Free Education in Germany
Germany is known for its excellent education system, which allows worldwide students to pursue higher degrees at public universities with no tuition fees. For its commitment to access, Germany has become one of the favourite destinations among international students seeking affordable, quality education.
This means that Indian students can study in Germany without paying tuition fees at public universities and institutes, which minimizes the financial burden of studying abroad.
If you are also planning to apply for free education in Germany. But don’t know where to start, this comprehensive guide is for you. It will provide every detail about the free education program in Germany. However, before delving into the deeper understanding of the program, let us understand what this program is.
What is the free education in Germany program?
Regardless of the student's nationality, the majority of undergraduate and graduate programs at German public institutions are tuition-free. The policy comes from the notion that Germany believes education is a public good and should be accessible to all.
Nevertheless, students must pay a semester fee that ranges between €150 and €350, covering administrative costs, and in many cases, including a ticket for public transportation.
Benefits of getting free education in Germany
You must have thought the what benefits you can through free education in Germany. Below we have listed various benefits of getting free education in Germany apart from no tuition fees.
No tuition fees
Free undergraduate and some master's programs at public universities. Only a small semester fees (€150–€350) is paid.
High-quality education
Internationally accredited degrees with up-to-date teaching methods. A large number of programs in all areas.
Low cost of living
Average monthly costs: €850–€1,000. Low-cost housing options and reduced prices for public transport.
Work while studying
240 partial days or 120 full days annually. Part-time jobs and jobs on campus.
Multicultural environment
The international community is very welcoming to various cultures. Support services and opportunities to learn German.
Post-graduation opportunities
Maintain for up to 18 months following graduation for an opportunity to find a job following graduation.
Acquire new language
Possibility of acquiring the best language spoken in Europe. Enhance Employability and Cultural Immersion.
Scholarships and grants available
Available through DAAD Scholarships, Erasmus+, or funding available through universities.
Eligibility criteria of tuition-free policy
The tuition-free policy of Germany applies to:
International students
International students from any country, both EU and non-EU, can attend public universities tuition-free. However, non-EU students have to get a residence permit before they arrive in Germany. They are also expected to complete their studies in the country.
Consecutive master's programs
These are consecutive master's programs, which are taken directly after a bachelor's degree in a related field, usually tuition-free. Non-consecutive master's programs, which may involve work experience, are subject to tuition fees.
Documents required for free education in Germany
Indian students are required to present the following documents to enroll for the free education policy.
- Admission letter from the university
- Proof of financial stability
- Entrance Qualification of University
- Proof of language proficiency
To obtain a required and guarantee a successful academic experience in Germany, several documents are essential. One of the most important documents is the German Blocked Account confirmation letter, which attests to the fact that students have enough money to live and study in Germany for a full year.
How to apply for tuition-free policy in Germany?
To apply for tuition-free policy in Germany, you are required to follow the following steps:
1. Selection of educational institution
Select a program and University, Research universities and programs that suit your academic interests. Germany offers study opportunities in many disciplines. Among these, some of the highly regarded public universities are Cologne University, Ludwig Maximilians University Munich (LMU), and Technical University of Munich (TUM).
2. Analyse admission requirements
Verify admission requirements. Each university maintains its admission criteria. In general, you will require:
- Academic qualifications: A recognised secondary school diploma for undergraduate programs or a relevant bachelor's degree for master's programs.
- Language proficiency: Proof of proficiency in the language of instruction, either German (TestDaF or DSH) or English (IELTS or TOEFL), depending on the program.
3. Prepare application documents
Common documents are:
- Academic tanscripts
- Language proficiency certificates
- Curriculum vitae (CV)
- Statement of purpose
- Letters of recommendation
4. Submit application
This is usually done through the respective online portals of the universities or Uni-Assist for centralized international student applications.
5. Get your student visa
After admission is received, non-EU nationals need to apply for a Germany student visa. Requirements tend to include proof of the availability of financial resources, proof of health insurance, and admission to the university.
6. Arrange accommodation and finances
You must book your accommodation and plan the expenses for living since your expenses will be about €900 per month, mainly covering rent, food, health insurance, and so forth.
Scholarship available for Indian students in Germany
Scholarship plays a crucial role when enrolling for free education in Germany. This European country offers a plethora of scholarships for Indian students. Below, we have mentioned some of the well-known scholarships for Indian Students planning to study in Germany.
Scholarship Name | Offered By | Eligibility |
DAAD Scholarships | German Academic Exchange Service | Master’s, doctoral, and research programs for Indian students |
Konrad-Adenauer-Stiftung (KAS) | Konrad-Adenauer-Stiftung Foundation | Master’s/Ph.D. students with academic excellence and social commitment |
Heinrich Böll Foundation | Heinrich Böll Foundation | Master’s/Ph.D. students interested in sustainability and social justice |
Friedrich Ebert Stiftung (FES) | Friedrich Ebert Foundation | Bachelor’s, master’s, or doctoral students with academic merit |
Erasmus+ Scholarships | European Union | enrolled in programs leading to Erasmus Mundus Joint Master Degrees (EMJMD) |
RWTH Aachen Scholarships | RWTH Aachen University | Master’s program students at RWTH Aachen in science/engineering fields |
Bayer Foundation Scholarships | Bayer Science & Education Foundation | Research students in life sciences, medicine, or agriculture |
KAAD Scholarships | Catholic Academic Exchange Service | Master’s/Ph.D. students with leadership potential |
Goethe-Institut Scholarships | Goethe-Institute | Students seeking German language training for academic purposes |
University Specific Scholarships
University | Scholarship Details |
Technical University of Munich | Scholarships for outstanding international students |
University of Stuttgart | Financial aid for international master’s programs |
Humboldt University | Scholarships for doctoral candidates |
Why choose Province Immigration for your journey to study in Germany?
Choosing the right guidance partner is a crucial step toward achieving your dream of studying abroad. Province Immigration is a trusted and experienced consultancy that helps Indian students successfully navigate the process of pursuing free education in Germany. We are the greatest option for your educational path for the following reasons:
Expert guidance and counseling
Personalized Counselling: We offer individual counselling for understanding your objectives and suggesting suitable programs and universities. In-depth Program Information: Our experts assist you in knowing the advantages and workings of the free education scheme in Germany.
Admission guidance
University Shortlisting: We assist you in shortlisting the top German public universities according to your academic background and career ambitions. Application Preparation Assistance: Total assistance in the preparation of application documents like: 1. Academic Transcripts 2. Statement of Purpose (SOP) 3. Curriculum Vitae (CV) 4. Letters of Recommendation Application Submission: Guidance on using university portals or platforms like uni-assist for centralized applications.
Visa processing support
Visa Document Preparation: Assistance in arranging essential documents like a German Blocked Account, financial proof, and health insurance. Interview Preparation: Tips and mock sessions to ensure success in the German student visa interview process. Quick Processing: Our streamlined process minimizes delays and ensures you meet visa requirements on time.
Financial planning and scholarship assistance
Scholarship advice: We support students in identifying and applying for scholarships like DAAD, Heinrich Böll, Erasmus+, and those specific to universities. Cost management: We assist in the management of living expenses, accommodation, and additional expenses for study purposes in Germany.
Pre-Departure and Post-Arrival Services
Pre-departure counselling: This involves guidance on booking accommodation, health insurance, and the culture of Germany, among others, before one departs. Post-arrival services: Assistance with residence registration, opening of a bank account, and integration into German life.
Language training support
German Language Support: We get you in touch with training centres to help you achieve the required language proficiency (TestDaF, DSH, etc.) to enhance your studies and cultural immersion.
Proven track record
High Success Rate: Province Immigration has helped hundreds of students successfully secure admissions and visas to study in Germany. Experienced Professionals: Our team comprises experienced counsellors who specialize in German education and immigration processes.