Germany is a preferred study abroad destination that attracts international students due to world-class universities, exceptional quality of life, numerous career opportunities and vibrant student communities. With over 17,000 study programmes in more than 380 universities spread across different cities, understanding what German cities offer can help students choose the right one for their academic journey. Here are some of the best cities in Germany for international students.
Key highlights:
- Best Cities in Germany for International Students
- Munich
- Berlin
- Stuttgart
- Aachen
- Cologne
- Bonn
- Tips to Choose the Best City for International Students in Germany
Best Cities in Germany for International Students
1. Munich
According to the Quacquarelli Symonds (QS) Best Student Cities 2025, Munich is the top-ranked city in Germany and 4th in the world. It is home to ~20 universities, including the number-one-ranked university in Germany, the Technical University of Munich, as per the Times Higher Education (THE) World University Rankings 2025. Students get academic excellence, cultural richness, and an exceptional quality of life all in one city. Munich is popular as Germany’s safest student city; it is also relatively expensive, with average monthly living costs of ~€1,200.
Some of the top universities in Munich are:
- Ludwig Maximilian University (LMU)
- Academy of Fine Arts of Munich
- Munich Business School
2. Berlin
Germany’s capital city, Berlin, is a hub for academics with approximately 33 universities. The city is ranked 9th in the world and second-best in Germany as per the QS Student Best Cities 2025, making it one of the best cities for students in Germany. Known for its rich history, thriving art scene, and lively nightlife, it’s an exciting city for living and studying. Berlin offers a relatively affordable cost of living, with average monthly expenses of ~€1,000.
Some of the prominent universities in Berlin are:
- Humboldt University
- Free University of Berlin
- Technical University of Berlin
- Berlin School of Business and Innovation
3. Stuttgart
Stuttgart, Germany’s automotive capital, is home to 34,000+ international students across 15 universities. It is known for providing a high quality of life along with a safe and vibrant environment. Home to major automakers, like Mercedes-Benz and Porsche, the city offers excellent internship opportunities for engineering students. The monthly cost of living in Stuttgart is around €1,000.
Some of the prominent universities in Stuttgart are:
- University of Stuttgart
- Stuttgart Media University
- Stuttgart Technology University of Applied Sciences
4. Aachen
Aachen is home to RWTH Aachen University, Germany’s second-ranked institution for Engineering, as per THE World University Rankings by Subject 2025, along with four other institutions that collectively offer 78 English-taught programmes. Its strategic location near Belgium and the Netherlands adds a unique, adventurous appeal, making it one of the best cities to live in Germany for international students. The cost of living in Aachen is approximately €800-€900 per month.
Some of the best universities in Aachen are:
- FH Aachen University of Applied Sciences
- Catholic University of Applied Sciences
- International School of Management (ISM)
5. Cologne
Home to some of Germany’s oldest universities, Cologne is a top choice for international students, hosting around 77,000 students across 12 universities. With a monthly cost of living of just ~€900, it’s both affordable and student-friendly. The city offers a lively atmosphere and iconic landmarks like the Cologne Cathedral. Also, with direct trains to Paris, Brussels, and Amsterdam, exploring Western Europe is easy from here. With its great academic facilities and excellent connectivity, it makes Cologne one of the best cities to study in Germany for International students.
Some of the best universities in Cologne are:
- University of Cologne
- TH Köln-University of Applied Sciences
- German Sport University Cologne
- Cologne University of Music
6. Bonn
The former capital of West Germany, Bonn, is home to three universities and offers a diverse range of programmes for international students. The city has a comparatively quieter atmosphere and offers a range of cultural experiences, hiking trails, and museums. The cost of living in Bonn is on the expensive side, with monthly expenses averaging €800-€1,200, making it a worthwhile study destination.
Some of the prominent universities in Bonn are:
- Rhenish Friedrich Wilhelm University of Bonn
- Bonn-Rhein-Sieg University of Applied Sciences
- University of Applied Sciences for Finance and Management (HFM)
Also Read: What You Must Know About the Best IT Universities in Germany
Tips to Choose the Best City for International Students in Germany
- Choose a city that aligns with your chosen course, curriculum, learning outcomes, and career goals.
- Consider internship and job opportunities, and university strengths.
- Check climate preferences and availability of student support services.
- Prioritise cities offering a high quality of life, cultural fit, and good connectivity.
- Research job markets and English-taught programmes.
Germany offers a number of cities for international students, each with its own advantages. Ultimately, the best city in Germany for Indian students depends on an individual’s academic goals, personal preferences, and budget.
At Avanse Financial Services, we help students pursue their dream of studying in Germany by offering an education loan to study abroad. With benefits like 100% financing, flexible repayment options, and quick sanctions, our loan for students helps them pursue their studies stress-free. To check your eligibility for the education loan, consider using an education loan eligibility checker or contact us for any queries.
