If you’ve been exploring international scholarships, you might have noticed something curious: German scholarships are often labeled “fully funded” — yet, many don’t include tuition fees. Sounds contradictory, right? But this is where Germany stands out. In most of Europe, students pay thousands of euros annually for education. In Germany, Public universities typically charge no tuition fees at all — even for international students.
In this post, we’ll take a deep dive into:
How Germany manages to offer free education
What fully funded means in the German context
The true costs of studying in Germany
Examples of top scholarships that reflect this model
Whether Germany is truly an affordable destination
Free Tuition in Germany! How Is It Possible?
Germany’s approach to higher education is rooted in the belief that education is a public good, not a privilege for the wealthy. That’s why:
Public universities in Germany charge little to no tuition fees, even for students from outside the EU.
This policy was reintroduced in 2014 when the last state in Germany abolished tuition fees.
The only cost is a semester contribution (Semesterbeitrag), which usually ranges between €100 to €350 per semester and includes:
Student union membership
Public transportation (for the entire region)
Admin charges
So, while technically not “free,” it’s nearly free, and much more affordable than almost anywhere else in the world.
Also Read: Fully Funded Australia Awards Scholarship 2025
What Does a “Fully Funded” Scholarship in Germany Include?
In countries where tuition fees are high, scholarships focus on paying those first. But in Germany, since tuition isn’t a major expense, scholarships are designed to cover your life, not your lectures.
A fully funded German scholarship typically includes:
Monthly stipend to cover living expenses:
Approximately €934 for master’s level
Approximately €1,200 to €1,400 for doctoral level
Health insurance
Travel allowance (to and from Germany)
Study or research support (e.g., books, lab equipment)
Language course funding (where applicable)
Family allowances (for scholars with dependents)
Accommodation (either direct or through stipend)
No mention of tuition? Because most of the time, you don’t have to pay it.
No Tuition = Low Quality?
Not true! Germany’s top universities like LMU Munich, Heidelberg, TU Munich, and Humboldt University rank among the best in the world. Their research output, faculty, and industry links rival Ivy Leagues and top UK schools — just without the price tag.
Why Is German Education Free?
There are several economic and cultural reasons:
Social Responsibility: Education is viewed as a fundamental right, not a commodity.
Skilled Workforce: By providing tuition-free education, Germany ensures a steady stream of skilled workers for its economy.
Global Reputation: Attracting international talent enhances Germany’s global soft power.
Public Funding: Universities are funded by state governments, allowing them to waive tuition.
Even with increasing numbers of international students, Germany has committed to keeping education accessible to all.
The Real Cost of Studying in Germany
Even without tuition, students still face living expenses, including:
Rent: €300 – €600/month
Food: €150 – €250/month
Health insurance: Approximately €100/month
Miscellaneous (books, travel, etc.): €100 – €200/month
Total estimated cost of living: €850 – €1,100/month
That’s where scholarships come in and fully fund the cost of living.
Top Fully Funded Scholarships in Germany
Here are some examples where “fully funded” is all about supporting your life in Germany:
1. DAAD EPOS Scholarship
Covers monthly stipend, travel, insurance, study costs
Focus development-related postgraduate courses
For professionals from developing countries
Stipend: €934 (master’s), €1,200+ (PhD)
2. Heinrich Böll Foundation Scholarship
Covers: Living costs, travel, study-related expenses
For students with a commitment to environmental, democratic, and social causes
3. Konrad Adenauer Stiftung Scholarship (KAS)
Covers: Living stipend, health insurance, family support
For politically active students
Monthly Support: €992 (Master’s), €1,400 (PhD)
4. Friedrich Ebert Stiftung Scholarship
Covers: €934/month, health insurance, travel allowance
For students with strong academic records and social engagement
Also Read: Fully Funded MEXT Scholarship 2026 in Japan
Why Germany Is a Top Destination for International Students
Germany attracts more than 450,000 international students — and it’s easy to see why:
World-class education (many universities in global top 200)
Affordable lifestyle compared to UK/USA
Multicultural campuses and student life
Work rights: Students can work up to 20 hours/week
18-month post-study visa for job search
Gateway to EU jobs after graduation
Final Words
The term “fully funded” in Germany reflects a different educational reality. When tuition is not a financial barrier, scholarships step in to support everything else you need to thrive as a student.
So the next time you see a German scholarship without tuition coverage, don’t worry, you’re still in for one of the most generous and accessible education experiences in the world.