Germany has firmly established itself as one of the top destinations for international students, offering an extensive selection of high-quality education programs. If you are considering moving to Germany for your studies but are concerned about language barriers, there is great news: you can study in English in Germany! Many German universities now provide thousands of English-taught programs across various disciplines, making it easier than ever for international students to pursue their academic goals in one of Europe’s most advanced and dynamic countries.
Why Choose to Study in English in Germany?
Germany has a total of 428 universities, and over 200 of them offer English-taught programs. This growing number reflects the country’s dedication to attracting global talent and fostering an international academic environment.
German universities are renowned for their excellence in research, innovation, and academic rigor, making them an appealing choice for students worldwide. Additionally, Germany’s strong economy and global industry connections provide significant career opportunities for graduates.
Which Universities Offer English-Taught Programs?
Many top-ranked German universities provide degree programs entirely in English. Here is a list of some of the best institutions where you can study in English:
|
University |
QS Ranking 2025 |
Number of English-Taught Programs |
|
Technical University of Munich |
28 |
79 |
|
Ludwig Maximilian University of Munich |
59 |
50 |
|
Heidelberg University |
84 |
17 |
|
Free University of Berlin |
97 |
31 |
|
Humboldt University of Berlin |
126 |
Numerous |
|
Karlsruhe Institute of Technology |
102 |
26 |
|
Technical University of Berlin |
147 |
20 |
|
RWTH Aachen University |
99 |
32 |
|
University of Freiburg |
212 |
27 |
|
University of Tübingen |
222 |
85 |
Entry Requirements for Studying in English in Germany
To be eligible for an English-taught program in Germany, you will need to meet the following requirements:
English Proficiency
If English is not your first language, you must prove your proficiency through recognized exams like TOEFL, IELTS, or PTE Academic. Most universities require a minimum TOEFL score of 80 or an IELTS score of 6.5.
Educational Qualifications
- undergraduate programs: high school diploma
- For postgraduate programs: A recognized bachelor’s degree and academic transcripts must be submitted.
Additional Documents
- Some universities require a motivation letter explaining your interest in the program.
- Business-related courses may require GMAT or GRE scores.
- A valid passport and, in some cases, passport-sized photos.
- If documents are not in English, official translations are required.
How to Find an English-Taught Program in Germany
To find an English-taught degree program, follow these steps:
- Use online search databases that list English-taught programs in Germany.
- Choose your preferred field of study and filter options accordingly.
- Make a list of potential universities based on rankings and program offerings.
- Visit the official websites of selected universities to check admission details.
- Contact university admissions offices if you need clarification regarding eligibility criteria.
- Consider checking university student forums or social media pages to connect with current students.
For example, if you want to pursue a Master of Science in Biology at the Technical University of Munich (TUM), you would need to:
- An accredited undergraduate certificate
- Submit your application through TUMonline.
- If accepted, send notarized hard copies of your documents by post.
- Non-EU/EEA students must have their documents pre-verified through uni-assist.
Popular Fields for English-Taught Programs in Germany
Some academic fields offer a particularly high number of programs in English, including:
- Engineering: A highly sought-after field with many English-taught programs.
- Natural Sciences: Biology, chemistry, and physics are widely available in English.
- Economics & Business: Many English-taught programs, particularly at the master’s level.
- Social Sciences: Programs related to human behavior, culture, and society.
- Mathematics & Computer Science: High-quality programs, with growing options in AI and data science.
- Law & International Relations: Some programs focus on international law and global affairs.
- Medicine & Health Sciences: Some specialized programs are available in English, especially at the master’s level.
Fields with Fewer English-Taught Programs
Some fields are less commonly offered in English due to their nature and practical components:
- Language and Cultural Studies: These often require German proficiency.
- General Medicine: Most programs are in German due to clinical training requirements.
- Art & Design Programs: Studio-based instruction is typically in German.
- Sports Science & Physical Training: Practical components are mostly conducted in German.
- Veterinary Medicine: Largely taught in German due to hands-on coursework.
Tuition-Free Universities in Germany Offering English-Taught Programs
Germany is well known for its tuition-free education system, making it a highly cost-effective choice for international students. Some of the best tuition-free universities offering English-taught programs include:
- Technical University of Munich
- Ludwig Maximilian University of Munich
- Heidelberg University
- Free University of Berlin
- Humboldt University of Berlin
- Technical University of Berlin
- RWTH Aachen University
Additional Costs When Studying in Germany
While most public universities in Germany do not charge tuition fees, students must pay semester contributions ranging from €150 to €300. These fees cover student unions, public transport tickets, and administrative costs. Additional living expenses include:
- Accommodation: Rent can vary between €300 and €700 per month, depending on location.
- Health Insurance: Mandatory for non-EU students, typically costing around €110 per month.
- Food & Groceries: Estimated at €200–€300 per month.
- Miscellaneous Expenses: Entertainment, books, and supplies may cost around €150 per month.
Final Thoughts
If you are looking for a world-class education in a vibrant, international setting, studying in English in Germany is an outstanding choice. With a wide range of programs, highly regarded universities, and affordable education options, Germany continues to attract students from around the world. Whether you aim to pursue a bachelor’s or master’s degree, start your research today, and by 2025, you could be studying in one of Europe’s leading academic institutions, setting the foundation for a successful future!
