Scholarships in Germany for international students

Studying in Germany is a unique financial choice because most public universities charge no tuition fees for international students. You will only pay a small semester contribution that usually ranges from EUR 150 to EUR 400. This fee covers administrative costs and often includes a public transport pass. Private universities do charge fees, and these vary significantly. You should check the 8893 program listings on our platform to see the specific costs for your chosen course.

Your monthly living expenses will depend on your city. On average, you will need about EUR 934 per month to cover your basic needs. This amount matches the current requirement for a German blocked account. Here is a breakdown of typical monthly costs:

• Rent: EUR 350 to EUR 600 for a room in a shared flat or student dorm.
• Food and Groceries: EUR 200 to EUR 250.
• Health Insurance: Approximately EUR 120.
• Phone and Internet: EUR 30.

You can work to help pay for these costs. International students from outside the EU can work 140 full days or 280 half days per year. Most students find jobs as campus assistants, waiters, or delivery riders. The national minimum wage is EUR 12.41 per hour. If you work 20 hours per week at this rate, you can earn roughly EUR 1,000 a month before tax.

Scholarships provide extra support. The DAAD is the largest provider and offers monthly stipends to high achieving students. You can also apply for the Deutschlandstipendium, which gives you EUR 300 every month. Many individual universities also offer their own merit based awards.

Germany is significantly more affordable than the US, UK, or Australia. While a degree in the US can cost over USD 40,000 per year in tuition alone, your main expense in Germany is simply your own cost of living. Use our search tool to compare the semester fees for your specific programs.

Search all 8893 programs in Germany to find your fee structure.

Germany provides many funding options for international students. You can find support through government programs, private foundations, and specific universities. Most public universities in Germany charge low fees, but living costs remain a factor. These scholarships help you cover those costs.

• DAAD Development-Related Postgraduate Courses (EPOS)
  This program supports students from developing countries. You must have at least two years of professional experience. It provides a monthly payment of EUR 934 for master students and EUR 1,300 for doctoral candidates. The scholarship also covers health insurance and travel costs. You can apply if you have a bachelor degree in a related field. Official DAAD EPOS Link
• The Deutschlandstipendium (Germany Scholarship)
  The German Federal Government and private sponsors fund this merit-based award. You can receive EUR 300 per month for at least two semesters. It is open to students of all nationalities. Universities select winners based on academic success and social commitment. You do not need to pay this money back. Official Deutschlandstipendium Link

• GISMA Business School Global Excellence Scholarship
  This is a partial scholarship for international applicants. It can reduce your tuition fees by up to 50 percent. If your program costs EUR 16,000, you might only pay EUR 8,000. You must show strong academic records and leadership potential. It applies to many business and data science programs. Official GISMA Scholarship Link
• University of Cologne CGS Fellowships
  The Cologne Graduate School (CGS) offers funding for doctoral students in social sciences and economics. You get a monthly stipend of approximately EUR 1,450. These fellowships last for three years. You need an excellent master degree to qualify. Official University of Cologne Link
• Heidelberg University Amirana Scholarship
  This scholarship helps students from the Global South. It focuses on students studying medicine or dentistry. It provides financial aid for living costs and study materials. You must demonstrate financial need and high academic performance. Official Heidelberg University Link

• Heinrich Böll Foundation Scholarships
  This foundation supports international students who share green political values. You can receive up to EUR 992 per month plus a book allowance. You must apply before you start your program or during your first year. It requires proof of German language skills for most tracks. Official Heinrich Böll Link
• Friedrich Ebert Foundation (FES) Scholarship
  This fund is for students who show social and political involvement. It provides up to EUR 861 per month. The foundation also pays for your health insurance. You must have a strong academic record and plan to work in Germany or return home to help your community. Official FES Link

Our partner institutions often provide direct discounts to help you manage costs. GISMA Business School offers specific grants for students who apply through official channels. These include the Women in Business Scholarship and the Principal's Scholarship. These awards can lower your tuition from the average EUR 3,401 to a much lower rate. You should check the specific requirements for each intake as they change yearly.

Start your search early. Most deadlines occur six to nine months before the semester begins. You should prepare your documents in advance. You will need a CV, a letter of motivation, and your transcripts. Many foundations look for volunteer work or social engagement. Do not just focus on your grades. Explain how you will use your education to help others. Keep your sentences short and clear in your motivation letter. Use simple words to explain your goals. Always check if the scholarship requires a specific German language level. Some only fund English programs, while others require B2 or C1 German. Double check every deadline on the official website before you submit.