Why study in Germany?
- Most public universities charge no tuition for bachelor's and master's degrees, including for international students.
- Excellent engineering, computer science, automotive and renewable-energy programmes, many taught in English.
- Europe's largest economy with demand for skilled graduates.
- An 18-month residence permit after graduation to find a job related to your degree.
Approximate costs
| Item | Local currency | Approx. in INR |
|---|---|---|
| Tuition at most public universities (per year) | No tuition | Free |
| Semester contribution (per semester) | €150–400 | ≈ ₹0.2–0.4 lakh |
| Tuition in Baden-Württemberg, non-EU (per semester) | €1,500 | ≈ ₹1.5 lakh |
| Living costs (per year) | €11,904–14,000 | ≈ ₹12–14 lakh |
Approximate, as of 2026. INR figures use about ₹102 per €; exchange rates move. Fees depend on the university and course, so we confirm exact numbers for your shortlist.
- Most students fund their blocked account (Sperrkonto) with €11,904 for the year, which is released to you at €992 per month. Embassies can ask for a different amount in some cases.
- Private universities charge tuition, often €10,000–€20,000 per year.
- Health insurance is mandatory for enrolment and the visa.
Intakes
The Winter semester starts in October and has the most programmes; applications typically close between May and July. The Summer semester starts in April, with fewer programmes and deadlines usually around January.
Visa and application steps
- Shortlist programmes (English-taught or German-taught) and check entry requirements.
- Get your APS certificate from APS India, which German missions require for Indian student visa applicants.
- Apply directly to universities or through uni-assist, and receive your admission letter.
- Open and fund a blocked account and arrange health insurance.
- Book your national visa appointment and submit your application with documents.
- After arrival, register your address and get your residence permit from the local foreigners' office.
Working during and after your studies
- International students can work 140 full days or 280 half days per year. Student assistant jobs at your university are not counted towards this limit.
- After graduation you can usually receive a residence permit of up to 18 months to look for work, and you can work without restriction during that time.
- Learning German, even to B1 level, makes part-time jobs and full-time roles much easier to find.
Popular universities
A selection of well-known options, not a ranking. The right university depends on your profile, course and budget.
Scholarships
Germany's main scholarship organisation funds selected master's and PhD students.
Monthly support for high-achieving students, awarded by universities.
Political and private foundations offer need- and merit-based scholarships.
Latest updates
Frequently asked questions
Is studying in Germany really free? +
Tuition is free at most public universities, but you still pay a semester contribution (often €150–€400) and must show living costs. Baden-Württemberg charges non-EU students €1,500 per semester.
How much is the German blocked account in 2026? +
The standard amount is €11,904 for one year, released at €992 per month. Your embassy may ask for a different amount in some cases.
Do I need to know German? +
Many master's programmes are taught fully in English. German is not always required for admission, but it helps a lot with part-time jobs and careers.
What is the APS certificate? +
A document from APS India that verifies your academic records. German missions in India require it for student visa applications.
Last reviewed: October 2026. Visa rules and fees change often; we check the current official requirements with you during counselling.
Official sources: Make it in Germany – Students · APS India · DAAD