How high are tuition fees in Germany?

Almost all German public universities and Universities of Applied Sciences (approx. 400) in the 16 German states have no tuition fees for Germans and for foreigners. Only the federal state of Baden-Wuerttemberg has recently introduced tuition fees for non-EU students. The approx. 19.000 different study courses are of very high quality.

However, fees are charged for certain Master Degree programs and some private universities also charge relatively high tuition fees.

What is the semester contribution?

The semester contribution is payable at all universities and by all students. Depending on the university or University of Applied Sciences, it can be between 200 and 350 € per semester. This contribution finances, for example, student residences, the Mensa, administrative expenses and at many universities the semester ticket. This ticket entitles you to travel on public transport in your region.

What is the cost of living in Germany?

The costs of living in Germany are equivalent to the European average. They are lower than in Scandinavian countries, but relatively high compared to many countries in Asia, Africa or Latin America.

Students in Germany have an average of 840 € a month at their disposal. But many students have to get by on much less money and adapt their lifestyle accordingly.
Students spend around a third of their budget on accommodation. Rent in cities such as Munich, Hamburg, Cologne and Düsseldorf is exceptionally high (around 400 or 450 € for a room); it is much cheaper in smaller towns in the east, such as Leipzig or Chemnitz (around 220 €). Generally speaking, rent levels in the South are higher than in the North, and in the West they are higher than in the East.

What does health insurance cost?

In order to study in Germany, you are required to have a health insurance. You must be insured with a statutory health insurance company at a student rate. Insurance rates for students are around 90 € per month.

How high are the costs compared to other countries?

Compared to other European and non-European countries, it is not expensive to live and study in Germany. In August 2013 HSBC Bank has published a study comparing the annual cost of studying abroad for international students. They found out that study costs most in Australia and least in Germany (they compared 13 countries).

For detailed information regarding this publication please refer to: [download pdf file].

Are students allowed to work in Germany?

• With student visa, students from outside the EU are allowed to work up to 120 full days (or 240 half-days) per year.
• Foreign students who have graduated from a German university are invited to stay on in Germany for up to 18 months to look for a job.