Private Universities in Germany

Are you trying to decide between a public and a private university in Germany? It's a big decision, and understanding the differences can help you make the right choice. Let’s dive into the key distinctions and see what each type of institution has to offer.

The first question you need to ask is - what's your budget? Public universities in Germany are very affordable - in most federal states, there are no tuition fees for Bachelor's programmes for both domestic and international students. You only pay a small semester fee, which often includes public transportation. Sounds great, right? But what if you want something less rigid, and more tailored to your needs?

Private universities, on the other hand, do charge tuition fees. These fees can vary depending on the programme and institution, and on the extent of added service provided. This is because private universities offer added value, such as smaller class sizes, more English-taught degrees, personalised attention, and state-of-the-art facilities.

IU International University of Applied Sciences stands out for its affordability compared to many other private institutions. IU offers flexible payment options and scholarships, making quality education accessible without breaking the bank. Moreover, our strong industry connections ensure a curriculum that's both relevant and forward-thinking, directed at giving the best opportunities for your career.

Are you fluent in German? If not, this could influence your choice. Public universities primarily offer programmes in German, especially at the Bachelor's level. While there are some English-taught programmes, they are mostly at the Master's level.

A private German university caters more to national and international students by offering a wide range of English-taught programmes. At IU, for instance, we provide numerous career-focused degrees in English. This makes it an excellent option if you're not proficient in German but still want to study in Germany.

Many private universities also offer language support services to help you adapt more comfortably, and we do the same at IU with our complimentary German language course.

Do you thrive in a more intimate learning setting? Private universities often have smaller class sizes, which means you get more interactive and personalised learning experiences. Professors can give you the individual attention you need to succeed. Imagine being able to easily ask questions and engage in discussions in every class!

In contrast, public universities often have large lectures with hundreds of students. While these institutions usually provide good education, the sheer size can make it harder to get that one-on-one time with professors, and many students struggle to succeed under these circumstances.

Need flexibility in your studies? Private universities are often more adaptable to your needs. Take IU, for example. Our innovative blended study model combines online and on-campus learning. You can attend tutorials on campus and study independently online, making it perfect for balancing studies with work or other commitments. This flexibility is rarely found in public universities and suits the needs of working professionals perfectly.

What about after graduation? Private universities typically have a strong focus on employability and career services. They offer extensive career support, including internships, job placements, and networking opportunities. This can give you a significant edge in the job market.

Public universities also offer career services, but private universities often go the extra mile to ensure you are job-ready. At IU, for instance, we have strong industry connections and a dedicated career services team to help you navigate the job market effectively.

By understanding these differences, you can make a more informed choice that aligns with your educational needs and career goals. Whether you choose a public or private university, make sure it’s the right fit for you.

Germany is home to several prestigious state accredited private universities that offer exceptional education, innovative programmes, and strong career support. Here are some of the top private universities in Germany in 2024:

WHU is renowned for its strong focus on business and management education. Located in Vallendar and Düsseldorf, WHU offers a range of Bachelor's, Master's, and MBA programmes. The university is known for its rigorous academic standards, international orientation, and strong ties to the business community. WHU consistently ranks highly in international business school rankings.

EBS University, located in Wiesbaden and Oestrich-Winkel, is one of Germany’s leading private business schools. EBS offers programmes in business, law, and management, emphasising practical experience and global perspectives. The university has a strong focus on entrepreneurship and leadership, preparing students for successful careers in various industries.

Jacobs University is an international, English-speaking private university in Bremen. It offers a wide range of Bachelor's and Master's programmes in natural sciences, engineering, social sciences, and humanities. Jacobs University is known for its interdisciplinary approach, small class sizes, and diverse student body. The university promotes research and practical experience, ensuring students are well-equipped for their future careers.

Munich Business School (MBS) is a private university specialising in business administration and management. Located in Munich, MBS offers Bachelor’s, Master’s, MBA, and PhD programmes. The university emphasises practical experience, international exposure, and personal development. MBS has connections with the business community, providing students with great networking and career opportunities.

Frankfurt School is a leading private business school located in the financial hub of Frankfurt. It offers a range of programmes in finance, international business management, and business administration. The school is known for its strong focus on research, high academic standards, and close ties to the finance industry. Frankfurt School’s graduates are highly sought after by employers in the finance and business sectors.

CODE University is a private university in Berlin that focuses on digital product development, software engineering, and interaction design. It offers innovative and project-based learning experiences, preparing students for careers in the tech industry. CODE University’s interdisciplinary approach and strong industry connections make it a popular choice for aspiring tech professionals.

GISMA Business School has campuses in Berlin, Hannover, and Hamburg, and is known for its globally recognised business programmes. GISMA offers undergraduate, graduate, and MBA programmes in fields like business administration, marketing, finance, and international business. The school collaborates with partners such as the Grenoble Ecole de Management and the University of Law in the UK to provide students with high-quality education and global exposure. GISMA also emphasises practical experience and has strong ties with the business community.

Macromedia University has campuses in cities like Munich, Berlin, Hamburg, Cologne, and Stuttgart. It focuses on media, communication, management, and design. Macromedia offers Bachelor’s and Master’s programmes in fields such as media and communication management, business administration, journalism, and design. The university employs a project-based learning approach and boasts strong connections with the media and creative industries, ensuring students gain practical skills and experience.

Located in Berlin, Hertie School is an international university offering programmes in public policy, international affairs, and data science. The school provides Master's and PhD programmes, with a strong emphasis on interdisciplinary approaches and public impact. Hertie School is known for its research excellence, international faculty, and diverse student body. It also offers opportunities for internships, collaborations, and networking in the fields of governance and policy-making.

When considering a private university in Germany, tuition fees are a crucial factor. Unlike public universities in Germany, which are mostly tuition-free, private universities charge fees for their programmes. These fees can vary widely depending on the institution, programme, and level of study. Here’s a closer look at the tuition fees of some of the top private universities in Germany in 2024.

• Bachelor’s Programmes: Around €17,000 per year
• MBA Programmes: Up to €47,500 per year
• Financial Aid: Various scholarships and financial aid options available.
  

• Bachelor’s Programmes: Approximately €18,000 per year
• Master’s Programmes: Between €20,000 and €24,000 per year
• Financial Aid: Scholarships and financial aid offered to help manage tuition costs.
  

• Bachelor’s Programmes: Around €20,000 per year
• Master’s Programmes: Similar pricing to undergraduate programmes
• Financial Aid: Range of scholarships and financial aid packages available.
  

• Bachelor’s Programmes: About €11,000 per year
• Master’s Programmes: Around €17,000 per year
• MBA Programmes: Up to €32,000 per year
• Financial Aid: Several scholarships available to help reduce the financial burden.
  

• Bachelor’s Programmes: A total of €41.400 for the entire duration
• Financial Aid: Income-based repayment plan available, making it a flexible and potentially affordable option.
  

• Bachelor's Programmes: About €13,125 per year.
• MBA Programmes: Costs can go up to 15,500 per year.
• Financial Aid: Provides scholarships and flexible payment plans to support students financially.
  

• Bachelor’s Programmes: Approximately €10,000 to €12,000 per year.
• Master’s Programmes: Around €13,000 to €15,000 per year.
• Programmes: Specialises in media, communication, management, and design.
• Financial Aid: Offers scholarships to assist with tuition costs.
  

• Master’s Programmes: Tuition fee of approximately €36,500 for the entire duration (2 years).
• Programmes: Focuses on public policy, international affairs, and data science.
• Financial Aid: Numerous scholarships and financial aid options.
  

Here’s one of the areas where IU International University of Applied Sciences makes a real difference:

Free and Online:

Why worry about application fees? Unlike many public universities that might charge fees, IU’s admission process is entirely free and online. You can apply from the comfort of your home without any upfront costs.

Minimal Documentation:

Are you tired of gathering heaps of paperwork? At IU, you can upload your documents online, making the process quick and efficient. Public universities often require certified physical copies to be sent via post, which can delay your application. You'll need to provide them to us this way as well, but you can do so after being enrolled.

No Hidden Costs:

Transparency is key! With IU, there are no hidden fees. Public universities are usually tuition-free but come with semester fees that can sometimes have hidden costs. At IU, you’ll know exactly what you’re paying for.

Quick Contract Processing:

Who likes waiting? Once accepted at IU, you can finalise your contract swiftly and start focusing on what really matters: your studies. Public universities might have longer processing times, delaying your start.

Here you can read more about how to apply for German universities.