Is It True That Most Public Universities in Germany Have No Tuition Fees for Students?

Many people believe that studying at a public university in Germany is totally free, but this is not entirely accurate. While public universities in Germany often do not charge tuition fees for German and EU citizens, there are exceptions and various additional costs to consider.

Free Public Universities for EU Citizens and German Residents

Public universities in Germany are free for EU citizens and long-term German residents with permanent residency (PR). However, there are still some costs to consider:

Additional Fees: These typically amount to a few hundred euros per month and include things such as administrative fees, library usage, and other campus facilities. Living Expenses: Students should budget around 11,200 euros per year for accommodation, food, and other living costs.

Some public universities, such as the Technical University of Munich (TUM) and the states of Baden-Württemberg and Brandenburg, do charge a semester fee of 1,500 euros for non-EU residents.

Costs for Non-EU and Non-Schengen Citizens

For non-EU and non-Schengen citizens, the situation is a bit different:

Bachelor's Programs: Most public universities in Germany offer bachelor's programs free of tuition fees for non-EU students as well. However, there are exceptions in Baden-Württemberg, where the semester fee of 1,500 euros applies, and in some universities in Berlin. Masters Programs: Most master's programs in Germany are taught in English and are degree programs aimed at international students who plan to work in Germany after graduation. These programs typically charge tuition fees, which can exceed 8,000 euros per semester.

It's important to note that non-EU students who choose programs in German will need a good command of the German language, usually at B2 or even C1 level. This is often a requirement for most bachelor's programs.

Private Universities and Additional Fees

While many public universities in Germany are tuition-free, private universities may charge tuition fees for both German and foreign students. It's essential to research specific programs and institutions before applying to ensure you understand the full cost implications.

Studentenwerk Contributions

In addition to tuition fees, students in Germany also have to pay a contribution to the Studentenwerk, which is typically between 50 and 300 euros per semester. This covers various services such as free public transportation in many regions but is not considered a tuition fee.

Who Pays What?

Generally, universities that are free for German students must also be free for EU students. Non-EU students, however, may be required to pay additional fees. Programs where non-EU students are tuition-free tend to be in fields that have a critical shortage of workers, as this is a strategy to attract enough students.

Conclusion

The notion that "everything is free in Germany" is a common misconception. While many public universities in Germany are free for German and EU students, there are additional costs and certain programs that do charge fees. It's crucial to check the specific details of each program and institution before making decisions about studying in Germany.

For further information on university costs and how to plan your studies, visit:

Website of the German Academic Exchange Service (DAAD): Official German university websites: