English-Taught Universities in Germany: Best Options for International Students in 2027

Germany is one of the most attractive study destinations in Europe for international students, but there is one question that often comes before everything else:

Can you study in Germany without speaking German?

The answer is yes, there are English-taught universities in Germany but it also depends on your programme of interest.

There is a growing selection of English-taught degree programmes in Germany, particularly at master’s level. However, English-taught bachelor’s degrees are less common, and many undergraduate programmes at public universities continue to be taught primarily in German.

So, you should not choose a university simply because it is internationally recognised. You need to check whether the specific degree programme you want is taught in English. That is the very first step to having a successful oversea study in Germany. Other steps will be covered at the end of this article.

In this guide, we reveal some of the best English-taught colleges in Germany, the types of programmes available, what international students should expect regarding tuition and language requirements, and how to find and apply for an English-language degree.

Table of Contents

What Are English-Taught Universities in Germany?

English-taught universities are universities that offer degree programmes where English is the primary language of instruction.

This distinction is important.

A university does not need to teach most of its degrees in English to qualify as an option for international students. A university may have hundreds of programmes but only a limited number taught completely in English.

For example, Technical University Berlin currently lists English as the language of instruction for 19 programmes in its programme database, alongside programmes taught in German or in both German and English.

Therefore, always search for the specific degree programme, rather than assuming that the entire university operates in English.

13 English-Taught Universities in Germany

Below is a carefully-sourced list of universities in Germany that teach in English. We’re able to gather this comprehensive list by researching University databases and student reviews. However, it is important you make deeper individual researches on each of the Universities, to understand some other factors that might guide you further on which of them deserves your attention.

1. Technical University of Munich (TUM)

The Technical University of Munich is one of the strongest options for international students who want to study in English, particularly if their interests involve technology, engineering, management, data science or innovation.

TUM offers programmes in both German and English, and its English-language options span several disciplines.

Some English-taught areas include:

Management and Technology
Management and Data Science
Information Engineering
Aerospace
Sustainable Management and Technology
Computer science-related fields
Engineering
Natural sciences

TUM’s English-language offering is particularly attractive because it does not isolate international students from Germany’s technology ecosystem.

Why Study in TUM?

Choose TUM if you want to study any of the following courses:

Engineering
Computer science
Technology
Data science
Business and technology
Entrepreneurship
Innovation
Sustainability

It is also a strong choice for students who want to study in Munich, one of Germany’s major technology and business centres.

2. RWTH Aachen University

RWTH Aachen is another excellent option for students seeking English-taught programmes in Germany, especially at master’s level.

It is one of Germany’s leading technical universities and it offers reputable majors like:

Mechanical engineering
Electrical engineering
Computer science
Automotive engineering
Production engineering
Materials science
Energy
Robotics

International students should pay particular attention to RWTH’s individual programme requirements because the language of instruction varies considerably between programmes.

Why Study in RWTH?

Choose RWTH if you want to combine an international education with strong exposure to engineering and technology.

It is especially attractive for students planning careers in:

Engineering
Automotive
Manufacturing
Technology
Research
Industrial innovation

This option is best for students who want to study Engineering in Germany.

3. Technical University of Berlin

TU Berlin is another major technical university with English-taught options in Germany.

Its current programme database shows English-language degrees across selected fields such as architecture, information systems, computer science-related disciplines and other specialised master’s programmes.

For example, its M.Sc. Information Systems Management is currently listed as an English-taught programme. TU Berlin also offers English-taught programmes in areas such as computational neuroscience.

Why study TU Berlin?

The university is particularly attractive if you want:

Computer science
Information systems
Technology
Engineering
Digital transformation
Architecture
Research

The location of this University in Berlin also gives students access to one of Europe’s strongest startup and technology ecosystems.

4. University of Mannheim

The University of Mannheim is one of the strongest choices for international students who want to study business in Germany, as well as economics and management and other related courses.

The university has several internationally oriented programmes, including English-taught master’s options.

Relevant areas include:

Business administration
Management
Finance
Economics
Accounting
Marketing
Operations
Data-related business fields

This makes Mannheim particularly attractive if you want an English-language business education without necessarily attending a private business school.

5. LMU Munich

Ludwig Maximilian University of Munich is arguably one of the best research university with English-taught options for international students in Germany.

LMU offers international degree programmes across a range of academic disciplines, although the language of instruction varies from one programme to another.

Relevant areas can include:

Business
Economics
Natural sciences
Social sciences
Data-related fields
Life sciences
Research programmes

Why study in LMU?

LMU is particularly suitable for students who want:

A major research university
International academic exposure
Access to Munich’s business environment
Strong research infrastructure
Interdisciplinary study

LMU is the best for research-oriented students and international master’s applicants.

6. University of Cologne

The University of Cologne is particularly interesting for students seeking English-taught programmes in business, economics, management and social sciences.

Its Faculty of Management, Economics and Social Sciences offers a wide range of degree programmes, with several master’s programmes designed for international students.

Students can explore areas such as:

Business administration
Economics
Management
Social sciences
Finance
Marketing
Data and quantitative methods

Cologne is also a major commercial and media centre, which can be useful when looking for internships and professional exposure.

So, if you want to study business, economics and interdisciplinary social sciences in Germany, this is an University you might want to look into.

7. Heidelberg University

Heidelberg University has long been one of the best-known research universities that offers selected English-taught programmes in Germany.

It is attractive for students who are interested in:

Medicine
Life sciences
Natural sciences
Data science
Molecular sciences
Research

However, students considering Heidelberg should be particularly careful about programme language.

The fact that Heidelberg is highly international does not mean every degree is taught in English.

8. University of Bonn

The University of Bonn is a strong option for students who are interested in economics, mathematics, natural sciences and research-intensive programmes.

Its academic strengths make it exceptionally attractive to students who want an analytical or research-oriented degree.

Potential fields include:

Economics
Mathematics
Computer science
Physics
Life sciences
Agricultural sciences
Data and quantitative fields

Consider Bonn University if you have interest in Economics, mathematics, sciences and research.

9. University of Freiburg

The University of Freiburg provides international students with English-taught opportunities across selected disciplines.

The university is particularly attractive for students interested in:

Environmental sciences
Sustainability
Engineering
Computer science
Life sciences
Renewable energy
Research

The location of Freiburg University is also an added advantage that makes it most interesting for students interested in sustainability and environmental research.

10. University of Hamburg

The University of Hamburg is a large public university in Germany offering English-taught programmes across numerous academic fields.

For international students, relevant areas to consider include:

Business
Economics
Natural sciences
Computer science
International studies
Social sciences

Hamburg itself is an important commercial city with strong connections to international trade, logistics, shipping and business. Which means more opportunities after graduation.

11. University of Göttingen

The University of Göttingen is well known for research and offers a substantial number of international and English-taught master’s programmes in Germany.

Reputable majors include:

Natural sciences
Agriculture
Biology
Environmental sciences
Economics
Development-related studies
Mathematics
Research

Göttingen can be especially attractive to students who want a research-oriented environment rather than a university located in one of Germany’s largest cities.

12. University of Tübingen

The University of Tübingen is another strong research university with English-language options in German. However, it is across selected disciplines.

It is particularly well known for:

Neuroscience
Medicine
Life sciences
Artificial intelligence
Computer science
Cognitive science
Research

Its connection to the wider technology and research ecosystem makes it an interesting option for students interested in AI and interdisciplinary research.

13. Saarland University

Saarland University deserves particular attention if your primary goal is computer science, artificial intelligence or cybersecurity.

The university has an unusually strong computing and research ecosystem, including connections with major research institutions in Saarbrücken.

Popular English-majors include:

Computer science
Artificial intelligence
Cybersecurity
Bioinformatics
Computational linguistics
Data science
Language technology

For a student who wants an English-language technology programme rather than a broad general university experience, Saarland can be a very compelling option.

Can You Study in Germany Without Speaking German?

Yes.

If you are admitted to a degree programme taught entirely in English, you generally do not need German-language proficiency to meet the language requirement for that programme.

However, this does not mean German is useless.

Learning basic German can make everyday life easier when dealing with:

Accommodation
Shops
Government offices
Healthcare
Transportation
Part-time employment
Social life

It can also expand your employment opportunities after graduation.

Most importantly, do not confuse English-taught degree with English-only university.

A university may teach your programme in English while offering hundreds of other programmes in German.

What English Level Do You Need to Study in Germany?

The exact English requirement depends on the university and programme.

Common requirements may include:

IELTS
TOEFL
Cambridge English qualifications
UNIcert
Proof of previous education in English

However, there is no universal English score for every German university.

For example, TU Berlin requires English proficiency for English-language programmes and publishes programme-specific accepted certificates and levels. Some of its master’s programmes require B2, while individual programmes can require C1.

TUM likewise has specific requirements depending on the degree programme. In some cases, previous education conducted in English can be accepted as evidence of English proficiency.

Therefore, never assume that IELTS 6.5, IELTS 7.0 or another particular score automatically applies to every English-taught degree in Germany.

Check the exact programme requirements.

Do You Need German for an English-Taught Degree?

Usually, no.

If your degree programme is officially taught in English, you normally need to demonstrate English proficiency rather than German proficiency.

However, some programmes can combine English and German, and some universities may offer individual courses in another language.

This is why you should check the language of instruction listed on the programme page before applying.

Are English-Taught Universities in Germany Free?

Some can be very affordable, particularly at public universities, but English-taught does not mean tuition-free.

Many public universities do not charge standard tuition to many students, but semester contributions are generally payable.

There are also important exceptions for international students.

For example, Baden-Württemberg has tuition rules affecting many non-EU/EEA students, and individual universities can have their own tuition policies.

Private universities generally charge tuition.

If affordability is your priority, it is worth comparing English-taught programmes at public universities in Germany before considering private institutions

How Much Does It Cost to Study in an English-Taught Universities in Germany?

The language of instruction does not automatically determine tuition.

An English-taught programme at a public university can still have relatively low tuition costs, while a private university may charge substantial tuition.

Your costs can include:

Tuition fees, where applicable
Semester contribution
Accommodation
Food
Health insurance
Transportation
Study materials
Visa expenses
Proof of financial resources

Public universities generally offer the strongest affordability advantage, although important exceptions exist.

Students should therefore compare the exact programme fee and university location, not simply search for “free English-taught universities.”

How to Find English-Taught Universities in Germany

One of the easiest mistakes international students make is searching only for the university name.

Instead, search for the degree programme.

Step 1: Choose your subject

Decide whether you want:

Engineering
Computer science
Business
Economics
Medicine
Data science
Environmental science
Social sciences
Natural sciences

Step 2: Search for English-language programmes

Use official university programme databases and Germany’s higher-education search resources like DAAD.

Look specifically for:

Language of instruction: English

Step 3: Check the degree level

Confirm whether the programme is:

Bachelor’s
Master’s
PhD

This is especially important because English-language availability differs considerably between degree levels.

Step 4: Check admission requirements

Look for:

Academic qualifications
Required subjects
GPA/grades
English proficiency
German proficiency, if applicable
Work experience
GRE/GMAT where required
Portfolio where applicable

Step 5: Check the application route

Some universities accept applications directly.

Others use uni-assist or another application system.

International applicants should follow the exact instructions provided by their chosen university.

How to Apply to an English-Taught University in Germany

The general process looks like this:

1. Find the programme

Identify an English-taught programme that matches your academic background.

2. Check eligibility

Make sure your previous qualification gives you access to the degree.

3. Check language requirements

Confirm the exact English certificate and minimum score required.

4. Prepare your documents

Depending on the programme, you may need:

Academic certificates
Transcripts
Passport
CV
Motivation letter
Recommendation letters
English-language certificate
Portfolio
Proof of other qualifications

5. Submit the application

Apply through the university’s application portal or the required application service.

6. Wait for the admission decision

If admitted, you can proceed with enrolment and the relevant immigration arrangements.

7. Arrange your finances and visa

International students who require a visa should also prepare the financial and immigration documentation required for study in Germany.

Our Recommendation

If you want to study in Germany entirely in English, do not begin by asking which university is “the best.”

Begin with:

Which English-taught programme is best for my subject, academic background and career goal?

For technology and engineering, TUM, RWTH Aachen and TU Berlin are strong places to start.

For business and economics, consider Mannheim, TUM, Cologne and other internationally oriented business programmes.

For computer science, AI and cybersecurity, Saarland University, TUM and Tübingen deserve particular attention.

For research-intensive study, LMU Munich, Heidelberg, Bonn and Göttingen are excellent institutions to investigate.

And if affordability is important, compare English-taught programmes at public universities before assuming that you need a private university.

Key Takeaway

Germany offers international students a strong combination of academic quality, relatively affordable public higher education and an expanding selection of English-taught degrees.

The biggest mistake is assuming that a university is either completely English-speaking or completely German-speaking.

In reality, English availability is programme-specific.

Before applying, check the exact degree’s language of instruction, admission requirements, English-language certificate requirements, tuition and application procedure.

If you approach the search this way, universities such as TUM, RWTH Aachen, TU Berlin, Mannheim, LMU Munich, Cologne, Heidelberg, Bonn, Freiburg, Hamburg, Göttingen, Tübingen and Saarland provide a strong starting point for building an English-taught study shortlist in Germany.