University Cost Calculator 2026

A bachelor's degree (6 semesters) at a public university costs an average of 36,000 to 54,000 euros, a master's degree (4 semesters) about 24,000 to 36,000 euros. This includes living costs, semester fees, and study materials. Private universities charge additional tuition fees of 3,000 to 15,000 euros per semester.

Public universities in Germany do not charge tuition fees for the first degree. Only the semester fee applies (approx. 130-420 euros). Private universities, however, charge tuition of typically 3,000 to 15,000 euros per semester. For non-EU citizens, Baden-Wuerttemberg has been charging 1,500 euros per semester since 2017.

The semester fee is a mandatory charge paid by all students at public universities. It consists of the student services fee (canteen, counseling), the student union fee, and in most states the semester ticket for public transport. The amount varies between 130 and 420 euros per semester depending on the state and university.

According to the 22nd Social Survey by DSW, students in Germany need an average of 850 to 1,050 euros per month. In major cities like Munich or Hamburg, it can exceed 1,200 euros, while smaller university towns often suffice with 700 to 800 euros. The biggest items are rent (300-700 euros) and food (200-400 euros).

BAfoeg (Federal Training Assistance Act) is government funding for students whose parents cannot finance their studies. The maximum rate is 934 euros monthly (2024). Half is a grant (no repayment), the other half is an interest-free loan. Repayment begins 5 years after graduation and is capped at 10,010 euros.

With a mini-job, you can earn up to 538 euros monthly (2024). As a working student, you work a maximum of 20 hours per week during lectures, with no earnings limit. BAfoeg recipients can earn up to 6,270 euros gross per year (approx. 522 euros/month) without their BAfoeg being reduced.

A shared flat room costs between 250 and 650 euros including utilities, depending on the city. Munich averages 550-650 euros, Berlin 450-550 euros, Cologne 400-500 euros, and East German cities like Leipzig 280-350 euros. Student dorms are significantly cheaper at 200-350 euros but often have long waiting lists.

Health insurance is mandatory. Until age 25, you're covered for free through family insurance. After that, student health insurance costs about 110 euros monthly. Personal liability insurance (from 30 euros/year) is strongly recommended. Optional are household contents insurance and disability insurance (often very affordable for students).

Absolutely! Scholarships don't need to be repaid and often offer, in addition to financial support (100-1,500 euros/month), non-material benefits like seminars and networking. The Deutschlandstipendium (300 euros/month) is particularly popular. Beyond major foundations, there are hundreds of small, subject-specific scholarships. Applying is almost always worthwhile.

Private universities cost between 3,000 and 15,000 euros per semester, totaling 18,000 to 90,000 euros for a bachelor's degree. Normal living costs apply on top. Some private universities offer financing models where tuition is repaid from salary after graduation (Income Share Agreements).