A rich academic tradition, state-of-the-art facilities, and innovative research are some of the reasons why Germany is a popular choice among study-abroad aspirants. But what makes Germany an ideal study-abroad destination, is its affordable public universities, out of which most of them charge no tuition fees. Yes, you heard it right. The public universities in Germany account for 90% of all the academic programs offered at universities worldwide. You only have to pay a minimal enrollment fee per semester and manage your living costs and accommodation expenses while studying in Germany.
Study abroad consultants like Contentholic can guide you through the college application procedure, visa assistance, and SOP and LOR writing for German universities. If you are among the several students who wish to study in Germany, then this blog will provide you with a basic understanding of the Top 10 Public Universities in Germany.
List of the Top 10 Public Universities in Germany
Now, let us have a look at the best public universities in Germany known for their academic excellence which are a popular choice among students.
1. Technical University of Munich (TUM)
The Technical University of Munich is known for its expertise in engineering, technology, medicine, applied and natural sciences. Established in 1868, it is located in the picturesque city of Munich. It is among the leading universities in the EU. Some of its most popular courses include Aerospace Engineering, MBA, Automotive Engineering, Electrical Engineering and Information Technology, Cartography, Brewing and Beverage Technology. Notable alumni include 18 Nobel laureates and 24 Leibniz Prize winners.
TUM awards scholarships to overseas students through funds it receives from the Bavarian government. It is a one-time financial aid between € 500 and € 1,800 per semester. If you wish to apply for a scholarship, then you need to explain your financial status in a Motivation Letter, addressed to the university. Apart from this, you are also required to submit a CV/resume, and 2 LORs not older than 1 semester.
2. Ludwig Maximilian University of Munich (LMU Munich)
Renowned for its strong research and interdisciplinary studies, the LMU Munich is the 6th oldest German university in continuous operation since 1472. It has the second-highest number of student population among all German universities. Its most famous programs are Data Science, Software Engineering, Geophysics, Meteorology, Computer Science, and Psychology. Recently, it has been conferred with the title of ‘University of Excellence’.
For international students enrolled in a regular full-time program and for those who are pursuing a Doctorate at LMU Munich, the Federal State of Bavaria provides the SIST LMU Study Scholarship. For this, you need to provide a declaration of your financial need and an LOR. As part of the LMU Munich application process, you need to submit an updated CV and proof of your proficiency in German (except: for master’s degree programs, doctoral studies, and double degree programs where the course language is English).
3. University of Heidelberg
Founded in 1386, Heidelberg University is one of the oldest universities in Germany and worldwide. It is a founding member of the League of European Universities. It is known for teaching some of the best courses such as Natural Science, Law, Mathematics, Biomedical Engineering, and Corporate Restructuring. The language of instruction is usually German, but some courses are taught in English and French as well.
The University of Heidelberg offers the Hans-Peter Wild Talents Scholarship is meant for students who are about to study a course at the university in the following subjects: Mathematics, Computer Science, Natural Sciences, and Technology (MINT). It provides you with € 1,000 per month, till the end of your course. For applicants interested in availing of this scholarship, you need to present a CV in tabular form, a Motivation Letter, 2 LORs from professionals in the MINT field, and supportive documents regarding any prizes, awards that you have received and about any internships or vocational training programs you have been a part of.
4. Humboldt University of Berlin
The Humboldt University is located in the heart of Germany’s capital, Berlin. It was built in 1810. It emphasizes the unity of teaching and research. It is recognized worldwide for its commitment to the Humboldtian model of higher education. Its highly sought-after programs are Business Science, Economics, European History, Global History, Biology, Psychology, Political Science, Business Administration, and Computer Science
Influential people to have been students here are Albert Einstein, Max Weber, Karl Marx, and Robert Koch. Sponsored by the Humboldt Foundation, the Humboldt Scholarship is awarded to scientists and scholars, irrespective of their academic discipline and nationality. Under this, international students receive € 45,000 to € 500,000. To apply at the university, students need to submit a CV and LORs.
5. University of Bonn
Established in 1818, the University of Bonn is known for its comprehensive academic programs and vibrant research environment. It is a member of the German U15 association of research-intensive German universities. Its widely recognized courses are History, Political Science, Biology, Economics, Mathematics, Public Health, and Applied Data Science.
Since the university is located in Bonn, it shares proximity with major governmental and non-governmental organizations. All students who are about to start studies at the University of Bonn can apply for the Duetschlandstipendium scholarship. Each student who has performed exceptionally well in academics receives € 300 per month. As part of the application procedure, you need to submit a CV in a tabular form, and proof of your German and English language proficiency.
6. Free University of Berlin (FU Berlin)
Built in 1948, during the early Cold War period, the Free University of Berlin is renowned for its academic brilliance in political science and economics. It is best known for teaching subjects such as Mathematics, Bioinformation, Business Studies, Chemistry, Computer Science, Economics, Psychology, Anthropology, Sociology, and Theater Studies.
Through its Scholarship and Support Program (STIBET I), the university offers a monthly grant of € 250 to six foreign students for 10 months. This is funded by the German Academic Service which receives funding from the Federal Foreign Office. As part of its application process, students are usually asked to submit a CV, LOR, SOP, and a Work Experience Letter (in case you are working). If you wish to increase your chances of admission at FU Berlin, you must consult study abroad consultants who provide exceptional SOP and LOR writing services.
7. RWTH Aachen University
The RWTH Aachen University is the largest technical university in Germany which was founded in 1870. It is known for its innovative research in the fields of engineering, natural science, and business. Popular programs taught here include Applied Geophysics, Electrical Engineering, Information Technology, Micro and Nanoelectronics, and Civil Engineering. The RWTH International Academy offers the German Language Merit Scholarship to encourage students who are learning German at the RWTH Language Center.
Most of the bachelor’s and master’s programs at the RWTH Aachen University require its students to submit proof of their proficiency in a German language test like TestDaF or DSH and an English language proficiency test like IELTS or TOEFL. Apart from this, various courses require students to also submit a SOP, LOR, and a resume. To write effectively, ensure that you get the right guidance and support from professional SOP and LOR writers.
8. University of Sttutgart
Formed in 1829, the University of Stuttgart is renowned for its prowess in the fields of engineering and technology. Since it is situated in Stuttgart, the center of Germany’s automotive industry, it offers extensive opportunities for practical experience and collaboration. It is known for its courses such as Aerospace Engineering, Architecture and Urban Planning, Art History, Biology, Digital Humanities, Entrepreneurship, Civil Engineering, and Business Administration.
Students with a high academic record, who are about to enroll in a course at the University of Stuttgart can apply for the Duetschlandstipendium scholarship, under which they will receive € 300 per month. If you wish to apply here, you must submit information about your German or English proficiency test scores along with a CV/Resume, and a Motivation Letter. At times, certain programs might require applicants to submit a LOR as well.
9. University of Tubingen
Formed in 1477, the University of Tubingen has been recently recognized as a center of excellence for Artificial Intelligence. It offers around 200 academic programs, out of which the most famous ones are in the subjects of life sciences and theology. Prominent programs taught here include Machine Learning, Plant Biology, Law, Economics, Ancient Cultures, Humanities, Archaeology, and Theology. Around eleven of its alumni have gone on to win the Nobel Prize in the fields of medicine and chemistry.
Students with a meritorious academic score, who are about to start their studies at the University of Tubingen can apply for the Deutschlandstipendium Scholarship. They are entitled to receive € 300 every month. Its application procedure is similar to the other universities we have discussed so far.
10. Technical University of Braunschweig (TU Braunschweig)
The Technical University of Braunschweig was established in 1745. It is ranked among the top engineering universities in Germany. It has earned a name for its outstanding research work in mobility, life sciences, and metrology. Popular courses taught here are Physics, Biology, Aerospace Engineering, Mechanical University, Sustainable Energy Engineering, Art History, Art Education, Mathematics, Environmental Science, and Educational Sciences.
Students of TU Braunschweig can apply for the need-based scholarships awarded by the Carolo-Wilhelmina Foundation. To apply here, students are required to submit a Resume, a Motivation Letter, and their German language proficiency test scores.
Conclusion
Studying in Germany is a life-changing experience. You get to be a part of an environment that provides the best resources and facilities needed for academic and professional advancement. The public universities in Germany are not only affordable but also have some of the best teaching faculties and research labs. These universities also have strong industry networks, which further allow you to have numerous career opportunities in diverse fields.
Most of these universities teach programs in English, which further removes the language barrier and makes Germany an ideal study-abroad destination for international students. At times, it has been seen that students might face certain challenges while applying to a university in Germany. To ease your worries, reach out to study-abroad consultants like Contentholic who are known for their expert career counseling, visa guidance, and SOP and LOR writing services. So, what are you waiting for? Contact us and get closer to achieving your dream of studying in Germany.
