Question 1

How many universities are there in Germany?

Accepted Answer

Germany has 423 state-recognized higher-education institutions registered with the Hochschulrektorenkonferenz, including 108 traditional research universities (Universitäten), 213 universities of applied sciences (Hochschulen für angewandte Wissenschaften), and the rest specialized art, music, and theology academies. International students can apply to any of them with the same student visa pathway.

Question 2

Which German universities are best for international students?

Accepted Answer

TU Munich, LMU Munich, Heidelberg, RWTH Aachen, KIT, Humboldt Berlin, TU Berlin, and TU Dresden consistently rank in the global top 200 (QS, THE) and offer extensive English-taught Master's programs. For applied sciences, Frankfurt UAS, Munich UAS, and Berlin School of Economics and Law are popular. For business, ESMT Berlin and WHU are strong private options.

Question 3

How do I apply to a German university?

Accepted Answer

Most international applications go through uni-assist, the central application portal, which forwards your file to your chosen universities. Some universities accept direct applications. You need APS verification (India, China, Vietnam, Pakistan), recognized school and degree certificates, language test scores (IELTS, TOEFL, or Goethe), CV, motivation letter, and recommendations. Deadlines: 15 July for winter semester, 15 January for summer semester.

Question 4

Are German universities really tuition-free?

Accepted Answer

Yes for most public universities. There is no tuition for Bachelor's or Master's at almost all federal states, including for non-EU students. The only exception is Baden-Württemberg, which charges non-EU students €1,500 per semester. Every student also pays a semester contribution of €150 to €350 covering admin and a public transport pass. Private universities charge €10,000 to €30,000 per year.

Question 5

Can I work part-time as a student in Germany?

Accepted Answer

Yes. Non-EU students can work up to 140 full days or 280 half days per year, equivalent to roughly 20 hours per week during semester. Pay typically runs €12 to €18 per hour for student jobs (HiWi, Werkstudent), more for tutoring or IT. Earnings above €603 per month (the 2026 mini-job ceiling) trigger social security contributions, and above €12,348 per year you owe income tax.

Find your perfect university

Sources