Master's Degree in Germany
Germany is one of the most popular Study abroad destinations for MS (Masters) programs. The country offers quality education in a wide range of subjects. The duration of a Germany master's degree is 1 Year (12 months) to 4 Years (48 months) based on the Program selected.
If you are looking for world-class universities to pursue your master's degree by improving your knowledge in a relevant field close to your undergraduate degree, then Germany is the right place for you because of the various master's programs from various fields including STEM, business management, finance, medicine, management studies, arts, humanities, and social sciences. Most of the master's programs are English-taught, so international students don't need to worry about the German language.
International students can pursue a masters in Germany at a low or zero cost and can avail various scholarships to handle the finances during their stay in Germany. The German master's degree is recognized all over the world, which attracts international students from India to study MS at top universities in Germany.
Types of Universities for Master's in German
The first thing you should know when thinking about how to choose a university in Germany is that there are different types of higher education institutions. Understanding the differences between these different types of universities can help you in your search for the right study program in Germany.
- Reseach Universities
- They are research-driven institutions that focus on theoretical approaches more than practical applications. Students can pursue all levels of studies, including masters MS degree, doctorate degrees at these institutions.
- Universities of Applied Sciences (UAS)
- UAS focuses on the application of research results. The curriculum includes project courses and internships, with subjects like engineering, business, and social sciences. Only a few UAS institutions offer doctoral studies.
- Academies of Arts, Music, and Film
- These are specialized institutions for creative fields like music, design, architecture, photography, or dance. They provide artistic training and some also offer scientific programs related to arts research.
- Dual Study (Duale Studium)
- Dual Study bridges the gap between theoretical and practical knowledge. Many companies offer these programs with stipends, allowing students to gain academic education and hands-on work experience simultaneously.
German higher education institutions / German terminology for universities
- Hochschule / Higher education institution
- Universität (Uni) / Research driven university
- Technische Universität (TU) / Technical university
- Pädagogische Hochschulen (PH) / University of education
- Hochschule für angewandte Wissenschaften (HAW) / University of Applied Science
- Technische Hochschulen (TH) / Technical university of applied sciences
- Duale Hochschulen / Dual studies institution
Research Universities and Programs
For pursuing a master's degree in Germany with a research focus, Students should consider Top universities providing MS Programs like Technical University of Munich (TUM), Humboldt University of Berlin, Heidelberg University and Ludwig Maximilians University (LMU) Munich. These Universities are known for their strong research programs and infrastructure like Research Lab.
Below is the list of Universities and Programs that are mainly research focused.
Top Universities for Masters in Germany
- Technical University of Munich
- Ludwig Maximilians University Munich
- Heidelberg University
- Free University of Berlin
- RWTH Aachen University
- Technical University of Berlin (TU Berlin)
- KIT, Karlsruhe Institute of Technology
- Humboldt University of Berlin
- University of Hamburg
- Albert Ludwigs University of Freiburg
Top MS Specializations in Germany
- MS in Biology (Sciences)
- MS in Computer Science
- MS in IT & Networking
- MS in Mechanical Engineering
- MS in Geology
- MS in Physics
- MS in Mathematics
- Master of Business Administration (MBA)
Is education free in Germany for Masters?
Most public universities in Germany do not charge any tuition fees for master's programs. It’s an affordable option for both local and international students.
How much it costs to study Master's in Germany
The yearly cost of MS in Germany ranges from €2,700 - €16,000 (INR 2,50,000 to INR 15,00,000) per annum. Since the majority of colleges are government-funded, there are rarely any tuition costs. Therefore, studying in Germany is more affordable than studying elsewhere in the world for international students.
- Public Universities
- Semester fees €150 - €350
- Accommodation
- Monthly rent €300 - €800
- Food
- €200 - €300 per month
- Transportation
- Public transport costs €30 - €100 monthly
- Health Insurance
- €100 - €150 per month
- Student Visa
- €71 - €82
- Blocked Account
- Non-EU students may require proof of funds €11,208 annually
- Total Annual Cost of Studying Masters in Germany
- €2700 / Year (Tuition Fees + Administrative Costs + Pre-Arrival Costs + Post-Arrival Costs)
Why Study MS in Germany?
Few of the reasons international students opt to study in Germany to pursue their Master's degree:
Step to apply for Masters in Germany
Applying for a Master's in Germany involves a comprehensive exploration of available programs aligned with one's academic background and professional aspirations, with careful attention to the specific requirements articulated on university websites. Below are the steps to apply for MS in Germany.
Program Inquiry
Thoroughly research suitable master's programs and their specific requirements on university websites. Scoutabroad can guide you through this Initial process. You can also get list of German universities that provides MS Programs after login in our app https://app.scoutabroad.com/
Eligibility Verification
Carefully confirm and check you meet all the academic and language prerequisites of your chosen MS programs.
Documents Compilation
Gather required documents: transcripts, degree certificate, passport, CV, motivation letter, recommendations, and language proof.
Online Application
Complete and submit online applications via university portals while uploading all necessary documents. Scoutabroad can assist with online application and documents submission.
Supplementary Requirements
Be aware of any additional documents and fulfill any program-specific needs like entrance exams or portfolios. Consultants can provide detailed document lists.
APS Certificate (Non-EU/EEA)
If applicable, initiate the APS process well in advance of applications. APS Certificate may be required for MS programs depending on university and program.
Admission Notification
Await the university's admission decision, typically communicated via email. Follow Scoutabroad on Instagram for updates: https://www.instagram.com/scoutabroadofficial
Visa Application
Upon acceptance, apply for a German student visa by providing all required documentation. Scoutabroad provides assistance with the entire visa application process.
Prepare for Your Departure
Arrange travel, accommodation, and logistics. Scoutabroad offers guidance on pre-departure preparations and finding accommodation in your destination city.
Enrollment
Finalize your university enrollment upon arrival and officially begin your master's program in Germany.
Application Deadlines for Master's Degree in Germany
German universities have two major intakes for master's programs:
Winter Semester
Applications close by mid-July and courses begin in Sept / Oct
- Application Deadline: July
- Application Period: Usually starts in early May
Summer Semester
Applications close by mid-January; courses start in April.
- Application Deadline: January
- Application Period: Typically begins in early December
It's important to always check program-specific deadlines on specific University websites, as they may vary depending on the course or institution.
You can also Follow our Instagram Page for regular updates about admissions dates for various courses https://www.instagram.com/scoutabroadofficial/
Study Visa Requirements for Master's in Germany
To study MS in Germany, you'll need following documents
Valid Passport
Valid for at least three months beyond your stay in Germany, with two blank pages.
Visa Application Form
Completed national visa application form. It’s available from the German embassy or consulate.
Passport Photos
Provide recent biometric passport photos.
Acceptance Letter
Official confirmation from a German university's master's program. A letter of acceptance from a recognized German educational institution.
Proof of Financial Resources
Demonstrate that you have sufficient funds to cover your living expenses during your studies, typically requiring a blocked account with a minimum of €11,904 per year.
Health Insurance
Provide proof of health insurance coverage for the duration of your studies or MS program.
Academic Records
Submit copies of your academic certificates, including your bachelor's degree or equivalent.
Language Proficiency
Depending on the MS program, if it's taught in German, you need to provide proof of German proficiency. For English-taught programs, provide proof of English proficiency.
APS Certificate
As of November 2022, Indian students applying for a long-stay student visa in Germany need an APS certificate.
Additional Documents (Depending on the Program)
Statement of Purpose
Some universities might require a statement of purpose or letter of motivation outlining your reasons for studying in Germany.
Curriculum Vitae (CV)
Summary of your academic and/or professional background.
Tuition Payment Proof
Confirmation of tuition fee payment, applicable especially for private universities.
Travel Insurance
Copy of your travel insurance policy covering your stay in Germany.
Apply to German Student Visa for Masters
Locate the German Mission in Your Area
Check the nearest German embassy or consulate in your region. In India, there are missions in cities like New Delhi, Mumbai, Chennai, Bangalore, Kolkata and others.
Visa Requirements
Visit the official website of the German Mission to review the specific requirements for a student visa. This includes details about documents, financial proof and health insurance.
Book an Appointment
Schedule your visa interview appointment online or through the contact number provided by the German Mission. Appointment wait times may vary depending on the location.
Prepare Your Application Documents
To apply for a German student visa for a master's degree, you'll need below documents:
- Completed visa application form which can be obtained from the German Mission in India.
- Proof of University admission which is a letter of acceptance from a German university.
- Valid Passport
- Passport Photos
- Proof of Financial Resources
- Health Insurance
- Academic documents
- Proof of Language Proficiency
- Curriculum Vitae (CV)
- APS Certificate (Optional)
- Copy of Passport's Biometric Page
Submit Your Application
Submit your completed application along with the required documents to the German Mission during your appointment.
Attend the Visa Interview
Be prepared to answer questions about your study plans, financial situation, and future goals during the interview. This is your chance to demonstrate your commitment to studying in Germany.
Pay the Visa Fee
Pay the processing fee of €75 during your application submission.
Await the Decision
After the interview, the German Mission will process your application. The decision may take several weeks, so plan accordingly.
Prepare for Arrival in Germany
Once your visa is approved, prepare for arrival in Germany. Here’s how you can plan your travel smoothly:
- Travel Arrangements
- Book your flight to Germany in advance to secure better deals for your travel. Make sure to arrive a few days early to get familiar with your surroundings before classes start.
- Accommodation
- Arrange your housing before you arrive. Options include student dormitories, shared apartments (WG), or private rentals. We also provide guidance on finding accommodation.
- Health Insurance
- Ensure your health insurance is active and valid for Germany. Public health insurance is usually recommended for students and must be finalized before enrolling at the university.
- Address Registration (Anmeldung)
- Upon arrival, register your local address at the Bürgeramt (residents’ office). This is mandatory and needed for opening a bank account and accessing other services.
- Bank Account Setup
- If you’ve opened a blocked account (Sperrkonto), visit a local bank branch to activate it so you can access your funds.
- University Enrollment
- Complete your enrollment by submitting all required documents, paying your semester fee, and collecting your student ID card. This is essential to officially start your studies.
- Local Transportation
- Familiarize yourself with public transport options like buses, trains, and subways. Your semester fee often covers a travel pass within your city or region.
How Can Scoutabroad Help You Pursue Your Master’s in Germany?
As a leading consultancy for MS in Germany, Scoutabroad offers end-to-end support to guide you through the application process and ensure a smooth path to academic success.
Frequently Asked Questions
Have a different question and can't find the answer you're looking for? Reach out to our support team by sending us an email and we'll get back to you as soon as we can.
- What is Uni-Assist?
- Uni-Assist is a centralized application portal for international students applying at various German universities. If the university you're applying to in Germany uses Uni-Assist, you'll need to submit your application and documents through their platform first. Afterwards, your application will be forwarded to the respective universities.
- What is the academic year structure and application deadlines for MS in Germany?
- The academic year is divided into two semesters. Deadlines vary by university and program.
- Winter Semester: October to March (Application deadline around July)
- Summer Semester: April to September (Application deadline around January)
- What is the language of instruction for master's programs in Germany?
- Many MS programs, especially in STEM, are offered in English. Some programs, especially in humanities, are taught in German.
- Do I need to speak German to study a Master's in Germany?
- Not necessarily. You can complete your MS in English-taught programs, but learning basic German helps with integration and job opportunities.
- What are the general admission requirements for a master's program in Germany?
- Admission requirements depend on the university and program.
- Bachelor's degree in a relevant field
- Academic transcripts
- Proof of language proficiency (English or German)
- CV / Letter of motivation
- Letters of recommendation / GRE or GMAT / Portfolio (as required)
- Is my bachelor's degree recognized in Germany?
- Yes, if it’s from a recognized university. However, for specialized programs, your degree should be in a related field.
- What level of English proficiency is required?
- English proficiency scores are required for English-taught programs.
- TOEFL: 80–100 iBT
- IELTS: 6.0–7.0 overall
- What level of German proficiency is required?
- Required only for German-taught programs.
- TestDaF: Level 4 in all sections
- DSH: Level 2 or 3
- What is the GRE / GMAT requirement?
- GRE/GMAT is not mandatory for all programs. Some business and technical courses may ask for them.
- Application Process of MS in Germany. How do I apply for a master's program in Germany?
- Most universities have an online application portal.
- Register on the university portal
- Fill out the application form
- Upload all required documents
- Are there scholarships available for international master's students in Germany?
- Yes, many scholarships are available including those from DAAD and Deutschlandstipendium.
- What is the difference between a Master of Science (M.Sc.) and a Master of Arts (M.A.) in Germany?
- M.Sc. focuses on STEM and business fields, while M.A. is usually for humanities and social sciences.
- Do I need a visa to study in Germany?
- Yes, Indian and other non-EU/EEA students need a student visa for long-term study in Germany.
- How do I apply for a student visa for Germany from India?
- You must apply through the German Embassy or Consulate in India.
- Fill visa application form
- Gather required documents (acceptance letter, financial proof, etc.)
- Book appointment and attend visa interview
- What is a blocked account and how much money do I need?
- A blocked account is used to prove financial stability. You must deposit €11,904 per year to show you can support yourself during your studies.
- How much are the living expenses in Germany for students?
- Living costs typically range between €850 and €1,200 per month depending on location and lifestyle.
- Is health insurance mandatory for students in Germany?
- Yes, health insurance is required for university enrollment and visa. You need to show proof of insurance.
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