Last Updated on September 2, 2025
The German public education system has long been heralded for its academic excellence – a notable success that now extends to private universities in Germany as well. As recent reports suggest, more and more international students wishing to study in Germany (372,887 in 2023/2024 ~ 13%) are gravitating towards these top private institutions. Deviating away from the norm of “tuition-free” education, these German universities have some of the most innovative curricula, strong industry ties and a global perception towards jobs. So, given this growing trend, we bring you a comprehensive guide exploring all of the best private universities in Germany. Through this article, we also like to offer insights into tuition fees, course offerings, the cost advantage versus the United States and the United Kingdom, and why they might be absolutely worth the investment.
Key Expected Takeaways For Readers:
- You get to learn why private universities in Germany are becoming popular among international students
- You get to find out about the top 10 private universities in Germany for 2026, with tuition fees and application deadlines
- You also get to understand the cost of studying and living in Germany, including the blocked account requirement
- You can also check out scholarships and financial aid options available at leading private universities
- You get all recent and trending pertinent frequently asked questions (FAQs) answered
- Finally, a step-by-step overview of the application and visa process for Indian students.
Why are Germeducatan Private Universities Getting Popular?
As we have researched and found out, according to HRK Hochschulkompass, most private universities in Germany enrol fewer than 5000 students, compared to 20,000 to 40,000 at public universities. The impact? This allows for smaller class sizes and a more personalized learning. Case in point, universities such as Frankfurt School of Finance and Management, and Constructor University, both of which prioritise career-focused education through internships and corporate partnerships.
Private institutions offer more English-taught programs, as confirmed by the DAAD international program database. Comparing this fact to its counterparts, it is no wonder that private universities are starting to become ever so popular amongst international students. The diversity on campus is also significant. Constructor University, as mentioned above, hosts students from over 120 countries. The same goes for IU International University, which has grown to over 100,000 students.
Finally, we note flexibility as another added advantage. SRH Berlin, IU International and Munich Business School accept rolling applications and provide scholarships. All of this helps ease the admission process.
We have summarized the key points of why to choose private universities in Germany in this bulleted list format:
Smaller Class Sizes
- Fact: Most private universities in Germany have fewer than 5,000 students. Many public students have 20,000 to 40,000 students.
Career-Oriented Programs
- Fact: Private Universities have strong market links with industry and applied learning.
English-taught programs
- Fact: Private universities host a high percentage of English-language degree programs.
International Exposure
- Fact: German private universities, especially for international students wanting to study in Germany, have over 100,000+ students worldwide.
Flexible Admissions
- Fact: Many private universities accept rolling applications, unlike rigid deadlines in public universities.
Top Private Universities in Germany (Updated for 2026)
If you have scrolled to this part of the article, well then, congratulations! We are in the best part. Here we will discuss the top private universities in Germany, with particular emphasis on the “why”, the tuition fees and the deadlines for the September 2026 intake.
Frankfurt School of Finance and Management
In our research of the top private universities in Germany, Frankfurt School of Finance and Management stood as an excellent addition. Located in Frankfurt, often cited as Europe’s financial hub, the university offers a wide range of undergraduate, postgraduate and MBA programs. All designed for students who are aiming to build their careers in banking, finance, data analytics, and management. For international students, especially those from India, the Frankfurt school offers programs entirely in English.
We also found that the university maintains strong partnerships with global banks, consulting firms and multinational corporations. Plus, it is also one of the few German business schools acdcredited by EQUIS, AACSB, and AMBA. The result? This places Frankfurt School of Finance and Management among the world’s elite “Triple Crown” Institutions.
Coming to tuition fees, our research, as per the latest data, suggests that the program fees for master’s programs range from 25 to 31 Lakhs per year. To know more, you can always visit the official admission page. But do hurry, as the application deadline for the September 2026 intake ends on June 20, 2026.
Bard College Berlin
Next up on our list of the top private universities in Germany is the famous Bard College Berlin. Technically a private liberal arts university, the university is known for its interdisciplinary approach – making it a strong choice for students interested in humanities, arts and social sciences. Speaking of approach to learning, we found that Bard College provides small seminar-style classes, in close mentoring from faculty, thereby fostering a highly personalized academic experience.
Research based on student experiences suggests of the presence of a highly international student community, with most coming from outside Germany. The popular choice of program? Humanities, Economics, Politics and Social Thought. The best part? All taught in English. Students also have the option to learn German to enhance cultural integration.
Coming to the fees, our research as per relevant resources suggests that the tuition fees, compared to other top private universities in Germany, range from modest 12 to 18 lakhs. Plus, Bard, as per official sources, also offers partial tuition waivers and need-based scholarships to eligible students.
Application deadline for the 2026 fall intake is May 1, 2026.
Constructor University (Formerly Jacobs University Bremen)
We now come to Constructor University, formerly known as Jacobs University Bremen, and considered widely one of the most international of private universities in Germany. Research-oriented, with strong programs in Computer Science, Data Engineering, International Business Administration, and Engineering, Constructor University is the best fit for students looking for STEM colleges.
Going through the official programs and their curriculum, and speaking to current students, the general consensus is that the university greatly integrates interdisciplinary learning with real-world projects and internships. Plus, not to mention the scholarships and flexible payment options available
Tuition fees stand at approximately 18 lakhs. If interested, know that admissions for 2026 are open on a rolling basis. Early applications are recommended for better chances at securing scholarships.
Munich Business School
Ah, the great Munich Business School. One of the leading private business schools in the country, located in its prized economic hub. Munich Business School, or MBS for short, emphasizes practical experience with its focused offering, which includes entrepreneurship, innovation, and international business education – all part of bachelors, master’s and MBA programs. And that is not all. The school’s location in Munich, as we mentioned previously, provides excellent networking and career opportunities.
Tuition fees range between 13 to 24 lakhs. Plus, much like Constructor University, admissions at Munich Business School are accepted on a rolling basis. Which means that early applications are often encouraged for scholarship opportunities. For more information, you can always check the official admission page.
IU International University of Applied Sciences
IU International is the largest private university in Germany, with over 100,000 students. Research into the curriculum and mode of learning revealed to us that IU International University of Applied Sciences offers flexible study modes. These study modes include online, on-campus (Berlin and Bad Honnef locations) and blended.
Programs are typically career-focused, with a greater emphasis on Computer Science, Business Administration, Data Science and MBA.
What we also learned is that its affordability and rolling admissions make IU particularly popular with international students. Not to mention, the programs are fully taught in English, and students can choose multiple start dates throughout the year.
Tuition fees begin at approximately 4.5 lakh INR for online programs, with the fees being higher for on-campus programs. Admissions are open year-round with several intakes in 2026, as per official sources.
SRH Berlin and Hochschule Fresenius
Both SRH Berlin and Hochschule Fresenius, as per our research, are among Germany’s largest private applied sciences universities. They also offer a variety of programs across Business, Engineering, Media, Communication, Psychology, and Design.
SRH Berlin also has campuses in Berlin, Leipzig and Hamburg, while Fresnius operates multiple campuses across Germany.
Tuition fees, as per sources, range between 8 – 12 lakhs INR. Both universities further accept rolling applications, though early submissions, as for most of the other universities in the list, are recommended for competitive programs and scholarships.
Official Page:
Hochschule Fresenius Admissions
Other Mentions:
While these are a few of the best names in terms of top private universities in Germany, there are several other notable names as per our research. These include Hertie School (Berlin), University of Witten/Herdecke, Bucerius Law School, and Kuhne Logistics University (KLU)
Below we have compiled a list of the top 10 private universities in Germany, with a breakdown of location, popular programs, tuition fees in INR, and admission deadlines for 2026:
| University | Location | Popular Programs | Tuition Fees (Annual, EUR) | Tuition Fees (Approx, INR) | Admission Deadlines (2026) |
| Frankfurt School of Finance & Management | Frankfurt | Finance, Business Admin, MBA | €29,000–€35,000 | ₹25–31 Lakh | June 30 (Fall) |
| Bard College Berlin | Berlin | Liberal Arts, Humanities, Economics, Politics | €14,000–€20,000 | ₹12–18 Lakh | May 1 (Fall) |
| Constructor University | Bremen | Computer Science, Intl. Business, Engg. | €20,000 | ₹18 Lakh | Rolling (priority early) |
| Munich Business School | Munich | Business, Entrepreneurship, MBA | €15,000–€28,000 | ₹13–24 Lakh | Rolling |
| Hertie School | Berlin | Public Policy, Intl. Affairs, Data Science | €18,250 per year (Master) | ₹16 Lakh | May 1 (Fall) |
| Univ. of Witten | Witten | Medicine, PPE, Psychology | €13,500 avg. | ₹12 Lakh | Varies by course |
| IU International Univ. | Berlin, Bad Honnef, Online | MBA, CS, Data Science | From €5,000/year | ₹4.5 Lakh+ | Multiple intakes year-round |
| Bucerius Law School | Hamburg | Intl. Business Law, MLB, Summer Programs | €18,000+ | ₹16 Lakh | Feb–May (varies) |
| Kühne Logistics Univ. (KLU) | Hamburg | Supply Chain, Logistics, MBA | €12,000–€20,000 | ₹10–18 Lakh | June 30 (Fall) |
| SRH Berlin | Berlin, Leipzig, Hamburg | Business, Engg., Design, Media | €9,000–€14,000 | ₹8–12 Lakh | Rolling |
Application Process for Private Universities in Germany
Now that you have a fair idea of the best and top private universities in Germany, we now move to the steps to applying to them. Please note that applying to private universities in Germany is flexible, but it still requires careful planning. And here are the main steps:
Step 1: Verify Recognition
We recommend you check that you chosen university is state-recognised through HRK Hochschulkompass or that your qualifications are valid via Anabin / ZAB
Step 2: Prepare Documents
Typical requirements, as per research, include your academic transcripts, proof of English Proficiency (IELTS/TOEFL), a Statement of Purpose (SOP), Letters of Recommendation (LORs), and a CV.
Most private universities, as per sources, accept direct applications through their websites. Deadlines do vary, but many offer rolling intakes.
Step 4: Get Your Admission Letter, then Apply for a Visa
Once accepted, apply for your German Student Visa at the German Embassy or Consulate. The visa fee is 75 euros.
Step 5: Arrange for a Blocked Account and Insurance
International students must show proof of funds. This means 934 euros per month or 11,208 euros per year in a blocked account, plus valid health insurance, according to official DAAD sources.
Key Steps for the Application Process in German Private Universities
| Step | What You Need to Do | Step 3: Apply via the university portal |
| Step 1: Verify recognition | Ensure your university is state-recognized | Check via HRK Hochschulkompass or Anabin (ZAB) |
| Step 2: Prepare documents | Academic transcripts, IELTS/TOEFL, SOP, LORs, CV | Some programs may require GMAT/GRE |
| Apply for German Student Visa with an admission letter | Direct applications on official university websites | Deadlines vary; many private universities accept rolling intakes |
| Apply for a German Student Visa with an admission letter | Step 4: Get admission letter → Apply for a visa | Visa fee €75 |
| Step 5: Arrange blocked account & insurance | Open a blocked account (€934/month = €11,208/year) and get health insurance (~€110/month) | Required for visa approval |
Scholarships and Financial Aid
We know that studying at a private university in Germany comes with tuition fees, but there are multiple funding options available for international students:
DAAD Partial Scholarships
While DAAD scholarships are more common at public universities, some private institutions also partner with DAAD for partial funding, especially for post-graduate studies.
University-Based Scholarships
- Frankfurt School of Finance and Management: Offers merit-based and need-based tuition waivers
- Constructor University: Provides academic excellence, scholarships and flexible payment plans.
- Hertie School: Public Service Fellowships and Merit Scholarships for outstanding candidates
- Munich Business School: Partial tuition Waivers for early applicants and high achievers.
Flexible Payment Models
- University of Witten / Herdecke: Unique income-based repayment system after graduation
- IU International University: Affordable tuition with monthly instalments
- Kuhne Logistics University (KLU): Partial scholarships and tuition reductions for top applicants
Final Key Takeaways
Private universities in Germany are gaining recognition for their smaller classes, career-focused programs, and international outlook. While we know that tuition fees exist, they remain far lower than in the US or UK. With 2026 intakes approaching, international students can expect more opportunities, scholarships and pathways to global careers through Germany’s leading private institutions.
FAQs
Some of the best options for master’s degrees include Frankfurt School of Finance and Management (MBA, Finance), Hertie School (Public Policy, Data Science for Policy), and Constructor University (Computer Science, Engineering)
The list includes Bard College Berlin, Constructor University, Frankfurt School, Munich Business School, Hertie School, University of Witten / Herdecke, IU International, Bucerius Law School, Kuhne Logistics University, and SRH Berlin/Hochschule Fresenius
Constructor University (Engineering, Electrical and Computer Engineering) and SRH Berlin (Engineering and Technology) are leading choices for international students.
IU International University (from 5000 euros per year), SRH Berlin (from 9000 euros per year), and Katholische Universität Eichstätt-ingolstadt ( approx 7,300 euros per year) are among the most affordable.
Constructor University, IU International University, and SRH Berlin are strong private universities offering Computer Science and Data Science degrees in English.
As a dynamic social media content strategist and storyteller, Bhaskarjyoti blends creativity with data-driven precision to turn aspirations into action. With a keen understanding of what today’s students seek, he has redefined how study-abroad dreams are communicated, combining global trends with grounded Indian values. He also works across student guides, scholarship explainers, university deep-dives, and thought pieces, making study-abroad content both insightful and accessible. Always curious, always evolving – he believes that great content is not just about reach, but about impact. And that the right story, told the right way, can change a life.
