So you’re considering Germany for your higher education? Good choice! Germany isn’t just known for its BMWs, sausages, and Oktoberfest; it’s also one of the best education hubs in the world. And the best thing is, you can get a very affordable education, and sometimes, literally free. Even better, many German universities have no IELTS requirement. And there’s no shortage of scholarships for Indian students.
So if you have been searching for ” Free education in Germany for Indian students,cheap universities in Germany” or “study in Germany without IELTS,” you have come to the right place,Affiniks study Abroad.
Why Germany?
Low or no tuition fees: Most public universities have very low tuition fee, Free education in Germany for Indian students or no tuition costs.
World-class education: German degrees are recognized worldwide.
No IELTS headache: Many universities accept alternatives like MOI (Medium of Instruction) certificates.
Work while you study: You can work part-time and cover your living costs.
Scholarship options: Particularly DAAD and other organizations love promoting international students, especially Indians.
What it Takes to Study in Germany (with No IELTS)
First thing’s first – what do you need to show?
Academic Requirements
For Bachelor’s degree programs: 12th grade with good grades. The only academic caveat is that the university may require you to do 1 year of Studienkolleg (foundation course) if your curriculum isn’t comparable.
For Master’s programs: a relevant bachelor’s degree with good grades (60% jives with most).
Language Requirements
No need for IELTS? Relax. Many universities will accept:
MOI Certificate: to prove your previous degree was taught in English.
Other tests: TOEFL, PTE, or some universities a test internally.
For courses taught in German: You will be required to have German language proficiency and take TestDaF or DSH.
Other Supporting Documents
Passport, transcripts, SOP (statement of purpose) + LORs (Letters of Recommendation).
Proof of funds: approximately €11,208 per year in a blocked account (compulsory for the student visa).
Cheapest universities in Germany
Let’s cut to the chase, these universities do not hurt your wallet:
- Ludwig Maximilian University of Munich (LMU Munich)
Tuition fee: Free (only semester fee ~ €300).
Offers courses in English – especially at master’s level.
Ranks high among the top universities in Europe!
- University of Hamburg
Tuition fee: Free, just semester contribution.
Strong research-oriented programs.
They will accept MOI certificates in certain circumstances.
- Humboldt University of Berlin
Most programs are tuition free.
Berlin’s oldest university – particularly useful for humanities or science students.
- University of Stuttgart
Tuition fee Free for EU students, although about €1,500 per semester for non-EU students (still cheaper than universities in the UK/USA!).
Engineering and technology powerhouse.
- Technical University of Munich (TUM)
Tuition free for most programs.
Good for engineering, technology and business.
- University of Bremen
Mostly low semester fees.
Well-known for international collaborations.
Scholarships in Germany for Indians
Germany may be cheap but hey, when someone offers free money, take it! Here are some scholarships for consideration:
- DAAD Scholarships (Deutscher Akademischer Austauschdienst)
Covers the tuition (if applicable), travel, health insurance, and living expenses.
Available to Indian students for Bachelor’s, Master’s, or Ph.D. programs.
- Deutschlandstipendium National Scholarship
Provides = €300/month.
Based on merit to students at many universities.
- Konrad-Adenauer-Stiftung (KAS) Scholarships
Good for postgraduates that demonstrate leadership.
- Erasmus+ Program
Exchange-based scholarship for Indian students.
- Heinrich Böll Foundation Scholarship
Focused on students with good academic records and social commitment.
So there you go; don’t just stop at finding somewhere cheap to study. Apply for all of these scholarships and reduce your cost of living too.
Application Process (Step by Step)to Study in Germany without IELTS
Here’s how you can turn your German dream into a reality:
- Shortlist your universities
Find programs accepting MOI and suited to your budget.
Note the deadlines (most of them will be January and July for Summer/Winter intakes).
- Compile your documentation
Academic transcript, CV, SOP, LOR’s.
Language Certificate (MOI/TOEFL/German as required).
- Apply through Uni-Assist or directly
Notice that many universities use Uni-assist, a central portal.
Others accept applications directly through their website.
- Organise finances
Open a blocked account (€11,208/year).
Apply for scholarships and check the deadlines early.
- Receive Offer Letter:
Once you are accepted, you will be issued an offer letter.
- Apply for your student visa
Make your appointment at the embassy as soon as possible (there are limited slots).
Bring proof of funds, your admission letter, and your health insurance.
- Fly to Germany
Conclusion
For Indian students wanting a quality education at a fraction of the price, studying in Germany is one of the best hacks out there.Affiniks will guide you throughout the entire process for sure. You don’t always need IELTS, you can find universities with almost no tuition fees, and if you’re good at scholarships, your living costs are also covered.
So if you are thinking about living that “study abroad” lifestyle and only thought it was possible in the extremely high-fee markets like the UK, USA, or Canada, think again. Germany is calling you, and honestly, it might just be the best decision you ever make.
Frequently Asked Questions
Does Germany provide free education for Indian students?
Yes, Germany gives tuition-free education at most public universities for all domestic and foreign students, including Indian students. This is due to a policy decision made by the German government that intended to reduce the barriers to higher education,.
How can Indian students get a 100% scholarship to study in Germany?
An Indian student can obtain a fully funded scholarship covering full tuition fees, living expenses, and additional expenses by doing the following:
Scholarships Research: as an Indian student, you can apply for scholarships such as DAAD Scholarships, Erasmus Mundus, Heinrich Böll Foundation Community, or other scholarships by other institutions/universities, and universities.
Eligibility: you should have a strong education record (around 8.0 CGPA for DAAD), take language examinations and exams for admissions such as IELTS/TOEFL (for English taught), or TestDaF/DSH for German taught programs; demonstrate financial needs or research potential.
Application: You should apply form, academic transcript, letter of motivation, letters of recommendation, and proof of language proficiency exam test.
Can I study for free in Germany?
Yes, Indian students are able to study for free at public universities, which of course don’t charge any tuition fees (some public universities charge semester fees). Scholarships available such as DAAD or Erasmus+ may enable students to manage living expenses, therefore the effective education is free. For a German student visa, students are required to hold a blocked account with €11,904 (₹11 lakhs) as living expenditure, unless they’re covered by a scholarship or sponsorship
Is 10 lakhs enough to study in Germany?
In a blocked account, you must hold €11,904 (₹13,24,126) which is slightly more than ₹10 lakhs (approximately €11,000). This amount is to cover living expenses for one year, which is the minimum requirement for a German student visa. You can incur additional expenses like health insurance calculated at an average of €100 per month, accommodation€300-€500 per month, and food expenses of approximately €200-€250 per month. Therefore, your €11,904 can be ticked up by personal costs. You can seek scholarships, or work part time, allowing for 120 days per year.
