Berlin offers a mix of historic, research-focused, and creative universities at affordable semester fees (~€300–€400). Top names include Humboldt, Free University, TU Berlin, Charité, and Berlin University of the Arts. Programs span humanities, STEM, medicine, and arts, with both German and English options. International students benefit from low living costs, a multicultural city, and strong career opportunities in Europe’s startup capital.
Berlin is more than just Germany’s vibrant capital—it’s a thriving international academic hub. With a mix of historic institutions and modern universities, it’s home to students from around the world. You’ll find programs ranging from humanities and sciences to engineering, arts, and social sciences. Many offer English-taught degrees and emphasize research, innovation, and global engagement. Whether you’re aiming for medicine, engineering, business, or the arts, Berlin’s universities offer high-quality education, affordable fees, and a multicultural city experience.
Quick Facts
| Fact | Details |
| Number of Top Universities | 10 |
| Popular Districts | Charlottenburg, Köpenick, Mitte, Lichtenberg |
| Core Disciplines | Humanities, STEM, Business, Art & Design |
| Language Options | Predominantly German, with many English programs |
| Semester Fees | Around €300–€400 |
| Student Population | Diverse, with over 20% international students |
| Notable Features | Research hubs, arts institutions, medical excellence |
Why Study in Berlin’s Universities?
- Affordable tuition—public universities charge only semester fees (~€300–€400).
- International focus—many programs in English, vibrant student communities.
- Research leadership—Berlin University Alliance drives innovation across disciplines.
- Cultural richness—studying in Berlin means being immersed in history, arts, and nightlife.
- Career opportunities—Berlin’s growing tech and creative sectors offer strong graduate prospects.
Top 10 Universities in Berlin
Humboldt University of Berlin
One of Germany’s most historic and prestigious institutions, Humboldt is revered for its humanities, law, and natural sciences faculties. Research-driven and Nobel-affiliated, it stands at the heart of Berlin’s academic life.
- Founded: 1810
- Language: Mainly German, select graduate English programs
- Strengths: Humanities, philosophy, social sciences, life sciences
Free University of Berlin (FU Berlin)
FU is renowned for its critical thinking, open-minded ethos, and academic freedom. A research powerhouse especially in social sciences, political studies, and natural sciences.
- Founded: 1948
- Language: German & several English graduate programs
- Strengths: Political science, humanities, biology, and research collaboration
Technical University of Berlin (TU Berlin)
TU Berlin leads in engineering, computer science, and architecture; its strong industry collaborations and urban campus energize student experience.
- Founded: 1879
- Language: German & English (masters)
- Strengths: Engineering, tech innovation, city-industry network
Charité – Universitätsmedizin Berlin
Europe’s largest university hospital and medical school. Charité offers clinical excellence, cutting-edge research, and top-tier medical education.
- Founded: 1710
- Language: German (some postgraduate English)
- Strengths: Medicine, public health, life sciences
Berlin University of the Arts (UdK)
UdK is Europe’s largest art school, known for its programs in fine arts, design, music, and theater. It’s creative, dynamic, and internationally respected.
- Founded: 1975
- Language: Mainly German (some English programs)
- Strengths: Visual arts, music, performing arts, design innovation
Hertie School
A postgraduate-focused institution specializing in public policy, international relations, and data science—taught entirely in English, with global student body and faculty.
- Founded: 2003
- Language: English
- Strengths: Public leadership, international affairs, policy research
Berlin School of Economics and Law (HWR Berlin)
This applied sciences university offers strong programs in business, law, and public administration with practical, work-oriented teaching.
- Founded: 1971
- Language: German & English diploma tracks
- Strengths: Business, public administration, applied learning
ESMT Berlin
A modern business school founded by leading German corporations. ESMT offers MBA, EMBA, and leadership programs with a global outlook.
- Founded: 2002
- Language: English
- Strengths: Business education, executive development, corporate partnerships
Berlin International University of Applied Sciences
Private and globally-oriented, BI offers English-taught programs in business, IT, and design, with small classes and hands-on learning.
- Founded: 2014
- Language: English
- Strengths: Design, business, IT, multicultural student body
SRH Berlin University of Applied Sciences
SRH offers applied programs in creative industries, business, and technology using a project-based approach—designed for international students.
- Founded: 2019
- Language: English & German
- Strengths: Tech, creativity, career alignment, flexible formats
Tuition Fee Overview Table
| University | Semester Fee | Language | Study Focus |
| Humboldt University | €350 | German / Some English | Humanities, Sciences |
| FU Berlin | €350 | German / Some English | Social & Natural Sciences |
| TU Berlin | €300 | German / English Masters | Engineering, Tech |
| Charité Berlin | €350 | German | Medicine, Research |
| UdK Berlin | €350 | German / Some English | Arts, Design |
| Hertie School | €350 | English | Policy, Data Science |
| HWR Berlin | €300 | German / English Tracks | Business & Law |
| ESMT Berlin | €350 | English | MBA, Leadership |
| Berlin International UoAS | €350 | English | Business, IT, Design |
| SRH Berlin UoAS | €350 | English / German | Creative Tech, Business |
Conclusion
Berlin’s universities offer dynamic learning environments, from prestigious research institutions to private schools focused on creativity and innovation. Whether you’re a tech student, artist, entrepreneur, or policymaker, there’s a university in Berlin to match your goals. Add low costs, rich culture, and career pathways, and it’s a smart destination for international learners.
FAQs
1. What is the best university in Berlin?
Humboldt University of Berlin is often ranked the top, known for its rich history, strong humanities programs, and Nobel Prize connections.
2. Are there English-taught programs in Berlin universities?
Yes, many universities like Hertie School, ESMT Berlin, and Berlin International offer programs fully in English, especially at the postgraduate level.
3. How much are semester fees at Berlin universities?
Most public universities charge semester fees of around €300–€400, which include public transport passes and student services.
4. Is Berlin affordable for international students?
Compared to other European capitals, Berlin is relatively affordable, with low tuition, moderate rent, and student discounts.
5. Which Berlin university is best for engineering?
The Technical University of Berlin is a top choice for engineering, computer science, and architecture programs.
6. Can I study medicine in Berlin?
Yes, Charité – Universitätsmedizin Berlin is one of Europe’s top medical schools, offering world-class training and research opportunities.
7. Are Berlin universities good for arts?
Berlin University of the Arts (UdK) is one of Europe’s largest and most prestigious art schools for music, fine arts, and design.
8. Do I need to know German to study in Berlin?
For many undergraduate programs, yes. However, numerous master’s and specialized programs are offered in English.
9. How competitive is admission to Berlin universities?
Top universities like Humboldt and FU Berlin are selective, especially for high-demand programs such as medicine and law.
10. Which Berlin university is best for business studies?
ESMT Berlin and HWR Berlin are highly regarded for business, management, and MBA programs.
11. What is the student life like in Berlin?
Berlin offers a vibrant student scene with cultural events, music festivals, affordable nightlife, and a thriving international community.
12. Can I work while studying in Berlin?
Yes, international students can work up to 120 full days or 240 half days per year without a work permit.
13. Which Berlin university has the most international students?
Hertie School, ESMT Berlin, and Berlin International attract a high percentage of international students due to English-taught programs.
14. Is accommodation easy to find in Berlin?
Housing can be competitive, but student dorms and shared apartments (WG) are common and affordable options.
15. What are the living costs for students in Berlin?
Students usually spend €900–€1,200 per month, including rent, food, transport, and other expenses.
16. Do Berlin universities offer scholarships?
Yes, various merit-based, need-based, and DAAD scholarships are available for international students.
17. Which Berlin university focuses on policy and governance?
The Hertie School specializes in public policy, governance, and data science programs taught entirely in English.
18. Can I stay in Berlin after graduation?
Yes, graduates can apply for an 18-month job-seeking visa to find employment in Germany.
19. What is the QS ranking of Humboldt University?
Humboldt University consistently ranks in the top 150 globally and is highly respected in humanities and sciences.
20. Are Berlin universities research-intensive?
Yes, institutions like Humboldt, FU Berlin, and TU Berlin are part of the Berlin University Alliance, a leading research network.