Top 10 Private Universities In Germany: Courses, Fees & Benefits

Germany is home to some of the finest higher education institutions, including prestigious private universities that offer specialised programmes, smaller class sizes, and modern facilities. While public universities are tuition-free, private universities provide unique advantages such as industry-focused courses, extensive career support, and an international environment. This blog explores the top private universities in Germany, their offerings, and essential details for prospective students.

Top 10 Private Universities in Germany for Indian Students

Here’s a list of private universities in Germany that offer excellent academic programmes, low tuition fees, and great career prospects for international students.

1. WHU – Otto Beisheim School of Management

WHU is one of Germany’s top business schools, known for its strong alumni network and focus on leadership development.

  • Popular Programmes: MBA, Master in Management, Bachelor in Business Administration
  • Campus: Vallendar, Düsseldorf
  • Cost of Studying: €15,000 – €40,000 per year
  • Admission Deadlines: Varies per programme, rolling admissions available

2. EBS Universität für Wirtschaft und Recht

EBS Universität offers a strong curriculum in business and law, emphasising international exposure and industry relevance.

  • Popular Programmes: MBA, LL.M., Bachelor in Business Administration
  • Campus: Wiesbaden, Oestrich-Winkel
  • Cost of Studying: €12,000 – €30,000 per year
  • Admission Deadlines: Rolling admissions, early applications encouraged

3. Jacobs University Bremen

A highly international university with a strong focus on interdisciplinary research and personalised education.

  • Popular Programmes: Data Science, International Relations, Global Economics
  • Campus: Bremen
  • Cost of Studying: €20,000 – €32,000 per year
  • Admission Deadlines: May for Fall intake

4. Hertie School

A leading institution for public policy, governance, and international affairs, attracting students from around the world.

  • Popular Programmes: Public Policy, International Affairs, Data Science for Public Policy
  • Campus: Berlin
  • Cost of Studying: €17,000 – €35,000 per year
  • Admission Deadlines: Rolling admissions

5. Munich Business School

Specialised in business education, offering tailored programmes for aspiring business leaders and entrepreneurs.

  • Popular Programmes: International Business, MBA, Sports Business
  • Campus: Munich
  • Cost of Studying: €24,000 – €38,000 per year
  • Admission Deadlines: February and August intakes

6. Frankfurt School of Finance & Management

A prestigious finance-focused university with strong ties to the corporate sector and a high employment rate.

  • Popular Programmes: Finance, Economics, MBA
  • Campus: Frankfurt
  • Cost of Studying: €14,000 – €45,000 per year
  • Admission Deadlines: Rolling admissions

7. University of Europe for Applied Sciences

Known for its industry-focused approach and emphasis on digitalisation, business, and creative fields.

  • Popular Programmes: Digital Business, Sports Management, Communication Design
  • Campus: Berlin, Hamburg, Iserlohn
  • Cost of Studying: €10,000 – €20,000 per year
  • Admission Deadlines: Rolling admissions

8. CODE University of Applied Sciences

A unique, practice-oriented university focusing on digital product development and technology.

  • Popular Programmes: Software Engineering, Interaction Design, Product Management
  • Campus: Berlin
  • Cost of Studying: €10,000 – €16,000 per year
  • Admission Deadlines: July for Fall intake

9. GISMA Business School

Provides globally recognised business education with a strong focus on employability and practical skills.

  • Popular Programmes: Business Analytics, International Business, Leadership
  • Campus: Berlin, Hannover
  • Cost of Studying: €12,000 – €28,000 per year
  • Admission Deadlines: Rolling admissions

10. Bard College Berlin

A liberal arts university offering interdisciplinary programmes in humanities, social sciences, and economics.

  • Popular Programmes: Humanities, Arts and Social Thought, Economics
  • Campus: Berlin
  • Cost of Studying: €12,000 – €26,000 per year
  • Admission Deadlines: January for Fall intake

Essentials of Studying in Germany at Private Universities

Before moving to Germany for higher education, it’s essential to understand the application requirements, cost of living, language needs, and visa processes. Here’s a breakdown of what you need to know.

Application Requirements to Universities in Germany -

Most private universities in Germany require applicants to submit -

  • Academic transcripts
  • English proficiency (IELTS/TOEFL)
  • Statement of Purpose
  • Letters of Recommendation
  • Standardised test scores (GMAT/GRE for MBA programmes)

Cost of Living in Germany -

While tuition fees vary, the overall cost of living in Germany includes -

  • Accommodation: €300 – €800 per month
  • Food & Groceries: €150 – €300 per month
  • Transportation: €50 – €100 per month
  • Health Insurance: €100 – €120 per month

German Language Requirement -

While many programmes at private universities in Germany for international students are in English, basic German proficiency (A1/A2 level) is often recommended for daily life and internships.

  • Germany Student Visa Process
  • International students need to apply for a student visa by submitting:
  • University admission letter
  • Proof of financial means (€11,208 in a blocked account)
  • Health insurance
  • Passport and visa application form

Why Study in Private Universities in Germany?

Germany’s private universities provide a range of benefits that make them a popular choice for international students. From cutting-edge facilities to smaller class sizes, here’s why you should consider them.

1. Focus and Specialisation

In Germany, it is common for private universities to make up their curriculum collaboratively with their industry partners. They have highly specialised programmes in business management, information technology, digital marketing, arts, and humanities. Most of these universities implement a targeted approach to help students learning the skills that are needed to survive in the contemporary competitive job market.

2. Smaller Class Sizes

The student-to-faculty ratio in private education is one of the biggest plus points. Small classes make it possible to improve upon personal interaction, through active engagements in classes, and substantial understanding of course material. It also provides a strong academic relationship between students and professors.

3. Modern Facilities and Resources

There is a lot of investment in infrastructure by private institutions. Everything from high-tech classrooms and research labs to digital learning platforms has been made available to students in order to support their education.

4. International Environment

Private universities have multicultural student bodies and English-taught programmes, which encourage cross-cultural interaction and global exposure.

5. Career Support

Career services support includes robust career support, frequent industry workshops, internship placements, and a strong employer network that makes sure that the graduates can land impressive jobs.

Conclusion

Studying at a private university in Germany offers a dynamic and globally recognised education with excellent career prospects. From top-ranked business schools to specialised applied sciences institutions, these universities provide high-quality learning environments, international exposure, and strong industry links.