Tuition
Most German public universities charge international students no tuition, with exceptions:
- Baden-Württemberg: non-EU students pay €1,500 per semester (€650 for a second degree).
- Some Bavarian universities (e.g. TUM): tuition for new non-EU students since winter semester 2024/25, varying by programme.
- Private universities and some English-taught master’s programmes charge fees; check the programme page.
Semester fee (Semesterbeitrag)
Every student pays it each semester. It funds the student union and student services (Studierendenwerk) and usually includes a transport ticket. It varies by university, typically €150–€450.
Broadcasting fee (Rundfunkbeitrag)
- Charged per dwelling: €18.36 per month, usually billed quarterly at €55.08.
- A shared flat (WG) pays once and flatmates split it. In student halls, a room whose door opens onto a shared corridor usually counts as its own dwelling and pays separately.
- Being a student is not an exemption by itself. BAföG recipients can apply for exemption; international students usually don’t qualify.
- In February 2026 the independent commission KEF recommended €18.64 a month from January 2027; it takes effect only once the federal states approve it.
Monthly living costs
The €992 a month required for the visa is the official minimum reference. Real spending depends mostly on city and housing:
| Item | Typical range (monthly) |
|---|---|
| Rent (dorm / shared flat) | €300–€700, more in Munich, Frankfurt etc. |
| Health insurance | about €141–€146 |
| Food | €200–€300 |
| Phone and internet | €15–€40 |
| Broadcasting fee | €18.36 per household |
A living-cost calculator is in the works and will be linked here.