The cost of studying in Germany in 2024
Germany, the economic engine of Europe, is one of the top destinations for migrants. This country is highly popular for studying and living because skilled workers can work in various fields related to their majors there. With low unemployment rates and a dynamic job market, as well as a focus on creativity and technology, Germany is recognized as one of the economic powerhouses of Europe. The German government pays special attention to education, and studying in this country is usually free. However, some schools, colleges, and universities charge tuition fees to students. In this article, join us to discuss the cost of studying in Germany in detail.
Cost of Studying in Germany
Compared to other countries, the cost of studying in Germany is much cheaper, which has become more apparent in recent years with the implementation of government initiatives. In 2014, the German government approved a plan to waive tuition fees for all students enrolled in public universities (including international students). This decision encouraged many students to migrate and study in Germany. Currently, more than 380,000 international students are studying in this country. However, expenses such as living costs, administrative fees, student union fees, and public transportation costs are the responsibility of the students.
Since 2017, some German universities have been charging tuition fees from students, and this is more common for international students at the master's level. These students must pay a semester contribution, which is a maximum of 300 euros. The cost of studying in Germany is usually the same for all fields. However, there are differences in tuition fees at private and non-governmental universities. For example, studying in fields like business management or MBA (annual fee of 35,000 euros) and engineering costs more than other fields of study.
The maximum annual tuition fee at private universities in Germany is 30,000 euros, which is significantly cheaper compared to the tuition fees in other countries.
Cost of studying at public universities in Germany
Studying at public universities in Germany is free of charge. By providing a B2 German language certificate to the university, you can study for free at public universities in this country. In this case, you only need to pay fees such as student administration and administrative costs. This opportunity is a unique chance for students who are willing to study in Germany and have sufficient German language skills.
Cost of studying at private universities in Germany
In comparison to public universities, private universities in Germany charge tuition fees from students. According to information from the study.eu website, students at private universities usually have to pay amounts ranging from 10,000 to 15,000 euros as tuition fees. These fees are equivalent to 10,000 and 20,000 euros for bachelor's and master's degrees, respectively. However, the expenses related to studying at private universities in Germany depend on the applicant's residency status and will be different for EU and non-EU citizens.
According to the Go-Scholarships website, most private universities in Germany do not offer study programs for doctoral or PhD degrees. However, studying in these programs at private universities in Germany comes with tuition fees ranging from 25,000 to 40,000 euros per year.
Cost of studying in Germany for undergraduate level
Compared to other countries, migrating to Germany for undergraduate and master's studies, even at private universities, is usually cost-effective and affordable. However, it should be noted that the cost of studying certain disciplines such as MBA and medicine is higher than others, and these costs depend on the university and the desired field of study.
According to reliable sources from the Upgradabroad website, the cost of studying in Germany for diploma or vocational courses and bachelor's degrees at public institutions is 300 euros annually, and at private and non-profit institutions, it is 26,500 euros annually. However, it should be remembered that costs may vary between universities and different fields of study.
Cost of studying in Germany for master's degree
The Master of Science degree (MS) is one of the study programs in Germany, usually completed in one to two years (2 to 4 terms). In this level of study, no tuition fees are defined for international and domestic students at German universities, as most top universities in Germany are financially supported by the government. Domestic and international students only pay a registration fee for the university and semester (Semester Ticket Fee), which ranges from 138 to 1500 euros, depending on the duration of their study program.
The costs associated with a master's degree in each specialized field of study will vary; however, some universities do not charge students for their study programs. Additionally, the highest costs are usually related to housing rent for international students studying for a master's degree in Germany.
Cost of studying in Germany for doctoral degree
Most universities in Germany offer doctoral programs free of charge and only charge a minimal amount as social contribution fees. However, in some universities, you may have to pay a fee for studying at the doctoral level, but it should be noted that these fees will vary depending on the field of study. Additionally, sometimes students are granted scholarships or financial assistance, which helps them with their study and living expenses.
The average registration fee at public universities for doctoral studies in Germany is around 450 euros. By adding costs such as social contribution fees, the average of these costs increases to 1021 euros.
Cost of living for students in Germany
For international students planning to study and work in Germany, especially those who need to obtain a visa to enter the country, providing financial capability documents is essential. According to statistics, international students need approximately 934 euros per month to cover living expenses in Germany, which amounts to 11,208 euros per year. Therefore, the cost of studying in Germany is considered significantly cost-effective for international students.
However, the main challenge for living in Germany is related to the expenses associated with renting accommodation. These expenses may be a significant factor in the decision-making process for international students coming to Germany, especially when they do not have sufficient financial documents to rent accommodation.
College costs in Germany: Studying at public colleges
Most colleges in Germany are public, and generally, studying at a public college is usually free. However, a partial fee is charged to college students each semester, ranging from 100 to 400 euros. This amount is very low compared to the annual fees of private colleges, which are approximately 2,000 to 6,000 euros.
The costs of renting accommodation, clothing, food, purchasing books, etc., are about 700 euros per month. It should be noted that applicants are not allowed to work during the college period. Also, it should be noted that most colleges do not offer scholarships. Applicants for German public colleges must have at least a high school diploma and pre-university qualification. The required language proficiency for college is level B1 in German. Studying at German public colleges is only possible in German.
Residence costs for studying in Germany according to the lifestyle
Studying in Germany is free, but living expenses cannot be ignored. In major German cities such as Berlin, Frankfurt, and Dusseldorf, the monthly cost of living is usually between 900 and 1400 euros, but compared to these cities, Munich, with an average annual cost of living of 12,000 euros, is considered the most expensive city in Germany. In smaller cities such as Freiburg, Leipzig, and Hanover, the cost of living is usually between 750 and 1100 euros per month.
The average cost of living in Germany in recent years has been about 10,200 euros annually (850 euros per month), but some students have managed to cover their expenses with 670 euros per month. The cost of renting accommodation is considered the main part of living expenses and varies in each city. On average, the rent for a one-bedroom apartment in Germany is 530 euros, but if you live in flats or university dormitories, expenses will decrease, and accordingly, the average monthly housing costs will be 280 euros and 234 euros, respectively. If you live with a spouse or child, an additional 400 euros per month will be added to this amount. Also, the cost of staying in university dormitories ranges from 150 to 240 euros per month.
According to the DAAD website, the average monthly living expenses are as follows:
- 168 euros for food (a meal for one person 10 euros);
- 42 euros for clothing;
- 94 euros for transportation;
- 31 euros for telephone, internet, and television subscription;
- 20 euros for study or work supplies;
- 61 euros for recreational activities.
On the other hand, 75 euros must be considered for the student visa and an estimated monthly fee of 80 euros for health insurance (for registration at the university). Students must also pay 110 euros annually for their residence permit in Germany.
Cost of student visa for Germany
The cost of obtaining a student visa for Germany is 75 euros, and in case of rejection of the application, this fee is non-refundable. Students who intend to stay in Germany for more than 90 days must pay 110 euros to obtain this permit. Also, the visa application fee for minors (under 18 years old) is 37.5 euros.
Money management and bank accounts to pay for studying in Germany 2024
One of the most important things that foreign students should consider when studying in Germany is money management and bank accounts to pay for studying in Germany. Money management techniques in Germany include:
Set a budget for yourself
Setting a budget for students is an important challenge, but regular financial planning can help them manage their expenses. Many students face problems due to the lack of a budget, but setting an appropriate budget can ensure that expenses are managed and controlled. In this regard, the most important points to consider are:
- Income: The budget should be based on your current income, even if it is not much. International students are usually only allowed to work for a limited number of hours per week, so controlling expenses is very important.
- Fixed expenses: Make a list of fixed expenses that you must pay regularly, including rent, utilities, etc., and the amount you need to pay for each.
- Optional expenses: Some optional expenses are variable; for example, instead of eating out at a restaurant, you can cook at home.
Save money
To save money and achieve your goals in the future, you can use various methods. The first step in saving is prioritizing expenses. Even if you don't have a high income right now, the habit of saving and setting aside a portion of your income can help you in the long run. This will allow you to consistently save a significant amount and manage your expenses.
Find new opportunities to earn income
The opportunity to work in Canada as a student with a study permit creates an opportunity for you to improve your work experience as well as earn income. If your study permit allows you to work outside of the university, you can work part-time and earn income.
Read more: Student loans in Germany and their types
Benefits of Having a Bank Account for Paying Education Expenses in Germany 2024
Having a bank account for paying education expenses in Germany has many advantages, which we will discuss below:
Easy access to account and banking services
By opening an account, you can easily access your account information and use banking services online or via mobile banking at any time. However, keep in mind that a small fee may be charged for each transaction and use of services, and there are limitations on the number of transactions per month.
Account opening fees in this country are free
Opening an account in many German banks does not cost you anything due to the limited services offered. However, keep in mind that a fee may be deducted from your account for each transaction.
Offering diverse and extensive services
Some banks offer various services, including free ATM usage, credit card issuance, and more facilities.
Providing services in English
Some multinational banks offer their services in English, which can be a positive point for immigrants who do not have sufficient command of the German language.
Ability to use credit services
A bank account in Germany is not only used to hold money but also allows you to use banking and credit services. These services include personal loans, issuance of credit and debit cards, investments, and even various insurances. These facilities help you to have financial planning and easily access more financial resources when needed.
Closing Words
Germany has always been one of the most popular destinations for international students, and there are many reasons for this. Among these reasons, we can mention the high level of education, advanced support facilities, the opportunity to work during studies, and other features that have made Germany popular among other countries. The cost of studying in Germany is one of its most important advantages due to its low tuition fees. In this article, we have examined the details of the study costs at public and private universities in Germany. Additionally, the average cost of student living in Germany has also been investigated. This information is very useful for individuals who are considering studying in Germany. We hope that with this information, you can make the right decision to start your studies in Germany.
Frequently Asked Questions
Do German universities provide free dormitories to students to reduce study costs?
No, the cost of living in university dormitories varies between 150 to 240 euros per month.
Which countries' health insurance schemes are valid in Germany?
Health insurance schemes from EU member states, Bosnia and Herzegovina, Iceland, Liechtenstein, Morocco, North Macedonia, Montenegro, and Norway are valid in Germany.
Apart from the cost of studying, what else makes Germany an ideal place for studying?
Germany is the economic engine of Europe, and skilled professionals can work in various fields related to their majors there.
In which German states is study tuition free if we fail to complete our study period on time?
If you fail to complete your study period on time and study in Bremen, Lower Saxony, Saarland, Saxony, Saxony-Anhalt, or Thuringia, you may have to pay tuition fees.
Are tuition fees at private higher education institutions in Germany included in the study costs?
Yes, the maximum annual tuition fee at private universities in Germany is 30,000 euros.
Which study programs in Germany incur study costs?
In German public universities, all study programs are offered for free, and only registration fees and social participation fees for doctoral students are charged.
Is it possible for students to work to cover study costs in Germany?
Students from EU member countries entering Germany and studying in this country can work and earn income alongside their studies without any restrictions. Non-EU students can also work as students, but with some restrictions.
Are scholarships available to cover study costs in Germany?
Scholarships are always available at German universities for domestic and international students. This allows students to study in one of the best European countries without worrying about tuition fees.
