Guides · English-taught programmes · Study in Germany

English-Taught Bachelor's in Germany: Costs and Options

4 min read · 2026-10-21

English-taught bachelor's programmes in Germany do exist, but they are much less common than German-taught ones. They are often easiest to find in business, engineering, computer science, and some international study tracks. Costs vary a lot, so always check the university's programme page and the official fee rules before you apply.

How common are English-taught bachelor's programmes?

Germany is known for low tuition at public universities, but most bachelor's programmes are still taught in German. English-taught options are available, yet they are a smaller part of the full offer.

  • Public universities: many programmes are in German, with a limited number in English.
  • Universities of applied sciences: often have more practical English-taught options in some fields.
  • Private universities: more likely to offer English-taught bachelor's degrees, but tuition is usually much higher.

If you want to search well, use the university website, the DAAD international programme database, and the admissions page of each faculty. Programme names can change from year to year, so check the exact current title.

Fields where English is most common

English-taught bachelor's programmes are more common in subjects that attract international students and use a global academic language.

  • Business and management
  • Computer science and IT
  • Engineering and technology
  • Natural sciences
  • Some design, media, and social science tracks

Not every university offers these in English, and even when a programme is in English, some parts may still include German. This can matter for internships, group work, and local student life.

What do English-taught bachelor's programmes cost?

At public universities in most of Germany, many bachelor's programmes have no tuition fee or only a small semester contribution. This is one reason Germany is popular. But the rules are not the same everywhere, and some places do charge tuition.

  • Public universities: often low or no tuition, but you usually pay a semester contribution for student services and transport.
  • Baden-Württemberg: public universities commonly charge tuition for many non-EU students. Check the state's official rules.
  • Private universities: tuition is usually charged for all students, and the total can be much higher.

Do not rely on old numbers. Check the university's fee page and, for public rules, the official state or university source. Also ask whether there are extra costs for lab courses, semesters abroad, or special equipment.

Language requirements you should expect

For English-taught programmes, you usually need proof of English level. The exact score depends on the university and programme.

  • Common tests: IELTS, TOEFL, Cambridge, or other recognised exams listed by the university.
  • Some programmes accept a letter from your previous school if your education was fully in English.
  • A few universities may also ask for basic German or recommend it, even if the degree is in English.

For entry to a German bachelor's programme, you also need the right school-leaving qualification. International students should check recognition through the university admissions office, Uni-Assist if used, or the German academic exchange and recognition resources. The key point is simple: English language proof is not enough by itself.

How to find the right programme

Start with a narrow search. Use the subject, city, and the words English-taught bachelor's Germany. Then check the official programme page, not only a general university page.

  1. List the fields you want to study.
  2. Filter for bachelor's level and English language.
  3. Read the entry requirements carefully.
  4. Check whether the university uses direct application or an external service such as Uni-Assist.
  5. Look at the application dates on the official admissions page.

It helps to make a short list of 5 to 10 programmes. Compare the language rules, documents, tuition, semester dates, and whether the degree is fully English or partly mixed with German.

How to approach universities

Do not send a long message to every university. Keep it short and specific. Ask about the exact programme, your school background, and whether your documents fit the entry rules.

  • Use the contact email listed on the programme page.
  • Write your full name, country, and the exact programme title.
  • Ask one or two direct questions only.
  • Attach only the documents they request, if they ask for them.

Good questions are about recognition of your diploma, language proof, or whether a preparatory year is needed. Avoid asking if they can guarantee admission. They cannot.

Common questions

Are English-taught bachelor's degrees common in Germany?

They exist, but they are not the norm. You will usually find more options in business, IT, engineering, and some international tracks than in other subjects.

Do EU and non-EU students pay the same tuition?

Often at public universities, yes, but not always. Some federal states and private universities have different rules for non-EU students. Always check the official fee page.

Can I study in English and never learn German?

You may be able to complete some degrees with little German, but basic German is still useful for daily life, jobs, and internships. Some programmes also ask for German even if classes are in English.

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 do not apply through Eduuro. You simply make it easier for the right university people to contact you.

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.

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