The German higher education system - which combines prestigious academic universities with other institutions specialising in vocational qualifications - is held in high esteem around the world. This section looks at the structure of the higher education system in Germany and offers some advice for anyone thinking of coming to study in Germany.
Reflecting the streaming that takes place in German secondary education, there are three different types of institutions in the German higher education system:
Offering the largest range of subjects, universities (Universitäten) provide students with an in-depth academic education, focusing primarily on theoretical knowledge and methodological expertise. Of all higher institutions, only universities have the right to award doctorates. Technical universities (Technische Universitäten) and colleges of education (Pädagogische Hochschulen) also belong to this category of higher education, the only difference being that they tend to focus on a single subject area.
To attend university, you need a university entrance qualification (Hochschulzugangsberechtigung) - either the German Abitur or a foreign equivalent. As of 2024, there are around 130 universities across Germany, teaching over 1,8 million students.
As the name suggests, at universities of applied science (Fachhoschulen), the focus is primarily on the application of scientific knowledge and professional practice. Courses will also include practical experience via work placements and internships, which can last up to entire semesters. Universities of applied science usually offer bachelor's and master's degrees in the following subject areas:
The strength of the German economy is at least partly based on the multiple options for further education given to students wishing to pursue vocational occupations. There are currently around 250 universities of applied science with over 1 million enrolled students.
To attend a university of applied science, you usually need an Abitur qualification or a foreign equivalent. However, there are also an increasing number of pathways through the German school system that enable students with other qualifications and practical experience to attend higher education institutions like Fachhochschulen.
Catering to the more creative pursuits, colleges of art and music offer qualifications in the following disciplines:
In addition to fulfilling other entry requirements, applicants will usually have to display artistic talent, either by submitting work or attending auditions. Exceptionally talented individuals may be able to apply without any qualifications, but the exact entry requirements vary from college to college.
There are around 35.000 students attending 50 colleges of art and music in Germany. Note that these colleges rarely offer courses with instruction in English.
If you have completed a bachelor's degree, you might consider embarking on postgraduate education, such as a master’s or doctoral degree.
Master’s degrees are offered by all kinds of higher education institutions in Germany.
With a strong emphasis on research in its universities, Germany is an increasingly popular destination for PhD candidates. The only higher education institutions permitted to award doctoral degrees In Germany are universities (Universitäten).
Around 60% of higher education institutions in Germany are state-funded and the majority of those studying in Germany are enrolled at these kinds of institutions. This means that, with a few exceptions, most students in Germany do not pay any tuition fees.
There are, however, around 120 private colleges that offer state-approved degrees, amounting to around 30% of higher education institutions in Germany. Most of these private institutions are universities of applied science with close ties to industry or an international outlook. While they often charge higher tuition fees, they usually also have generous scholarship programmes on offer.
Thinking of coming to Germany to study? Our guide to studying in Germany walks you through some important considerations, from applying to German universities and getting a visa, to taking out health insurance, enrolling on your course, and finding student housing.
The majority of universities in Germany charge no tuition fees, even to international students coming to study in Germany from abroad. However, there are a few notable exceptions, and other costs to take into account. Our tuition fees and studying cost page walks you through all of the most important points.
Looking for some financial support while you study? There are many scholarships and grants open to international students in Germany, including the Deutschland Stipendium, Erasmus+ programme and DAAD scholarships.