Best University in Berlin for International Students: Public and Private Options Compared
Berlin has emerged as one of Europe’s best cities for international students, offering a rare combination of academic excellence, affordability, and cultural diversity. With over 30 higher education institutions—ranging from historic research universities to modern, innovation-driven private colleges—Berlin attracts tens of thousands of students from across the world every year.
Its appeal goes beyond reputation. The cost of living in Berlin remains low compared to other major Western European cities, and most public universities charge no tuition fees. Add to that a dynamic startup ecosystem, world-class research opportunities, and a vibrant, inclusive atmosphere, and it’s easy to see why Berlin is such a popular academic destination.
But choosing the best university in Berlin for international students isn’t simply a matter of rankings. What matters more is finding the right fit—based on language of instruction, tuition costs, acceptance rates, job outcomes, and student support services.
For students looking for free, high-quality education with strong international programs, Freie Universität Berlin, Humboldt University of Berlin, and Technische Universität Berlin stand out among public universities. Those interested in arts and design should also consider Berlin University of the Arts (UdK) and HTW Berlin – University of Applied Sciences.
On the private side, CODE University of Applied Sciences is ideal for tech innovators and entrepreneurs, while Bard College Berlin offers a liberal arts education in English. SRH Berlin University of Applied Sciences and Berlin International University appeal to those seeking English-taught business or design programs with hands-on training.
In this guide, you’ll find a complete comparison of Berlin’s top public and private universities, tailored specifically to what international students need most: affordable tuition, English-taught degrees, strong career prospects, support with visas and housing, and an inclusive campus culture.
Overview of Universities in Berlin
There are over 30 institutions of higher education in Berlin, including major research universities, applied sciences universities (Fachhochschulen), art schools, and private colleges. The most notable ones fall into two categories:
Public Universities
Public universities in Germany are primarily funded by the government. They are renowned for high academic standards and free tuition (with few exceptions). The most notable public universities in Berlin are:
- Humboldt University of Berlin
- Freie Universität Berlin (FU Berlin)
- Technische Universität Berlin (TU Berlin)
- Charité – Universitätsmedizin Berlin
- Berlin University of the Arts (UdK)
- HTW Berlin – University of Applied Sciences
Private Universities
Private universities are independently funded and charge tuition fees. While traditionally viewed as less academically rigorous, many have gained respect for their international focus, innovative programs, and industry ties. Top private universities in Berlin include:
- Bard College Berlin
- Berlin International University of Applied Sciences
- CODE University of Applied Sciences
- GISMA University of Applied Sciences
- SRH Berlin University of Applied Sciences
- ESCP Business School – Berlin Campus
Key Factors to Consider
To determine the best university in Berlin for international students, these are the critical factors:
- Language of instruction: Are there English-taught programs?
- Tuition fees: How affordable is the university?
- Acceptance rate: How competitive is the admission process?
- Academic reputation: Is the university respected globally and locally?
- International student services: Is support available in English?
- Career outcomes: Are there internship opportunities, job placement support, and a strong alumni network?
- Student life: Is the campus community international and inclusive?
- Location and housing: Is student accommodation accessible and affordable?
Let’s now break down each major university and evaluate it.
Public Universities in Berlin
1. Humboldt University of Berlin
Overview
Founded in 1810, Humboldt is one of the oldest and most prestigious universities in Germany. Known for its deep academic tradition, it focuses on humanities, law, social sciences, and natural sciences.
Language of instruction: Most bachelor’s programs are in German. Several English-taught master’s and PhD programs.
Tuition fees: None (except for semester contribution of ~€320).
Acceptance rate: Selective, especially for English-taught programs (10–20%).
Support for internationals: Strong welcome center, integration programs, and buddy networks.
Career outcomes: Excellent research pathways, academic career orientation.
English-taught programs: Available at master’s and doctoral levels.
Best for: Students focused on research, humanities, or global academic careers.
Verdict: Humboldt is best suited for students who want prestige, strong research credentials, and are either fluent in German or applying for a competitive English-taught graduate program.
2. Freie Universität Berlin (FU Berlin)
Overview
Established in 1948, FU Berlin is a comprehensive university with strengths in political science, humanities, and international relations. It has a liberal arts atmosphere and a strong global focus.
Language of instruction: Most undergraduate programs are in German; many English-taught master’s programs.
Tuition fees: None, aside from semester fees (~€312).
Acceptance rate: Moderately selective.
Support for internationals: International Office, buddy program, German language courses.
English-taught programs: Extensive offerings at graduate level.
Career outcomes: Particularly strong in academia, policy, and cultural institutions.
Best for: Students in humanities, international relations, or area studies.
Verdict: FU Berlin is one of the most international-friendly public universities in Germany, offering a wide range of English-taught graduate programs and excellent student services.
3. Technische Universität Berlin (TU Berlin)
Overview
TU Berlin is the go-to public university for engineering, computer science, architecture, and urban planning. It has a strong tech and innovation ecosystem.
Language of instruction: Many English-taught programs in STEM fields at master’s level.
Tuition fees: None for most programs (except ~€307 semester contribution).
Acceptance rate: Selective in popular master’s programs, but broader access at undergraduate level for EU students.
Support for internationals: Strong technical orientation, integration workshops, and job fairs.
Career outcomes: High employability, especially in Berlin’s tech scene.
Best for: Engineering, data science, software development, and design.
Verdict: TU Berlin is ideal for international students in STEM fields who want access to top labs, research centers, and job opportunities in Berlin’s thriving tech startup economy.
4. Charité – Universitätsmedizin Berlin
Overview
One of Europe’s largest university hospitals and among the world’s top 100 medical institutions. Jointly run by Humboldt and FU Berlin.
Language of instruction: German (undergraduate and graduate programs).
Tuition fees: None.
Admission: Highly competitive, especially for medicine.
Best for: Medical research, public health, neuroscience.
Verdict: Prestigious but not ideal unless you speak German and are pursuing medicine or life sciences.
5. Berlin University of the Arts (UdK)
Overview
One of the largest art schools in Europe, covering fine arts, music, design, and performing arts.
Language of instruction: Mostly German, some international master’s programs in English.
Admission: Portfolio-based, highly selective.
Best for: Artists, musicians, and designers.
Verdict: The best option for creative students fluent in German, with strong portfolios.
6. HTW Berlin – University of Applied Sciences
Overview
HTW (Hochschule für Technik und Wirtschaft) is Berlin’s largest university of applied sciences. Focuses on practical training and industry links in business, design, engineering, and IT.
Language of instruction: Several English-taught master’s programs.
Tuition: Free except for administrative fees (~€320).
Career outcomes: Strong internships and employability focus.
Best for: Career-oriented programs in business, engineering, and computer science.
Verdict: A top public applied sciences choice for international students seeking practical, career-ready degrees.
Private Universities in Berlin
1. Bard College Berlin
Overview
An American-style liberal arts college offering interdisciplinary education in English. Small class sizes, strong writing-based curriculum.
Language of instruction: Entirely in English.
Tuition fees: ~€28,000 per year
Acceptance rate: Moderate (~35%)
Scholarships: Available for international students
Best for: Humanities, arts, and social sciences
Verdict: A top private choice for international students looking for U.S.-style education in Europe.
2. Berlin International University of Applied Sciences
Overview
A fully English-speaking private university offering bachelor’s and master’s programs in business, design, and architecture.
Language of instruction: 100% English
Tuition fees: ~€7,500 per semester
Acceptance rate: Relatively open
Best for: Design, business, and international business communication
Verdict: Affordable by private standards, and highly attractive for students looking for creative or business-focused English-taught programs.
3. CODE University of Applied Sciences
Overview
A startup-focused private tech university offering bachelor’s degrees in software engineering, interaction design, and product management. Project-based curriculum.
Language of instruction: English
Tuition fees: ~€9,800 per year
Career outcomes: Excellent ties to Berlin startups
Best for: Students passionate about entrepreneurship and tech innovation
Verdict: Arguably the best private option in Berlin for aspiring entrepreneurs and software developers.
4. GISMA University of Applied Sciences
Overview
Business school with German and UK accreditation. Offers MBAs, master’s in business analytics, and management.
Language of instruction: English
Tuition fees: €12,000–€18,000 per year
Career focus: High, but mixed reviews on academic rigor
Best for: International business degrees
Verdict: Good for students who want international business exposure, but check accreditations and rankings carefully.
5. SRH Berlin University of Applied Sciences
Overview
Multi-campus private university with programs in design, engineering, business, and media.
Language of instruction: Many English-taught programs
Tuition fees: ~€7,000–€10,000 per semester
Acceptance rate: Moderate
Support services: Strong career guidance and internships
Best for: Broad professional degrees in English
Verdict: Versatile option for international students seeking career-focused programs and strong student support.
6. ESCP Business School (Berlin Campus)
Overview
Part of a prestigious pan-European business school. Berlin campus offers English-taught MBAs, Masters in Management, and executive education.
Language of instruction: English
Tuition fees: €20,000+ per program
Best for: High-achieving business students aiming for elite international careers
Verdict: A premium option for students who want top-tier business education and have the budget for it.
Best Public University in Berlin for International Students
Winner: Freie Universität Berlin (FU Berlin)
Why?
- Strong international partnerships and student services
- Large selection of English-taught master’s programs
- Free tuition
- Liberal arts and global studies strength
- High academic rankings
- Inclusive campus culture
For international students, especially at graduate level, FU Berlin strikes the best balance between affordability, program variety, and global orientation.
Best Private University in Berlin for International Students
Winner: CODE University of Applied Sciences
Why?
- Fully English-taught, project-based tech degrees
- Close connection with Berlin’s startup and innovation ecosystem
- Small class sizes and hands-on learning
- High employability and job-readiness
- Modern curriculum focused on future-proof skills
While tuition is required, the outcomes and experience justify the cost for students in tech and innovation sectors.
Comparison Table: Public vs. Private Universities in Berlin
| Factor | Public (e.g., FU Berlin) | Private (e.g., CODE University) |
|---|---|---|
| Tuition | Free (~€320 semester fee) | €9,000–€20,000 per year |
| Language | Mostly German, some English master’s | Mostly or fully English |
| Admission | Competitive | Moderate |
| Class Size | Large lectures | Small seminars |
| Career Support | Growing, but limited | Strong industry ties |
| Prestige | Very high | Growing reputation |
| Accommodation | Competitive housing | Support often provided |
| Student Services | Varies by faculty | Tailored to internationals |
The best university in Berlin for international students depends on your priorities.
If you’re looking for:
- Affordable world-class education → Go for Freie Universität Berlin
- Tech-focused, hands-on education in English → Choose CODE University
- American-style liberal arts → Explore Bard College Berlin
- STEM research and innovation → Consider TU Berlin
- Business and career preparation → Look into SRH or ESCP Berlin
Berlin doesn’t just offer academic credentials. It provides a gateway to European networks, startup scenes, political institutions, and cultural richness—all of which make studying here a life-changing opportunity.
Whether you choose public or private, traditional or modern, Berlin has a university that can match your ambitions.
