Cost of MS in Germany for Indian Students

Germany is one of the most affordable destinations for higher education. Public universities charge no tuition fees for most MS programs, but some require semester contributions of INR 9,460–37,840 (€ 100–400) per semester. Private universities can cost up to INR 42,57,000 (€ 45,000) per year.

Apart from tuition, the cost of MS in Germany includes visa fees of INR 7,078 (€ 75), accommodation costs of INR 1,15,000 – 1,77,000 (€ 1,300 – 2,000) per month, health insurance of INR 11,600–13,500 (€ 130–150) per month, and daily expenses.

Managing these costs requires smart financial planning. Scholarships, part-time work at INR 1,173 (€ 12.41) per hour, student discounts, and budget housing can help reduce expenses. This guide covers every major cost and practical ways to lower them.

What is the Cost of Studying MS in Germany?

Germany is one of the most cost-effective destinations for international students, especially compared to countries like the US and the UK, where tuition fees can range from £11,400 to £38,000 (INR 12,84,000 to 42,60,000).  

Public universities in Germany charge no tuition fees for most MS programs, except in Baden-Württemberg, where non-EU students pay INR 1,41,000 (€ 1,500) per semester. However, students must cover living expenses, visa fees, and semester contributions, making financial planning essential.

Below is a high-level overview of the typical expenses associated with studying an MS in Germany:

Expense Category	Estimated Monthly Cost	Estimated Annual Cost
Living Expenses	Approx. INR 75,000 (€ 842) per month	INR 9,00,000 (€ 10,100)
Health Insurance	INR 11,600–13,500 (€ 130–150) per month	INR 1,40,000–1,60,000 (€ 1,560–1,800)
Semester Contribution	N/A	Around INR 9,460–37,840 (€ 100–400 per semester), INR 1,41,000 (€ 1,500) per semester for Baden-Württemberg. Varies in different universities.
Tuition Fees	INR 1,48,000–2,22,000 (€ 1,667–2,500)	INR 18,00,000–27,00,000 (€ 20,000–30,000)
Standardized Tests	IELTS - INR 18,000 TOEFL - INR ~17,700 GRE - INR 22550 GMAT - INR ~23,500	One time payment

Note: Tuition fees depend on the type of university and specific program chosen. Exchange rates may vary; amounts in INR are approximate and based on current conversion rates.​

Understanding tuition fees is a key component of assessing the cost of MS in Germany. The next section provides a detailed comparison between public and private universities.

Tuition Fees for MS in Germany: Public Vs Private Universities

​Understanding the cost of pursuing a Master of Science (MS) in Germany requires a clear distinction between public and private universities. The cost of MS in Germany varies significantly between these institutions, with public universities often offering more affordable options compared to their private counterparts.​

Tuition Fees for MS in Germany at Public Universities

Many public universities in Germany do not charge tuition fees for MS programs, making it one of the most affordable study destinations. However, this tuition-free policy mainly applies to EU/EEA students. Non-EU students can study tuition-free in most states, but Baden-Württemberg charges INR 1,41,000 (€ 1,500) per semester.

Regardless of tuition fees, all students must pay a semester contribution, which covers administrative costs, student services, and public transport benefits. This fee typically ranges between INR 9,000–36,000 (€ 100–400) per semester, depending on the university.

Now, let’s check how much it costs to pursue an MS in Germany at private universities.

Tuition Fees for MS in Germany at Private Universities

Private universities in Germany charge tuition fees, but they offer specialized courses, international partnerships, and English-taught programs. International students can also apply for scholarships (merit-based or need-based) to reduce the tuition fees. The cost of MS in Germany at private institutions varies by program, university, and location.

Below are five private universities in Germany and their estimated tuition fees:

University Name	Approximate Tuition Fee (INR/year)	Approximate Tuition Fee (€ /year)
ESMT Berlin	INR 33,00,000	€ 35,000
Frankfurt School of Finance & Management	INR 36,50,000	€ 39,000
WHU – Otto Beisheim School of Management	INR 45,80,000	€ 48,500
Munich Business School	INR 23,50,000 – 24,30,000	€ 24,900 – 25,740
GISMA Business School (for International Students)	INR 22,80,000	€ 24,200

Note: Exchange rates may vary; amounts in INR are approximate and based on current conversion rates.

Also Read: Top Universities in Germany for Masters Programs

Understanding tuition fees is just one part of budgeting for an MS in Germany. Before arriving, you must account for additional costs like visa fees, flight expenses, and initial living arrangements. The next section covers these pre-arrival costs in detail.

Masters in Germany Cost: Pre-Arrival

Planning for your MS in Germany begins well before you set foot in the country. Understanding pre-arrival costs ensures a smooth transition and helps you budget effectively. The cost of MS in Germany includes expenses such as visa fees, health insurance, and flight tickets.

You must also consider proof of financial resources, a blocked account, and initial accommodation arrangements. These costs vary based on location, duration, and personal preferences. Below is an overview of the key pre-arrival expenses.

Expense Category	Estimated Cost (INR)	Estimated Cost (€)	Description
Student Visa Fee	INR 7,078	€ 75	One-time visa application fee for students.
Blocked Account Deposit	INR 11,27,800	€11,904	Mandatory financial proof; covers living expenses (€ 934/month).
Health Insurance	INR 11,600–13,500	(€ 130–150) per month	Public insurance is mandatory; private plans may cost more.
Flight Tickets (One-Way)	INR 24,000 - 35,000	N/A	One-way airfare from India to Germany; varies by airline and booking time.
Initial Accommodation Deposit	INR 47,300 – 1,41,000	€ 500 – 1,500	Security deposit for housing; refundable upon lease termination.
Miscellaneous (SIM Card, Transport, etc.)	Approx. INR 12,800	(€ 144	Covers initial mobile SIM, public transport, and daily essentials.

Note: These costs are approximate and may vary based on your location and preferences. Exchange rates may vary; amounts in INR are approximate and based on current conversion rates.

Also Read: How to Study in Germany without IELTS Score?

Once you arrive in Germany, your expenses shift to daily living costs, including rent, groceries, and transportation. The next section provides a breakdown of post-arrival costs to help you plan your monthly budget effectively.

Masters in Germany Cost: Post-Arrival

Once you arrive in Germany, you must manage your daily expenses wisely. The cost of MS in Germany extends beyond tuition and pre-arrival costs. Living costs depend on factors such as accommodation, food, health insurance, and transportation.

You need a well-structured budget to ensure financial stability throughout your studies. The following table outlines key post-arrival expenses to help you estimate your monthly and annual costs.

Here is the updated table with separate columns for INR, Euros, and descriptions to help students better understand the monthly cost breakdown:

Expense Category	Estimated Monthly Cost (INR)	Estimated Monthly Cost (€)	Description
Rent (One-bedroom apartment)	INR 53,400 – 1,33,500	€ 600 – 1,500	Cost varies based on city and location; student dorms are cheaper.
Food & Groceries	Approx INR 17,600	€ 198	Monthly food expenses depend on cooking at home vs. dining out.
Public Transport	Approx INR 5,200	€ 58	Costs can be reduced with a student Semester Ticket.
Internet & Phone Bill	Approx INR 2,800	€ 32	Includes mobile phone plan and home internet subscription.
Leisure & Entertainment	Approx INR 5,800	€ 65	Covers gym, movies, social activities, and weekend outings.
Study Materials	Approx INR 2,700	€ 31	Includes textbooks, notebooks, and course-related expenses.
Miscellaneous	Approx INR 13,600	€ 144	Covers personal expenses like shopping, streaming subscriptions, and emergency costs.

Note: Rent varies by city. Larger cities like Munich, Frankfurt, and Hamburg have higher costs than smaller towns like Leipzig or Jena. Exchange rates may vary; amounts in INR are approximate and based on current conversion rates.

Beyond academic expenses, day-to-day living costs impact your budget significantly. The next section provides a deeper look at living expenses in Germany, helping you make informed financial decisions.

Cost of Living in Germany

The cost of living in Germany varies depending on the city you choose. Larger cities have higher rent and living costs, while smaller cities offer more affordable options. Below is a comparison of the estimated monthly cost of living for students in different German cities:

City	Estimated Monthly Cost in Euro	Estimated Monthly Cost in INR
Munich	€1,300 – €2,000	INR 1,22,982 – 1,89,204
Frankfurt	€900 – €1,000	INR 85,142 – 94,602
Berlin	€850	INR 80,412
Hamburg	€850 – €1,200	INR 80,412 – 1,13,522
Cologne	€850 – €934	INR 80,412 – 88,434
Düsseldorf	€1,000	INR 94,602
Bonn	€850 – €1,000	INR 80,412 – 94,602

Note: These figures include accommodation, food, transportation, and other basic expenses. Actual costs may vary based on exchange rates, lifestyle, and housing choices. Exchange rates may vary; amounts in INR are approximate and based on current conversion rates.

Also Read: Study in Germany for Indian Students After 12th: Courses and Career Options

Apart from city-wise variations, factors like university type, accommodation choices, and personal lifestyle also impact the overall cost of studying in Germany.The next section explores these factors in detail.

Factors Affecting Cost in Germany

The cost of MS in Germany depends on multiple factors, including location, lifestyle, university type, and additional student expenses. Proper planning helps manage costs efficiently and ensures financial stability throughout your studies.

Below are the key factors that influence the overall cost of MS in Germany.

• University Type – Public universities charge no tuition fees, while private universities can cost up to INR 45 lakhs per year, depending on the program and institution.
• City of Study – Large cities like Munich, Frankfurt, and Berlin have higher living expenses, especially for rent. Smaller towns like Leipzig or Jena are more affordable.
• Accommodation Costs – Student dormitories and shared apartments (WG – Wohngemeinschaft) are cheaper than renting a private flat, which is more expensive in big cities.
• Health Insurance Requirement – Students under 30 years must have public health insurance, while those above 30 must opt for private insurance, which varies in price.
• Visa and Residence Permit Costs – A student visa, residence permit, and a mandatory blocked account deposit add to the financial burden.
• Student Mobility & Affordability – Monthly costs for food, utilities, transport and personal spending can range between INR 53,400 – 1,06,800 (€ 600 – 1,200), depending on lifestyle choices.
• Academic & Miscellaneous Costs – Study materials, software subscriptions, and additional university fees may require extra budgeting throughout the year.

Since securing a student visa is essential, understanding the fees, processing time, and financial proof required can help you avoid last-minute hurdles. Let’s explore these details in the next section.

Visa Cost for Germany

The National Student Visa (D-Type), required for long-term study programs, costs INR 7,078 (€75). If you plan to visit Germany for less than 90 days, a Schengen Visa costs INR 8,000 (€90). ​If your German student residence permit is nearing expiration and you require an extension, the fee typically ranges between INR 8,500–8,800 (€ 93–96), depending on the extension type and duration.

Studying in Germany is affordable, but managing expenses effectively can further reduce your financial burden. The next section provides practical tips to help you save money on tuition, living costs, and everyday expenses.

Quick Tips to Lower Your Costs!

The cost of MS in Germany is affordable, but smart financial decisions can help you save even more. Managing expenses wisely ensures a comfortable student life without financial stress.

Below are some practical ways to lower your expenses while studying in Germany.

• Pick a Public University – Public universities charge only semester contributions INR 9,000–36,000 (€ 100–400) instead of full tuition fees, saving you thousands per year.
• Live in Student Housing or WG – Student dorms cost INR 22,200–40,000 (€ 250–450) per month, while shared flats (WG – Wohngemeinschaft) help split rent and utilities.
• Use a Semester Ticket – If available, buy a Semester Ticket for unlimited public transport access instead of single-trip tickets.
• Apply for Scholarships – Grants from DAAD, Heinrich Böll Foundation, and university-specific funds can cover tuition and living expenses.
• Buy Groceries at Discount Stores – Aldi, Lidl, and Penny offer budget-friendly options, keeping food expenses between INR 13,400–22,200 (€150–€250) per month.
• Work Part-Time – International students can work 140 full days or 280 half days per year, earning a minimum of INR 1,173 (€ 12.41) per hour.
• Use University Facilities – Free Wi-Fi, library resources, research labs, and university gyms help cut additional expenses.
• Borrow or Buy Used Books – University libraries provide free access to study materials, and students can buy used books instead of new ones.
• Cancel Unnecessary Subscriptions – Free campus entertainment, university sports centers, and public library memberships help save on gym, Netflix, and other services.
• Plan Travel in Advance – Booking early and using student discounts for Deutsche Bahn and FlixBus saves money on transportation.

Making informed choices will help you manage the cost of MS in Germany efficiently. A well-planned budget ensures a smooth academic experience without financial worries.

Conclusion

Understanding the cost of MS in Germany is essential for planning your education. This guide covered tuition fees, living expenses, visa costs, and ways to lower expenses. Public universities offer affordable options, while private universities have higher fees. Managing finances wisely ensures a smooth student experience in Germany.

If you need personalized guidance on university selection, scholarships, or financial planning, upGrad’s free one-on-one consultation can help. Speak with expert advisors to make informed decisions about your MS in Germany.