Last Updated on: 3rd December 2023, 06:17 am
Best Cities to Study in Germany for International Students
Germany’s commitment to diverse education is evident in its 380+ recognized universities and 17,000+ study programs. Whether you crave the vibrant academic scene in Munich, the innovative spirit of Aachen, or the cultural richness of Berlin, Germany’s top student cities have it all.
List of Best Cities in Germany for International Students in 2024:
1. Munich
In 2024, Munich claims the top spot for students in Germany, offering academic excellence, cultural richness, and an exceptional quality of life. As the capital of Bavaria, Munich is a central hub for a significant portion of the state’s 55,291 international students.
This vibrant city, known as “the Village of a Million People,” ranks among the world’s best student cities. Munich boasts 20 universities, including globally respected institutions like the Technical University of Munich (TUM) and the Ludwig Maximilian University of Munich.
Apart from academics, Munich offers a rich cultural scene with attractions such as the Pinakothek Museums, the Bavarian State Opera, and the famous Munich Philharmonic Orchestra. Munich is also famous for hosting Oktoberfest, the world’s largest beer festival.
2. Aachen
Aachen claims the second spot as Germany’s top student city, offering a rich history, high quality of life, and affordability. Home to RWTH Aachen University and four other institutions offering 78 programs in English combined, Aachen draws international students seeking academic excellence.
Aachen ranks second in quality of life among the top 10 cities and is notably affordable compared to larger student cities in Germany. Aachen’s UNESCO-listed Aachen Cathedral stands as a testament to its historical significance.
3. Cologne
Situated along the picturesque Rhine River, Cologne secures the third spot on the list. Hosting a significant number of international students, Cologne fosters a truly diverse and welcoming environment. The University of Cologne, one of Germany’s largest and oldest institutions, stands as the city’s academic flagship.
Cologne offers a relatively affordable cost of living, with an estimated monthly budget of approximately €960. The city’s cultural attractions include the 13th-century Gothic masterpiece, the Cologne Cathedral, a UNESCO World Heritage Site.
4. Bonn
Formerly Germany’s capital, Bonn is now a compact hub of student adventures with three universities, led by the top-ranked University of Bonn. The city offers diverse programs for international students and houses the United Nations (UN) Campus, fostering diplomacy and cooperation.
Despite a higher cost of living, Bonn is considered a worthwhile investment for a vibrant student experience. Don’t miss the Beethoven-Haus, a museum dedicated to Ludwig van Beethoven.
5. Stuttgart
Stuttgart is a top destination for international students, housing 15 universities, including the renowned University of Stuttgart. Affordability is a perk, with an average monthly cost of €861.
Known as the “cradle of the automobile,” Stuttgart hosts Mercedes-Benz and Porsche headquarters, and its captivating Mercedes-Benz Museum attracts 440,000 annual visitors.
Stuttgart’s lush green landscapes earned it the nickname “The Green U,” promoting sustainability and combating urban heat.
6. Berlin
With 33 universities, Berlin is an academic powerhouse, home to some of Germany’s finest institutions. Despite a higher cost of living (minimum of €1,000 per month), Berlin offers more job opportunities.
The city’s streets showcase stunning street art, and iconic sites like the Brandenburg Gate highlight its rich history. Berlin’s legendary nightlife features numerous clubs, bars, and music venues open until the early hours.
7. Frankfurt
Home to 11 universities, Frankfurt is a haven for international students, drawing from a pool of over 28,000 international students in the broader Hesse region. The city boasts a high quality of life, excellent healthcare, and hosts the world’s largest book fair. Frankfurt’s impressive skyline earned it the nickname “Mainhattan.”
In terms of living costs, Frankfurt falls in the middle, with an estimated monthly budget of around €970 for students.
8. Dresden
Dubbed the “Florence on the Elbe,” Dresden is the vibrant capital of Saxony, attracting over 16,878 international students. Dresden University of Technology stands as one of Germany’s most prestigious technical universities.
Dresden takes the crown for affordability among the featured cities, with an estimated monthly expenditure ranging from €700 to €900.
9. Leipzig
Leipzig, home to prestigious institutions like Leipzig University, is a city that attracts students from around the world. With an average monthly living cost of approximately €850, Leipzig is among the top 3 most affordable cities on the list.
The city’s creative scene is on the rise, buzzing with artists, designers, and musicians.
10. Hamburg
The city-state of Hamburg is a thriving academic center with over 12,000 international students and around 19 universities. Despite a higher cost of living (€800 to €1,000 per month), Hamburg offers enriching experiences, including its maritime heritage showcased at the International Maritime Museum.
The city’s musical history is celebrated at iconic spots like Beatles Square and the Indra Club.
You can also check out our article, 10 Best Country For International Students To Study And Work.
References:
The above article is written by taking the references from these Quora links:
[1] – Rupanjan Chakraborty
[2] – Liu Zhixing
[3] – Kanika Sharma
[4] – Ali Ilyas
[5] – P. Williams
[6] – Hannalita
[7] – Helmut Konz
[8] – Hanno Ix
[9] – Christoph Stammer
[10] – Bruno Fehr
