Pursuing higher education in Germany no longer requires fluency in German. A wide range of academic disciplines, including Applied Sciences, Business, International Relations, Engineering, and Computer Science, are now available in English at both prestigious state universities and private institutions.
Numerous highly-ranked institutions offer English-taught study programmes, particularly at the Master’s and research levels. While many international students gravitate toward private universities for their fully English-taught curricula, state universities also offer English programmes, though they often feature higher entry requirements and occasionally combine English lectures with German-taught coursework.
Private universities typically provide more flexible admission requirements and a more international academic environment, often featuring a higher volume of fully English-taught degrees. However, keep in mind that these institutions often come with higher tuition costs compared to public alternatives.
German universities that offer English-taught degrees
Here is an overview of top German universities that offer comprehensive English-taught degree programmes.
While German public universities do offer fully English-taught Master's degrees, many programmes maintain a bilingual approach, integrating both English and German instruction. Below are several examples to help you begin your search.
Explore additional top-tier German universities here.
Several private universities in Germany offer an extensive range of English-taught Master's programmes, including:
- – private university in Berlin with a wide range of study programmes, which also offers numerous affordable degrees
- – private university in Berlin, which uses the CORE principle (Competence Oriented Research and Education) as the basis for their education
- – private business school in Cologne, offering practical Business programmes and individual support to students
Our partners in Germany
We highly recommend exploring the degree options offered by our trusted partners in Germany:
These institutions are renowned for their academic excellence, comprehensive support services for international students, and vibrant campus communities.
Entry requirements for German universities
The fundamental admission requirements for English-taught programmes are largely similar to those for traditional German-taught degrees.
- certificate of complete secondary education
- proof of English language level: IELTS, TOEFL, PTE Academic
- resume
- motivation letter
Public universities may establish their own specific entry criteria, such as passing a general qualification exam. If your previous academic background differs significantly from the German system, you might be required to complete a preparatory programme (Studienkolleg). Read more about application requirements for German universities.
All academic documents and their official translations must be submitted as certified copies. Some institutions require an apostille, while others accept notarial certification or simple copies with the requirement to verify against originals upon enrollment.
Tuition fees and learning German
While tuition at public universities is often free, international students must demonstrate sufficient financial resources—typically at least 8,000 EUR in a blocked bank account—to secure a student visa and cover essential living costs, including semester contributions, health insurance, and housing.
By studying in English in Germany, you will have the perfect opportunity to simultaneously learn the German language. Mastering German will expand your social network, help you secure part-time employment, and significantly improve your long-term visa prospects. If you are a student from outside the EU/EEA, ensure you stay updated on the latest German student visa regulations.
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