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�ұ�������Բ�’s 380+ recognized universities and 17,000+ study programs showcase its strong commitment to a diverse education. Whether you’re craving the vibrant academic scene in Munich, the innovative spirit of Aachen, or the cultural richness of Berlin, Germany’s top student cities have it all. 

These are the best cities in Germany for international students in 2024/2025:

1. Munich

Munich claims the top spot for students in Germany in our ranking for the 2024/2025 academic year, offering academic excellence, cultural richness, and an exceptional quality of life all in one. As the capital of Bavaria, it is the central hub hosting a significant portion of the state’s 55,291 international students. Unsurprisingly, this vibrant city known as “the Village of a Million People” also ranks among

Munich boasts 20 universities, including globally respected ones like the Technical University of Munich (TUM) and the Ludwig Maximilian University of Munich. It’s the safest student city in Germany and ranks third in quality of life. The city is a bit pricey, ranking second in terms of cost of living, and you should budget at least €1,000 per month to cover your expenses.

Fun fact: Did you know the Technical University of Munich (TUM) has been ranked as the most employable German university by in the Global Employability Rank 2023–24? 

Beyond academics, Munich offers a rich cultural scene with world-class attractions such as the Pinakothek Museums, the Bavarian State Opera, and the famous Munich Philharmonic Orchestra. It’s also famous for hosting Oktoberfest, the world’s largest beer festival, drawing millions for traditional Bavarian beer, food, and music each year.

2. Aachen

Aachen claims the second spot as Germany’s top student city, offering a rich history, high quality of life, and affordability. Home to RWTH Aachen University and four other institutions offering 78 programs in English combined, it certainly draws international students seeking academic excellence. 

The city ranks second in quality of life among our top 10 cities and is notably affordable compared to larger student cities in Germany. Aachen’s UNESCO-listed Aachen Cathedral stands as a testament to its historical significance, while its strategic location near the borders of Belgium and the Netherlands adds an adventurous edge.

Hosting a substantial portion of North Rhine–Westphalia’s 77,199 international students, it’s an ideal destination if you’re seeking a culturally rich, compact city brimming with value and adventure. The federal state of North Rhine–Westphalia also leads the list as the German state with the most students in higher education, a total of 719,494.

3. Cologne

Situated along the picturesque Rhine River and securing the third spot on our list is Cologne (Köln). Hosting a significant number of international students from North Rhine–Westphalia’s total of 77,199, Cologne fosters a truly diverse and welcoming environment. The University of Cologne, one of Germany’s largest and oldest institutions, stands as the city’s academic flagship. 

This dynamic city boasts 12 universities accommodating over 80,000 students. Among Cologne’s many cultural attractions, the real showstopper is its 13th-century Gothic masterpiece, the Cologne Cathedral, a UNESCO World Heritage Site and one of Germany’s most visited attractions. 

Cologne offers a relatively affordable cost of living, ranking in the middle among major cities, with an estimated monthly budget of approximately €960.

4. Bonn

Formerly Germany’s capital, Bonn is now a compact hub of student adventures where you can explore museums, hike scenic trails, or relax by the Rhine River in Rheinaue Park. Bonn boasts three universities, led by the top-ranked University of Bonn (Rheinische Friedrich-Wilhelms-Universität), offering diverse programs for international students.

The city also houses the United Nations (UN) Campus, fostering diplomacy and cooperation, with offices for international organizations like the UN Framework Convention on Climate Change (UNFCCC). Don’t miss Beethoven-Haus, a museum dedicated to Ludwig van Beethoven.

While the cost of living leans toward the higher end, with monthly expenses averaging €800-€1,000, it’s a worthwhile investment in a vibrant student experience. 

5. Stuttgart

Stuttgart is another top destination for international students, housing 15 universities, including the renowned University of Stuttgart, celebrated for its technical programs. Affordability is a perk, with an average monthly cost of €861. However, non-EU citizens pursuing specific degree programs face tuition fees of €1,500 per semester starting from 2017/18.

Known as the “cradle of the automobile,” Stuttgart hosts Mercedes-Benz and Porsche headquarters, and its captivating Mercedes-Benz Museum attracts 440,000 annual visitors. Yet, it’s not solely about engines and gears; Stuttgart knows how to have fun, with the Cannstatter Volksfest, Germany’s second-largest beer festival after Munich’s Oktoberfest.

Stuttgart’s lush green landscapes earned it the nickname “The Green U.” Its parks and unique “green roofs” on buildings adorned with plants promote sustainability and combat urban heat.

6. Berlin

With a whopping 33 universities, Berlin is an academic powerhouse. It’s home to some of Germany’s finest, like Humboldt University, Technical University, and the Free University of Berlin. As a student, you’ll revel in the city’s perks, including fantastic discounts at galleries, libraries, and stores that’ll make your wallet smile.

Berlin is a cultural melting pot, with 39,595 international students and 22% of its population from 170 nations. Sure, it might have a higher cost of living (expect to spend a minimum of €1,000 per month), but that also means more job opportunities. Many students here juggle part-time gigs to fund their studies and savor the city’s rich offerings.

Berlin’s streets showcase stunning street art, particularly in Kreuzberg and Friedrichshain. Iconic sites like the Brandenburg Gate, Reichstag Building, and Checkpoint Charlie highlight its rich history. Thanks to the city’s bike lanes and sharing program, you can easily explore on a bike. And when the sun sets, Berlin’s legendary nightlife takes over, with numerous clubs, bars, and music venues open until the early hours.

7. Frankfurt

Home to 11 universities, including the renowned Goethe University, Frankfurt is a haven for international students. Drawing from a pool of over 28,000 international students in the broader Hesse region, Frankfurt shines for its vibrant academic community and robust research opportunities.

Ranked second in terms of safety, Frankfurt boasts a high quality of life thanks to excellent healthcare, education, public services, and an overall great standard of living. For bookworms, there’s even more to love—Frankfurt proudly hosts the world’s largest book fair, attracting literary enthusiasts and professionals from across the globe.

Dubbed “Mainhattan” for its impressive skyline, Frankfurt stands as a major global financial center, housing the European Central Bank. Amidst the urban hustle, the city offers serene green spaces like Palmengarten and the Frankfurt City Forest to unwind.

In terms of living costs, Frankfurt falls somewhere in the middle, with an estimated monthly budget of around €970 for students.

8. Dresden

Often dubbed the “Florence on the Elbe,” Dresden is the vibrant capital of Saxony and a hotspot of the state’s thriving community of over 16,878 international students. At the heart of Dresden’s appeal is the renowned Dresden University of Technology (TU Dresden), one of Germany’s most prestigious technical universities.

When it comes to affordability, Dresden takes the crown among our featured cities. Students can comfortably manage their budgets, with an estimated monthly expenditure ranging from €700 to €900.

Quality of life in Dresden is also second to none, earning the top spot on our list. It’s a safe haven with low crime rates, nestled amidst natural beauty, including the serene Elbe River, nearby Saxon Switzerland National Park, and numerous lush parks and gardens.

9. Leipzig

Leipzig is another German city that attracts students from around the world, with prestigious institutions like the Leipzig University and the Leipzig Graduate School of Management (HHL) located here. Notably, it’s also home to big players like Amazon, DHL, BMW, and Porsche, giving the city a cosmopolitan vibe that appeals to ambitious expats.

This city knows how to celebrate its musical heritage with festivals like the Bach Festival and the Leipzig Music Trail. Plus, it won’t break the bank to live here, as Leipzig ranks among the top 3 most affordable cities on our list, with an average monthly living cost of approximately €850.

Leipzig’s creative scene is on the rise, buzzing with artists, designers, and musicians. The Spinnerei complex, once a cotton mill, has transformed into an artistic haven, housing galleries, studios, and creative spaces.

10. Hamburg

With over 12,000 international students, the city-state of Hamburg is a thriving academic center boasting around 19 universities and a diverse array of over 300 degree programs. The University of Hamburg takes the crown as the largest and most popular institution.

Despite its higher cost of living, averaging €800 to €1,000 per month, Hamburg offers a plethora of enriching experiences. The city’s maritime heritage shines at the International Maritime Museum, ideal for aspiring maritime scholars. Additionally, the Port of Hamburg, one of Europe’s largest, provides students with a unique chance to explore logistics and international trade.

Music enthusiasts in Hamburg can groove to the city’s rich Beatles history at iconic spots like Beatles Square and the Indra Club. For a more refined musical experience, the renowned Elbphilharmonie, with its world-class acoustics, hosts a variety of concerts, performances, and cultural events, granting students unparalleled access to the world of arts.