The Top 10 German Public Universities Offering Free (or Low-Cost) Education to International Students in 2025, based on the provided information:
Top 10 German Public Universities for Free/Low-Cost Education (2025)
| University | Global Rank (QS 2024) | Key Areas | Tuition Fees | Semester Contribution | Application Opening Date | More Info |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| 1. Technical University of Munich (TUM) | 41st | Engineering, Tech, Sciences | Free | ~€150 | Dec 1, 2024 | Course Offerings |
| 2. LMU Munich | 60th | Humanities, Sciences, Medicine | Free | ~€129 | Jan 15, 2025 | International Programs |
| 3. Heidelberg University | 63rd | Humanities, Sciences | €1,500/semester (non-EU) | €171.80 | Nov 1, 2024 | All Subjects |
| 4. Humboldt University of Berlin | 70th | Humanities, Social Sciences | Free | ~€315 | Dec 1, 2024 | Programs Info |
| 5. RWTH Aachen University | 71st | Engineering, Tech | Free | ~€300 | Dec 1, 2024 | Programs List |
| 6. University of Tübingen | 106th | Humanities, Natural Sciences | €1,500/semester (non-EU) | €158.30 | Nov 15, 2024 | Degree Programs |
| 7. Charité – Universitätsmedizin Berlin | 107th | Medical & Health Sciences | Free | ~€315 | Dec 1, 2024 | Medical Degrees |
| 8. University of Freiburg | 111th | Sciences, Engineering, Humanities | €1,500/semester (non-EU) | €155 | Dec 1, 2024 | English Programs |
| 9. University of Cologne | 134th | Social Sciences, Humanities | Free | ~€280 | Dec 1, 2024 | Courses Overview |
| 10. University of Göttingen | 135th | Sciences, Humanities | Free | ~€370 | Dec 1, 2024 | Programs Info |
📝 Key Notes:
- Tuition-Free: Most German public universities do not charge tuition, but semester contributions (covering student services, public transport, etc.) are required.
- Non-EU Fees: Some universities in Baden-Württemberg (e.g., Heidelberg, Tübingen, Freiburg) charge €1,500/semester for non-EU students.
- Living Costs: Expect around €800–€1,200/month, depending on the city.
- Language: Many Master’s programs are English-taught; check individual links for course availability.
Would you like help shortlisting universities based on your field of study or checking scholarship options in Germany?
Germany Public University Admission Process FAQ
Q: Is university education free in Germany for international students?
A: Yes, most public universities in Germany offer tuition-free education, with only semester contributions required.
Q: Are there tuition fees for non-EU students in Germany?
A: Most universities are tuition-free, but some in Baden-Württemberg charge €1,500 per semester for non-EU students.