Studying hospitality management in Germany gives you practical skills and international career options in hotels, tourism and event planning. You can choose from bachelor and master programmes taught in English or German at public and private institutions. This guide explains the requirements, costs and steps to start your journey.
Which study levels exist
A bachelor degree in hospitality management typically takes three to four years and includes practical phases or internships. You learn the basics of business, hotel operations, marketing and guest relations. A master degree takes one to two years and focuses on leadership, strategic management and advanced research. You can study at traditional public universities, universities of applied sciences, or specialized private business schools.
- Bachelor: 6 to 8 semesters, includes internships
- Master: 2 to 4 semesters, focuses on management
- Dual study: combines classroom study with paid work in a partner hotel
Entry requirements and language
To enter a bachelor programme, you need a school-leaving certificate that qualifies for higher education in Germany, often verified through Uni-Assist. For a master degree, you need a relevant first degree and sometimes work experience. If your programme is in English, you must prove your language skills with tests like IELTS or TOEFL. Check the university admissions page for specific score cutoffs.
- School certificate or bachelor degree
- Language certificate (English or German)
- Motivation letter and curriculum vitae
- Internship proof for some private schools
Tuition fees and living costs
Public universities in Germany usually charge no tuition or low semester contributions of a few hundred euros, though some states charge non-EU students a moderate fee. Private hospitality schools typically charge higher yearly tuition, so check the programme page for exact numbers. For living costs, budget for rent, food, health insurance and transport, and check the national immigration authority website for current blocked account requirements.
- Public universities: low fees or semester contributions only
- Private schools: higher annual tuition
- Living costs: rent, food, transport and insurance
Visas and timeline
Non-EU students need a student visa or study applicant visa before moving to Germany. Start your research at least one year before the intake. Application deadlines are typically January for the summer semester and July for the winter semester. Check the national immigration authority or the German embassy in your home country for visa procedures.
- Start planning 12 months ahead
- Deadlines: January or July
- Apply for visa early
Common questions
Can I study hospitality in English in Germany?
Yes, many private business schools and some universities of applied sciences offer bachelor and master degrees fully taught in English.
Do I need work experience before applying?
Most bachelor programmes do not require prior experience, but some master programmes or MBA options require one or two years of work in the industry.
Can I work while studying?
Yes, international students can work a limited number of days per year alongside their studies, which helps gain local experience.
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.
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.