The Best Cities in Germany for International Students are Munich, Berlin, Frankfurt, Hamburg, Aachen, and more.
Germany is a popular study destination and is also home to some of the best universities around the world, such as Technical University of Berlin, Heidelberg University, and Ludwig Maximilian University of Munich. These universities offer diverse programs and their graduates are highly valued by employers. Notably, the country hosts 49 universities listed in the recently published QS World University Rankings 2024. Germany is one of Europe’s most affordable countries to live in, with lower tuition, housing, and food costs compared to the UK or the US. Its cities showcase rich culture with museums, festivals, and markets for students to enjoy. As a result, Germany emerged as one of the top destinations for non-English speaking students, attracting around 400,000 international students. In this article, we’ll explore the best places to study in Germany including universities, their ranking, courses offered, and more. Let’s get started!
Once you’ve decided to study abroad in Germany, the next question is: Which city?
To help you make that decision, here are the best cities to study in Germany for international students:
- Munich
- Berlin
- Frankfurt
- Hamburg
- Aachen
- Stuttgart
- Bonn
- Cologne
- Leipzig
- Dresden
Let’s explore each of these best cities in Germany, ideal for students pursuing higher education.
1. Munich
Munich is Germany’s third-largest city and stands out as the most student-friendly destination, renowned for its art, tech, and business scene. Ranked 5th place in QS Best Student Cities 2024, it attracts over 52,000 students from 140 countries, drawn by its safety, cleanliness, a diverse range of graduate programs, and scholarship opportunities at leading universities. Munich hosts top universities in Germany for Engineering courses, making it a prime student destination.
In Munich, students can enjoy the vibrant nightlife, explore historical galleries, and museums. They can also indulge in outdoor activities like visiting castles, lakes, and iconic landmarks such as churches and historic sites. Studying in Munich offers numerous benefits, including a supportive Indian community, ample job and PhD opportunities, and a vibrant academic atmosphere. However, competition is tough at top universities in Munich, requiring students to excel to succeed.
Some of the best courses to study in Munich are Distributed Software, Mechatronics, Management and Technology, Renewable Energy Systems, and all Engineering streams (Computer Science, Chemical, Civil, Electrical, Mechanical, & Environmental Engineering). The top universities in Munich are as follows:
- Technical University of Munich
- Ludwig Maximilian University of Munich
- Munich University Of Applied Science
What is the cost of living in Munich for International Students?
The average cost of living in Munich for international students ranges between €1,801 to €2,096 per month.
Is public transport available in Munich?
Yes! The primary modes of transportation in Munich are walking and using the great public transportation system. Munich’s public transport relies on four main things: the U-Bahn (subway), S-Bahn (suburban trains), trams, and buses.
2. Berlin
Berlin, the capital city of Germany, is a top destination for students worldwide, offering a vibrant atmosphere and diverse culture. According to QS World University Ranking 2024, Berlin is ranked #8 best student cities in the world, with the University of Berlin hosting 27,000 students. Its rich history is reflected in its cinemas and war museums, making it an attractive destination for international students.
Studying in Berlin offers unforgettable experiences, from exploring museums to enjoying the vibrant nightlife and capturing moments at iconic sites like the East Side Gallery. The city’s cultural richness and well-connected environment make it an excellent choice for students, providing ample opportunities for personal and academic growth. The majority of classes are conducted in German, so it’s essential to either learn the language or select courses taught in English.
Berlin offers a range of excellent courses to study like Photography, Business Management, Social Design, and Sustainable Innovation, courses in illustration, design, and communication, and more. The top universities in Berlin are as follows:
- Humboldt University of Berlin
- Free University of Berlin
- Berlin Institute of Technology
- Berlin University Of Arts
- Berlin International University of Applied Sciences
What is the cost of living in Berlin for International Students?
The average cost of living in Berlin for international students is €950 – €1,700 per month excluding tuition fees.
Is public transport available in Berlin?
Yes! Berlin offers a large and well-developed public transportation network that includes underground and light-rail trains, alongside buses and trams. Whether your destination lies within the city center or its outskirts, you can easily, comfortably, and safely travel there using public transport.
3. Frankfurt
Frankfurt, a financial hub, is perfect for students interested in finance and business studies. Its top universities provide access to a robust education system, making it home to some of Europe’s top-ranked institutions. As per the QS World University Ranking 2024, Goethe-University Frankfurt am Main is ranked at #=302, with a student population of over 48,000.
In Frankfurt, nicknamed ‘Main-hattan,’ students can enjoy exploring the city’s pubs, restaurants, and cultural sites like the Goethe House, immersing themselves in German culture and history. The city offers not just quality education but also a vibrant student life, excellent transportation, and career advancement opportunities due to its proximity to numerous offices.
Some of the best courses to study in Frankfurt are Finance, Economics, Liberal arts, Communication, and Business Studies. The top universities in Frankfurt are as follows:
- Frankfurt University of Applied Sciences
- Frankfurt School of Finance & Management
- Goethe University Frankfurt
- Goethe Business School
- The Frankfurt University of Music and Performing Arts
What is the cost of living in Frankfurt for International Students?
The average cost of living in Frankfurt for international students typically ranges from €1,400 to €2,000 per month for a single person, while a family may need around €4,000 per month.
Is public transport available in Frankfurt?
Yes, public transport is available in Frankfurt. It offers subways, trams, commuter trains, and buses as the easiest way to travel within the city.
4. Hamburg
Hamburg, Germany’s second largest city, is home to over 20 universities. It provides a multicultural and secure environment with an affordable cost of living for students. According to the QS World University Rankings by Top Universities, the University of Hamburg holds the #205 ranking. Approximately 10,700 international students come from abroad to study there. Hamburg features Germany’s most architecturally stunning buildings and is an ideal student destination, favored by Instagrammers, fashionistas, and music enthusiasts.
In Hamburg, students can explore museums, parks, and miniature museums, hang out at bars, enjoy live music, and experience unique attractions like “Dialogue in the Dark”. Hamburg offers a vibrant atmosphere ideal for fashion and music enthusiasts, providing an unforgettable experience for students with its beautiful cityscape and lively culture.
Some of the best courses to study in Hamburg are Journalism, Nanoscience, Psychology, Music and liberal arts, Business administration, Food Chemistry, Economics and all Engineering streams. The best universities in Hamburg are as follows:
- HFH Hamburger Fern-Hochschule
- Hamburg University of Technology
- Hamburg School of Business Administration
- University of Fine Arts Hamburg
- HafenCity University Hamburg
- Hochschule für Musik und Theater Hamburg
What is the cost of living in Hamburg for International Students?
The average cost of living in Hamburg for international students is €950 – €1,100 per month excluding tuition fees.
Is public transport available in Hamburg?
Yes, public transport is available in Hamburg. It boasts an extensive system that includes underground trains, a light-rail network, buses, and ferries.
5. Aachen
Aachen, a cultural city bordering the Netherlands and Belgium, is a thriving student hub known for its excellence in science and technology. This tech-freak town is the best place to pursue an automotive career or study technology. Its renowned courses in these fields attract students globally. Ranked #106 by QS World University Ranking 2024, RWTH Aachen University stands as one of the top universities in Aachen, with around 12,000 international students hailing from over 120 countries.
In Aachen, students can hike the Eifelsteig trail, relax at the Carolus Therman, visit the famous Cathedral, and enjoy the Aachen park with flamingos. Studying elective Engineering courses, especially in automobile engineering or computers, in Aachen offers great value, with its affordability and proximity to Belgium for economic living and travel opportunities.
The top courses to study in Aachen include Applied Geophysics, Micro and Nanoelectronics, Media Informatics, Sustainable Management, All Engineering streams like Automobile, Biomedical, Data Science, Electrical, Information Technology, Computers, Communications Engineering and more. Here are the top universities in Aachen:
- RWTH Aachen University
- FH Aachen University
- RWTH Business School
What is the cost of living in Aachen for International Students?
The average cost of living in Aachen for international students typically amounts to at least €1,100 per month to cover basic living expenses.
Is public transport available in Aachen?
Yes, public transport is available in Aachen. Local transportation primarily relies on bus services. Aachen is conveniently accessible from multiple international airports, including Maastricht Aachen, Cologne, Dusseldorf, Frankfurt, Brussels, Eindhoven, Amsterdam, and even Paris. These airports are linked to Aachen through trains or direct shuttles.
6. Stuttgart
Stuttgart is a favourite among tourists and students worldwide. Its affordable universities offer English courses, making it an ideal choice for international students. Stuttgart ranks #312 in the QS World University Ranking 2024, attracting students for its universities and economic opportunities. Students opt for this city due to its strong internship and job prospects alongside academic excellence. If you are a nature lover, Stuttgart is the perfect destination for you. Beyond the city center, you’ll find many older contemplative houses surrounded by numerous trees and green spaces.
Students engage in exciting activities like visiting the Mercedes-Benz and Porsche Museums, exploring the renowned public library, and enjoying the festive Stuttgart Christmas markets. While slightly unconventional, Stuttgart is an exciting study destination, particularly for engineering students seeking unique opportunities and experiences.
The top courses available in Stuttgart are Architecture and Urban Planning, Aerospace Engineering and Geodesy, Civil and Environmental Engineering, and almost all the streams of Engineering including Computer Science and Design. The best universities in Stuttgart are as follows:
- University of Stuttgart
- Stuttgart Media University
- Stuttgart Technology University of Applied Sciences
- Baden-Württemberg Cooperative State University
What is the cost of living in Stuttgart for International Students?
The cost of living in Stuttgart for international students is estimated to be around €1,100 per month, excluding tuition fees. This budget covers expenses such as accommodation in a student room, occasional dining out, transportation with a student public transport card, and groceries from discount stores.
Is public transport available in Stuttgart?
Yes, public transport is accessible in Stuttgart. For a stress-free experience in Stuttgart, we suggest utilizing our buses, trams, and trains. With a dense network of public transport and efficiently coordinated schedules, getting around Stuttgart is quick and convenient.
7. Bonn
Bonn serves as the secondary seat of the German Government next to Berlin. Besides its political significance, it’s famous as the birthplace of the great music composer, Beethoven. Bonn is a blend of modernity and culture, rich in history, and home to numerous multinational companies. It attracts over 33,000 students and offers ample job opportunities for international students.
In Bonn, students can explore a blend of history and modernity, visiting attractions like the Bundeskunsthalle exhibition and Bonn Minster. With its focus on disciplines like History, Physics, and Mathematics, Bonn offers a laid-back lifestyle alongside quality education, making it an appealing study destination in Germany for those seeking a slower pace. The University of Bonn, a public institution, charges no tuition fees but requires a small social contribution.
The popular courses to study in Bonn are Computer Science, Physics, Mathematics, European and Asian Art History, Paleontology and Geology. Here are the top universities in Bonn:
- University of Bonn
- University of Applied Sciences for Finance, Bonn
What is the cost of living in Bonn for International Students?
The average cost of living in Bonn typically ranges from EUR 800 to 1,000 per month. International students can find Bonn to be a relatively affordable city, depending on their lifestyle and budget.
Is public transport available in Bonn?
Yes, public transport is available in Bonn. The city has an excellent local transportation system, including trams, subways, city trains, buses, and Rhine river ferries, all of which operate very frequently.
8. Cologne
Cologne, the 4th largest German city, is famous for its cultural hub, including its famous Cathedral. It blends history with top universities, affordable living, and a great quality of life. Its bike and pedestrian-friendly environment make it beloved by all, offering easy accessibility for everyone. Established in 1388, the University of Cologne holds the title of the oldest university in Central Europe, and is renowned for its research and academic programs in science and engineering.
In Cologne, international students can explore a variety of activities, from visiting Nazi regime memorials and historic churches to enjoying events hosted on Rhine Cruises. While Cologne may not be the most budget-friendly or authentic student destination, those pursuing courses at the University of Cologne can expect a fulfilling experience.
Some of the best courses to study in Cologne are Applied Natural Sciences, Architecture and Construction, Computer Science, Engineering, Culture; Information and Communication, Society and Social Sciences and Business Studies. Here are the top universities in Cologne:
- University of Cologne
- Cologne University of Applied Sciences
- German Sport University Cologne
- Cologne Business School
- Academy of Media Arts Cologne
What is the cost of living in Cologne for International Students?
The average cost of living in Cologne for international students typically ranges from €800 to €1,000 per month, primarily depending on the type of accommodation they choose.
Is public transport available in Cologne?
Yes, public transport is available in Cologne. The city is well connected, allowing you to travel everywhere by tram, subway, bus, and suburban railway. Interestingly, in Cologne, the tram and subway are essentially the same. For instance, when arriving at the Cologne/Bonn airport, you would take the “S-Bahn” (suburban railway) to reach the city center.
9. Leipzig
Leipzig, a student city with renowned universities, offers vibrant nightlife, cultural activities, affordable rent, and a low cost of living. Leipzig University, ranked #479 by QS World University Rankings, hosts around 3,174 international students. Life in Leipzig centers on its churches, tourist sites, cafes, and museums, making it a typical German town. Its education system attracts students globally, mirroring other German cities.
In Leipzig, students can engage in cultural and outdoor activities, such as visiting Belantis and the famous Leipzig Zoo, or having a picnic in the park. For those seeking a quality education in Germany without the competitive pressure, Leipzig offers an attractive alternative.
Top courses in Leipzig include International Energy Economics and Business Administration, Small Enterprise Promotion and Training, Physics, Global Studies, and Advanced Spectroscopy in Chemistry. Below are the leading universities in Leipzig:
- Leipzig University
- Leipzig University of Applied Sciences
- HHL Leipzig Graduate School of Management
- HHL gemeinnützige GmbH.
- University of Music and Theatre Leipzig
What is the cost of living in Leipzig for International Students?
The cost of living in Leipzig for international students is relatively low, with average monthly expenses ranging from €400 to €500, primarily due to the city’s affordable rents compared to other parts of Germany.
Is public transport available in Leipzig?
Yes, public transport is available in Leipzig. Leipzig’s public transportation system is primarily centered around its extensive tram network, consisting of thirteen separate tram lines covering a total of 218 km of roadway. Additionally, the city is served by 61 bus lines, primarily catering to various city districts.
10. Dresden
Dresden, renowned as the ‘Jewel Box of Germany’, offers quality education amidst scenic surroundings, attracting students with its vibrant nightlife and multicultural community. But Dresden isn’t just known for its beauty. It’s also famous for its political, cultural, and excellent education system. As per QS World University Ranking 2024, the Technical University of Dresden holds the #=246th position, with over 5,040 students from 125+ countries.
In Dresden, students can explore historic city tours, enjoy picnics at Dresden Castle or the Zwinger Palace, cruise to Prague, visit art galleries, and frequent various town cafes. For those who appreciate an aesthetic lifestyle, Dresden offers an attractive choice, particularly for students specializing in liberal arts, history, architecture, and dance studies.
Some of the best courses to study in Dresden are Computational Modeling and Simulation, Computational Logic, Distributed Systems Engineering, Nanoelectronic Systems, and Dance. Here are the top universities in Dresden:
- Dresden University of Technology
- Dresden University of Applied Sciences
- Academy of Fine Arts Dresden
- Palucca University of Dance Dresden (Palucca Hochschule für Tanz Dresden)
What is the cost of living in Dresden for International Students?
The cost of living in Dresden for international students averages around 680 euros per month, covering essential expenses. Additional costs include approximately 32 euros per month for a mobile phone and starting at 19.95 euros per month for a home internet connection, depending on the provider.
Is public transport available in Dresden?
Yes, public transport is available in Dresden. The city has a very well-organized public transport system, offering options such as trams, buses, commuter railways, ferries, and taxis. Additionally, for longer trips, there is also the railway system.
Overall, studying in Germany is a wonderful student experience. The above list comprises the best cities in Germany to study. However, with further exploration, you can find the best fit for your needs.
Where in Germany is Cheapest for Living?
Studying in Germany can be budget-friendly, but as a student, every penny counts. Your decision on where to live can significantly affect your expenses. If you’re aiming to save money during your studies, it’s crucial to carefully consider the city where you’ll be staying.
Here are some of the cheapest cities to live in Germany:
- Halle (Saale)
- Magdeburg
- Leipzig
- Potsdam
- Erfurt
- Bielefeld
Finally, If you’re considering studying in Germany, it’s essential to know a few key things. Firstly, you should determine the Best Places to Study in Germany for your particular course and the specialisation you want to focus on. Additionally, considering the cost of living in Germany is important to ensure it fits your budget.