Studying Master’s in Germany
Studying Master’s in Germany requires certain conditions such as holding a bachelor’s degree from a recognized university, transcripts and GPA from the previous course, proficiency in German or English, and passing the entrance exam for German universities.
Students can study for a master’s degree in Germany for free, provided they possess a B2 level of language skill. Generally, there is no age limit for master’s studies in Germany, but some programs only accept students under 35 years of age.
You can also ask your questions regarding immigration to Germany in the comments section and receive answers in a short time.
Requirements for Studying Master’s in Germany
If applicants wish to migrate to Germany for study, they must be familiar with the special requirements for studying at this educational level in the country. Each university has its own criteria for admitting students for master’s studies in Germany. These conditions include:
- The bachelor’s degree provided must be recognized by universities in Germany.
- If choosing public universities, the person must submit a certificate in German, and if choosing private universities, they must provide proof of English proficiency.
- Admission to some universities is highly competitive, and these universities may also request transcripts and educational histories from students.
- Students interested in pursuing a master’s degree in Germany can only proceed through successful interviews or entrance exams.
Age Requirements for Studying Master’s in Germany
Although Germany is a country without specific age limitations for continuing education, students with more suitable ages tend to have a higher acceptance rate for master’s studies in Germany.
Additionally, some universities only admit students under the age of 35 for certain programs. Another important factor in this regard is educational gaps, which international students should document through papers like work experience to make the gap acceptable.
GPA Requirement for Studying Master’s in Germany
To study for a master’s degree in Germany, most public universities require a minimum GPA of 2.5 on the German grading scale, which roughly corresponds to a 3.0 out of 4.0 or 75%. However, top-ranked programs may require a GPA of 2.0 or better, equivalent to around 3.3 to 3.7 out of 4.0. Private universities tend to be more flexible and may accept students with a GPA between 2.5 and 3.0.
For international students, a GPA of at least 15 out of 20 is typically acceptable. Applicants with lower GPAs may still be considered if they present strong supporting documents, such as a compelling motivation letter, relevant work experience, or high standardized test scores (e.g., GRE or GMAT). It’s essential to check the specific GPA requirement listed on each university or program’s official website.
Necessary Documents to Apply for Master’s in Germany
Applicants for a master’s degree in Germany must fully prepare the required documents of the university and submit them. Below, we list these documents:
- Valid passport
- Identity documents
- Translated transcripts and bachelor’s degree
- Certificate of no criminal record
- Student insurance
- Financial resources
- German language certificate or English language certificate according to the university’s requirements
Steps to Apply for Master’s in Germany
Applying for a master’s degree in Germany involves several steps that must be executed carefully. Here, the step-by-step process of applying for admission and obtaining a German student visa is explained.
Choosing a Program and University
- Research universities and master’s courses through official websites like DAAD.
Check Admission Requirements
Prepare Required Documents
Register and Submit Application
- You can register on the university’s website or the Uni-Assist system (for some universities).
Receiving Admission from the University
- The university will review your application (this may take between 6 to 12 weeks). If accepted, an admission letter (Zulassungsbescheid) will be issued.
Open a Blocked Account in Germany (Sperrkonto)
- An amount of 11,208 euros must be deposited in a bank account to cover living expenses. It is possible to open an account in German banks or financial institutions such as Fintiba or Expatrio.
Apply for a German Student Visa
Obtain Student Residence Permit
List of Master’s Degree Programs in Germany
There is a variety of courses offered for master’s study in Germany’s prestigious universities. Among the best, the following programs can be mentioned:
- Artificial Intelligence
- Computer Engineering
- Automotive Engineering
- Mechanical Engineering
- Medical Engineering
- Neuroscience
Other programs available for master’s study in Germany include:
| Master’s in Sustainable Resource Management | Master’s in Biomedical Sciences | Master’s in Business Administration | Master’s in Business Mathematics |
| Master’s in Product Development | Master’s in Integrated Management | Master’s in Entrepreneurial Economics | Master’s in Finance |
| Master’s in Executive Management | Master’s in Entrepreneurship | Master’s in Global Management | Master’s in Digital Technology |
| Master’s in Consulting and Information Technology Management | Master’s in Business Management | Master’s in Accounting and Finance | Master’s in Tourism Management |
| Master’s in Medical Engineering | Master’s in Data Science and Digital Business | Master’s in Executive Business Management | Master’s in Health Sciences and Healthcare Management |
Best Universities in Germany for Master’s Degree
Students aiming to pursue a master’s degree in Germany should first thoroughly research the best German universities offering this level of education. Among German universities, the best institutions for master’s studies include:
| University | Approximate QS World Ranking 2025 |
|---|---|
| Technical University of Munich (TUM) | 50 |
| Heidelberg University | 63 |
| University of Munich (LMU) | 64 |
| Free University of Berlin | 127 |
| RWTH Aachen University | 165 |
| University of Freiburg | 172 |
| University of Eberhard Karls | 177 |
| University of Göttingen | 204 |
| University of Hamburg | 214 |
| University of Bonn | 226 |
| Friedrich Alexander University Erlangen-Nuremberg | 322 |
| Goethe University Frankfurt | 340 |
| University of Ulm | 365 |
| University of Würzburg | 378 |
| University of Münster | 411 |
Free Universities in Germany for Master’s Degrees
Many public universities in Germany do not charge tuition or have very low fees for master’s programs for both domestic and international students. The universities listed below belong to the category of free universities in Germany and have very low tuition costs.
Affordable universities in Germany for Master’s degrees:
- University of Stuttgart
- University of Leipzig
- University of Mannheim
- University of Göttingen
- University of Potsdam Humboldt
- University of Berlin
Cost of Studying Master’s in Germany
The cost of a master’s degree at public universities in Germany is very minimal, typically around 200 to 300 euros per semester, which the university collects for providing services to students.
This amount is very small and one can say that studying at public universities in Germany is free for all students proficient in German. Tuition for master’s degrees at private universities in Germany varies according to the program and institution, and students wishing to study a master’s degree in Germany can refer to the official university websites for tuition costs in Germany.
Scholarships for Master’s in Germany
Although opportunities for free education are available for all nationalities in Germany, the public and private universities in this country have also designated scholarships and financial aid for students. In this section, we will mention some of the scholarships in Germany.
| Scholarship/Funding Program | Details | Amount |
|---|---|---|
| Federal Education Assistance Act (BAföG) | Monthly financial support for students | $861 per month |
| Deutschlandstipendium | Merit-based scholarship | €150 per month |
| STIPENDIUM plus | Funded by 13 organizations affiliated with German federal research | Varies |
| Erasmus Scholarship | For short-term Master’s or supplementary courses | Varies |
| Academic Exchange Service (DAAD) Scholarship | For Master’s degree studies in Germany | Varies |
Free Master’s Education in Germany
Students interested in studying for a master’s degree in Germany should note that in order to study for free in Germany, which is possible at public universities in this country, students must have a B2 level certificate in German and be sufficiently proficient in the German language.
Students wishing to pursue a master’s degree in Germany who do not have a German language certificate can initially participate in language courses offered at colleges and universities in Germany and upon successful completion of these courses and obtaining the related certificate, they can then apply for free admission to public universities in Germany.
Advantages of Pursuing Master’s in Germany
Studying for a master’s degree in Germany has many benefits, some of which are mentioned below:
- Availability of a suitable job market in Germany for various fields
- Opportunity for free education
- High income levels for various fields in this country
- Affordable living costs for international students
- Familiarity with different cultures and nationalities
- Job opportunities after graduation
- Ability to work while studying
- Opportunity to earn a highly regarded degree from German universities
- Opportunity to obtain permanent residency in Germany after graduation
Obtaining a German Student Visa for Master’s Degree
If students successfully receive admission from one of the universities in Germany, they need to apply for a German student visa and thus must prepare and submit documents to the German embassy. The documents required include:
- Passport with sufficient validity
- Identification documents
- Recommendation letters from previous professors
- Motivation letter
- Financial capability evidence through bank statements
- Standard photograph
- Visa application form
- Payment receipt for document review
Dependent Visa for Students Studying Master’s in Germany
According to immigration laws in Germany, married students intending to hold their family while studying for a master’s degree in Germany must demonstrate their financial capability to support their family and provide housing for them.
In all immigration laws, family refers solely to the applicant’s spouse and children. In Germany, similar to other European countries, with the importance given to family unity, married students can also apply for a family visa for Germany, but to avoid any possible rejection, it is better to carry out this process two to three months after the student arrives in Germany.
The applicant’s children can continue their education for free in Germany, and the spouse, upon receiving a work permit, can be employed in Germany.
Student Employment in Germany for Master’s Degree
The opportunity for student work in Germany is one of the basic advantages of pursuing a master’s degree in Germany. Students and those interested in studying for a master’s degree in Germany can work part-time for 20 hours a week.
Student work helps international students reduce costs. If student work disrupts the student’s studies, permission to work may be revoked. Therefore, working while studying in Germany should not interfere with the student’s education.
Residency in Germany After Completing Master’s Degree
Students studying in Germany for a master’s degree may remain in Germany for six months after completing their education to search for a job. If they find a job, after paying insurance and taxes, they can apply for permanent residency in Germany after three years and soon after German passport. As Germany is currently ranked first in Europe’s economy and fifth in the world’s economy, there are many job opportunities for graduates.
However, students interested in pursuing a master’s degree in Germany should note that knowing the German language is essential to reach these job opportunities. Germany continuously welcomes skilled and specialized individuals into its labor market and offers many advantages to them.
Frequently Asked Questions About Studying Master’s in Germany
- Is studying master’s degree in Germany free?
Yes, studying at public universities in Germany is almost free, and only a fee of between 150 to 500 euros per semester is paid for student services and registration.
- Is a German language certificate required to study in Germany?
This depends on the language of the course. If the course is in German, usually TestDaF or DSH is required, and if the course is in English, an IELTS (6.5 and above) or TOEFL certificate is necessary.
- What is the GPA requirement for admission to a master’s program in Germany?
The GPA requirement varies depending on the university and the program, but generally a GPA higher than 2.5 on a 4-point scale (around 14 out of 20) is needed.
- How many hours per week can master’s degree students in Germany work?
Master’s degree students in Germany are allowed to work twenty hours a week.
- Do we need a blocked account to study in Germany?
Yes, to obtain a student visa, you need a blocked account with an amount of 11,208 euros (2024) in a German bank or with institutions like Fintiba or Expatrio.
- When is the deadline for registering for a master’s program in Germany?
There are usually two main deadlines: Winter semester: until July 15, and summer semester: until January 15.
Conclusion:
Studying for a master’s degree in Germany is free at public universities and tuition-based at private institutions. Public universities require a German language certificate, while private ones accept English proficiency (e.g., IELTS). Applicants need a GPA above 15, and those under 30 have higher chances of admission. Germany offers strong job prospects after graduation, leading to permanent residency and even citizenship. For full guidance on studying a master’s in Germany, contact Malekpour Institute or leave your questions below.
