Study in Germany for Indian Students

Most public universities in Germany charge no tuition for Master's study, but you still need APS certification, a blocked account of €992 a month and a plan for the October or April intake.

Germany attracts large numbers of Indian students, mainly because most public universities charge little or no tuition for Master's programmes. Universities and universities of applied sciences offer English-taught Master's degrees in engineering, computer science, data science, automotive and mechanical engineering, management and many other subjects.

This guide explains how studying in Germany works for students from India: how Master's programmes are structured, public universities and courses, tuition fees and the cost of living, eligibility and the APS certificate, winter and summer intakes, DAAD and other scholarships, the blocked account and the German student visa.

Why Study in Germany?

Low or no tuition at most public universities: Most public universities charge only a semester contribution. There are exceptions — Baden-Württemberg and TUM, for example, charge non-EU students tuition — so check each university.
Strong engineering and technology education: Germany is known for engineering, applied sciences and industry-linked research, particularly in automotive, mechanical, electrical and computer engineering.
Many English-taught Master's programmes: Hundreds of Master's programmes are taught fully in English, although learning German helps greatly with part-time jobs and careers.
Universities of applied sciences: Fachhochschulen (universities of applied sciences) offer practice-oriented Master's degrees with projects and industry placements.
Post-study opportunities: Graduates can apply for a residence permit of up to 18 months to look for work related to their qualification.

Masters in Germany for Indian Students

A Master's in Germany usually takes two years (four semesters, 120 ECTS credits), including a Master's thesis. Some programmes are three semesters (90 ECTS). Universities focus on academic and research depth, while universities of applied sciences emphasise practical application.

Admission is subject-specific: German universities check whether your bachelor's degree closely matches the Master's programme in content and credits. A strong subject match is often as important as your overall grade. Indian applicants must obtain an APS certificate before applying for a student visa, and many universities also ask for it during admission.

Many applications go through uni-assist, while other universities accept applications directly. Some programmes also ask for the GRE (more common in highly competitive engineering and computer science programmes) or German language skills for German-taught degrees.

Typical duration: 2 years (4 semesters, 120 ECTS)
Main intakes: Winter semester (October) and summer semester (April)
English tests: IELTS Academic or TOEFL for English-taught programmes
Mandatory for Indian applicants: APS certificate
Proof of funds: Blocked account: €11,904 per year (€992/month)
Work after study: Job-seeker residence permit of up to 18 months

Popular Master's programmes in Germany

MS in Computer Science
MS in Data Science / Artificial Intelligence
MS in Mechanical Engineering
MS in Automotive Engineering
MS in Electrical Engineering & Information Technology
MS in Mechatronics / Robotics
MS in Renewable Energy
Master's in Management / MBA
MS in Biotechnology
MS in Industrial Engineering

Best Universities in Germany for International Students

Germany has public universities, technical universities and universities of applied sciences. The institutions below are among those Indian students commonly consider; check each university's programme page for fees, language and admission rules.

Universities in Baden-Württemberg charge non-EU students tuition, and TUM charges tuition to new non-EU students, so costs differ from the no-tuition norm.

Technical University of Munich (TUM) (Munich, Bavaria): Engineering, computer science, management (tuition for non-EU students)
RWTH Aachen University (Aachen, North Rhine-Westphalia): Mechanical, electrical and production engineering
Technical University of Berlin (Berlin): Engineering, computer science
Karlsruhe Institute of Technology (KIT) (Karlsruhe, Baden-Württemberg): Engineering, physics, computer science
Technical University of Dresden (Dresden, Saxony): Engineering, computer science, sciences
University of Stuttgart (Stuttgart, Baden-Württemberg): Automotive, aerospace and mechanical engineering
Ludwig Maximilian University of Munich (LMU) (Munich, Bavaria): Sciences, economics, humanities
Heidelberg University (Heidelberg, Baden-Württemberg): Life sciences, medicine, research
Technical University of Darmstadt (Darmstadt, Hesse): Computer science, electrical engineering
University of Hamburg (Hamburg): Sciences, economics, informatics

Popular Courses to Study in Germany

Mechanical & Automotive Engineering: Germany's traditional strength, with close links to automotive and manufacturing industries.
Computer Science & Data Science: Growing numbers of English-taught programmes in software, AI, data science and cybersecurity.
Electrical Engineering & Mechatronics: Programmes combining electronics, automation, robotics and embedded systems.
Renewable Energy & Environmental Engineering: Specialised programmes connected to Germany's energy transition.
Management & Business: Master's in management, international business and MBAs, many at private universities with tuition fees.
Natural & Life Sciences: Research-focused programmes in biotechnology, chemistry and physics.

Cost of Studying in Germany

The cost of studying in Germany is modest compared with many English-speaking countries, but it is not zero. Figures below are approximate; check each university's fees page for exact amounts.

The blocked account amount is the government's reference for student living costs; many students in large cities spend more.

Tuition fees in Germany

Public university — most programmes: no tuition; semester contribution approx. €150 – 400 per semester
Baden-Württemberg public universities (non-EU): €1,500 per semester plus semester contribution
TUM (new non-EU Master's students): approx. €4,000 – 6,000 per semester
Private universities: approx. €10,000 – 25,000+ per year

Living expenses in Germany

Blocked account (visa requirement): €11,904 per year (€992 per month)
Accommodation: approx. €350 – 750 per month (higher in Munich, Frankfurt, Hamburg)
Health insurance (students): approx. €120 – 140 per month for public insurance
Food, transport and personal: approx. €250 – 400 per month; semester ticket often included in the contribution

Eligibility to Study in Germany

German universities decide admission programme by programme. Indian applicants for a Master's in Germany usually need:

Academic qualification: A relevant bachelor's degree whose content closely matches the Master's programme (module and credit match matters).
Grades: Universities set their own minimum grade; many convert Indian marks using the modified Bavarian formula.
APS certificate: Mandatory for Indian applicants — verifies your academic documents before the visa application.
English proficiency: IELTS Academic (commonly 6.5) or TOEFL for English-taught programmes.
German language: Required for German-taught programmes (often TestDaF or DSH); useful for everyday life and jobs.
GRE: Required or recommended by some competitive programmes only.
Motivation letter and CV: Many programmes ask for a letter of motivation and a Europass-style CV.

Documents usually required

Passport
APS certificate
Bachelor's degree certificate and transcripts
IELTS / TOEFL (or German language certificate)
Letter of motivation and CV
Letters of recommendation where required
Blocked account confirmation and health insurance for the visa

Intakes in Germany

German universities have two main intakes:

The winter semester offers far more Master's programmes. Build in time for the APS certificate and the visa appointment, which can take several weeks.

Winter semester: classes start October; apply Many deadlines fall between January and 15 July (earlier at some universities)
Summer semester: classes start April; apply Many deadlines fall around 15 January

Scholarships in Germany for Indian Students

Because tuition is low at most public universities, scholarships in Germany usually help with living costs. Main options include:

DAAD scholarships: Germany's largest scholarship provider; many Master's-level awards pay €992 per month plus other benefits.
Deutschlandstipendium: €300 per month, awarded by participating universities based on merit and commitment.
Political and private foundations: Foundations such as Heinrich Böll and Konrad Adenauer offer scholarships to international students.
University scholarships: Some universities offer merit awards or tuition waivers, particularly where tuition is charged.

How to Apply to Universities in Germany

1. Choose your course: Decide on your specialisation and whether you prefer a university or a university of applied sciences.
2. Shortlist universities: Search English-taught programmes and check fees, language and deadlines.
3. Check eligibility: Compare your bachelor's modules and credits with each programme's requirements.
4. Apply for the APS certificate: Submit your documents to APS India early — it is needed for the visa and often for admission.
5. Prepare language tests: Take IELTS/TOEFL, and German tests if your programme is taught in German.
6. Submit applications: Apply via uni-assist or directly to the university, depending on its process.
7. Receive your admission letter: Accept your offer and complete any enrolment steps.
8. Open a blocked account and get insurance: Deposit €11,904 in a blocked account and arrange health insurance.
9. Apply for the student visa: Book a German national visa appointment and submit your documents.
10. Prepare for travel: Find accommodation, then register your address and apply for your residence permit after arrival.

Germany Student Visa for Indian Students

Indian students need a German national (D) visa for study. After receiving an admission letter, you apply at the German Embassy or Consulate responsible for your region in India (appointments are usually booked through the official visa service provider).

You must show proof of funds, most commonly through a blocked account holding €11,904 for one year, from which you can withdraw €992 per month in Germany. You also need health insurance, your APS certificate, your admission letter and academic documents.

After arriving, you register your address and apply for a residence permit for study at the local foreigners' authority (Ausländerbehörde).

Visa procedures, blocked-account amounts and appointment systems change. Check the German Missions in India website before you apply.

Visa document checklist

Valid passport
University admission letter
APS certificate
Blocked account confirmation (€11,904)
Health insurance
Academic certificates and language test results
Completed visa application form and photos

Working while studying in Germany

International students can work up to 140 full days or 280 half days per year. Work as a student assistant at the university is treated differently and may not count towards this limit.

Working after your studies

After graduating, you can apply for a residence permit of up to 18 months to look for a job related to your qualification.

Living in Germany as an Indian Student

Accommodation: Student halls (Studentenwerk) are the most affordable but have waiting lists; many students live in shared flats (WGs).
Food: Cooking at home and university cafeterias (Mensa) keep food costs low; Indian groceries are available in larger cities.
Transport: The semester contribution often includes a public transport ticket, and Germany's rail network connects cities well.
Language: English is enough for many programmes, but basic German helps with housing, part-time jobs and daily life.
Student support: International offices and student unions help with enrolment, residence permits and orientation.

Germany vs Ireland for a Master's Degree

This comparison is useful if you are considering engineering, applied sciences and public-university fee exceptions in Germany alongside one-year taught programmes in technology, business and life sciences in Ireland. Programme titles, teaching language and entry rules differ by university, so compare the exact courses before weighing headline costs.

For Germany, start with engineering, applied sciences and public-university fee exceptions; for Ireland, compare one-year taught programmes in technology, business and life sciences. Then weigh the exact course content, total budget and the post-study route relevant to your career plans.

Indicative tuition (tuition only): Public university — most programmes: no tuition; semester contribution approx. €150 – 400 per semester; Baden-Württemberg public universities (non-EU): €1,500 per semester plus semester contribution

Living-cost indications: Accommodation: approx. €350 – 750 per month (higher in Munich, Frankfurt, Hamburg); Health insurance (students): approx. €120 – 140 per month for public insurance; Food, transport and personal: approx. €250 – 400 per month; semester ticket often included in the contribution

Typical Master's duration: 2 years (4 semesters, 120 ECTS)

English-taught study and language: IELTS Academic or TOEFL for English-taught programmes English-taught availability and any local-language requirements vary by course; confirm with the university.

Funding routes (not guaranteed): DAAD scholarships; Deutschlandstipendium Awards are competitive and subject to each scheme's eligibility, deadlines and available funding.

Academic admission: Academic qualification: A relevant bachelor's degree whose content closely matches the Master's programme (module and credit match matters).; Grades: Universities set their own minimum grade; many convert Indian marks using the modified Bavarian formula.

Intakes and planning: Winter semester: starts October; apply Many deadlines fall between January and 15 July (earlier at some universities); Summer semester: starts April; apply Many deadlines fall around 15 January

Student visa: Germany Student Visa for Indian Students. Valid passport; University admission letter

Post-study graduate route: After graduating, you can apply for a residence permit of up to 18 months to look for a job related to your qualification.

Ireland — Indicative tuition (tuition only): Master's (taught) — most subjects: approx. €12,000 – 30,000 for the one-year course; MBA: approx. €20,000 – 40,000+

Ireland — Living-cost indications: Accommodation: approx. €600 – 1,200+ per month (highest in Dublin); Food, transport and personal: approx. €300 – 500 per month; Medical insurance and IRP registration: private medical insurance required; IRP registration fee on arrival

Ireland — Typical Master's duration: 12 months for a taught Master's

Ireland — English-taught study and language: IELTS Academic, TOEFL iBT, PTE Academic English-taught availability and any local-language requirements vary by course; confirm with the university.

Ireland — Funding routes (not guaranteed): Government of Ireland International Education Scholarships (GOI-IES); University merit scholarships Awards are competitive and subject to each scheme's eligibility, deadlines and available funding.

Ireland — Academic admission: Academic qualification: A relevant bachelor's degree, usually equivalent to an Irish 2.1 or 2.2 honours degree.; Grades: Universities publish minimum percentages or CGPAs for Indian degrees.

Ireland — Intakes and planning: September intake: starts September; apply Many programmes open in autumn of the previous year and close in spring or summer; January intake: starts January / February; apply Limited programmes

Ireland — Student visa: Ireland Student Visa for Indian Students. Valid passport; Letter of acceptance from an Irish institution

Ireland — Post-study graduate route: Under the Third Level Graduate Programme, Master's (NFQ Level 9) graduates can apply for Stamp 1G for up to 24 months to work or look for work in Ireland.

Last verified 21 September 2026. Tuition is not the total cost of study; visa proof-of-funds is not necessarily the same as actual living expenses. Scholarship names are competitive funding routes to investigate, not guaranteed awards. Confirm fees, admissions, visa rules and graduate permissions with the university and the relevant authority before applying.

Germany vs UK for a Master's Degree

This comparison is useful if you are considering engineering, applied sciences and public-university fee exceptions in Germany alongside one-year taught degrees and a wide range of specialist programmes in UK. Programme titles, teaching language and entry rules differ by university, so compare the exact courses before weighing headline costs.

For Germany, start with engineering, applied sciences and public-university fee exceptions; for UK, compare one-year taught degrees and a wide range of specialist programmes. Then weigh the exact course content, total budget and the post-study route relevant to your career plans.

Typical Master's duration: 2 years (4 semesters, 120 ECTS)

English-taught study and language: IELTS Academic or TOEFL for English-taught programmes English-taught availability and any local-language requirements vary by course; confirm with the university.

Funding routes (not guaranteed): DAAD scholarships; Deutschlandstipendium Awards are competitive and subject to each scheme's eligibility, deadlines and available funding.

Student visa: Germany Student Visa for Indian Students. Valid passport; University admission letter

Post-study graduate route: After graduating, you can apply for a residence permit of up to 18 months to look for a job related to your qualification.

UK — Indicative tuition (tuition only): Master's (taught) — most subjects: approx. £15,000 – 35,000 for the full one-year course; MBA: often £25,000 – 60,000+

UK — Living-cost indications: Accommodation (shared / halls): approx. £500 – 1,200 per month depending on city; Immigration Health Surcharge: paid with the visa application, per year of visa

UK — Typical Master's duration: 12 months (up to 24 with a placement year)

UK — English-taught study and language: IELTS Academic (UKVI where required), TOEFL, PTE English-taught availability and any local-language requirements vary by course; confirm with the university.

UK — Funding routes (not guaranteed): Chevening Scholarships; GREAT Scholarships Awards are competitive and subject to each scheme's eligibility, deadlines and available funding.

UK — Academic admission: Academic qualification: A bachelor's degree, usually equivalent to a UK 2:1 or 2:2 depending on the university and course.; Grades: Universities publish India-specific equivalents in percentage or CGPA, often varying by the Indian institution.

UK — Intakes and planning: September intake: starts September / October; apply Applications often open about a year earlier; many close between spring and summer; January intake: starts January / February; apply Usually apply by September–October of the previous year

UK — Student visa: UK Student Visa for Indian Students. Valid passport; CAS from your university

UK — Post-study graduate route: The Graduate Route lets eligible graduates stay and work for 2 years after a bachelor's or Master's degree. For applications made on or after 1 January 2027 this becomes 18 months; PhD graduates can stay for 3 years.

Frequently Asked Questions About Studying in Germany

Is Germany good for Indian students?

Yes. Germany offers low or no tuition at most public universities, strong engineering and technology programmes, many English-taught Master's degrees and an 18-month post-study job-seeker permit.

Is studying in Germany free for Indian students?

Most public universities charge no tuition, only a semester contribution of about €150–400. Exceptions include Baden-Württemberg (€1,500 per semester for non-EU students) and TUM, which charges new non-EU students tuition.

How much does it cost to study in Germany?

Living costs are the main expense. For the visa you must show €11,904 per year in a blocked account (€992 per month). Tuition is usually zero at public universities, while private universities charge roughly €10,000–25,000+ per year.

What are the fees for a Master's in Germany?

At most public universities you pay only the semester contribution. TUM charges new non-EU Master's students about €4,000–6,000 per semester, Baden-Württemberg charges €1,500 per semester, and private universities charge full tuition.

Is the APS certificate mandatory for Indian students?

Yes. Indian applicants for Bachelor's and Master's study in Germany must obtain an APS certificate, which verifies their academic documents, before applying for a student visa.

What is the blocked account amount for Germany?

The current blocked account requirement is €11,904 per year, allowing withdrawals of €992 per month after you arrive.

Do I need to know German to study in Germany?

Not for English-taught programmes, which only require IELTS or TOEFL. German is required for German-taught programmes and is very helpful for part-time jobs and careers.

What are the intakes in Germany?

The winter semester starts in October and the summer semester in April. Most Master's programmes admit students in the winter semester.

Can I work while studying in Germany?

Yes, international students can work up to 140 full days or 280 half days per year.

Can I stay in Germany after my Master's?

Yes. Graduates can apply for a residence permit of up to 18 months to look for work related to their degree.