There’s an old saying: When in Rome, do as the Romans do. If you are planning on studying in Germany, you may need to learn German. German is the language of instruction for most degree programs and is widely used in everyday life. However, many English-taught programs are also available. You can study in Germany in English, although learning some German will make daily tasks, local services, and social life easier to navigate.
For German-taught degree programs, international applicants generally need to prove their German proficiency. The Deutsche Sprachprüfung für den Hochschulzugang (DSH) is one widely accepted option, but it is not the only one. Depending on the university and degree program, applicants may also be able to submit TestDaF or another recognized German-language certificate. English-taught programs usually require proof of English proficiency and may require little or no German, although requirements vary. Therefore, students who have not passed the DSH can look for these English-taught programs in Germany and confirm the exact language requirements on each program’s official website.
How to Study in Germany in English
For those who want to study in Germany primarily in English, there is one important limitation to keep in mind. Most degree programs are taught in German, and applicants usually need to provide proof of proficiency in the program’s language of instruction. English-taught programs may require proof of English proficiency and, in some cases, some knowledge of German. Restricting your search to English-taught options will reduce the number of available programs. A university that offers some courses in English may not offer your preferred degree entirely in English, so you may need to broaden your university search or improve your German proficiency.
If you are sure of this decision, the most direct option is to choose a degree program whose language of instruction is English. Lectures, course materials, and assessments are generally delivered in English, but you should check the program page for any German-taught modules, internships, or additional language requirements. You may study alongside both German and international students. This allows you to earn a degree from a German university while reducing the immediate academic language barrier, although German will remain useful outside the classroom.
Step 1: Beginning your Search
For students who want to study in Germany in English, the first step is to make a list.
Create a list of your target universities and cities. Then research whether each university offers your chosen degree and whether it is taught fully or partly in English. Your primary source should be the degree program’s official university website. The points you should focus on include:
- Is your preferred degree program available at this university?
- If so, is it taught fully or partly in English, and which language certificates are required?
Thorough research will help ensure that your final decision is based on accurate, program-specific information. This way, you are less likely to face disappointment or confusion when you try to enroll.
Furthermore, if you are interested in studying in Germany with low or no tuition, look for public German universities that offer English-taught degree programs. As a rule, state higher education institutions do not charge tuition for bachelor’s programs and many master’s programs. However, all students must pay a semester contribution, and exceptions apply. For example, non-EU/EEA students generally pay tuition at state universities in Baden-Württemberg, while some Bavarian institutions and programs, including many programs at the Technical University of Munich, also charge tuition to newly enrolled non-EU students. Certain specialized, continuing-education, and online programs may charge tuition as well. Always check the university’s current fees page. Choosing a program with no tuition can reduce your academic costs, but living expenses must still be budgeted separately.
Step 2: Going the Online Route
Although you can search individual German university websites to find programs taught in English, official online databases can make the process easier. For students without firm preferences regarding cities or universities, the database provided by the DAAD (German Academic Exchange Service) can help identify suitable options.
The DAAD International Programmes database lists internationally oriented programs offered by German universities and research institutions at the bachelor’s, master’s, and doctoral levels, as well as preparatory, language, and short courses. You can filter the results by course type, subject, language, location, and tuition fees. Start by choosing between bachelor’s degree programs, master’s degree programs—see also the master’s study guide—and PhD programs. Then select your field of study and other preferences. Review each result on the university’s official program page before applying because requirements, teaching languages, and program availability are specific to each degree.
Finding the right university for your needs can be challenging, but careful research can make this important decision easier. After identifying universities that offer programs in English, compare their entry requirements, application deadlines, tuition or semester contributions, locations, and student-support services. You must then prepare and submit your applications by the relevant deadlines. You should also research living costs in each area and create a realistic budget for your entire period of study. The path to a quality education can be complicated, but careful planning will help you make informed decisions.
Hopefully, this article was helpful and informative. If you are interested, make sure to also check out Study in Germany and Available Programs in Germany!
