arts pedagogy and became one of the largest training centers for art therapists in Europe. The university looks forward to bringing out every individual’s creative potential, which will help them grab various career opportunities.

15. PFH Private University of Applied Sciences

The PFH Private University of Applied Sciences was established in 1995, with the recognition of the Lower Saxony Ministry of Science and Culture. It is situated in Göttingen, Lower Saxony, in Central Germany. The PFH Private University of Applied Sciences is a private university that offers courses in different fields such as business, psychology, management, engineering, etc.

Frequently Asked Questions

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

Applying to cheap universities in Lower Saxony 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 Lower Saxony?

International students can study a variety of programs at the undergraduate and graduate levels in Lower Saxony. For example, one of the best affordable schools in Lower Saxony is the Carl von Ossietzky University of Oldenburg, which offers Biology, Business Administration, and Education to students seeking a bachelor’s degree. At the master’s level, the Carl von Ossietzky University of Oldenburg offers Transnational Law, Social Studies, and Sports Science.

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 Lower Saxony, it can be tough to know where to start looking.

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

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