Masters in Germany
Why Study in Germany?
Germany is now one of the world’s most popular destinations for international students, and for good reason. With its globally recognized universities, minimal to no tuition fees, a strong research culture, and an open attitude towards international talent, Germany is the perfect destination for studying your Master’s degree. But what is it about Germany that makes it so attractive? Let’s explore why thousands of students from around the world are choosing Germany and how you can join them.
Why do international students choose to study in Germany?
- High-Quality Education
German universities are renowned internationally for their high-quality education, particularly in fields such as engineering, science, medicine, and business.
- Tuition-Free or Low-Cost Education
German public universities generally do not impose tuition fees on Master’s studies, particularly if your previous degree is from the European Union or is internationally recognized.
- Strong Focus on Research and Innovation
Germany is a hotbed of innovative research. Universities tend to partner with leading industry players such as Siemens, BMW, and Bosch to provide students with hands-on experience.
- English-Taught Programs
Most Master’s courses are taught in English, making it unnecessary to be fluent in German from the outset.
- Post-Study Work Opportunities
International students can remain in Germany for a maximum of 18 months after graduation to seek employment, which often leads to long-term residence or employment.
- Vibrant Cultural Experience
From Berlin’s arts and culture to Munich’s Oktoberfest, learning in Germany also equates to a rich blend of history, culture, and modernity.
Key Scientific areas to study for a Master’s in Germany
- Pharmaceutical research in Germany
- Space science master’s in Germany
- Nanotechnology research in Germany
- Robotics master’s programs in Germany
- Climate science studies in Germany
- Bioinformatics master’s in Germany
- Renewable energy engineering in Germany
- Environmental engineering master’s in Germany
- Chemistry research in Germany
- Marine biology master’s in Germany
How to choose a university in Germany
When deciding on a university, keep the following in mind:
Program Curriculum – Is it application-focused or research-based?
Language of Instruction – Is it entirely English, or do you need to be proficient in German?
Location – Do you prefer a lively city like Berlin or a quieter town like Heidelberg?
University Rankings and Reputation – Particularly for Your Own Area of Study.
Industry Ties and Internship Opportunities – See if they have partnerships with industry or research centers.
Utilize platforms like DAAD.de and MyGermanUniversity.com to filter universities and programs that align with your goals.
What are the best universities in Germany?
While “best” depends on your field, here are some consistently top-ranked institutions:
- Technical University of Munich (TUM)
- Ludwig Maximilian University of Munich (LMU)
- Heidelberg University
- RWTH Aachen University
- Humboldt University of Berlin
- University of Freiburg
- Karlsruhe Institute of Technology (KIT)
- University of Stuttgart (especially strong in engineering)
What is the application process for the Master’s program in Germany?
- Find preferred master program
- Check Deadline (Mostly starts in Winter Term
- VPD (German Universities may ask)
- VPD can be applied through Uni-assist It will take around 4-6 weeks to get a document (Apply by considering application deadline)
- Documents required for VPD application
- School leaving certificate/proof of having passed a university entrance exam
- Degree certificate (if not available, upload a preliminary degree overview)
- Transcripts of records
- Information about the grading system of your university
- An officially certified translation (if the original documents were not issued in German or English)
- APS certificate (only for applicants with a degree from China, Vietnam or India)
STEPS to Apply for APS Certificate (Academic Evaluation Centre)
Required Documents to apply for APS Certificate
- Passportsize Photo
- Copy of APS fee transfer receipt
- Copy of Aadhar card with linked mobile number
- Copy of passport (1st and last page)
- Copy of Class X Marksheet and Certificate
- Copy of Class XII marksheet and certificate.
- Copy of Class XII admit card, if available.
- Copy of marksheets of all semesters.
- Copy of the bachelor degree. In case the degree has not yet been issued, the provisional certificate issued by the College will be accepted. (Not older than 1 year)
- Copy of language certificate – German and/or English
- Copy of signed Student Authorization Letter – German and/or English
2) Create an account using below link
Apply – Academic Evaluation Centre
3) Pay Online
Transfer the APS procedure fee of 18,000/- INR to the APS bank account or make an online payment through the CCAvenue portal during registration (NON-REFUNDABLE).
Bank Account Details:
The verification fee amounts to 18,000/- INR. Kindly transfer the fee to the account mentioned below. Please ensure that the bank details are correctly entered. Keep the transaction receipt for future reference.
Bank details for transferring the fees in INR:
Account Holder: Embassy of Federal Republic of Germany – Wiss
Account Number: 0946426766
Name of Bank: Kotak Mahindra Bank
IFSC Code: KKBK0000182
4) Completed the application, take print and sign the same
5) Send signed application form along with the above-mentioned documents and student authorisation letter via courier to the below address:
Academic Evaluation Centre (APS India)
Academic Evaluation Centre
Gate No. 3, DLTA Complex,
R.K. Khanna Stadium, 1 Africa Avenue, 110029 New Delhi, India
6) Kindly keep a record of your courier tracking details
7) On completion of the document verification, your online profile will be updated with the verification result. Successful candidates will receive a digital APS certificate via email.
8) The process will take around 3-4 weeks
- VPD is valid only for one university. If you wish to apply to another university, you will need to reapply for VPD.
- Fill application form
- Transcripts/diplomas/ Degree certificates, prepared in a single PDF
- CV
- Prepare a CV (Curriculum Vitae) in English, including your address, email, and education (including high school education and all university study programs, whether completed or not). Please include the contact details of two academic references who are able to provide detailed comments on your ability to meet the academic demands of the program.
- The CV should include professional experience, other relevant activities, publications, awards, and additional qualifications.
- School Leaving Certificate
- Apply online
Two common ways to apply:
- Via Uni-Assist
Uni-Assist Portal
Used by many public universities
Pay processing fee (~€75 for the first application, €30 for each additional)
Upload scanned documents
Some universities ask for hard copies to be posted too.
- Direct Application
Some universities have their online portals.
Create an account, upload documents, and track your application status.
📅 Deadlines:
Winter Intake (October): Apply between March – July
Summer Intake (April): Apply between October – January
Tuition Fees in Germany
Public Universities: No tuition fees for most Master’s programs. Students only pay a semester contribution of €150–€350, which includes transport, admin, and student union fees.
Private Universities: Fees can range from €5,000 to €20,000 per year.
Living Costs: Estimated at €850–€1,100 per month, including rent, food, health insurance, and other expenses.
What is the structure of the German academic year?
The academic year in Germany is divided into two main semesters:
Winter Semester (WS): October to March
→ Most Master’s programs begin this semester.
Summer Semester (SS): April to September
→ Fewer programs start in this semester.
Germany is an educational and research powerhouse as well as a cultural hub of culture. Whether your interests lie in renewable energy, machine learning, or the pharmaceutical industry, you have top-quality opportunities available to you in Germany at competitive prices. All you need to do is plan accordingly.
So, begin today, and perhaps you will soon be enjoying bratwurst in Berlin while writing your thesis in one of the best research laboratories!
