10 Best Universities in Germany for International Students 2025

Germany hosts the best universities in Germany for international students, making it a premier destination for global students seeking quality education. The best universities in Germany for international students combine world-class rankings, affordable or zero tuition fees, strong international student communities, and excellent graduate employability rates. Let’s know more about best universities in Germany for international students. 

Key Highlights for 2025:

• Technical University of Munich ranks #1 with 45% international students.

• Most public universities charge zero tuition fees (except Baden-Württemberg and some specific programs).

• Engineering programs at German universities rank among the global top 50.

• Average monthly living costs: €800-€1,000 for international students.

• Graduate employability rates: Best universities in Germany for international students rank in the global top 100.

This comprehensive guide covers rankings, admission requirements, costs, programs, and visa information specifically for international students targeting German universities in 2025.Let’s know more best engineering universities in Germany for international students.

 What Are the Top 10 Best Universities in Germany for International Students in 2025?

We've compiled an authoritative list of the best universities in Germany for international students, combining rankings (QS, THE) with metrics vital for international students: international student percentage, affordability, and employment outcomes. Let’s know more about the best universities in Germany for international students.

1. Technical University of Munich (TUM) - Score: 100/100

Technical University of Munich ranks #1 for international students with a perfect score, hosting 52,931 students, of which 45% are international. TUM ranks #49 globally (QS 2025) and #1 in Germany for graduate employability (13th globally).

Why Choose TUM: The university offers cutting-edge research facilities, strong industry partnerships with BMW, Siemens, and Allianz, and excellent post-graduation employment prospects. TUM emphasises practical learning with state-of-the-art laboratories and innovation centres. Let’s know more about the best engineering universities in Germany for international students. 

2. RWTH Aachen University - Score: 86.56/100

RWTH Aachen ranks second for international students, with 21% of its 47,000 students coming from abroad. As one of Germany's largest technical universities for international students, RWTH ranks #106 globally (QS 2025) and offers zero tuition fees for non-EU international students.

Why Choose RWTH Aachen: The university offers a comprehensive curriculum with strong industry collaborations, enabling students to participate in real-world projects. Its location near three countries provides multicultural exposure and cross-border opportunities. Let’s know more about the best universities in Germany for international students.

3. University of Heidelberg - Score: 79.19/100

Founded in 1386, Heidelberg University is Germany's oldest university, ranking #87 globally (QS 2025) with 20% international students. The best universities in Germany for international students ranks 5th in Germany and 69th worldwide for graduate employability.

Why Choose Heidelberg: The historic university town offers a unique blend of tradition and innovation. Strong research focus with 39 collaborative research centres makes it ideal for academically ambitious students, especially those targeting Medicine and Law. 

4. Ludwig Maximilian University of Munich (LMU) - Score: 78.13/100

LMU Munich ranks #54 globally (QS 2025) with 20.9% international students among its 52,000 student body. The university offers over 300 degree programs and ranks 3rd in Germany for graduate employability.

Why Choose LMU: Despite top-tier global rankings, LMU maintains a zero tuition policy, making it exceptionally affordable. It offers a strong entrepreneurial ecosystem with extensive research facilities and industry connections in a vibrant city.

5. Technical University of Berlin (TU Berlin) - Score: 73.71/100

TU Berlin hosts over 30% international students, ranking it among Germany's most diverse best universities in Germany for international students. The university ranks 4th in Germany for graduate employability, with graduates launching careers in Europe's tech capital.

Why Choose TU Berlin: The vibrant capital location offers unmatched cultural experiences, networking opportunities, and career prospects. It is a technical powerhouse with highly rated Engineering and Computer Science programs.

6. Karlsruhe Institute of Technology (KIT) - Score: 72.62/100

KIT enrols 22% international students and ranks 7th in Germany for graduate employability. As a leading research university in the natural sciences and engineering, KIT offers strong returns on investment. Let’s know more about the best universities in Germany for international students.

7. Free University of Berlin (FU Berlin) - Score: 70.10/100

FU Berlin, ranked 62nd as the world's most international university, hosts 23% international students across 150+ programs. The university maintains zero tuition fees and ranks among the top 250 globally for employment outcomes.

8. Humboldt University of Berlin - Score: 68.49/100

Humboldt University, Berlin's oldest university, ranks #1 in Germany for Arts, Humanities, and Social Sciences with 15%+ international students. The university ranks 2nd in Germany and 45th worldwide for employability.

9. Technical University of Dresden (TU Dresden) - Score: 67/100

TU Dresden hosts over 5,000 international students (18.5% of the student body) with an affordable cost of living and strong graduate employability (top 250 globally). The university operates 25+ research institutes.

10. University of Freiburg - Score: 65.35/100

University of Freiburg (founded 1457) offers 240+ degree programs across 11 faculties with 18% international students. The historic institution balances tradition with modern research excellence.

 Also Read: Germany Opportunity Card: Benefits, Eligibility & Apply

Top 10 Universities at a Glance in Germany: Latest Comparison Table 2025

Here is a comparison of best universities in Germany for international students:

Why Should International Students Choose Universities in Germany?

Germany is the destination of international students who prefer it due to the availability of tuition-free education in the globally renowned best universities in Germany for international students, where 469,485 international students are already studying. The best German universities in Germany for international students lead the world ranking and are relatively inexpensive- most of the state-run colleges have zero tuition fees and administrative fees of 100-350 euros per semester.

Key advantages include:

• Excellent education that is recognised in QS and THE rankings.

• No tuition fees in the majority of state universities in Germany for international students (non-EU students only pay a fee of 1500 Euro per semester in Baden-Württemberg).

• Intense international populations (15-45% international student bodies).

• Work opportunities in the biggest economy in Europe after the study.

• Undergraduate studies taught in English in 400 or more of the best universities in Germany for international students.

• Unthreatening and diverse atmosphere with cities that are student-friendly.

What Are The Best Engineering Schools in Germany That Can Offer Foreign Students in 2025?

Some of the best engineering schools in the world are located in Germany, with the Technical University of Munich being ranked as the number 19 in the world in terms of Engineering and Technology (QS 2025). The best universities in Germany for international students of engineering focus on practical learning, industry collaboration, as well as innovation, and can produce graduates who are highly demanded by employers across the world.

Best University of Engineering:

• Technical University of Munich (TUM): 19th in the world in Engineering. Mechanical, Electrical, Aerospace and Computer Engineering are the specialisations. Good relationships with BMW, Siemens and Allianz.

• RWTH Aachen University: 45th in the world in terms of Engineering. It has a reputation for having a huge technical faculty as well as specialisation in Mechanical, Electrical and Chemical Engineering. Provides practical involvement in projects.

• Karlsruhe Institute of Technology (KIT): Top 50 in the world. Specialises in an interdisciplinary orientation, which is good in Mechanical, Chemical, and Environmental Engineering.

• Berlin homepage: Berlin has the Technical University, TU Berlin, which is ranked among the top 100 worldwide in terms of engineering. Advantages of being in the startup capital in Europe with good courses in Aeronautics, Mechanical, and Electrical Engineering.

• University of Stuttgart: 43rd in Mechanical Engineering (subject ranking). Superior networks to train on the hardware and aircraft sectors.

Let’s know more about the best universities in Germany for international students in engineering!

What Is the Cost of Universities in Germany to International Students?

Yes, in Germany, most state best universities in Germany for international students offer zero tuition to international students, regardless of their country of origin. Students just have to contribute a semester fee of about 100-350 to include administrative services, membership of student organisations, and to a greater extent a semester transport ticket.

Exception 1 (State Policy): The German state of Baden-Wurttemberg (which includes Heidelberg, Freiburg, and KIT) imposes a fee of 1,500 Euros per semester on non-EU/EEA international students.

Exception 2 (Program Fee): TUM has program-related tuition fees of 2000-6000 euros per semester as an exception charge to non-EU students.

How Much Does it Cost to Study in Germany as an International Student?

Although tuition may be free, the biggest cost is living. As a visa requirement, the German government demands that international students to demonstrate the financial capacity of 2025 in the form of a blocked account of at least 11,904 (around 10.7 lakhs) dollars.

Complete Cost Breakdown Table

 Also Read: Germany Student Visa Requirements for Indian: Update

What Are the Admission Requirements for German Universities for International Students in 2025?

International students need a Hochschulzugangsberechtigung (HZB) or higher education entrance qualification equivalent to Germany's Abitur. Let’s know more about best universities in Germany for international students:

• For Bachelor's Programs: Indian students often need to complete the Studienkolleg (preparatory course) if their 12th standard certificate is not deemed sufficient, OR have completed 1-2 years of university study in their home country.

• For Master's Programs: A recognised Bachelor's degree (3-4 years) in a relevant field with a minimum CGPA of 6.5-7.0/10 or equivalent is typically required.

• APS Certificate (Mandatory for Indian Students): Indian students must obtain an Academic Evaluation Certificate (APS) from the Academic Evaluation Centre in New Delhi. This verifies the authenticity of academic credentials and is mandatory for the visa process.

What Language Proficiency Is Required?

Requirements depend on the program's instruction language:

Key Application Documents & Deadlines

The key applications and deadlines are:

1. Standard Documents: Completed application form, valid passport, academic certificates/transcripts, APS certificate (for Indian students), Language proficiency certificate, CV/Resume, Statement of Purpose (SOP), and Letters of Recommendation (for Master's).

2. Application Channels: Direct University Application OR centralised service Uni-Assist.

3. Deadlines:

• Winter Semester (October start): July 15
• Summer Semester (April start): January 15

How Can International Students Apply for a German Student Visa from India in 2025?

International students from India need a German National Visa (Type D) for long-term studies. The process should begin 3-4 months before the intended departure.

Student Visa Application Steps:

1. Secure University Admission: Obtain the official admission letter.

2. Schedule Visa Appointment: Book an appointment online with the German Embassy/Consulate (book early!).

3. Open Blocked Account: Deposit €11,904 in a German blocked account (e.g., Expatrio, Fintiba) as proof of financial means.

4. Obtain Health Insurance: Purchase mandatory German health insurance (€80-€120/month).

5. Gather Documents: Include the admission letter, blocked account confirmation, health insurance, and mandatory APS certificate.

6. Submit Application & Interview: Attend the appointment, submit documents, and provide biometric data.

7. Processing Time: Typically 15-30 days.

8. Post-Arrival: Register at the local registration office (Anmeldung) and convert your visa to a Residence Permit at the Foreigners' Office.

Which German Universities Offer Programs in English for International Students?

You can study in Germany without strong German skills. Over 1,900 international programs are available in English across bachelor's, master's, and doctoral levels, though English options are more abundant at the Master's level, as in the best universities in Germany for international students for engineering. Let’s know more about the best universities in Germany for international students:

Universities with Extensive English Programs:

• Technical University of Munich (TUM): Many Master's programs in Engineering, Computer Science, and Management.

• Free University of Berlin (FU Berlin): Offers English-taught Master's and some Bachelor's programs in Humanities and Social Sciences.

• Ludwig Maximilian University of Munich (LMU): Strong English options in Natural Sciences, Economics, and Management.

• RWTH Aachen & KIT: Several technical and engineering Master's programs in English.

Note: While English-taught programs eliminate the academic language barrier, learning basic German (A1-B1 level) is highly recommended for daily life, part-time work, and social integration.

What Career Opportunities Exist After Graduating from German Universities?

German university graduates enjoy excellent employment prospects. Graduates receive an 18-month residence permit specifically for job searching after completing their degree.

Key Employment Facts:

• Employability Rankings: TUM ranks #13 globally, and Humboldt University ranks #45 worldwide for graduate employability.

• Post-Study Work Visa: The 18-month job-seeker visa allows graduates to work in any field while seeking a career-appropriate position.

• Top Industries: High demand in Automotive (BMW, Mercedes-Benz), Machinery/Engineering (Siemens), IT/Tech (SAP), Finance, and Research.

• Average Starting Salaries: Engineering and Computer Science graduates typically start between €45,000 and €58,000 annually.

The combination of world-class education, minimal tuition fees, and robust post-study career opportunities makes Germany one of the most rewarding destinations for international students globally. Let’s know more about the best universities in Germany for international students in engineering. 

Also Read: Is Germany Good for Indian Students? Experts New Guide

Best Universities in Germany for International Students Scholarships and Funding: Key Takeaways 

Let’s learn more about the best universities in Germany for international students:

Top Student Cities in Germany for International Students: The Cost vs. Opportunity Matrix in 2025

Choosing a city is a balance between cost of living and career opportunities in your field.

Final Recommendations for Your Success in Germany

Here are some final recommendations for success:

1. Financial Planning: While public university tuition is generally free, you must budget for the minimum required blocked account amount (€992 per month or €11,904 per year as of 2024/2025) to cover living expenses for your visa application.

2. Application Timing: Start your scholarship applications and university admissions process 6–12 months before your intended program start date. Deadlines for DAAD scholarships are typically very early (sometimes up to 18 months in advance for some programs).

3. Holistic Profile: Focus on more than just grades. Scholarships like the Deutschlandstipendium and political foundations heavily weigh social engagement, extracurricular activities, and overcoming personal obstacles.

Would you like to search for the specific application deadline for a particular DAAD scholarship (e.g., EPOS) or get more detailed cost breakdown comparisons for any two specific German cities?

Conclusion: Strategic Planning for Your German Study Journey

Germany remains one of the most attractive destinations for international students due to its tuition-free public best universities in Germany for international students (for most programs) and strong post-study work opportunities. Successfully navigating your journey depends on securing financial aid and choosing the right city. Visit TerraTern to know more!