Germany offers free tuition at public universities for all students including migrants and refugees. This complete guide explains how to apply, what to expect and how to fund your studies.
Yes β most public universities in Germany charge no tuition fees for undergraduate and graduate students, including international students, migrants and refugees. You only pay a semester contribution of β¬100ββ¬350 which covers your student transport card and other services. This makes Germany one of the most affordable study destinations in the world.
Free tuition applies to: EU and non-EU international students, refugees with recognised status, asylum seekers (in most states), migrants with valid residence permits, and displaced students. Some states like Baden-WΓΌrttemberg charge non-EU students fees β always check the specific university and state.
The best public universities offering free tuition include: Technical University of Munich (TUM), Humboldt University Berlin, University of Heidelberg, RWTH Aachen University, University of Hamburg, Goethe University Frankfurt, and University of Freiburg. All charge only the semester contribution fee.
1. Choose your course and university on uni-assist.de 2. Check language requirements (German or English programmes) 3. Get your documents translated and certified 4. Apply through uni-assist or directly to the university 5. Receive your admission letter 6. Apply for a student visa at the German embassy 7. Arrange accommodation and health insurance 8. Enrol and pay the semester contribution
While tuition is free, you still need to cover living costs of approximately β¬850ββ¬1,200/month. The DAAD scholarship covers full tuition plus β¬934/month for living costs, health insurance and travel. Apply at daad.de. Other options include the Deutschlandstipendium (β¬300/month) and university-specific scholarships.
Many programmes are taught in German and require DSH-2 or TestDaF-4 language certification. However, hundreds of Master's programmes are taught entirely in English and require IELTS 6.0β6.5 or TOEFL 80+. Check the DAAD database at daad.de for English-taught programmes.
**Can asylum seekers study for free in Germany?** Yes β in most German states, asylum seekers can enrol at public universities. However, access varies by state and your specific status. Contact the university's international office for guidance.
**Do I need German language skills?** Not necessarily β many programmes are in English. But German skills help with daily life.
**How much money do I need per month?** Budget β¬850ββ¬1,200/month for accommodation, food, transport and personal expenses.
**Can I work while studying?** Yes β students can work up to 120 full days or 240 half days per year.
Never miss a deadline β free email alerts for migrants and refugees.