Study at Best Public Universities in Germany in 2026
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ճpublic universities in Germany in 2026are renowned for offering world class education with minimum or no tuition fees, making them an attractive choice for international students. As of 2025, Germany hosts over 240 public universities enrolling more than 2.9 million students, including over 458,000 international students.
These institutions are known for their strong research focus, especially in STEM fields and maintaining partnerships with global industries. Students in public universities in Germany typically only have a semester fee of about EUR 150 to EUR 300. This article will walk you through top universities, requirements and more needed to plan your education in Germany.
Top 10 Public Universities in Germany (2026)
A total of 49 universities in Germany are featured in QS World University Ranking 2026 underscoring its reputation for academic excellence. With a wide range of top tier institutions, choosing the right university requires careful planning and research.
The table below highlights the top public universities in Germany to help you compare and identify the best fit for your academic and career aspirations.
University |
QS Ranking 2026 |
Average Tuition Fees (per year) for International Students |
Technical University of Munich (TUM) |
22 |
€0 tuition (Semester contribution: ~€144-290) |
Ludwig Maximilian University of Munich (LMU Munich) |
58 |
€0 tuition (Semester contribution: ~€150-300) |
Heidelberg University |
80 |
€1,500/semester for non-EU students (≈€3,000/year) |
Free University of Berlin (Freie Universität Berlin) |
88 |
€0 tuition (Semester contribution: ~€300) |
Karlsruhe Institute of Technology (KIT) |
98 |
€1,500/semester for non-EU students (≈€3,000/year) |
RWTH Aachen University |
105 |
€0 tuition (Semester contribution: ~€300) |
Humboldt University of Berlin |
130 |
€0 tuition (Semester contribution: ~€315) |
Technical University of Berlin (TU Berlin) |
145 |
€0 tuition (Semester contribution: ~€307) |
University of Hamburg |
193 |
€0 tuition (Semester contribution: ~€300-340) |
University of Freiburg |
201 |
€1,500/semester for non-EU students (≈€3,000/year) |
Learn more about theTop Tuition-Free Public Universities in Germany for Indian Students in 2026
1. Technical University of Munich
The Technical University of Munich (TUM) is one of Europe's leading universities which offers a wide range of courses such as engineering sciences, natural sciences, life sciences and much more.
This top university is organized into eight schools and departments, and is supported by numerous research centers. TUM holds the top position in university rankings in Germany, as determined by the three most influential ranking systems.
Particular |
Details |
Acceptance Rate |
8% |
Top Courses Offered |
Computation, Information and Technology, Engineering and Design, Natural Sciences |
Eligibility Criteria |
GPA 2.0+ (on a scale of 4.00), GATE/GRE score, TESTDAF: Level 4 in all sections, IELTS: 6.5 |
Average Salary |
INR 41,39,477 to INR 1,36,60,275 |
Scholarships |
Scholarship for International Students, Students at Risk – Hilde-Domin-Programm |
Also Read:Top Scholarships for Indian Students in Germany
2. Ludwig Maximilian University of Munich
LMU is currently the second-largest public university in Germany in terms of student population.
LMU has attracted inspired scholars and talented students from all over the world, keeping the top public universities in Germany at a pedestal. The university's commitment to research and academic excellence ensures that students receive a top-quality education.
Particular |
Details |
Acceptance Rate |
10% |
Top Courses Offered |
Data Science, Technology Management, Human Biology, Neuro-Cognitive Psychology. |
Eligibility Criteria |
IELTS: 6, German higher education entrance qualification, TESTDAF: Level 4 in all sections |
Average Salary |
INR 76,99,428 to INR 1,95,38,333 |
Scholarships |
Professional Development Scholarship |
3. University of Heidelberg
In the CWTS Leiden Ranking 2019 Heidelberg University is ranked 1st in Germany. It is one of the Best Public Universities in Germany for Under Graduate Courses because of its research resources and deep rooted corporate connections.
Particular |
Details |
Acceptance Rate |
16% |
Top Courses Offered |
Biomedical Engineering, Computational Linguistics, Economics, International Health |
Eligibility Criteria |
IELTS: 6.5, TOEFL: 90.0-100, GPA 3.0+ (on a scale of 4.00) |
Average Salary |
INR 82,78,955 to INR 2,30,98,284 |
Scholarships |
BADEN-WÜRTTEMBERG STIFTUNG, DAAD Scholarships |
4. Freie Universität Berlin
This top University holds a reputable name in research as some dynamic group of researchers have resulted in numerous Nobel Prizes in the past. The fees and the academic cost is affordable which makes it a perfect fit for a huge crowd of students. Its academic reputation and employment outcomes have been consistently increasing, ensuring a definitive salary.
Particular |
Details |
Acceptance Rate |
15% |
Top Courses Offered |
Cognitive Neuroscience, Computational Sciences, Data Science, Mathematics. |
Eligibility Criteria |
IELTS: 6.5, TOEFL: 100+, GPA 3.0+ (on a scale of 4.00) |
Average Salary |
INR 51,32,952 to INR 96,86,377 |
Scholarships |
International Excellence Scholarship Programme, STIPENDIUM |
Also Read:Cheapest Cities in Germany for International Students
5. Karlsruhe Institute of Technology (KIT)
Karlsruhe Institute of Technology (KIT) is highly focused on STEM, especially engineering, computer science and physics. Teaching in KIT is research driven, and the university has strong collaborations with major tech firms. The university also offers a variety of international masters programmes in areas such as ai engineering and Informatics.
Particular |
Details |
Acceptance Rate |
20% |
Top Courses Offered |
Engineering (Mechanical, Electrical), Computer Science, Physics, Renewable Energy, Data Science, AI, Information Systems |
Eligibility Criteria |
GPA equivalent ~2.5 (≈ 85 %) IELTS ≥ 6.5 or TOEFL iBT ≥ 88 GRE/GATE may be required for certain master’s |
Average Salary |
INR 60,90,540 - INR 96,43,355 |
Scholarships |
DAAD scholarships, KIT‑specific awards (€5,000/year), Deutschlandstipendium (€300/month), Heinrich Böll Foundation |
6. RWTH Aachen University
It is the largest university in the field of technology and data sciences, both of the fields which hold a huge scope of expansion in future. The university regularly accounts for the highest amount of third-party funds among all German universities, making it affordable for students.
Aachen University is a member of theTop Industrial Managers for Europenetwork and ensures attractive employment opportunities in the industrial field as well.
Particular |
Details |
Acceptance Rate |
10% |
Top Courses Offered |
Arts & Humanities, Engineering & Technologies, Computer Science, Physical Sciences |
Eligibility Criteria |
HSC: 80%, TOEFL IBT - 90-95, TestDaF - level 4 |
Average Salary |
INR 1,10,93,799 to INR 1,59,78,383 |
Scholarships |
Country Scholarship, High Potential Student Grant |
7. Humboldt University Berlin
Humboldt-Universität zu Berlin is one of the top public universities in Berlin, Germany and is famous for its Law faculties. Established in 1810, it is one of the oldest universities in Berlin, having a great alumni network and excellent faculty facilities. Also regarded as the research hub for natural sciences because of the high Nobel Prize Awardee Aluminis.
Particular |
Details |
Acceptance Rate |
18% |
Top Courses Offered |
Arts and Humanities, Life Sciences, Social Sciences, Education and Psychology |
Eligibility Criteria |
IELTS: 6.5+, GPA: 3.2+ (on a scale of 4.00) |
Average Salary |
INR 74,51,059 to INR 1,33,29,117 |
Scholarships |
DAAD Scholarships |
8. Technical University of Berlin
The university’s academic activities are focused on achieving sharply-defined goals and ensuring a definite employment after the studies. The engineering opportunities are better than any other university because of its alliance with TU9. The safe and healthy environment of the city makes it one of the best public universities in Germany.
Particular |
Details |
Acceptance Rate |
52% |
Top Courses Offered |
Mathematics, Business Economics, Mechanical Engineering |
Eligibility Criteria |
IELTS - 6.5, TOEFL IBT - 95, DSH-2 (GERMAN PROFICIENCY) |
Average Salary |
INR 76,99,428 to INR 1,19,21,695 |
Scholarships |
Friedrich Ebert Stiftung funds |
Explore Job options in Germany: How To Get a Job in Germany From India in 10 Simple Steps?
9. University of Hamburg
University of Hamburg is Germany's largest public university in the north, which excels in climate science, economics and law. The university provides a mix of traditional and interdisciplinary programs and is set in a city that is both welcoming and affordable for students.
Particular |
Details |
Acceptance Rate |
30% |
Top Courses Offered |
Climate Science, Economics, Law, Environmental Sciences, Political Science, Business Administration, Computer Science, International Public Health |
Eligibility Criteria |
Bachelor’s degree in relevant field, GPA in good range, English proficiency (IELTS/TOEFL), or German proficiency for German‑taught programs |
Average Salary |
INR 49,50,000 - INR 86,28,265 |
Scholarships |
Merit scholarships up to €850/month, Hamburg-specific Hilde Domin “students-at-risk” support, DAAD and Erasmus+, Deutschlandstipendium (€300/month), mobility grants (PROMOS) |
10. University of Freiburg
Considering the university’s broad spectrum of academic fields,it has great potential for innovative fundamental research. The cost of academics and living are very minimal and affordable and it is also one of the best universities in Germany for MBA.
The university's close ties to industry partners offer students ample opportunities for internships and research collaborations, making it one of the top universities in Germany.
Particular |
Details |
Acceptance Rate |
33% |
Top Courses Offered |
Applied Physics, Biochemistry and Biophysics, Biology, Biomedical Sciences. |
Eligibility Criteria |
HSC 75%, GPA 2.0+ (on a scale of 4.00), DSH 2/ TestDaF 4/C1 |
Average Salary |
$98k to $179k (INR 81,13,375 to INR 1,48,19,329) |
Scholarships |
Deutschlandstipendium scholarship |
Also Read:Top Scholarships for Indian Students in Germany
Why Study At Public Universities in Germany in 2026?
Studying at public universities in Germany offers a host of advantages, especially for international students. Few of the best reasons which might make you consider pursuing studies at German universities include:
- Over 240 public universities in Germany charge zero tuition fees for undergraduate and most graduate programs, even for non EU International students.
- 8 out of top 10 German universities are public universities and ranked among the global top 150(QS World University Ranking 2026)
- According to Statista 2024,Germany has the 2nd highest graduate employment rate in the EU, about 92.7% and an average salary of EUR 53,108
- Germany is the 3rd most popular study destination globally after the U.S and UK(UNESCO 2023)
- Germany spends 3.13% of its GDP on R&D, the highest in the EU, with public universities receiving EUR 25+ billion annually in state research funding(Eurostar 2023)
- The average monthly cost of living in Germany in cities like Munich, Berlin and Hamburg is between EUR 850 to EUR 1,200 which is about 30 to 40% lower than the UK or US student cities.(Numbeo 2024).
- 100% of Germany's top 25 public universities offer at least five English taught Masters programs.(DAAD International Programs, 2024)
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