Can International Students Get Degrees for Free in Germany?

It’s no secret that earning an education is expensive. No matter where you currently live, the cost of getting a degree of any kind can be insurmountable – and it can leave students to take on debt or put off their education. However, if you’re interested in getting an affordable education, you just need to look beyond your home country’s borders. If you search online, you’ll find international students can earn degrees for free around the world.

In fact, Germany allows international students to come and study for free. You can live and take classes at German universities, all without paying tuition. And if you search online today, you can discover universities throughout Germany that welcome international students who want to earn degrees for free.

Wondering how Germany can offer such a great incentive for students around the world? Here’s what you need to know.

Students From All Around the World Can Study for Free

While it might sound almost unbelievable, it’s true. Students can study at German universities and earn degrees without paying anything towards tuition. 

In 2014, Germany eliminated tuition fees for all undergraduate students at public universities. And this significant change doesn’t just apply for German students – it’s valid for citizens of other countries too. And now, German universities offer a variety of different programs of study in English. That means students from just about anywhere can come to Germany, earn a university degree, and won’t have to worry about the cost

Nearly 300 Universities in Germany Offer Courses at No Cost

International students can take advantage of Germany’s free public education at hundreds of universities. Nearly 300 universities throughout Germany offer free tuition, and you can choose to study any one of more than 1,000 different subjects or programs. 

Universities including the University of Cologne, Goethe University Frankfurt, and the Technical University of Munich are offering free tuition. And if you’re worried about choosing a prestigious, well-known school to study at, you can even take advantage of the zero-cost offer at schools like the University of Munich and the University of Bonn. 

One important factor to keep in mind, though, is that not every university in Germany offers free tuition. Only public universities are tuition-free. If you opt to attend a private university, you’ll have to pay tuition and additional fees. Make sure to look into the details of the specific universities you’re considering before you decide to embark on your new degree.

You Don’t Have to Speak German

One factor of studying in Germany that can be concerning for non-native Germans is the language barrier. Living and attending classes in a foreign country can leave anyone struggling to communicate if you aren’t well-versed in the local language.

However, you don’t have to worry about language barriers impacting your education when you opt to earn your degree in Germany. Because German universities attract students from all over the European Union and the rest of the world, many offer a wealth of courses and programs in English. Your degree program can include students from all over the world – for example, one student’s Master’s degree program included students from 50 different countries.

Today, there are more all-English classes taught in over 1,150 different programs of study at German universities. From science to language arts, you won’t have to speak fluent German in order to earn your degree. As long as you’re well versed in English, you’ll be able to learn with students from all over the world at a German university. 

There Are Costs to Keep in Mind

While tuition for international students is free at public universities throughout Germany, it’s important to know that you may encounter some costs. The cost of your degree will be free. However, you may have to pay some fees at the university you attend.

Typically, students at Germany’s public universities pay what’s called a semester fee, or semesterbeitrag. This fee isn’t significant; it costs about 300 to 400 euros for a whole semester. That fee usually gives students public transportation tickets and covers other administrative costs at the university.

Additionally, there may be costs associated with the residency application process. In order to officially study in Germany, you’ll need to get a student visa or residency permit. This process can include small fees either when you apply or once you’ve been approve. Make sure to keep these costs in mind.

Take Steps to Begin Earning Your Degree in Germany Today

If you’ve been hoping to earn a degree without taking on debt or paying sky-high tuition costs, it’s time to consider studying in Germany. German public universities don’t charge tuition, even for international students. And that means you can begin pursuing the education you’ve always wanted at almost no cost. 

You can begin the process today by searching for German universities today. Compare multiple universities, the programs they offer, and what interests you most as a student. Then, you can make an informed decision as to which university in Germany is the best for you.