15 Free and Cheap Universities in North Rhine Westphalia for International Students

Search Courses:

In North Rhine Westphalia, 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 North Rhine Westphalia, you’ll have a lot of school options, as they are home to 65 universities. But if you’re looking for cheap universities in North Rhine Westphalia, make sure to read more!

Apply for 2025 Intake!

Applications for 2025 Intake are open. Search through the degrees around the world!

Apply Now

Cheap Bachelor's Colleges and Universities in North Rhine Westphalia for International Students

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

University Annual Bachelor’s International Tuition % Cheaper than Average*
University of Duisburg-Essen 0 Euros 100%
Niederrhein University of Applied Sciences 0 Euros 100%
RWTH Aachen University 0 Euros 100%
Bielefeld University 0 Euros 100%
University of Cologne 0 Euros 100%
Cologne University of Applied Sciences 0 Euros 100%
Rhine-Waal University of Applied Sciences 0 Euros 100%
University of Münster 0 Euros 100%
Georg Agricola University of Applied Sciences 0 Euros 100%
Fachhochschule Dortmund-University of Applied Sciences and Arts 0 Euros 100%
Hochschule Bonn-Rhein-Sieg, University of Applied Sciences 0 Euros 100%
Rhenish Friedrich Wilhelm University of Bonn 0 Euros 100%
Westphalian University of Applied Sciences 0 Euros 100%
German Sport University Cologne 0 Euros 100%
Ruhr University Bochum 0 Euros 100%

* Average Bachelor’s International Tuition is 1,465 Euros for universities in North Rhine Westphalia.

Search Bachelor's Courses for International Students!

Search through the bachelor's courses that are currently open for international students!

Apply Now

1. University of Duisburg-Essen

The University of Duisberg-Essen was founded in 2003, though its history can be traced back to 1654. With more than 41,000 students and two main campuses in Duisberg and Essen, it is one of the largest public universities in Germany. The university currently has 12 faculties, offering more than 260 study programs in Social Sciences, Humanities, Business, Natural Sciences, and Engineering.

2. Niederrhein University of Applied Sciences

Niederrhein University of Applied Sciences was established in 1971. It is considered one of the top applied-science universities in Germany. Niederrhein University of Applied Sciences covers different fields of study such as engineering, sciences, healthcare, and economics, among others.

3. RWTH Aachen University

RWTH Aachen University is among the top universities in Germany and is most recognized for its excellence in engineering and natural sciences. The university strongly focuses on research and practical learning, which is why it continues to maintain close ties with its industry partners. The university also takes pride in producing many notable individuals who have received various awards in research and innovation. 

4. Bielefeld University

Bielefeld University is a public university in Germany. Since its opening in 1969, it has produced countless graduates who have gone on to become successful in their chosen fields. Furthermore, Bielefeld has 14 faculties that offer a wide range of study options.

5. University of Cologne

The University of Cologne is recognized as one of the well-distinguished and research-focused institutions in Germany. It is one of the oldest schools founded in Central Europe, and it is also one of the biggest institutions in its country. The university has notable alumni that have received awards, such as the Noble Prize and Leibniz Prize.

6. Cologne University of Applied Sciences

Technische Hochschule Köln is also known as the Cologne University of Applied Sciences in English. However, it is widely known as TH Köln for short. This public institution offers 100+ programs in various fields: applied sciences, business, architecture, engineering, computer, social sciences, etc. Three campuses comprise TH Köln: Cologne, Gummersbach and Leverkusen.

7. 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.

8. University of Münster

The University of Münster has a profound and rich history that can be traced back to the 16th century. The institution has had a fair share of ups and downs, but it has flourished to become one of the most renowned and well-respected universities in Germany and across the globe. Over the years, it has designed and developed countless cutting-edge programs to accommodate a diverse group of students. And at present, several of its unique programs are considered to be globally acknowledged and desired by a significant number of prospective students.

9. Georg Agricola University of Applied Sciences

Named after a mining pioneer Georg Agricola, the Georg Agricola University of Applied Sciences (THGA) was first established as a mining school to train workers to supplement the mining facilities. As years went on, the former mining school transformed into an engineering college, and now, it is a fully-fledged institution that teaches a variety of academic programs. Currently, this university offers undergraduate and graduate programs in process engineering, mechanical engineering, electrical engineering, and industrial engineering. If you are interested in research into post-mining, applying to THGA might be a great option for you.

10. Fachhochschule Dortmund-University of Applied Sciences and Arts

Fachhochschule Dortmund – University of Applied Sciences and Arts is a public institution in North Rhine-Westphalia, Germany. Three campuses and seven faculties comprise the university. These faculties are applied social sciences, architecture, design, electrical engineering, computer science, information technology, mechanical engineering, and business studies. They offer a few English-taught master’s programs.

11. Hochschule Bonn-Rhein-Sieg, University of Applied Sciences

Hochschule Bonn-Rhein-Sieg, University of Applied Sciences (H-BRS) is a public university found in the area around Cologne and Bonn. It has three primary locations: Sankt Augustin, Rheinbach and Hennef/Sieg. The university also runs another institution, Bonn-Aachen International Center for Information Technology, with other universities (Bonn University and Aachen Technical University). More than 30 programs are available at H-BRS.

12. Rhenish Friedrich Wilhelm University of Bonn

The Rhenish Friedrich Wilhelm University of Bonn offers more than 200 courses for over 35,000 German and international students. It is known for its academic excellence and innovative research aimed at promoting sustainability and addressing different social and scientific issues. It is also recognized as the university that has produced the most Nobel Prize winners and recipients of other notable awards in Germany. 

13. Westphalian University of Applied Sciences

Located in the center of the former industrial complex, the Westphalian University of Applied Science is a highly modern institution that houses nearly 10,000 people. Featuring three different campuses filled with the latest technology, the Westphalian University showcases top-tier academic programs in the fields related to engineering, technology, natural sciences, and business. In addition to its high-quality teaching, the university also boasts outstanding research capabilities that continue to attract geniuses from all over the globe.

14. German Sport University Cologne

German Sport University Cologne takes a very special position as the only sports university in Germany. It offers various sports-related courses and is equipped with adequate facilities and resources. The university has greatly expanded with its research and innovative infrastructures to provide more high-quality education for its students.

15. Ruhr University Bochum

Ruhr University Bochum (RUB) is a public research university in Bochum City. It is part of the German Research Foundation and has made numerous innovative strides in engineering, psychology, and materials science. Unlike other prestigious German universities, RUB initially operated a single mega campus south of Bochum City. However, the university is perpetually evolving and is currently developing state-of-the-art facilities in various locations within the city. Among its new properties is the Mark 51°7 technology campus, which is presently under construction. Facilities like third-party research institutes, tech start-ups, and innovation hubs are in the works to populate the new campus.

Cheap Master's Colleges and Universities in North Rhine Westphalia for International Students

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

University Annual Master's International Tuition % Cheaper than Average*
University of Duisburg-Essen 0 Euros 100%
South Westphalia University of Applied Sciences 0 Euros 100%
Niederrhein University of Applied Sciences 0 Euros 100%
RWTH Aachen University 0 Euros 100%
Bielefeld University 0 Euros 100%
University of Cologne 0 Euros 100%
Cologne University of Applied Sciences 0 Euros 100%
Rhine-Waal University of Applied Sciences 0 Euros 100%
University of Münster 0 Euros 100%
Fachhochschule Dortmund-University of Applied Sciences and Arts 0 Euros 100%
Rhenish Friedrich Wilhelm University of Bonn 0 Euros 100%
Georg Agricola University of Applied Sciences 0 Euros 100%
German Sport University Cologne 0 Euros 100%
Hochschule Bonn-Rhein-Sieg, University of Applied Sciences 0 Euros 100%
University of Hagen 0 Euros 100%

* Average Master's International Tuition is 1,843 Euros for universities in North Rhine Westphalia.

Search Master's Courses for International Students!

Search through the master's courses that are currently open for international students!

Apply Now

1. University of Duisburg-Essen

The University of Duisberg-Essen was founded in 2003, though its history can be traced back to 1654. With more than 41,000 students and two main campuses in Duisberg and Essen, it is one of the largest public universities in Germany. The university currently has 12 faculties, offering more than 260 study programs in Social Sciences, Humanities, Business, Natural Sciences, and Engineering.

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

2. South Westphalia University of Applied Sciences

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

South Westphalia University of Applied Sciences was established in 2002; however, its predecessors can be traced back to early 1824. The university offers a broad spectrum of future-oriented study programs. Most of its courses are widely known as top-rated programs in Germany. Furthermore, the institution has five strategically scattered locations in North Rhine-Westphalia. Each campus has modern facilities, laboratories, study halls, and training rooms.

3. Niederrhein University of Applied Sciences

Niederrhein University of Applied Sciences was established in 1971. It is considered one of the top applied-science universities in Germany. Niederrhein University of Applied Sciences covers different fields of study such as engineering, sciences, healthcare, and economics, among others.

The tuition fee at Niederrhein 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. RWTH Aachen University

Another affordable university to consider in North Rhine Westphalia is RWTH Aachen University.

RWTH Aachen University is among the top universities in Germany and is most recognized for its excellence in engineering and natural sciences. The university strongly focuses on research and practical learning, which is why it continues to maintain close ties with its industry partners. The university also takes pride in producing many notable individuals who have received various awards in research and innovation. 

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

5. Bielefeld University

Aside from its outstanding quality of education, Bielefeld University 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.

Bielefeld University is a public university in Germany. Since its opening in 1969, it has produced countless graduates who have gone on to become successful in their chosen fields. Furthermore, Bielefeld has 14 faculties that offer a wide range of study options.

6. University of Cologne

The University of Cologne is recognized as one of the well-distinguished and research-focused institutions in Germany. It is one of the oldest schools founded in Central Europe, and it is also one of the biggest institutions in its country. The university has notable alumni that have received awards, such as the Noble Prize and Leibniz Prize.

7. Cologne University of Applied Sciences

Technische Hochschule Köln is also known as the Cologne University of Applied Sciences in English. However, it is widely known as TH Köln for short. This public institution offers 100+ programs in various fields: applied sciences, business, architecture, engineering, computer, social sciences, etc. Three campuses comprise TH Köln: Cologne, Gummersbach and Leverkusen.

8. 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.

9. University of Münster

The University of Münster has a profound and rich history that can be traced back to the 16th century. The institution has had a fair share of ups and downs, but it has flourished to become one of the most renowned and well-respected universities in Germany and across the globe. Over the years, it has designed and developed countless cutting-edge programs to accommodate a diverse group of students. And at present, several of its unique programs are considered to be globally acknowledged and desired by a significant number of prospective students.

10. Fachhochschule Dortmund-University of Applied Sciences and Arts

Fachhochschule Dortmund – University of Applied Sciences and Arts is a public institution in North Rhine-Westphalia, Germany. Three campuses and seven faculties comprise the university. These faculties are applied social sciences, architecture, design, electrical engineering, computer science, information technology, mechanical engineering, and business studies. They offer a few English-taught master’s programs.

11. Rhenish Friedrich Wilhelm University of Bonn

The Rhenish Friedrich Wilhelm University of Bonn offers more than 200 courses for over 35,000 German and international students. It is known for its academic excellence and innovative research aimed at promoting sustainability and addressing different social and scientific issues. It is also recognized as the university that has produced the most Nobel Prize winners and recipients of other notable awards in Germany. 

12. Georg Agricola University of Applied Sciences

Named after a mining pioneer Georg Agricola, the Georg Agricola University of Applied Sciences (THGA) was first established as a mining school to train workers to supplement the mining facilities. As years went on, the former mining school transformed into an engineering college, and now, it is a fully-fledged institution that teaches a variety of academic programs. Currently, this university offers undergraduate and graduate programs in process engineering, mechanical engineering, electrical engineering, and industrial engineering. If you are interested in research into post-mining, applying to THGA might be a great option for you.

13. German Sport University Cologne

German Sport University Cologne takes a very special position as the only sports university in Germany. It offers various sports-related courses and is equipped with adequate facilities and resources. The university has greatly expanded with its research and innovative infrastructures to provide more high-quality education for its students.

14. Hochschule Bonn-Rhein-Sieg, University of Applied Sciences

Hochschule Bonn-Rhein-Sieg, University of Applied Sciences (H-BRS) is a public university found in the area around Cologne and Bonn. It has three primary locations: Sankt Augustin, Rheinbach and Hennef/Sieg. The university also runs another institution, Bonn-Aachen International Center for Information Technology, with other universities (Bonn University and Aachen Technical University). More than 30 programs are available at H-BRS.

15. University of Hagen

The University of Hagen was established in 1974 as a public university. Situated in Hagen, the University of Hagen focuses on distance teaching. The University of Hagen has several affiliations such as EUA, AQUIN, AQAS, and FIBAA, among others.

Frequently Asked Questions

1. How do I get admission to affordable universities in North Rhine Westphalia?

Applying to cheap universities in North Rhine Westphalia 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 North Rhine Westphalia?

International students can study a variety of programs at the undergraduate and graduate levels in North Rhine Westphalia. For example, one of the best affordable schools in North Rhine Westphalia is the Bielefeld University, which offers Music, German Literacy, and French to students seeking a bachelor’s degree. At the master’s level, the Bielefeld University offers Public Health, Nanosciences, and Literary Studies.

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 North Rhine Westphalia, it can be tough to know where to start looking.

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

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