Top 12 Universities In Germany

Securing a spot in the best universities in Germany is akin to battling for a golden ticket to Willy Wonka's chocolate factory! These prestigious institutions, like the Technical University of Munich (TUM) and Heidelberg University, rival the intensity of the Hogwarts sorting hat ceremony. These best universities in Germany are the holy grail for ambitious students seeking to challenge themselves and unlock a world of knowledge and opportunities. 

Best 12 Universities In Germany

If you are wondering whether moving to Germany will be beneficial for higher study or work, then be assured that in terms of education, you will find the best public universities in Germany! Most top universities in Germany charge no tuition fee for the first semester while charging the bare minimum for the rest! It is also a country that caters to intellectual brilliance and innovative infrastructure for research in science and technology. However, we understand that moving to a new country is always overwhelming, which is why we have gathered every information you need in our blog: From Wanderlust to Wunderbar: Moving to Germany! Now, let's explore the 12 best universities in Germany:

1. University of Munich (LMU)

QS Ranking - #37

Location: Geschwister-Scholl-Platz 1, 80539 München, Germany

Established: 1472

Best course(s): Civil engineering

Course duration: 3-4 years

Tuition fees: EUR 12,000/Year 

The University is a top university in Germany, also known as Ludwig Maximilian University of Munich (LMU), and has contributed significantly to research and academic excellence. It draws students from all over the world for its variety of undergraduate and graduate programmes in numerous academic fields. The vibrant and diverse learning environment with significant emphasis on interdisciplinary research and internationalisation; LMU offers cutting-edge resources and facilities to academic and research activities! 

2. Heidelberg University

QS Ranking - #87

Location: Grabengasse 1, 69117 Heidelberg, Germany

Established: 1386

Best course(s): M.S (Computer Engineering), M.S (Economics)

Course duration: 2 years

Tuition fees: EUR 372 /Year

Heidelberg University is one of the oldest and the best universities in Germany to get into if you want to align yourself with  top-notch research facilities! The institution provides a wide range of programmes in the arts, social sciences, scientific sciences, and medicine. With Heidelberg University students from around the world enjoy a rich learning environment with state-of-the-art facilities and a vibrant campus life. Its historic and picturesque location is a bonus of studying at this top university in Germany. 

3. Free University of Berlin (FU Berlin)

QS Ranking: #98

Established: 1948

Location: Kaiserswerther Str. 16-18, 14195 Berlin, Germany

Best course(s): M.S (Computer Science)

Course duration: 1 year

Tuition fees: EUR 8,814 /Year

You will be delighted to note that Germany has a system of tuition-free education, as is the case in the Free University of Berlin. However, Students are required to pay certain fees, such as semester fees and contributions to student services, but to your relief, these fees are considerably lower than tuition fees in many other countries. Apart from that, The university has a diverse and international student body and fosters an inclusive and dynamic learning environment. Situated in the vibrant city of Berlin, FU Berlin provides students with access to numerous cultural, social, and professional opportunities. All  these contribute to its status as the best public university in Germany. 

4. RWTH Aachen University

QS Ranking - #106

Location: Templergraben 55, 52062 Aachen, Germany

Established: 1870

Best course(s): M.Sc (Automotive Engineering), M.Sc (Data Science)

Course duration: 2 years 

Tuition fees: EUR 520 /Year

RWTH Aachen University is a renowned technical university that offers a wide range of programs in engineering, natural sciences, computer science, and related fields. The university is known for its strong industry connections and focus on practical, hands-on education. It boasts state-of-the-art facilities, research centres, and collaborations with leading companies. With a diverse and international student community, RWTH Aachen provides a stimulating learning environment and numerous opportunities for research, innovation, and professional development. RWTH Aachen is also one of the best universities in Germany for engineering. Apart from this, you can also check out some of the other best engineering programs in Germany and have your best pick! 

5. Karlsruhe Institute of Technology (KIT)

QS Ranking - #119

Location: 76131 Karlsruhe, Germany

Established: 2009

Best course(s): B.S (Mechanical Engineering), M.S (Computer science)

Course duration: 2-3 years

Tuition fees: EUR 17,998 /Year

A renowned technical university called the Karlsruhe Institute of Technology (KIT) was created as a result of the union of the Karlsruhe Research Centre and the University of Karlsruhe. It is among the top universities in Germany for its brilliance in engineering, the natural sciences, and computer science. KIT emphasises interdisciplinary collaboration, building links between many fields and promoting entrepreneurial thinking. KIT places a high value on internationalisation and encourages student exchange programs. The  university has partnered with institutions around the world, which makes it the best university in Germany for international students. For students looking for a technical education, KIT offers the appropriate setting thanks to its high academic reputation and cutting-edge facilities amongst all top universities in Germany. 

6. Humboldt University of Berlin

QS Ranking: #120

Location: Unter den Linden 6, 10117 Berlin, Germany

Established: 1810

Best course(s): M.S (Psychology)

Course duration: 2 years

Tuition fees: EUR 160 /Year 

The Humboldt University of Berlin, Germany, is named after the influential German scholars Wilhelm and Alexander von Humboldt. Humboldt University offers a wide range of programs in humanities, social sciences, natural sciences, and medicine. It has a strong focus on research and innovation, and its faculty includes renowned experts in various fields. The university is among the top universities in Germany for its academic rigour, international collaborations, and contributions to intellectual discourse. With its central location in Berlin, students at Humboldt University enjoy access to a vibrant cultural and intellectual environment. 

7. University of Cologne

QS Ranking: #268

Location: Albertus-Magnus-Platz, 50923 Köln, Germany

Established: 1388 

Best course(s): M.Sc (Business Administration)

Course duration: 2 years

Tuition fees: EUR 500 /Year 

The University of Cologne is yet another one of the top universities in Germany. It offers a wide range of academic programs across various disciplines, including humanities, social sciences, natural sciences, and medicine. The university is known for its commitment to excellence in teaching and research, attracting both national and international students. With a rich history and a strong focus on interdisciplinary collaboration, the University of Cologne continues to be the best university in Germany. 

8. University of Freiburg

QS Ranking - #189

Location: Fahnenbergplatz, 79085 Freiburg im Breisgau, Germany

Established: 1457

Best course(s): M.S (Computer Science), B.S (Nursing Sciences)

Course duration: 2-3 years 

Course fees: EUR 3,000 /Year 

The University of Freiburg, situated in Freiburg im Breisgau, Germany, is one of the oldest universities and best public universities in Germany! It is known for its strong emphasis on innovation, sustainability, and interdisciplinary collaboration. The university offers a wide range of academic programs in fields such as natural sciences, humanities, social sciences, engineering, and medicine. With a reputation for excellence in research and teaching, the University of Freiburg attracts students and scholars from around the world. It is also recognised for its picturesque campus, located in the heart of the Black Forest region.

9. Technical University of Berlin (TU Berlin)

QS Ranking - #154

Location: Straße des 17. Juni 135, 10623 Berlin, Germany

Established: 1879

Best course(s): MSc (Information Systems Management), B.E/B.Tech

Course duration: 2-3 years

Tuition fees: EUR 11,800/Year 

The Technical University of Berlin (TU Berlin), Germany, is renowned for its comprehensive range of academic programs in engineering, natural sciences, economics, and social sciences. Known for its strong focus on research and innovation, TU Berlin collaborates closely with industry and has a vibrant entrepreneurial ecosystem. The university prides itself on providing students with practical and hands-on learning experiences, equipping them with the skills needed for professional success. TU Berlin's diverse and inclusive community attracts talented students and researchers from around the world. No wonder this is one of the top universities in Germany!

10. Goethe University Frankfurt

QS Ranking: #302

Location:Theodor-W.-Adorno-Platz 1, 60629 Frankfurt am Main, Germany

Established: 1914

Best course(s): M.S (Money and Finance), M.S (Psychology) 

Course duration: 2 years

Tuition fees: EUR 821 /Year

 As one of the hardest and best Universities in Germany, it offers a wide range of academic programs across disciplines such as humanities, social sciences, natural sciences, and medicine. The university is known for its strong emphasis on research and has gained international recognition for its contributions to various fields. Goethe University Frankfurt provides a vibrant and dynamic learning environment, fostering intellectual curiosity and critical thinking. It is among the top universities in germany creating a diverse and multicultural community.

11. University of Stuttgart

QS Ranking: #312

Location: Keplerstraße 7, 70174 Stuttgart, Germany

Established: 1829

Best course(s): Automotive Engineering and Aerospace Engineering. 

Course duration: 2-3 years 

Tuition fees: EUR 3,333 /Year

The University of Stuttgart, is a top university in Germany offering a diverse range of academic programs in engineering, natural sciences, architecture, and social sciences. Known for its focus on technology and innovation, the university collaborates closely with industry and fosters entrepreneurship. It boasts state-of-the-art facilities and laboratories, providing students with hands-on learning experiences. The University of Stuttgart is internationally recognised for its research contributions and attracts talented students and researchers from across the globe. Its dynamic and supportive environment for academic and personal growth contributes to its ranking among the best universities in Germany. 

12. University of Bonn 

QS Ranking: #239

Location: Regina-Pacis-Weg 3, 53113 Bonn, Germany

Established: 1818.

Best course(s): Masters in Computer Science

Course duration: 2 years

Tuition fees: EUR 666/Year

The University of Bonn, is a top university in Germany that nurtures a wide range of academic programs across disciplines such as humanities, natural sciences, social sciences, and medicine. The university has a rich history and is known for its excellence in teaching and research. With a strong emphasis on international collaboration and exchange, it attracts students and scholars from around the world. It provides a stimulating and inclusive environment for intellectual growth and offers numerous opportunities for interdisciplinary studies and research. You`ll be delighted to know this top university in Germany charges no tuition fee for the first semester making it the best universities in Germany for international students. Given that these universities are all among the top universities in Germany, they are also difficult to get into! If you still want to go through universities whose selection processes are relatively easier, check out these easiest universities to get into Germany. We also recommend taking a few refreshing breaks from academics and dive into some of the best things to do in Germany with your friends for a change! 

These top Universities in Germany are recognised for their academic excellence and competitiveness. Although most of these top universities in Germany are renowned for engineering or computer science courses, the country has a strong foothold in medical studies as well. You can go through some of the best programs for MBBS in Germany for further information. Most of these best public universities in Germany charge minimum tuition fees from its students, however, other expenses are there for which strong scholarship programmes are significant for students. In order to know more about scholarships, you can go through our blog: Top 7 Scholarships in Germany. Moreover, if you are residing in Germany for education or work, you might want to explore the best cities to live in Germany.