Germany is one of the most sought-after destinations for higher studies among international students. Indians also plan to study in Germany for various reasons. First, the tuition-free education in public universities and a top-class curriculum with international exposure. If it is your long-cherisd dream to study in one of the top Universities in Germany, you first need to understand the total cost of studying in Germany for Indian students. Here in this post, we will discuss some essential things that will help you decide the best University in Germany for your higher studies.
What will we discuss here? We will explore the top public universities in Germany and their tuition fees, the top private universities in Germany with their tuition fees, living expenses, and whether there are hidden costs. Read on to know more!
What is the total cost of studying in Germany for Indian students?
It would be better if we say the average total cost of studying in Germany for Indian students, rather than giving you the exact figure, because the cost of living, food, transportation, etc., goes up and down.
Cost of studying in Germany
It is, therefore, estimated to be between EURO 11,000 and EURO 15,600 per year, which encompasses both living expenses as well as tuition fees. Normally, the living expenses, combined with accommodation, food, and transportation costs, which typically range between EURO 850 and EURO 1,300, which is equivalent to INR 74,000 to INR 1,15,600 per month. It depends on your lifestyle in Germany.
Tuition Fees to study in Germany
Now, coming to the cost of studying in public universities in Germany. It often has minimal or no tuition fees, because Germany’s public universities are world-renowned for providing lower-cost or free of cost education to all. You may question why education in Germany is free. Germany is one of the countries in the world that views education as ra ight to all and a public good, not a commodity.
This policy is based on a belief that when education is accessible to all classes of people, irrespective of domestic and international students, this will foster a knowledge-based society and support the country’s economic growth by attracting skilled individuals at the same time.
On the other hand, private universities can charge between EURO 12,000 to EURO 15,000 per year. In addition to that, students need to factor in a blocked account or to show the sufficient fund to study in private universities with approximately EURO 11,208 per year which is equivalent to EURO 934 per month to cover living expenses.Â
Here is the breakdown of the total cost of study in Germany for Indian students in 2025:
Living Expenses:
- Accommodation: EURO 300 – EURO 500 per month in smaller cities. The cost would be higher in major cities like Munich or Berlin.Â
- Food and Groceries: EURO 200 – EURO 300 per month.Â
- Health Insurance: EURO 80 – EURO 100 per month.Â
- Transportation: EURO 80 per month for a public transport pass. Although this can also vary based on the city you live in.
- Other Expenses: The other expenses, like leisure, personal spending, etc., can be between EURO 150 and EURO 250 per month.Â
Tuition Fees:
- Public Universities: EURO 250 to EURO 350 is common.Â
- Private Universities: EURO 12,000 to EURO 15,000 per year.Â
Finishing Lines
You can study in Germany for free if you study in a public university. As you have seen, the cost of studying in public universities is almost free, and if there is any charge, then it is for administrative and transportation charges. The cost of living is lower than the cost of living in the UK or the USA. Overall, the total cost of studying in Germany for Indian students is much affordable than in other countries in Europe.Â