Study in English in Germany: Best English-Taught Universities for 2024

While lots of courses in Germany are in German, more and more programs are now offered in English to welcome international students. If you’ve always dreamed of a German degree but were worried about learning the German language from scratch, don’t worry! There are other options for you.

English-language programs are quite common for master’s degrees, especially in social sciences and business. And now, they’re becoming more available for undergraduate studies, too. So, with some research and patience, you’ll have the opportunity to study in English in Germany.

Where Can I Study in English in Germany?

You can study in English at many German universities, including the Technical Universities of Munich, Ludwig Maximilian University of Munich, Heidelberg University, and many others (listed in the table below).

Here’s where you can study in English in Germany:

University	QS Ranking	US News Ranking	THE Ranking	Number of English-Taught Programs
Technical University of Munich	37	79	30	73 (Check Programs)
Ludwig Maximilian University of Munich	54	47	38	32 (Check Programs)
Heidelberg University	87	57	47	16 (Check Programs)
Free University of Berlin	98	87	102	26 (Check Programs)
Humboldt University of Berlin	120	61	87	Numerous (Check Programs)
Karlsruhe Institute of Technology	119	226	140	Numerous (Check Programs)
Technical University of Berlin	154	304	136	19 (Check Programs)
RWTH Aachen University	106	199	90	Numerous (Check Programs)
University of Freiburg	192	178	128	25 (Check Programs)
University of Tübingen	213	182	95	Numerous (Check Programs)

> A complete list of these universities can be found here.

What Are the Entry Requirements to Study in English in Germany?

First, if you want to study in English, you’ll need to show that you’re proficient in English through tests like TOEFL, IELTS, or PTE Academic. The required scores may vary by university and program but typically start at around 80 points for TOEFL and 6.5 for IELTS. Other requirements include:

• Educational Qualifications: A high school diploma is required for undergraduates. Graduate programs usually demand a bachelor’s degree and academic transcripts. If your documents are in a language other than English, it’s important to provide official English translations.
• Additional Tests: If applicable, some universities may require GMAT or GRE scores, especially for economics or business-related courses. Be sure to check your chosen university’s specific requirements.
• Motivation Letter: While not always mandatory, writing a letter explaining your reasons for applying, your academic and career goals, and how the program aligns with your aspirations can significantly strengthen your application.
• Identification Documents: A copy of your passport’s identification page. Some universities might also request recent passport-sized photographs.

How to Find a Program in English in Germany?

1. Research Universities. Begin by researching universities in Germany that offer English-taught programs. You can use university websites, international rankings, or education portals (like ours) to create a list of potential institutions.
2. Choose Your Field of Study. Determine your area of interest or the specific field of study you want to pursue.
3. Use a Program Database or Search Platform. Use online search tools and databases that specialize in listing English-taught programs in Germany.
4. Filter Programs. Use filters on search platforms to narrow down your options based on your preferred field of study, degree level (undergraduate or postgraduate), and location.
5. Check University Websites. Visit the official websites of universities you’re interested in to access detailed program information, admission requirements, and application deadlines.

Let’s say you want to study for a Master of Science in Biology at the Technical University of Munich.

Application and Admission Requirements:

• Minimum Requirements: To apply for a Master’s program at TUM, you need a recognized undergraduate degree and successful completion of the aptitude assessment procedure.
• Application Process: During the application period, you must apply through the TUMonline application portal and upload your application documents.
• Offer of Admission: If you receive an offer of admission, you will need to submit individual documents as notarized hardcopies by post for enrollment.
• International Applicants: Applicants with qualifications for postgraduate studies (e.g., a bachelor’s) obtained outside the EU/EEA must have their documents reviewed in advance through uni-assist.

Documents Required for Online Application:

• Degree Certificate and Diploma or Subject and Grade Transcript of Studies to Date.
• Transcript of Records.
• Proof of English Language Proficiency.
• Curricular Analysis.
• Notification of successful participation in an electronical TUM Test Biology with a minimum score of 70 points.
• Complete and Current Resume.
• Letter of Motivation (optional).
• Passport.
• Preliminary Documentation (VPD) if the qualification for graduate studies (e.g., a bachelor’s) is obtained outside the EU/EEA.

Documents Required for Enrollment:

• Application for Enrollment (signed).
• Degree Certificate and Diploma (certified copy).
• Transcript of Records (certified copy).
• Most Current Photo (as for ID).
• Digital notification of your health insurance status from a German public health insurance provider (requested by the applicant).

Which Fields Offer the Highest Number of English Courses in Germany?

The fields that offer the highest number of English-taught courses in Germany include:

• Engineering: With a strong focus on innovation and technology, engineering programs in Germany are often available in English to attract international students.
• Natural Sciences: Programs in biology, chemistry, and physics are commonly offered in English to cater to a diverse student body interested in scientific research.
• Economics: Germany’s economy and international business presence make economics programs, particularly at the master’s level, attractive for English-speaking students.
• Social Sciences: The study of human behavior, societies, and cultures is a popular choice, and many social science programs are available in English.
• Mathematics: Germany’s strong emphasis on mathematics education extends to English-taught programs in this field.
• Law: Certain law programs are offered in English, providing an international perspective on legal studies.

Which Fields Are Less Commonly Offered in English in Germany?

Fields that are less commonly offered in English in Germany include:

• Language and Cultural Studies. These programs require proficiency in the local language and are taught in German.
• Due to the complex nature of medical education and the need for extensive clinical training, most medical programs are offered in German.
• Art: Art programs often involve hands-on studio work and critique sessions, which are more effectively taught in the local language.
• Sports: Sports programs often require physical training and practical instruction, making them less common in English.
• Veterinary Medicine: The comprehensive nature of veterinary medicine programs and the need for practical experience limits the availability of English-taught options.

Tuition-Free Universities in Germany Taught in English

Many international students prefer studying in Germany because its universities offer low or no tuition fee degree courses that are also ranked among the best in the country.

Here are the best tuition-free universities in Germany that offer programs taught in the English language:

• Technical University of Munich
• Ludwig Maximilian University of Munich
• Heidelberg University
• Free University of Berlin
• Humboldt University of Berlin
• Technical University of Berlin
• RWTH Aachen University

Other Costs When Studying in English in Germany

Although most public universities in Germany do not charge tuition fees, there are still some administrative costs called “semester contributions” that you need to cover to enroll.

These contributions usually include the following fees:

• Students unions
• Public transport tickets
• Registration with the total cost ranging between €150 and €300, depending on the university.

While most degree courses at these universities are free, some specific programs, especially master’s programs for advanced training, may come at a low price. There’s more information regarding costs in this other guide we wrote.

Although not all degree courses are taught in English, there is still a good variety of English-taught study programs available. So, start looking for your English-taught degree program now, and you’ll be in Germany in no time!