Germany is home to some of the top universities in the world, and it's no surprise that it has become a popular destination for international students. Germany's best universities for international students offer high-quality education, a welcoming environment, and opportunities for career advancement.

In this guide, we’ll explore why Germany is so appealing to students from around the world, provide insights on applying to German universities, and highlight the best institutions for international students.

Why is Germany Popular for International Students?

Germany is renowned for its top universities, which are recognized globally for their academic excellence. The best public universities in Germany for international students, in particular, stand out for offering tuition-free education or very low tuition fees. This, coupled with Germany's strong economy and rich cultural history, makes it an ideal place for students from around the world to pursue their studies. Moreover, Germany's robust economy and excellent job prospects make it an attractive destination for students looking to launch successful careers.

Top Universities for International Students in Germany:

Fachhochschule Kempten

Location: Kempten, Bavaria

Student Population: Approximately 6,000 students

Programs Offered: Engineering, Business Administration, Social Sciences, Tourism

World Ranking: Not ranked in global rankings, but recognized for its strong industry connections and practical education focus.

Details: Fachhochschule Kempten is a university of applied sciences that emphasizes practical learning and interdisciplinary education. Located in the picturesque Allgäu region of Bavaria, the university is well-known for its close collaboration with local industries, offering students numerous opportunities for internships and hands-on experience. The small campus size ensures personalized attention and a close-knit academic community. A unique aspect of Kempten is its strong focus on renewable energy and sustainability, particularly in its engineering programs. All these characteristics puts it among the best universities in Germany for international students.

Unique Feature: Fachhochschule Kempten is located near the famous Neuschwanstein Castle, one of Germany’s most iconic landmarks. This proximity provides students with beautiful landscapes and opportunities for weekend getaways.

Innovation Hub: The university has a strong focus on innovation, particularly in renewable energy. It’s part of the Allgäu Research and Development Center, which collaborates with local businesses to work on sustainable energy solutions.

International Week: Every year, the university hosts an International Week, where students and faculty from partner universities around the world come together for workshops, lectures, and cultural exchange.

Hochschule Wismar - Fachhochschule für Technik, Wirtschaft und Design

Location: Wismar, Mecklenburg-Vorpommern

Student Population: Around 8,000 students

Programs Offered: Architecture, Design, Business Administration, Engineering

World Ranking: Not ranked globally, but highly regarded in fields of architecture and design.

Details: Situated on the Baltic Sea coast, Hochschule Wismar offers a blend of technical, business, and creative programs. The university is renowned for its architecture and design departments, which are among the top in Germany. Wismar’s focus on innovation is reflected in its cutting-edge facilities and research centers. The university is also involved in several international projects, making it an attractive destination for students interested in a global perspective on education. A notable feature is the university’s participation in the annual Wismarer Wirtschaftstag, a major event that connects students with industry leaders.

Historic Campus: Hochschule Wismar is located in a UNESCO World Heritage city, known for its well-preserved medieval architecture. The university itself is housed in historical buildings that blend old-world charm with modern facilities.

Design Excellence: The university’s design programs are highly regarded, and its students regularly win national and international design competitions, including the prestigious Red Dot Design Award.

Maritime Studies: Given its location on the Baltic Sea, Hochschule Wismar offers specialized programs in Maritime Studies, making it a key institution for those interested in maritime engineering and management.

Friedrich-Schiller-Universität Jena

Location: Jena, Thuringia
Student Population: Approximately 18,000 students
Programs Offered: Natural Sciences, Humanities, Social Sciences, Law, Medicine
World Ranking: Typically ranks within the top 400 globally, known for strong research output.

Details: Established in 1558, Friedrich-Schiller-Universität Jena is one of Germany's oldest universities and a key institution in the country’s academic history. The university has a strong focus on research, particularly in natural sciences and humanities. Jena is home to several research centers, including the Max Planck Institute for the Science of Human History and the Leibniz Institute for Natural Product Research and Infection Biology. The university's rich history and tradition in producing Nobel laureates (such as physicist Max Born) add to its prestige. Jena also offers a vibrant student life with numerous cultural activities and events.

Literary Heritage: The university is named after Friedrich Schiller, a famous German poet, philosopher, and historian who was a professor at the university. Schiller's legacy is celebrated annually with various cultural events.

Optics and Photonics Leader: Jena is known as the “City of Light” due to its leading role in the field of optics and photonics. The university collaborates closely with industry giants like Carl Zeiss AG, offering students unique research opportunities.

Botanical Garden: The university is home to one of the oldest botanical gardens in Germany, founded in 1586. It serves as a living laboratory for students studying botany, ecology, and environmental sciences.

Hochschule Hof, University of Applied Sciences Hof

Location: Hof, Bavaria
Student Population: About 3,500 students
Programs Offered: Business, Engineering, Computer Science, Environmental Engineering
World Ranking: Not ranked globally, but recognized for its practical approach and strong industry ties.

Details: Hochschule Hof, one of the best universities in Germany for international students, located in the Franconian region of Bavaria, offers a modern, practical education environment with a strong focus on applied sciences. The university is particularly known for its business and engineering programs, which are designed in close collaboration with local and international companies. Hof prides itself on providing a comprehensive support system for international students, including a buddy program, language courses, and career services. The university’s location in a smaller city offers a more affordable cost of living, making it an attractive option for students on a budget. Hof also has a strong focus on sustainability, with programs in environmental engineering and green technologies.

Sustainability Pioneer: Hochschule Hof is a leader in sustainability, with a dedicated “Institute for Water and Energy Management.” The university has multiple ongoing projects focused on water conservation and renewable energy.

Textile Expertise: The university is known for its expertise in textile technology, particularly in smart textiles. Students can engage in research on innovative materials, which have applications in fashion, health, and technology.

Digitalization Focus: Hochschule Hof places a strong emphasis on digitalization, offering cutting-edge programs in Digital Business, Artificial Intelligence, and Data Science, making it an excellent choice for tech-savvy students.

Universität Rostock

Location: Rostock, Mecklenburg-Vorpommern
Student Population: Approximately 14,000 students
Programs Offered: Medicine, Engineering, Natural Sciences, Humanities, Law
World Ranking: Usually ranks within the top 500 globally, noted for its historical significance and research excellence.

Details: Universität Rostock, founded in 1419, is one of the oldest universities in Germany and the Baltic region. It offers a broad range of programs with particular strengths in medicine, engineering, and natural sciences. The university is known for its cutting-edge research, especially in marine sciences and renewable energy. Rostock’s campus is modern yet steeped in history, offering students a unique blend of tradition and innovation. The university’s location by the Baltic Sea also provides unique opportunities for research in marine biology and environmental sciences. Additionally, the university’s commitment to sustainability is reflected in its various green initiatives on campus.

Maritime Research: Located near the Baltic Sea, Universität Rostock has a strong focus on maritime research. The university’s interdisciplinary research center, the Baltic Sea Research Institute, is a leader in marine biology and environmental science.

Historical Significance: The university is one of the oldest in Northern Europe, with over 600 years of history. It played a crucial role in the Protestant Reformation, and its main building is a stunning example of neo-Renaissance architecture.

Cultural Hub: Rostock is home to the annual Hanse Sail, one of the largest maritime festivals in the world, attracting tall ships and visitors from all over the globe. The festival provides students with a unique cultural experience right at their doorstep.

Fachhochschule Worms

Location: Worms, Rhineland-Palatinate
Student Population: Around 3,500 students
Programs Offered: Business Administration, Tourism, Computer Science, International Management
World Ranking: Not globally ranked, but recognized regionally for its focus on business and tourism.

Details: Fachhochschule Worms is a specialized university focusing on business administration, tourism, and computer science. The university offers programs with a strong international orientation, including numerous opportunities for study abroad and internships. Worms’ strategic location in the Rhine-Neckar metropolitan region, a major economic hub, provides students with excellent networking and job opportunities. The university is particularly known for its International Business program, which is taught entirely in English and attracts students from around the globe. A highlight of studying at Worms is its close ties with industry partners, which frequently lead to internships and job placements for students. All of that makes it a good choice for our list of the best universities in Germany for international students.

Business Focus: Fachhochschule Worms is renowned for its business programs, particularly in International Management and Tourism. The university has partnerships with over 100 companies worldwide, providing students with extensive internship opportunities.

Ancient Roots: The city of Worms is one of the oldest cities in Germany, with a history dating back over 2,000 years. Students can explore the city’s rich history, including the Worms Cathedral, a masterpiece of Romanesque architecture.

International Exchange: The university offers extensive opportunities for study abroad, with over 150 partner universities in more than 50 countries. Students can spend semesters in destinations like the USA, China, or Australia.

CBS International Business School, Cologne

Location: Cologne, North Rhine-Westphalia
Student Population: Approximately 1,800 students
Programs Offered: Business Administration, International Management, Marketing, Finance
World Ranking: Not ranked globally, but highly regarded in international business education.

Details: CBS International Business School is a private institution located in the vibrant city of Cologne. The school offers a variety of programs focused on business and management, with all courses taught in English. CBS is known for its strong emphasis on internationalization, boasting a diverse student body and numerous partnerships with universities worldwide. The school’s location in Cologne, one of Germany’s largest and most multicultural cities, provides students with ample opportunities for internships, networking, and cultural experiences. CBS’s programs are designed to equip students with the skills needed for a successful career in the global business environment. The school also offers dual degree programs in collaboration with partner universities in the UK and USA, enhancing its appeal to international students.

Global Network: CBS has a strong international orientation, with students from over 70 countries and exchange programs with universities worldwide. This global network is a significant asset for students seeking international careers.

Entrepreneurship Focus: The university places a strong emphasis on entrepreneurship, with dedicated programs and incubators to help students launch their own startups. Many CBS alumni have gone on to create successful companies in Germany and abroad.

Vibrant Location: Located in Cologne, one of Germany’s largest and most vibrant cities, CBS students enjoy a rich cultural life. The city is famous for its stunning cathedral, lively arts scene, and the annual Carnival, one of the largest street festivals in Europe.

How to Apply to a German University

Most universities in Germany offer online application portals, and international students are encouraged to apply well in advance. Applying to a German university involves several steps, including selecting a program, ensuring your qualifications meet the university’s requirements, and submitting an application through platforms like Uni-Assist. It's essential to start the application process early, as deadlines can vary depending on the university and program. Additionally, non-EU students may need to apply for a student visa, which requires proof of admission and financial stability.

Do You Need to Speak German to Study at a German University?

While many of the top universities in Germany for international students offer programs in English, some knowledge of German can be beneficial. However, students who choose to study at Germany's best universities for international students will find a wide range of courses available in English, particularly at the master's level.

What are the Benefits of Studying at German Universities for International Students?

The best universities in Germany are known for their high-quality education, low or no tuition fees, and excellent scholarship opportunities. Additionally, Germany’s strong economy and vibrant job market provide students with ample opportunities to start their careers after graduation. 

One of the most attractive aspects of studying in Germany is its affordability. Public universities in Germany are renowned for charging minimal or no tuition fees for both domestic and international students. This makes Germany one of the most cost-effective options for high-quality education in Europe. 

Affordable or Free Education

At most public universities in Germany, there are no tuition fees for undergraduate and many postgraduate programs. Students are usually required to pay a small semester contribution, which covers administrative costs and sometimes includes public transportation. This fee typically ranges from €150 to €350 per semester. However, some universities may charge higher fees for non-European Union (EU) students, particularly in specialized programs or private institutions.

High-quality Education

German universities are renowned for their rigorous academic standards and research opportunities. Many institutions collaborate closely with industries, providing students with practical experience and networking opportunities.

Scholarships and Funding Opportunities

In addition to low tuition fees, Germany offers a variety of scholarships and funding opportunities to help international students cover their living expenses and other costs.There are numerous scholarships available for international students in Germany. The DAAD (German Academic Exchange Service) is the largest scholarship organization, offering grants for undergraduate, graduate, and doctoral students. Additionally, many universities have their own scholarship programs, so it’s worth checking with your chosen institution.

Multicultural Environment

Germany is home to a large international student community, creating a multicultural environment where students can learn from diverse perspectives and cultures.

Robust Economy and Job Opportunities

Germany’s strong economy provides excellent job prospects for graduates. Many international students choose to stay in Germany after completing their studies, taking advantage of the country’s robust job market.

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