Is it Possible to Study for Free in Germany

Germany is an attractive destination for international students due to its top-tier universities, high standard of living and exceptional tuition. The country's public universities have made a global impact by providing tuition-free education not only to local students, but in some cases, international students as well.

This policy is based on the belief that education is a public good, not a commercial good, reflecting Germany's commitment to accessible higher education for all. With almost 300 public universities offering over 1,000+ study programmes, studying for free in Germany is not just a possibility but a reality for many.

Although, while tuition may be free, students should pay attention to other financial aspects such as semester fees, which are small but mandatory costs associated with enrollment. Additionally, it is important for prospective students to understand the eligibility criteria and application process to study in Germany.

This article focuses on the complexities of obtaining free education in Germany, including eligibility, application process, living expense management, and scholarship opportunities. By providing a complete roadmap, students can strategically plan their educational activities in Germany, taking advantage of a system aimed at making higher education accessible to all.

Germany free education system:

Germany's perspective of education as a public good, rather than as a commercial education, forms the basis of its policy of providing free education at public universities. This innovative approach, implemented in 2014, applies to all students regardless of their nationality, making the opportunity to study in Germany for free a real possibility for many. It is important to highlight the exception in Baden-Württemberg, where non-EU students have to pay minimal fees, contrary to international norms.

Main aspects of the German free education system:

1. No tuition fees: With nearly 300 public universities and over 1,000 study programs, Germany eliminates tuition fees to emphasize the value of an education accessible to all, while fostering a diverse and inclusive educational environment.

2. Quality of Education and Recognition: German public universities are renowned for their high-quality education, often ranking among the top 100 international institutions. Rigorous accreditation and quality assurance ensure that students receive a top-class education that prepares them for successful careers.

3. Practical training and research opportunities: The focus of the system goes beyond theoretical knowledge, providing extensive practical training and research opportunities. This practical approach, combined with the possibility to get involved in scientific conferences and projects, enhances the educational experience, making studying in Germany particularly attractive for interested researchers and professionals.

Germany's free education system is designed not only to attract global talent but also to integrate international students into the workforce after graduation, addressing the country's demographic challenges while enriching the country's educational and business landscape. 

Eligibility and Other Requirements to Study for Free in Germany:

Understanding the eligibility and other requirements to study for free in Germany includes understanding the academic and financial prerequisites. Here is an overview to guide prospective students:

Eligibility Criteria for Free Education in Germany

+ Candidates must have a good track record including minimum 85% or 9 CGPA in 12th class.

+ Language Proficiency Entrance Test Score: To continue studying in Germany, it is necessary to meet the language proficiency entrance test score requirements for specific programs offered at the university.

+ Some commonly accepted tests include IELTS, TOEFL, GER, GMAT and others. (Most universities require a minimum of B2 level German proficiency. The minimum accepted IELTS score is generally an overall band of 6, while a score of 80 is required for TOEFL).

+ Some universities in Germany may exempt you from language test scores if you prove that you have studied the English language in high school.

+ University acceptance letter: Gaining admission to a public institution is indispensable to be able to study for free in Germany.

+ Most public universities in Germany will only charge a minimal administrative fee if the master's degree is in the same field as the aspirant's undergraduate studies. These are consistently called master's degrees. Meanwhile, if the MS is in a different stream than the previous qualifications, tuition fees will be charged.

+ Even if you study in Germany for free, you may have to pay a fee per semester for administration, enrollment and confirmation. This fee may vary from university to university but does not exceed €250 per semester.

+ Blocked Account: Each year, every university requests that student be provided a monthly sum to enable them to cover their living costs along with other miscellaneous expenses. This money is deposited in the 'blocked account'. Currently, Indian students must show a balance of at least €11,208 (Rs.10, 21,218) in their blocked account and are entitled to withdraw €934 (Rs.85,102) monthly.

Steps to Studying in Germany for Free: If you want to avail free education in Germany, here are some steps you can follow:

1. Course selection:

Choose the course of your choice. Each university offers a unique set of offerings and has different eligibility criteria. Therefore, it is absolutely essential to research and select programs that suit your academic and career goals.

2. University/College Selection:

University of Cologne, Goethe University Frankfurt, RWTH Aachen University, Ludwig Maximilians University, Munich and University of Münster are some of the famous for free tuition fee universities in Germany.

Now that you have chosen your study course, you should research about the best university to pursue it. Pay close attention to application deadlines, as missing them could delay your plans by a semester or a year.

Tuition Costs (if any) and Blocked Account

Even if you study in Germany for free (tuition fee), you may have to pay a fee per semester for administration, enrollment and confirmation. This fee may vary from university to university but does not exceed €250 (Rs.22782) per semester.

Therefore it is important to do research about it. Additionally, you must open a German blocked account and keep a sum of €11,208 (Rs.10,21,218) to cover costs arising during the period of your planned stay in the country.

How to Apply

Most of the universities have their own online portals through which you have to submit the application along with supporting documents like academic transcripts, language proficiency certificate and financial proof.

Start applying to universities as and when their portals open for admission. It is advisable to apply a day or two in advance to avoid missing out due to time zone difference or any technical glitch.

Get German Student Visa

Once you have received the acceptance letter from the university, you should apply for a German student visa at your local German embassy or consulate in your home country at least three months in advance.

To get a visa to study in Germany for free, you need to submit some documents such as valid passport, two photographs, acceptance letter, academic transcript, proof of German language proficiency, certificate of health insurance and authenticity of the submitted documents.

Flying and life in Germany

Once you have received your acceptance letter and German student visa, you are now ready for your free education in Germany. The country is renowned for its high-quality education, vibrant student life, work-life balance, high job security and a strong social welfare system.

If tuition is free, does it mean that universities in Germany are not very good?

Only public universities in Germany are free for international students, whereas, private universities charge tuition fees.

However, this does not mean that the quality of education will be low as none of them are completely free and you may have to pay administration fees per semester.

Getting admission into one of these public universities is not that easy as there is a wide pool of competitors with whom you will be competing.

Additionally, you can check the accreditation of the university you are applying to, so you can be sure of the quality of education.

FAQs on Free Education in Germany:

Q. How to apply for free education in Germany?

Ans. If you want to pursue a bachelor's degree, all public institutions in Germany have a no tuition fee policy, regardless of the student's nationality. Students can apply to German universities through the Uni-Assist platform.

Q. Why is education free in Germany?

Ans. Quality and accessible education is the key to economic development. German states abolished tuition fees for undergraduate students at all public universities in 2014. This helps the country attract the best minds regardless of their financial background.

Q. Which universities offer free education in Germany?

All public universities in Germany offer free tuition at the undergraduate level.

 Q. Are there any other costs besides tuition fees at German public universities?

Studying in a foreign country includes not only tuition but also living expenses. The estimated monthly cost of rent and other utilities can range from around €300 (Rs.27, 340) to €500 (Rs.45,564), while food and beverage costs may require €200–250 (Rs.22,782)each month.