If you want to study economics in Germany, you usually choose between a bachelor's and a master's degree. Germany has many public universities, strong economics departments, and several English-taught programmes, especially at master's level. The exact rules depend on the university and programme, so always check the official admissions page.
Which economics degrees you can study
In Germany, economics is often called Wirtschaftswissenschaften, Volkswirtschaftslehre, or a similar name. The structure is usually simple.
- Bachelor's degree - usually 3 to 4 years. Good if you want to start from the beginning after school.
- Master's degree - usually 1 to 2 years. Good if you already have a relevant bachelor's degree.
Some programmes focus on pure economics. Others combine economics with business, finance, data, or policy. Read the module list carefully so you know what you will actually study.
Typical entry requirements
For a bachelor's programme, you normally need a school-leaving certificate that gives access to higher education. If your diploma is from outside Germany, it may need recognition first. The official check is usually done through the university admissions office, uni-assist, or an official recognition database such as Anabin, depending on the university.
For a master's programme, you usually need a relevant bachelor's degree, transcripts, and proof that you studied enough economics, maths, statistics, or related subjects. Many universities also ask for:
- proof of English or German language ability
- a CV
- a motivation letter
- sometimes GRE or similar test results
- sometimes references or a writing sample
Each university sets its own rules. Do not assume one programme's requirements are the same as another's.
English-taught and German-taught options
You can study economics in Germany in German, English, or a mix of both. English-taught options are more common at master's level, but bachelor’s options exist too.
If the programme is in German, universities usually ask for a recognized German language certificate such as TestDaF, DSH, or Goethe certificates. If the programme is in English, they often ask for IELTS, TOEFL, or another accepted test.
Important points:
- Some English-taught programmes still expect basic German for daily life or internships.
- Some German-taught programmes allow a preparatory language path before the degree starts.
- Always check the exact language score and accepted test types on the programme page.
Tuition and living costs
Many public universities in Germany charge low or no tuition for most bachelor's and many consecutive master's programmes. But this is not the same everywhere.
- EU and EEA students - often pay no tuition at public universities, but still pay a semester contribution.
- Non-EU students - many public universities still have low tuition, but some states or universities charge tuition for certain students or certain programmes.
- Private universities - usually charge much higher tuition for everyone.
Because rules can change by federal state and university, check the official programme page and the university finance page before you decide. Do not rely on old blog posts or forums.
Living costs are a big part of the budget. You should plan for rent, food, transport, health insurance, study materials, and phone bills. The total depends on the city. Large cities like Munich, Hamburg, or Frankfurt are often more expensive than smaller university towns.
Useful places to check real numbers:
- the university's cost-of-living page, if it has one
- the German Academic Exchange Service, DAAD
- the local student services office, often called Studierendenwerk
Also remember that many visa applications require proof that you can cover your living costs. The amount and method are set by the German authorities and can change, so check the German embassy or national immigration information for your country.
Application timeline and documents
Start early. For many programmes, applications open months before the semester begins. Some universities have fixed deadlines for summer and winter intake, while others use rolling or programme-specific deadlines.
A simple timeline is:
- 9 to 12 months before start - choose programmes and check entry rules
- 6 to 9 months before start - prepare language tests, transcripts, and recognition checks
- 3 to 6 months before start - submit the application
- After admission - arrange housing, health insurance, and visa if needed
Common documents include:
- passport
- school or university transcripts
- degree certificates
- language certificate
- CV
- motivation letter
- copy of passport
- sometimes APS or other country-specific documents
Always use the checklist from the university. Missing one file can delay your application.
How universities find candidates
Most universities do not search the whole internet. They look at their own applications, partner platforms, and student databases. Some admissions offices also search profiles in registers like Eduuro to find students who match a programme.
If your profile is clear, you make it easier for them to see if you fit. Write your field, current education, language level, country, and documents honestly and clearly. This can help an admissions office contact you first, but it does not replace a formal application.
Common questions
Can I study economics in Germany without German?
Yes, sometimes. Some bachelor's and many master's programmes are taught in English. But you must check the exact language rules for each programme. Even in English-taught programmes, some daily life tasks may still need German.
Is studying economics in Germany free?
Sometimes tuition is low or zero at public universities, but you still usually pay a semester contribution and living costs. Private universities are different and often much more expensive. Check the official programme page for the exact rules.
Do I need work experience to apply for a master's?
Usually no, not for a normal economics master's. Some specialised programmes may prefer or require experience, but many do not. The university will state this on the admissions page.
How Eduuro helps
Create a free profile with your field, education, English level and documents, and admissions offices that search for exactly that can find you and write first.
You stay in control, and you can still apply through the university's official process when you are ready.
Rules, fees and deadlines change. Check the university's own admissions page and the official immigration site of the country before you act on anything here.