American Students In Germany: Free University Education?

Germany is one of the few countries in Europe where you can study for free, even if you're not a citizen of the EU or EEA. This is because German universities are publicly funded by taxes, so there are no tuition fees for domestic or international students. However, there are some small costs to consider, such as semester fees which cover administration and other expenses, and the cost of living.

German public universities are free for all international students, including Americans

However, there are some small additional costs for students at public universities, including semester fees, which cover administrative and other expenses (max ~€300 per semester). There may also be an additional charge for a "Semesterticket", which covers public transport expenses for six months. This can vary depending on which option you choose.

In the state of Baden-Württemberg, non-EU/EEA students are charged a fee of €1,500 per semester, unlike the usual small semester fee of €100 to €300 in other German states.

Since 2023, public universities in the state of Bavaria have also been able to charge tuition fees to international students from non-EU countries. The only Bavarian university to have introduced these fees so far is the Technical University of Munich (TU München).

Despite these exceptions, Germany remains one of the few countries in Europe where you can study for free as an international student.

Students need to pay a small semester fee of €100-€300

Germany is one of the best countries to study abroad, offering a unique combination of great universities and a high quality of life. The country is home to some of the best universities in the world, and you can actually study there for free. German universities are tuition-free for everyone, including German, European, and non-European students. This applies to almost all study programs at public universities, of which there are around 400 in Germany.

However, it's important to note that there is a small semester fee that students are required to pay. This fee typically ranges from €100 to €300 per semester and covers administrative and other expenses. It is worth mentioning that the state of Baden-Württemberg charges non-EU/EEA students a higher fee of €1,500 per semester, while other German states have a more affordable semester fee.

The semester fee is a minor cost compared to the overall benefits of studying in Germany. With world-class education, a high standard of living, and the opportunity to gain a degree without the burden of hefty tuition fees, Germany is an attractive option for students, including Americans, looking to pursue their academic goals.

Private universities in Germany charge tuition fees, which can be up to €20,000 per year

Germany's public universities are free for both domestic and international students, including Americans. However, this does not apply to private universities, which charge tuition fees. These fees can be as high as €20,000 per year for Master's programmes, though Bachelor's programmes are cheaper, costing between €10,000 and €15,000 per year.

Private universities in Germany are funded by tuition fees, rather than taxes, and so set their fees independently. This means that costs can vary depending on the institution and programme.

Even at public universities in Germany, there are some small costs. Students must pay a semester fee, which covers administrative expenses and other costs, such as a bus pass. This is typically no more than €300-€400 per semester.

In addition to semester fees, students at German universities must also pay for health insurance. This is a precondition of registering at a German university and costs around €80-co: 0,5>€150 per month if your existing insurance is not valid in Germany.

Students also need to prove they can cover their living expenses, which are estimated to be at least €11,904 per year. This money must be deposited into a German blocked account before applying for a student visa.

International students need a residence permit and health insurance

International students, including Americans, are required to obtain a residence permit to study in Germany. This is in addition to the requirement for health insurance, which is mandatory for all international students in the country.

Residence Permit

If you are an American student, you are exempt from obtaining a student visa to enter Germany. However, within 90 days of your arrival, you must apply for a student residence permit at the local Ausländerbehörde (Foreigner’s Authority). This permit allows non-EU citizens to reside in Germany while pursuing their studies at a German university. The process typically involves the following steps:

• Locate the Ausländerbehörde in your area.
• Register your address at the residents' registration office (Bürgeramt or Bürgerbüro) within 14 days of entering Germany. You will receive a Registration Certificate (Meldebestätigung), which is required for the residence permit application.
• Obtain health insurance (see below for more details).
• Prepare the necessary documents, including:

• Residence Permit Application Form.
• Passport-size photograph.
• Proof of financial means (e.g., blocked account, scholarship, or financial support).
• Health insurance certificate.
• Certificate of enrollment or letter of approval from your university.

• Submit your application and attend an interview with an immigration officer at the Ausländerbehörde.
• Pick up your student residence permit card from the Ausländerbehörde after approximately 4-6 weeks.

Health Insurance

Health insurance is mandatory for all international students in Germany and is required to complete your enrollment at a German university. There are two types of health insurance available: public (statutory) and private health insurance. Most international students are eligible for public health insurance, which is typically more affordable. However, certain categories of students, such as those over 30 years old or pursuing non-regular degree programs, must purchase private insurance.

To obtain health insurance in Germany, follow these steps:

• Choose an insurance provider. There are numerous public and private insurance companies to choose from.
• Complete the application form provided by the insurance company, providing personal information such as your name, address, student status, and payment details.
• Pay your insurance premium through a bank transfer using a valid German bank account.
• Receive your health insurance card from the provider, which you must carry when visiting healthcare providers in Germany.

The cost of health insurance for students in Germany ranges from €79 to €150 per month, depending on the type of insurance (private or public) and the student's personal circumstances.

There are scholarships available to help cover living expenses

While public universities in Germany are free for both domestic and international students, living expenses are unavoidable. The good news is that there are scholarships available to help cover these costs.

DAAD Scholarships

The German Academic Exchange Service (DAAD) offers scholarships to German and international students of all levels, as well as academics and researchers. DAAD scholarships can cover all costs, including living expenses, and are available for higher-level master's or PhD study. Applicants must have completed a bachelor's degree or be in their final year of studies. There is no upper age limit, but there may be a maximum time between finishing a bachelor's degree and taking up a DAAD grant.

Erasmus+ Scholarships

Erasmus+ is an EU-wide grant-giving program that offers funding for one-year exchange periods for international students at German universities. Erasmus+ scholarships cover living expenses and travel costs, and recipients will also be exempt from paying tuition fees at the higher education institution they are visiting abroad.

Deutschlandstipendium

The Deutschlandstipendium is provided for students with outstanding academic prospects. In 2021, over 28,000 students received the Deutschlandstipendium, which provides a stipend of €300 per month for at least two semesters, with the possibility of extension.

University Scholarships

Many universities in Germany offer specialized scholarships for international students, which can cover living costs, tuition fees, and accommodation assistance.

Private Organization Scholarships

Germany is home to several private organizations and foundations that offer financial support, which can be used to help with living expenses. Applying to multiple private scholarships can increase your chances of receiving financial aid.

Frequently asked questions