For families exploring international education, Germany has become an increasingly compelling option. English-speaking universities in Germany provide access to a strong and well-established higher education system without requiring immediate German language proficiency. For students seeking academic excellence, globally recognized degrees, and strong preparation for international careers, Germany now sits alongside more traditional study destinations.
At McMillan Education International, we see families consider Germany as one of the beste Länder für internationale Studenten, particularly when academic strength and long-term outcomes are priorities. Universities in Germany for international students are widely recognized for strengths in engineering, business, technology, and the sciences, particularly at the postgraduate level. A growing number of programs taught entirely in English, especially at the master’s level, allow students to earn internationally recognized degrees across both public and private institutions.
This guide presents a selected list of English-speaking universities in Germany for international students. It highlights English-taught options at both the Bachelor’s and Master’s levels and explains how institutions differ in structure and focus, so families can compare programs and university models in one place.
Wichtigste Erkenntnisse
- While English-taught programs are more common at the Master’s level, the universities listed here also offer Bachelor’s programs in English, though availability is often limited or specialized.
- Universities in Germany for international students include research universities, universities of applied sciences, and private institutions, each with different academic models.
- Many public universities charge no tuition fees, though costs vary by institution type and federal state, and students typically pay a semester contribution.
- Admissions requirements vary significantly by degree level and university model, making early planning essential for international applicants.
Why Choose an English-Speaking University in Germany?
1. Begin your studies in English
For many international students, language is a practical constraint as much as an academic one. English-speaking universities in Germany allow students to begin their studies immediately in their strongest academic language, without delaying entry while meeting German proficiency requirements.
2. Programs built for international students
English-taught programs in Germany are well-established at both Master’s and Bachelor’s levels and are concentrated in fields such as engineering, business, data science, and the natural sciences. These programs are designed for international students and typically follow globally familiar academic structures, which can ease the transition for students coming from the IB, A-Levels, or other international curricula.
3. Study in English, live in Germany
Studying in English does not mean studying in isolation. Students enrolled in English-taught universities in Germany live and work within a German academic and professional environment, gaining many of the broader benefits of studying abroad alongside their academic studies. This allows students to focus on academic performance while gradually building language skills, cultural familiarity, and professional exposure that support internships, part-time work, and longer-term opportunities.
4. More than one university model
English-speaking universities in Germany include research universities, universities of applied sciences, and private institutions. Within the broader landscape of English-speaking European universities, Germany offers an unusually wide range of academic models in a single country. This gives international students meaningful choice, whether they are seeking research depth, applied training, or a more structured academic environment, and allows families to align university selection with academic goals and career direction.
English-Speaking Universities in Germany for International Students
Below is a carefully selected list of some universities in Germany for international students that offer degree programs taught in English. This is not a ranking, nor an endorsement of one institution over another. The universities included are chosen based on a clear, practical criterion: they offer established English-taught degree programs at both the Bachelor’s and Master’s levels for international students.
1. Technical University of Munich (TUM)
Standort: Munich, Bavaria, Germany
Institution type: Public
Tuition fees (international students):
- Non-EU students (from winter 2024/25):
- Bachelor’s: €2,000–€3,000 per semester
- Master’s: €4,000–€6,000 per semester
- Semester contribution: approximately €85 per semester
- EU/EEA students and those with German school-leaving qualifications are exempt
Share of international students: ≈ 45%
QS World University Ranking 2026: #22
The Technical University of Munich is one of the largest and most research-intensive universities and is consistently cited among leading universities in Germany for international students pursuing technical fields. Founded in 1868, it operates across multiple campuses in Munich, Garching, and surrounding areas, enrolling roughly 52,000 students.
TUM has a strong technical orientation, with particular emphasis on engineering, natural sciences, life sciences, and medicine. The university attracts international students with strong academic preparation who are seeking rigorous, research-driven study within an applied context. Many international students are drawn to TUM for its close links with industry and its role within Germany’s technology ecosystem.
The academic environment emphasizes research-led teaching, independent project work, and practical application. Assessment typically combines examinations with project-based coursework, and students are expected to take initiative in both academic and research settings.
Munich is a major economic and technology hub, offering substantial internship and employment opportunities. Admission is competitive, particularly in engineering and computer science programs.
2. Heidelberg University
Standort: Heidelberg, Baden-Württemberg, Germany
Institution type: Public
Tuition fees (international students):
- Non-EU students: €3,000 per year (€1,500 per semester)
- Semester contribution: approximately €160 per semester
- EU/EEA students and those with German entrance qualifications are exempt
Share of international students: ≈ 20%
QS World University Ranking 2026: #80
Founded in 1386, Heidelberg University is Germany’s oldest university and a long-established research institution. It enrolls approximately 30,000 students and maintains strengths across the humanities, social sciences, natural sciences, law, and medicine.
English-taught programs are primarily offered at the Master’s level. A limited number of Bachelor’s programs or specialized tracks are available in English. Heidelberg attracts students interested in research-intensive study within a historically significant academic setting, especially those drawn to the sciences and humanities.
The academic environment emphasizes independent scholarship and deep engagement with subject matter. Assessment formats vary by discipline and typically include examinations and research-based work. Heidelberg offers a compact university-town environment with strong academic cohesion and proximity to major research networks in southern Germany.
3. Free University of Berlin (Freie Universität Berlin)
Standort: Berlin, Germany
Institution type: Public
Tuition fees (international students):
- No tuition fees
- Semester contribution: approximately €300–€330 per semester
Share of international students: 13% of Bachelor’s students; 33% of Master’s students
QS World University Ranking 2026: #88
Freie Universität Berlin is a public research university founded in 1948 with a strong international orientation. It enrolls approximately 34,000 students across 11 departments and interdisciplinary institutes.
English-taught programs at Freie Universität Berlin are primarily offered at the Master’s level. The university also offers a full English-taught Bachelor’s degree in North American Studies. FU Berlin attracts international students interested in humanities, social sciences, and international studies within a globally oriented academic environment.
Teaching emphasizes critical thinking, interdisciplinary engagement, and seminar-based learning. Assessment methods include examinations, research papers, and presentations. The Dahlem campus provides a quieter academic setting while maintaining strong public transport connections to central Berlin and its cultural and professional opportunities.
4. Karlsruhe Institute of Technology (KIT)
Standort: Karlsruhe, Baden-Württemberg, Germany
Institution type: Public
Tuition fees (international students):
- Non-EU students: €3,000 per year (€1,500 per semester)
- Semester contribution: approximately €160 per semester
Share of international students: ≈ 23%
QS World University Ranking 2026: #98
Karlsruhe Institute of Technology is a research-focused technical university formed through the merger of the University of Karlsruhe and a national research center. It enrolls approximately 24,000 students.
KIT has strong academic standing in engineering, computer science, chemistry, and physics. English-taught programs at KIT are concentrated at the Master’s level, particularly in engineering and the natural sciences. A small number of Bachelor’s programs and international tracks are also offered in English, typically within specialized or interdisciplinary fields.
Academic study combines theoretical foundations with laboratory work and research projects. Assessment includes examinations and project-based evaluation. Karlsruhe’s location within a major European technology region supports industry collaboration and applied research opportunities.
5. University of Hamburg
Standort: Hamburg, Germany
Institution type: Public
Tuition fees (international students):
- No tuition fees
- Semester contribution: approximately €340–€370 per semester
Share of international students: ≈ 15%
QS World University Ranking 2026: #193
The University of Hamburg is Northern Germany’s largest research university, enrolling over 44,000 students across eight faculties.
English-taught programs at the University of Hamburg are mainly available at the Master’s level, particularly in economics, management, and the natural sciences. At the Bachelor’s level, the university offers Earth System Physics, a full English-taught undergraduate program with a strong focus on climate science, physics, and earth systems research.
The university attracts students seeking comprehensive academic offerings within a major commercial and port city. Teaching includes lectures, seminars, and practical components, with assessment varying by faculty. Hamburg offers strong professional opportunities in logistics, media, aerospace, and finance.
6. University of Freiburg
Standort: Freiburg, Baden-Württemberg, Germany
Institution type: Public
Tuition fees (international students):
- Non-EU students: €3,000 per year (€1,500 per semester)
- Semester contribution: approximately €155 per semester
Share of international students: ≈ 18%
QS World University Ranking 2026: #201
Founded in 1457, the University of Freiburg is a research-intensive institution with strengths in life sciences, environmental studies, humanities, and medicine.
English-taught programs are offered at both levels, particularly in biology, environmental sciences, and neurosciences. The university suits students interested in sustainability, life sciences, and research-focused study within a smaller academic community.
Teaching combines lectures, seminars, laboratory work, and research projects. Assessment includes examinations and written research work. Freiburg’s location near the Black Forest and international borders contributes to a high quality of life and strong academic community.
7. Rhine-Waal University of Applied Sciences
Standort: Kleve and Kamp-Lintfort, North Rhine-Westphalia, Germany
Institution type: Public University of Applied Sciences
Tuition fees (international students):
- No tuition fees
- Semester contribution: approximately €303 per semester
Share of international students: ≈ 50%
QS Ranking: Not listed in the main QS World University Rankings
Rhine-Waal University of Applied Sciences is a public institution known for offering a wide range of English-taught Bachelor’s programs designed specifically for international students. Its academic model emphasizes applied learning and practical relevance.
The university offers approximately 13 Bachelor’s programs taught fully in English, including international business, international relations, sustainable tourism, agribusiness, biomaterials science, and bio science and health. Rhine-Waal tends to attract students seeking accessible English-speaking universities in Germany with a strong applied focus and minimal tuition costs.
Teaching emphasizes practical coursework, group projects, and real-world applications rather than theory-heavy instruction. Assessment typically includes coursework, presentations, and applied projects. The campuses are located in smaller cities near the Dutch border, offering a quieter study environment with relatively low living costs.
8. Deggendorf Institute of Technology (European Campus)
Standort: Deggendorf and Pfarrkirchen, Bavaria, Germany
Institution type: Public University of Applied Sciences
Tuition fees (international students):
- Service fee: approximately €500 per semester
Share of international students: ≈ 45%
QS Ranking: Not listed in the main QS World University Rankings
Deggendorf Institute of Technology’s European Campus is a public applied sciences institution focused on English-taught programs for international students.
It offers approximately 12 Bachelor’s programs taught fully in English, including artificial intelligence, international management, health informatics, industrial engineering, international tourism management, and energy systems engineering. The university attracts students seeking career-oriented English-language study with a strong practical and technological focus.
Teaching is application-driven, with coursework integrated with projects, labs, and industry-relevant assignments. Assessment typically includes continuous evaluation rather than exam-only formats. The campus environment is international and professionally oriented, with strong support structures for non-German-speaking students.
9. Constructor University Bremen (formerly Jacobs University)
Standort: Bremen, Germany
Institution type: Private
Tuition fees (international students):
- About €20,000 per year
QS Ranking: QS Europe University Rankings: #101
Constructor University Bremen is a private, research-oriented university offering all programs fully in English. It enrolls a highly international student body and follows a residential campus model.
The university offers approximately 18 English-taught programs across disciplines such as biochemistry, computer science, data science, physics, psychology, global economics, and international relations. Constructor University tends to attract academically strong international students seeking a fully English-speaking university environment in Germany.
Teaching emphasizes small class sizes, close faculty interaction, and research exposure at an early stage. Assessment includes examinations, projects, and research-based work. The residential campus provides a self-contained academic environment distinct from traditional German public universities.
10. IU International University of Applied Sciences
Standort: Multiple campuses across Germany
Institution type: Private
Tuition fees (international students):
- Approximately €13,000 per year (varies by program and format)
QS Ranking: Not listed in the main QS World University Rankings
IU International University of Applied Sciences is a private institution offering a large portfolio of English-taught programs across business, IT, psychology, healthcare, and related fields.
It offers more than 30 Bachelor’s programs taught in English, designed with flexibility and professional alignment in mind. IU attracts international students seeking applied, career-focused English-language study with multiple intake options.
Teaching is practice-oriented, often incorporating digital learning formats. Assessment typically includes coursework, projects, and applied assignments. The multi-campus structure allows students to choose between different German cities while studying in English.
11. University of Europe for Applied Sciences (UE)
Standort: Multiple campuses in Germany
Institution type: Private
Tuition fees (international students):
- Private tuition (varies by program and campus)
QS Ranking: Not listed in the main QS World University Rankings
The University of Europe for Applied Sciences is a private institution offering English-taught programs in business, psychology, design, digital media, and game design.
UE focuses on creative and professional disciplines, integrating academic study with industry exposure. The university attracts students interested in applied, design-oriented, and media-related fields within an English-speaking academic environment.
Teaching emphasizes project-based learning and practical skill development. Assessment often includes portfolios, presentations, and applied projects. Its urban campuses provide proximity to creative industries and professional networks.
Admissions Pathways at English-Speaking Universities in Germany
Admissions to English-speaking universities in Germany are not governed by a single, uniform process. Requirements and timelines vary by institution type, degree level, and program structure, which makes early planning important for international students and families.
For Bachelor’s programs taught in English, universities typically assess secondary school qualifications in detail, with close attention to curriculum alignment and subject preparation. Master’s programs place greater emphasis on academic background, subject relevance, and prior coursework, particularly in technical and research-focused fields.
Language of instruction alone does not determine admissions complexity. English-taught programs at research universities, universities of applied sciences, and private institutions can differ significantly in selectivity and expectations. In these cases, insight from international university consultants can help interpret requirements across systems.
Considering Germany for University Study?
Germany offers international students a distinctive academic landscape, combining well-established universities, a growing range of English-taught degree programs, and meaningful choice across different institutional models. For many families, studying in Germany provides academic credibility and international recognition within a European context that supports both study and longer-term career planning.
If you want help mapping program fit, timelines, and application strategy for universities in Germany, working university admission consultants experienced in European systems can help families plan across different institutions and degree structures.
Häufig gestellte Fragen
1. Can I study in Germany in English?
Yes. Many universities in Germany offer degree programs taught entirely in English, particularly at the Master’s level. English-taught Bachelor’s programs exist but are more limited and concentrated at specific institutions. Availability varies by university and field, so programs should always be verified individually.
2. Do I need to speak German to study at a university in Germany?
Not necessarily. Many universities in Germany offer degree programs taught entirely in English, and do not require German language proficiency for admission. However, students should always confirm the language of instruction at the program level. While German is not required for all English-speaking universities in Germany, basic language skills can be helpful for daily life and longer-term opportunities.
3. Is it better to study at a university or a university of applied sciences in Germany?
Neither is universally better. Research universities typically focus on theory and academic depth, while universities of applied sciences emphasize practical training and applied learning. The right choice depends on a student’s academic strengths, learning style, and career goals.
4. When should I start preparing my application?
Preparation should begin well in advance, often 12 to 18 months before the intended start date. This allows time to research programs, understand requirements, gather academic documents, and plan timelines across different institutions and degree levels.
5. Are German universities free for international students?
Many public universities in Germany do not charge tuition fees for international students, though students usually pay a semester contribution that covers administrative costs and student services. Some federal states and private institutions do charge tuition, so costs vary by university and location.
