Fees & Costs

Postgraduate Study in Germany
Fees & Costs
As an indication of the level of importance attached to education, costs are kept relatively low through government funding of universities. While there are no tuition fees, students have to pay a social tax and compulsory health insurance. These costs vary from state to state, but tend to be around €100. Students with Irish health insurance cover should be able to gain an exemption via the E111 form. Accordingly, postgraduate study in Germany is less expensive than in other countries.

The cost of living varies from city to city. Accommodation is relatively expensive in Germany – it is not uncommon for Germans to spend half of their income on rent. On-campus accommodation is generally available and less costly than other options. Campus-Germany estimates that students in Germany need €660 a month to keep up a modest standard of living.
The Deutscher Akademischer Austausch Dienst (DAAD) offers some funding opportunities to younger international postgraduates looking to study in German. The German Academic Exchange Board offers up to six scholarships for post-graduate students. You may also qualify for Irish government, EU Erasmus programme and other independent funding schemes. Your present university, the German embassy in Dublin, the Irish Higher Education Authority and your intended German institution should all be useful sources of funding information. Spending some quality time on the Internet to uncover other options for financing your study is also worthwhile.