Is a master's free in Germany, and how much do I have to pay?

General rule: Most consecutive master's programmes (those following on from a bachelor's) at public universities have no tuition fees. Public universities in Berlin don't charge tuition either.

Semester contribution (Semesterbeitrag): Even without tuition, you usually pay a contribution of around €150–350 every semester. It covers student services and often a public transport ticket for students.

Exceptions:

• Baden-Württemberg: Students from outside the EU/EEA who come to Germany to study pay €1,500 per semester. People living in Germany with another residence permit (for example family or settlement permit) are often exempt; ask the university about your situation.
• Bavaria: Since winter semester 2024/25, some universities such as the Technical University of Munich (TUM) charge tuition to new students from outside the EU; the amount depends on the programme.
• Master's for working professionals: "Weiterbildend" master's programmes that require work experience usually charge fees, even at public universities.
• Private universities: All programmes charge fees, from a few thousand to tens of thousands of euros a year.

Living costs: The biggest expense is rent and living costs. For a student residence permit in 2026, the state requires proof of at least €992 a month (€11,904 a year); in big cities like Berlin, real costs are usually higher. Health insurance is paid separately.

Note: Tuition rules are debated and changed in some states from time to time. Check the current fees on the programme page before applying.