MS in Germany for Indian Students: Scholarships, Fees & Scope 2025

Written by

Inayat Sharma

Fact check by

Divyansh Chaudhari

Updated on

Sep 20,2025

MS in Germany for Indian Students: Complete 2025 Guide - TerraTern

Planning your Canada PR
Free last minute checklist

The MS in Germany for Indian students is the best example of affordable world-class education for Indian students, with tuition-free education in more than 120 state-funded universities, a high number of scholarships for MS in Germany for Indian students, and strong employment opportunities after graduation. Germany has established itself as the best study destination in Europe; it has a high 49,000 Indian students who are already enrolled, as well as a high visa approval rate at 85 percent or above. Let’s know more about MS in Germany for Indian students!

The Indian students have several major strengths:

  • Free tuition in state colleges (by saving INR 15-50 lakhs over the US/UK)

  • Total annual cost: EUR 10,000-18,000 (INR 8.9-16 lakhs)

  • Cost of living: EUR 850-1400/month (INR 75000-125 lakhs)

  • DAAD and Deutschlandstipendium have 300+ scholarships for MS in Germany for Indian students.

18 months job search visa having 85 percent success rate.

  • EUR 44,000 and above yearly (INR 39 and above lakhs)

  • Permanent residence in 2-5 years.

 

What Makes MS in Germany the Best Choice for Indian Students in 2025?

people wearing graduation capes; MS in Germany for Indian Students - TerraTern

Value Presentation in Germany, one can hardly find a better case of an MS in Germany for Indian students than the one offered by the country: high-quality education, low cost of MS in Germany for Indian students of living, and outstanding career opportunities. This special combination has turned it into an attractive area for Indian students in search of a good payoff.

Germany has a clear upper hand in cost of MS in Germany for Indian students and after study advantage as compared to other popular study destinations. Indian students who choose to pursue an MS in Germany for Indian students tend to make their decisions regarding the choice largely depending on the hard facts of its value proposition.

Factor

Germany

USA

UK

Canada

Tuition Fees

Free (Public)

30,000-60,000 USD

15,000-35,000 GBP

20,000-40,000 CAD

Total Cost/Year

10,000-18,000 EUR

50,000-80,000 USD

25,000-45,000 GBP

30,000-50,000 CAD

Work During Studies

20 hours/week

Limited (F1 restrictions)

20 hours/week

20 hours/week

Post-Study Work

18 months

12-36 months (STEM)

2 years

3 years

Visa Success Rate

85%+

65-75%

70-80%

75-85%

 

How Much Does MS in Germany Really Cost for Indian Students in 2025?

It is also important to know the full financial picture as a student before studying abroad. The reality of the MS in Germany for Indian students has the cost of MS in Germany for Indian students of pre-departure, semester charges, living expenses, and other unspecified charges. Here’s a detailed breakdown.

What Are the Total Pre-Departure Expenses?

These are the first, once-in-a-lifetime costs of MS in Germany for Indian students that you will have to incur before you even set foot in Germany for MS in Germany for Indian students.

Expense Category

Cost (EUR)

Cost (INR)

Details

GRE Exam

250

22,550

Valid for 5 years

GMAT Exam

265

23,000

Business programs

IELTS Exam

190

16,250

Most accepted

TOEFL Exam

200

16,900

Alternative to IELTS

German Language (A1-B2)

800-1,200

71,000-1,07,000

Goethe Institute

Document Translation

150-300

13,400-26,700

Certified translations

WES/Uni-Assist Evaluation

180-220

16,000-19,500

Credential evaluation

University Application Fees

75-150 per uni

6,700-13,400

Usually 3-5 universities

Student Visa Fee

75

6,700

Consulate fee

Travel Insurance

80

7,100

Pre-arrival coverage

Total Pre-Departure

2,265-3,150

2,01,000-2,80,000

One-time investment

 

What Are the Exact Semester Fees at German Universities?

While public universities don't charge tuition fees, they do require a semester contribution, which is often a nominal amount.

German State

Semester Fee Range

Includes Transportation

Notes

Berlin

300-350 EUR

Yes

Covers all of Berlin's transport

Bavaria (Bayern)

100-6,000 EUR

Varies

TUM charges 4,000-6,000 EUR for some programs

Baden-Württemberg

1,500 EUR

Yes

Non-EU fee introduced in 2017

North Rhine-Westphalia

270-330 EUR

Yes

Includes regional transport

Lower Saxony

350-380 EUR

Yes

Comprehensive transport coverage

Hamburg

320-350 EUR

Yes

City-wide transport included

 Also Read: Germany Study Visa Requirements: Latest Checklist

How Much Do Living Expenses Vary by German City in 2025?

bank notes; How Much Do Living Expenses Vary by German City - TerraTern

Living costs can vary significantly based on the city. Bigger cities like Munich and Berlin are more expensive, while smaller cities offer more affordable options. Let’s know more about MS in Germany for Indian students and the cost of living Germany!

City

Accommodation

Food

Transport

Miscellaneous

Total/Month

Munich

600-900 EUR

250-300 EUR

65 EUR (if not included)

200-250 EUR

1,115-1,515 EUR

Berlin

400-700 EUR

200-250 EUR

Included in the semester fee

150-200 EUR

750-1,150 EUR

Hamburg

450-750 EUR

220-270 EUR

Included

180-220 EUR

850-1,240 EUR

Frankfurt

500-800 EUR

230-280 EUR

85 EUR

190-240 EUR

1,005-1,405 EUR

Dresden

300-500 EUR

180-220 EUR

50 EUR

120-160 EUR

650-930 EUR

Leipzig

280-450 EUR

170-210 EUR

60 EUR

110-150 EUR

620-870 EUR

Aachen

350-550 EUR

190-230 EUR

Included

130-170 EUR

670-950 EUR

What Are the Hidden Costs Students Often Miss in Germany? Experts Insights 2025

Besides the main expenses, students should also budget for hidden costs that can add up over time.

Hidden Cost Category

Amount (EUR)

Amount (INR)

Frequency

Details

City Registration Fee

10-50

900-4,500

One-time

Mandatory registration at the local Bürgeramt.

TV/Radio License Fee

18.36/month

1,630/month

Monthly

The Rundfunkbeitrag is a mandatory fee per household.

Security Deposit (Housing)

600-1,800

53,000-1,60,000

One-time

2-3 months' rent, usually refundable.

Furniture Setup

200-700

17,800-62,300

One-time

For unfurnished accommodation, this can add up.

Health Insurance Gap

30-90

2,700-8,000

Initial months

To cover the period before your blocked account is active.

Bank Setup & Charges

50-150/year

4,500-13,400/year

Annual

Fees for bank account setup and annual maintenance.

Residence Permit Extension

100-110

8,900-9,800

Annual

Required after your first year of study.

Study Materials

100-300/year

8,900-26,700/year

Annual

Costs for books, software, and lab equipment.

German Language Course

300-1,000

26,700-89,000

Optional

For students who wish to improve their language skills locally.

Which Scholarships Can Fund Your MS in Germany for Indian Students?

Securing scholarship for MS in Germany for Indian students can significantly reduce the financial burden of studying abroad. Several major scholarships for MS in Germany for Indian students are available through governmental and private organizations.

What Are the Major DAAD Scholarship Programs for Indians?

The German Academic Exchange Service (DAAD) is a primary source of scholarship for MS in Germany for Indian students

Scholarship Program

Monthly Stipend

Duration

Coverage

Success Rate

Application Deadline

DAAD Graduate School

1,200 EUR

12-24 months

Full tuition + living + travel

8-12%

September 30

DAAD Development-Related

861 EUR

12-24 months

Tuition + living + insurance

10-15%

July 31/August 31

DAAD Research Grants

1,200 EUR

7-10 months

Living + research costs

12-18%

November 15

DAAD Study Scholarships

861 EUR

10-24 months

Living + tuition + travel

6-10%

October 31

DAAD EPOS Program

1,200 EUR

18-24 months

Full coverage + internship

15-20%

Varies by program

 

Requirements of DAAD Application:

  • Academic Excellence: 75% or 8.0/10 CGPA Minimum.

Work Experience: 2+ years (not mandatory)

  • English (IELTS 6.5+) or German (B2+): Language Proficiency.

  • Motivation Letter: 1-2 pages explaining the study objectives.

  • Research Proposal: In institutions that are research-based.

  • Recommendations Letters: 2-3 academic/professional references.

How Does Deutschlandstipendium Operate in the Case of Indian Students?

Europe on a map; How Does Deutschlandstipendium Operate in the Case of Indian Students - TerraTern

Deutschlandstipendium is a government and industry scholarship, funded by universities themselves. Let’s know more about MS in Germany for Indian students!

Aspect

Details

Benefits for Indians

Monthly Amount

300 EUR (150 government + 150 private)

Tax-free income supplement

Duration

Usually 2 semesters (renewable)

Can cover the entire master's duration

Eligibility

Merit-based, social engagement

No citizenship restrictions

Application Process

Directly through universities

University-specific criteria

Selection Rate

15-25% depending on the university

Higher at technical universities

Additional Benefits

Mentoring, networking events

Industry connections in Germany

 

What University-Specific Scholarships Are Available?

A lot of universities have their own scholarship programs to entice the best international talent.

  • TU Munich: TUM Global Incentive (300-1,000 EUR/month, merit-based)

  • University of Bonn: International Scholarship (400-800 EUR/month, based on academic excellence)

  • RWTH Aachen: RWTH International (300-600 EUR/month, engineering students).

  • Free University Berlin: Deutschlandstipendium Plus (500 EUR/month, for high achievers)

  • University of Stuttgart: Baden-Württemberg State-sponsored Scholarship (350 EUR/month) 

Also Read: Is the German Language Compulsory to Study in Germany?

What are the Highest-Ranking German Universities to do MS?

Germany has among the world's renowned universities with excellent engineering, science, and business courses. One of the important processes involved in the application is the selection of the appropriate university.

What Are the Global Rankings of German Universities?

Here are the global rankings of German University:

University

QS World Ranking

THE World Ranking

Strong Programs

Indian Students

Acceptance Rate

Technical University of Munich

37

43

Engineering, Computer Science, Business

2,500+

15-20%

LMU Munich

54

38

Medicine, Life Sciences, Physics

1,800+

20-25%

Heidelberg University

87

44

Medicine, Natural Sciences

1,200+

25-30%

Free University of Berlin

98

83

Social Sciences, Humanities

1,500+

30-35%

RWTH Aachen University

106

79

Engineering, Technology

2,200+

18-22%

Technical University of Berlin

154

149

Engineering, Computer Science

1,900+

25-30%

University of Bonn

132

76

Mathematics, Physics, Economics

800+

30-35%

KIT Karlsruhe

119

133

Engineering, Natural Sciences

1,600+

20-25%

 

Which Programs Are Most Popular Among Indian Students?

Here is a list of the most popular programs among Indian students:

Program Category

Popular Specializations

Top Universities

Average Intake

Job Market Demand

Computer Science

AI, Data Science, Cybersecurity

TUM, TU Berlin, RWTH Aachen

800+ students/year

Very High

Engineering

Mechanical, Electrical, Automotive

RWTH Aachen, TUM, KIT

1,200+ students/year

Very High

Business

Management, Finance, International Business

Mannheim, Frankfurt School

600+ students/year

High

Data Science

Machine Learning, Analytics

TUM, University of Bonn

400+ students/year

Very High

Renewable Energy

Sustainable Engineering

Freiburg, Oldenburg

300+ students/year

High

Biotechnology

Bioengineering, Life Sciences

Heidelberg, LMU Munich

250+ students/year

Medium-High

What Are the Admission Requirements in Germany by University Tier in 2025?

cubes with letters; What Are the Admission Requirements by University Tier - TerraTern

Tier 1 Universities (QS Top 100) Requirements:

  • CGPA: 8.5/10 or 85%+ (First Class with Distinction)

  • GRE: 315+ (Quantitative: 155+, Verbal: 160+)

  • IELTS: 7.0+ (no band below 6.5)

  • Work Experience: 2+ years preferred

  • Research Experience: Publications/projects highly valued

  • SOP: 1,000-1,500 words, program-specific

  • LORs: 3 strong recommendations (2 academic + 1 professional)

Tier 2 Universities (QS 100-200) Requirements:

  • CGPA: 7.5/10 or 75%+ (First Class)

  • GRE: 305+ (optional for some programs)

  • IELTS: 6.5+ (no band below 6.0)

  • Work Experience: 1+ years preferred

  • SOP: 800-1,200 words

  • LORs: 2-3 recommendations

What Are the Exact Admission Requirements for MS in Germany for Indians in 2025?

A successful application hinges on meeting the specific admission requirements. This involves more than just a good GPA; it requires careful preparation and an understanding of the German academic system.

What Academic Qualifications Do Indian Students Need?

Here are the academic qualification that Indian students need:

Program Type

Minimum Education

CGPA/Percentage

Subjects Required

Additional Requirements

Consecutive Masters

Related Bachelor's (3-4 years)

7.0/10 or 70%+

Directly related field

70%+ match in curriculum

Non-Consecutive Masters

Any Bachelor's degree

7.5/10 or 75%+

Any field accepted

Work experience preferred

Research Masters

Bachelor's with a research component

8.0/10 or 80%+

Related field mandatory

Research proposal required

Professional Masters

Bachelor's + work experience

7.0/10 or 70%+

Related professional field

2+ years of experience

 

Credit Transfer Requirements:

  • ECTS Credits: Minimum 180 ECTS for a bachelor's degree (equivalent to 3 years)

  • Course Matching: 70%+ curriculum overlap for consecutive programs

  • Grade Conversion: The German grade scale is 1.0-4.0 (1.0 = excellent)

What Are the Language Proficiency Requirements for an MS in Germany?

You'll need to prove your proficiency in either English or German.

Test

Minimum Score

Preferred Score

Validity

Cost (INR)

Preparation Time

IELTS Academic

6.0 (no band <5.5)

7.0+ (no band <6.5)

2 years

16,250

2-3 months

TOEFL iBT

80 (R:19, L:19, S:19, W:19)

95+ (all sections 22+)

2 years

16,900

2-3 months

 

German Language Requirements:

  • English-taught Programs: Not required

  • German-taught Programs: B2-C1 level (DSH-2/TestDaF 4)

  • Mixed Programs: A2-B1 preferred

Are GRE/GMAT Scores Mandatory?

Standardized test requirements vary by program and university for MS in Germany for Indian students.

Program Category

GRE Requirement

GMAT Alternative

Minimum Scores

Waiver Conditions

Engineering

Recommended

Not accepted

GRE: 305+

Strong academic record

Computer Science

Highly recommended

Not accepted

GRE: 315+

Industry experience

Business/MBA

Optional

Preferred

GMAT: 600+

Work experience 3+ years

Natural Sciences

University-specific

Not accepted

GRE: 300+

Research background

How Does the German Student Visa Process Work for Indians in 2025?

wooden alphabets on a brown surface; How Does the German Student Visa Process Work for Indians - TerraTern

The student visa application for MS in Germany for Indian students is a critical step that requires meticulous preparation. Understanding the process and common pitfalls is key to a smooth journey.

What Is the Complete Student Visa Application Process?

Here is the complete process for students application MS in Germany for Indian students:

Phase 1: Pre-Application Preparation (3-4 months prior to travel)

  • Get an admission letter to a German university.

  • Open and deposit a blocked account of 11,904 EUR in 2025.

  • Work out German health insurance.

  • Blackmail all necessary documents.

  • Appoint a visa meeting at the German consulate.

Phase 2: Preparation of documents (1-2 months)

  • Passport: 6+ months validity.

  • Admission Letter: Original acceptance of the university.

  • Academic papers: All degree certificates, mark sheets.

  • Blocked Account Certificate: Certificate of EUR 11,904 deposit.

  • Health Insurance: coverage approved in Germany.

  • Certificates of language: IELTS/TOEFL/German.

  • Motivation Letter: An interesting personal statement.

  • CV/Resume: Academic and professional history.

  • Photos on a Passport: Biometric, German.

Phase 3: Submission of Visa Application

  • Visa Fee: 75 EUR (6700 INR) is not refundable.

  • Processing Time: 6-12 weeks, more so during the peak season.

What Are the Blocked Account Requirements in Germany for 2025?

Here are some of the blocked account requirements for MS in Germany for Indian students:

Aspect

2025 Requirements

Details

Minimum Amount

11,904 EUR (10.6 lakhs INR)

Increased from 11,208 EUR in 2024

Monthly Access

992 EUR

Automatically released each month

Purpose

Living expenses proof

Visa requirement + actual living costs

Bank Options

Deutsche Bank, Expatrio, Fintiba

Choose based on services

 

Interpretations of Congregationalism and Baptism Comparison:

  • Expatrio: 49 EUR to set up, 5.90 EUR/month, and 1-2 weeks to process.

  • Fintiba: 89 a one-time fee, 4.90 a monthly fee, 2-3 weeks processing.

How high are the Visa Success Rates, and what are the most frequent reasons for rejection?

  • Overall Success Rate: 87% (2024 data).

  • First-time Applications: 82% approval.

Common Rejection Reasons:

  • Lack of Financial Evidence: 35% of rejection.

  • Textbook Half-Baked Documentation: 25% of rejections.

  • Irregular Information: 20% rejection.

  • Poor Study Motivation: 1 out of 10 rejections.

What Are The Career Opportunities of MS in Germany 2025?

Indian graduates stand on a strong career platform since the German economy and the need to hire skilled personnel are very strong. Let’s know more about MS in Germany for Indian students.

What Are the Average Salaries for Indian MS Graduates?

Here is the breakdown of average salaries for Indian MS Graduate:

Industry

Entry-level Salary

3-Year Experience

5+ Year of Experience

Growth Rate

Information Technology

45,000-55,000 EUR

65,000-80,000 EUR

90,000-120,000 EUR

15-20% annually

Automotive Engineering

48,000-58,000 EUR

70,000-85,000 EUR

95,000-130,000 EUR

12-15% annually

Data Science/Analytics

50,000-60,000 EUR

75,000-90,000 EUR

100,000-140,000 EUR

18-22% annually

Consulting

52,000-65,000 EUR

80,000-100,000 EUR

120,000-180,000 EUR

20-25% annually

Which Companies Actively Hire Indian MS Graduates in Germany in 2025?

looking for a job written in white on a black background; Which Companies Actively Hire Indian MS Graduates - TerraTern

Here is a list of companies actively hiring Indian MS Graduate:

  • SAP: Roles in development and consulting.

  • Siemens: Engineers and project managers.

  • BMW Group: Design and R&D engineers.

  • Bosch: Engineers and developers across various divisions.

  • Volkswagen: Engineers and analysts.

  • Deutsche Bank: Analysts and risk managers.

What Is the Path to Permanent Residency?

Here is the path to permanent residency after MS in Germany for Indian students:

Timeline

Status

Requirements

Benefits

0-18 months

Job Search Visa

Valid graduation, active job search

Work permission

18 months-2 years

Work Visa

Employment contract, salary threshold

Full work rights

2-5 years

EU Blue Card

58,400 EUR+ salary, university degree

Fast-track to permanent residence

5+ years

Permanent Residence

5 years residence, B1 German, integration

Unrestricted work, social benefits

8+ years

German Citizenship

8 years residence, B2 German, integration

EU passport, voting rights

 Also Read: Pursue Civil Engineering Jobs in Germany: Everything You Need To Know

How to Prepare a Winning Application for MS in Germany in 2025?

A strong application strategy is the foundation of a successful admission in MS in Germany for Indian students.

What Is the Optimal University Selection Strategy?

Here is the optimal university selection strategy for MS in Germany for Indian students!

Selection Criteria

Weight

Evaluation Method

Key Considerations

Program Ranking

25%

QS/THE subject rankings

Choose top 3 in your field

Admission Probability

25%

Your profile vs. requirements

Apply to 40-60% match universities

Location & Cost

20%

City living costs analysis

Balance quality with affordability

Industry Connections

15%

Alumni network, partnerships

Research placement rates

Research Opportunities

10%

Faculty research, facilities

Align with career goals

How to Write a Compelling Statement of Purpose for MS in Germany in 2025?

pen on a notebook; MS in Germany for Indian Students: - TerraTern

A powerful SOP is a narrative that connects your past achievements to your future goals.

Section

Word Count

Content Focus

Key Elements

Introduction

150-200 words

Motivation, academic background

Program interest, goals

Academic Journey

250-300 words

Educational achievements, coursework

Specific examples, quantified results

Professional Experience

200-250 words

Work experience, projects

Leadership, technical competencies

Research Interests

200-250 words

Specific research areas, faculty

Future research goals

Why Germany/University

150-200 words

Program fit, university choice

Specific reasons, unique features

Career Goals

200-250 words

Short/long-term objectives

Clear progression, impact vision

Conclusion

100-150 words

Summary, commitment

Strong closing, enthusiasm

What Application Timeline Should Indian Students Follow for MS in Germany 2025?

Here is a detailed, step-by-step application timeline for MS in Germany for Indian students aiming to pursue. Following this plan can help you manage the process efficiently and increase your chances of admission to your desired university. 

18-15 Months Before (January-June, Year 1):

  • Define career goals and program preferences.

  • Begin IELTS/TOEFL and GRE preparation.

  • Start university research and shortlist.

12-9 Months Before (July-December, Year 1):

  • Take standardized tests.

  • Finalize your list of 7-10 universities.

  • Draft your SOP and request recommendation letters.

  • Begin researching scholarships.

6-3 Months Before (January-June, Year 2):

  • Submit all university and scholarship applications.

  • Track application status and prepare for interviews.

  • Receive and accept university offers.

0-3 Months Before (July-September, Year 2):

  • Prepare and submit your student visa application.

  • Complete the blocked account deposit and health insurance setup.

  • Plan your travel and arrival in Germany.

 

Conclusion

Pursuing an MS in Germany for Indian students represents one of the most strategic educational investments Indian students can make in 2025, combining world-class education with exceptional affordability and career prospects. With tuition-free education at over 120 public universities, comprehensive scholarship opportunities worth up to 1,200 EUR monthly, and robust post-graduation employment prospects averaging 44,000 EUR+ starting salaries, Germany continues to solidify its position as Europe's premier study destination for Indian students.

The comprehensive support ecosystem, from the 18-month job search visa to clear pathways for permanent residency, ensures that Indian graduates can build successful long-term careers in Europe's largest economy. With proper planning, strong applications, and strategic university selection, Indian students can access this exceptional opportunity and join the 49,000+ Indian students already thriving in Germany's dynamic academic and professional landscape. Visit TerraTern to know more!

 

"Your Ultimate Guide to Pursuing an MS in Germany: Costs, Scholarships, and Career Opportunities for Indian Students in 2025"

Get all the details on Australia PR with this visa checklist

AI Summary

At TerraTern, we adhere to a stringent editorial policy emphasizing factual accuracy, impartiality, and relevance. Our content is curated by experienced industry professionals, and reviewed by editors to ensure high standards.

Frequently Asked Questions

Is MS in Germany completely free for Indian students in 2025?

Yes, 120+ public universities offer tuition-free MS programs for international students, including Indians. Students only pay semester contributions of €100-400, which often include transportation passes. Only Baden-Württemberg charges €1,500 semester fees for non-EU students.

What is the total annual cost for Indian students pursuing MS in Germany?

The total annual cost ranges from €10,000-18,000 (INR 8.9-16 lakhs), including living expenses (€850-1,400/month), semester fees, health insurance, and miscellaneous costs. This is significantly lower than US, UK, or Australian alternatives.

How much can Indian students earn after completing MS in Germany?

Indian MS graduates typically start with salaries of €44,000-65,000 annually (INR 39-58 lakhs), with IT and engineering graduates often earning higher. After 3-5 years, salaries can reach €80,000-120,000+ annually.

What are the admission requirements for top German universities?

Top universities typically require 75%+ undergraduate grades, IELTS 7.0+, GRE 315+ (for competitive programs), strong statement of purpose, and 2-3 recommendation letters. Work experience is preferred but not always mandatory.

How long does the German student visa process take for Indian students?

The visa process takes 6-12 weeks after application submission. Students need a blocked account with €11,904, university admission letter, health insurance, and complete documentation. The success rate for Indian students exceeds 85%.

Can Indian students work while studying in Germany?

Yes, international students can work 20 hours per week or 120 full days per year during studies. After graduation, students receive an 18-month job search visa with full work permissions.

Which scholarships are available for Indian students pursuing MS in Germany?

Major scholarships include DAAD (€861-1,200/month), Deutschlandstipendium (€300/month), and university-specific scholarships. Success rates range from 6-20% depending on the program and student profile.

What is the success rate for Indian students getting jobs after MS in Germany?

92% of Indian graduates find employment within 12 months, with 78% securing jobs within 6 months. The average job search duration is 4.2 months, supported by strong industry demand for skilled professionals.