Introduction
Germany has emerged as a top destination for Indian students due to its world-class education, affordable tuition fees, and vibrant cultural scene. The combination of prestigious universities, inexpensive educational costs, and engaging student activities makes Germany a top choice for thousands of Indian students every year. Let’s dive into the total cost of studying in Germany for Indian students—from tuition fees to living expenses, as well as scholarship programs, together with part-time jobs and money management advice.
Study in Germany for Indian students is more affordable compared to many other popular destinations like the USA or UK. Additionally, Germany offers various scholarships and part-time job opportunities to help ease the financial burden. Let’s dive into the complete breakdown the total cost of studying in Germany and how to manage your finances smartly.
Why Study in Germany?
Germany stands out as a preferred study destination due to several compelling reasons:
- Top-ranked universities: Institutions like Ludwig Maximilian University of Munich and the Technical University of Berlin are globally recognized for their academic excellence.
- Low to no tuition fees: Public universities offer free or highly subsidized education.
- Research and innovation opportunities: Germany leads in engineering, technology, and medical research.
- Vibrant Student Life: A mix of diverse cultures, festivals, and an active student community.
How Much Does It Cost to Study in Germany?
The total cost of studying in Germany consists of multiple factors, including tuition fees, living expenses, insurance, and other essentials. Here’s a comprehensive breakdown to assist you with better planning:
- Tuition Fees: Public universities have no tuition fees, but there’s a small semester enrollment fee. Private universities, on the other hand, charge tuition fees.
- Living Costs: living costs primarily consist of Accommodation, food, transportation, and other utilities that make up the bulk of monthly expenses.
- Health Insurance: It is Mandatory for all students, which ranges around €142/month.
- Visa and Other Costs: Student visa costs €75, plus administrative fees.
- Part-time Jobs: Students can work up to 120 full days or 240 half days per year.
Public University Fees in Germany
According to Yocket, most public universities in Germany charge no tuition fees for international students. However, students must pay an enrollment or semester fee, typically ranging between EUR 250 – 350 (INR 22,350 – 31,290).
Here’s a breakdown of the average annual fees at some renowned public universities:
| University | Average Fees per Year |
| Ludwig Maximilian University of Munich | EUR 300 / INR 26,820 |
| Technical University of Munich | EUR 258 / INR 23,070 |
| Humboldt University Berlin | EUR 685 – 1000 / INR 61,240 – 89,410 |
| Technical University of Berlin | EUR 308 / INR 27,540 |
| Free University of Berlin | EUR 311 / INR 28,520 |
| RWTH Aachen University | EUR 1,095 / INR 97,900 |
Private University Fees in Germany
Private universities generally have higher tuition fees, ranging from EUR 25,000 – 40,000 (INR 22,35,200 – 35,76,320), depending on the course and institution.
Here’s a look at average fees per year at some private universities:
| University | Average Fees per Year |
| University of Applied Sciences Europe | EUR 1,400 / INR 1,25,170 |
| GISMA Business School | EUR 20,000 / INR 17,88,160 |
| SRH Hochschule Berlin | EUR 10,000 / INR 8,94,080 |
| CODE University of Applied Sciences | EUR 9,800 / INR 8,76,200 |
| Munich Business School | EUR 24,000 / INR 21,45,790 |
| EBC Hochschule | EUR 10,000 / INR 8,94,080 |
| Bard College Berlin | EUR 29,700 / INR 26,55,420 |
Cost of Living and Other Expenses for Students Studying in Germany
| Accommodation Costs | Apartment (1 bedroom) in City Centre – €920.97 |
| Apartment (1 bedroom) Outside of Centre- €694.75 | |
| Utility Costs | €200 to €300.06 |
| Food Expenses | €2.44 to €13.00 |
| Transportation Costs | €3.00 to €30.00 |
Accommodation Costs
Living costs vary across German cities. The average Rent in Popular Cities is,
| City | Average Rent ( 1 Bedroom Apartment) |
| Berlin | €1,218.90 |
| Munich | €1,473.55 |
| Hamburg | €1,126.24 |
Utility Costs
| Expenses | Cost ( Per Month) |
| Basic utilities (Electricity, Heating, Cooling, Water, Garbage) | €301.50 |
| Internet (60 Mbps+, Unlimited Data) | €44.99 |
| Mobile Phone Plan (10GB+ Data) | €24.70 |
Food Expenses
Average monthly grocery prices:
| Milk ( 1 Litre) | €1.10 |
| Bread | €1.93 |
| Rice | €2.92 |
| Eggs | €3.33 |
| Local Cheese | €12.81 |
| Chicken Fillets | €12.39 |
| Beef | €17.03 |
| Apple ( 1kg) | €2.76 |
| Banana (1 kg) | €1.57 |
| Oranges (1 kg) | €1.98 |
| Tomato (1kg) | €4.22 |
| Potato (1 Kg) | €1.37 |
| Onion (1 Kg) | €1.40 |
| Lettuce (1 Kg) | €1.64 |
| Water (1 Kg) | €0.93 |
Transportation Costs
When it comes to local transportations, a one-way ticket costs €3.10, making it a convenient choice for those who don’t travel frequently. For those who use public transport more frequently, the monthly pass offers great value at €50.00, which is ideal for commuters. Additionally, if you prefer to take a taxi, the initial fare starts at €4.70, providing another flexible option for getting around.
Student Health Insurance
Health insurance is mandatory. According to studying in Germany, international students pay around €142 monthly for public health insurance, depending on age and provider.
Student Visa for Germany
To secure a German student visa, you need to submit your acceptance letter from the university, details of your blocked account, proof of health insurance, documents related to any loans, and your academic mark sheets. The German student visa costs EUR 75 (INR 6,470) and typically takes 25-30 days to process.
Total Cost of study in Germany for Indian students
To give a clearer picture, let’s compile all the expenses into an estimated annual budget:
| Expenses | Public University | Private University |
| Tuition Fees | €500 – €1,200 | €20,000 – €40,000 |
| Food | €2,500 – €3,500 | €2,500 – €3,500 |
| Accommodation | €8,500 – €11,000 | €8,500 – €11,000 |
| Transportation | €600 – €1,000 | €600 – €1,000 |
| Utilities | €4,400 – €4,500 | €4,400 – €4,500 |
| Health Insurance | €1,700 | €1,700 |
| Student Visa | €75 | €75 |
| Total | €18,275 – €22,975 | €37,775 – €62,775 |
Effective budgeting and financial planning can enable Indian students to navigate their expenses more easily while taking advantage of the outstanding education and promising career opportunities that Germany offers.
Scholarship Opportunities in Germany
Germany offers numerous scholarships for Indian students, including:
- DAAD Scholarships – Government-funded grants for various programs.
- Heinrich Böll Foundation Scholarships – For students of all disciplines.
- Deutschlandstipendium – Merit-based support from universities.
Part-Time Jobs for Indian Students in Germany
A part-time job can help cover living expenses but may not be enough for tuition or blocked account requirements.
Indian students can work part-time (up to 120 full days or 240 half days in a year). Typical roles include:
- Research Assistants
- Tutors
- Retail jobs
- Delivery services
Average part-time wages range between €10 – €15/hour.
Budgeting and Saving Tips
- Create a budget: Plan monthly expenses and stick to it.
- Use expense tracking apps: Manage spending efficiently.
- Look for student discounts: Available for transport, food, entertainment, and more.
- Shop smart: Thrift stores and student markets offer great deals.
Managing Money and Forex for Studying Abroad
Studying abroad also involves managing money smartly — from tuition fees to everyday expenses. This is where Supreme Forex becomes an essential partner for students.
Supreme Forex Services for Students studying in Germany
1. Multi-Currency Forex Cards
- Supreme Forex offers preloaded forex cards that support multiple currencies, making them perfect for students traveling not just within Germany, but across Europe.
- With low conversion fees and easy top-ups, you can enjoy worry-free spending wherever you go.
2. Instant Currency Exchange
- Need cash as soon as you arrive? Supreme Forex provides instant INR to EUR currency exchange at competitive rates.
- It’s ideal for covering immediate expenses like food, transport, or getting settled into your new student accommodation.
3. Budget Planning Assistance
- Not sure how to plan your finances? Supreme Forex helps you break down your monthly expenses, including tuition fees, accommodation, food, transport, and other costs.
Final Thoughts
Studying in Germany can be an exciting and transformative experience. With the right financial planning, it’s more accessible than you might think. By budgeting wisely and choosing trusted forex services like Supreme Forex, Indian students can make their dream of studying in Germany a reality, without the worry of financial strain.
Ready to begin your academic adventure in Germany? Start planning today!
FAQs About Study in Germany for Indian Students
1. How much does it cost to study in Germany?
The cost of studying in Germany can vary depending on whether you attend a public or private university. Public universities usually charge a semester fee ranging from EUR 250 – 350, while private universities can cost between EUR 25,000 – 40,000 annually. On top of tuition fees, students need to consider monthly living expenses, including accommodation, food, transportation, and other essentials, which can range from EUR 850 – 1,200 depending on the city you choose to live in.
2. Can we do part-time jobs while studying in Germany?
Yes, you can! International students in Germany are allowed to work 120 full days or 240 half days per year without needing a work permit. There are a variety of part-time jobs available, including roles in cafes, research assistant positions, or internships related to your field of study. On average, students can earn between EUR 10 – 15 per hour, helping to ease the financial burden of living expenses.
3. Is studying in Germany worth it?
Definitely! Germany offers a world-class education system with affordable tuition, especially at public universities, and degrees that are recognized globally. The country is a hub for fields like engineering, technology, and business, providing numerous internship and job opportunities after graduation. Beyond academics, you’ll also experience a high quality of life, a rich cultural diversity, and the chance to travel across Europe.
4. Is health insurance mandatory for Indian students in Germany?
Yes, health insurance is a requirement for all international students in Germany. Public health insurance typically costs around EUR 142 per month and covers services like doctor visits, hospital stays, and prescriptions. Without valid health insurance, you won’t be able to register at your university or obtain a student visa.
Source:
Yocket
Numbeo
Studying in Germany
