How to choose the best master's degree in Germany: complete guide 2025
Do you dream of doing a master's degree in Germany but don't know where to start? With more than 450,000 international students, Germany has established itself as one of the most sought after destinations for graduate studies in the world. The exceptional quality of education combined with affordable costs make the country a smart choice for those seeking academic excellence.
Choosing the right program can seem challenging in the face of so many options. This guide presents the fundamental criteria for you to make the right decision and make your dream a reality.
1. Why doing a master's degree in Germany is worth it
German universities consistently appear in the most prestigious global rankings, offering a globally valued degree. The country invests more than 3% of GDP in research and development, creating an academic environment rich in opportunities, as demonstrated in best universities to study in Germany in 2025.
Irresistible financial advantages: Public universities charge only €150-300 per semester in administrative fees, while the cost of living varies between €800-1,200 per month, representing savings of 30-40% compared to the USA or the United Kingdom. During your studies, you can work 20 hours a week with a salary of €10-15 per hour.
Exceptional professional prospects: Germany has the largest economy in Europe, with a favorable graduate policy granting 18 months to seek employment after graduation. Over 85% of graduates find work within 6 months, with starting salaries of €50,000-70,000 annually.
2. Criterion #1: Program language - English vs German
One of the first crucial decisions is to choose the program language, directly impacting your future academic and professional opportunities.
Programs in English eliminate the initial language barrier, allowing focus on academic content. They abound in business, technology, engineering, and science. Typical requirements include minimum IELTS 6.5 or minimum TOEFL 90 points.
Programs in German offer deeper cultural experience and greater opportunities in the local market. German companies value candidates who are fluent in the national language. They require TestDaF or DSH level C1. If you are not yet fluent in German, see Be Easy online languages.
3. Criterion #2: Ranking vs specialization
Prioritize ranking if you want to pursue an academic career or work in prestigious multinationals. Rankings such as QS World University facilitate international networking and competitive selection processes.
Prioritize specialization for specific technical areas or niche markets. Smaller or applied science universities offer focused programs and direct connections to industry. The German Fachhochschulen combine solid theory with intensive practical application.
How to evaluate: Research field-specific rankings, analyze curriculum and faculty, verify industry partnerships and graduates' employability rate.
4. Criterion #3: Location and cost of living
The choice of city significantly impacts your experience. Berlin It is a technological hub with a monthly cost of €1,000-1,400. Munich offers large corporations but is more expensive (€1,200-1,600 monthly). Hamburg balances opportunities and costs (€1,100-1,500 monthly).
Smaller university cities like Heidelberg and Göttingen offer 25-30% savings, a focused academic environment and easy integration with the local community.
Hint: For technology, choose Berlin or Munich. For finance, Frankfurt. For academic research, Heidelberg or Göttingen.
5. Criterion #4: Admission Requirements
German universities value academic consistency and relevance of previous education. Required documents include a recognized diploma, complete history, certified translations, and a certificate of language proficiency.
Motivation letter can be decisive between approval and rejection. Structure with introduction, academic motivation, relevant experience, future objectives, and conclusion. Consult motivation letter: key to German universities for valuable insights.
Suggested schedule:
- 12 months ago: Linguistic research and preparation
- 6 months before: Translation of documents and drafting of the letter
- 4 months before: Submission of applications
- 2 months before: Visa process
6. Criterion #5: Financial Aspects
Cost structure: Public universities cost €150-300 per semester. Cost of living in Berlin: €836-1,336 per month. Munich: €1,120-1,620. Smaller cities offer 20-30% reduction.
Funding: DAAD offers scholarships of €750-1,200 monthly for Brazilians. Universities have their own programs worth €200-800 per month. German foundations also provide financial support.
Part-time work: Allowed 20 hours a week, generating €400-800 monthly in areas such as tutoring, research, and hospitality.
Economy: Prefer shared flats, cook at home, use university cafeterias (€3-5 per meal) and student transportation.
7. Criterion #6: Postgraduate Perspectives
Employability by area: Engineering leads with 95% employees in 3 months, IT/Technology 98% in 2 months, Business 88% in 6 months. Mastery of German increases chances by 40%.
Trending sectors: Technology (development, cybersecurity, AI), Engineering (automotive, renewable energy), Business (consulting, finance, startups).
Starting salaries: Engineering €48,000-65,000, IT/software €45,000-70,000, Consulting €55,000-80,000 annually.
Alumni network: Assess size, geographical distribution, and positions achieved. A good network offers referrals, mentoring, and lasting networking.
8. Common mistakes to avoid
Superficial research: Don't limit yourself to the university website. Use LinkedIn to contact alumni and consult 5 essential tips to stand out in the university selection process.
Neglecting deadlines: German universities have strict deadlines. Many programs only start once a year.
Focus only on rankings: Specialization may be more important than general prestige. Consider personal fit and university culture.
Underestimate costs: Include inflation, moving costs, and plan for emergencies. Search for funding properly.
Final checklist
Before deciding, make sure that:
- Program aligned with career objectives
- Language compatible with proficiency
- Total cost within budget
- Admission requirements met
- Satisfactory employability rate
- Complete and translated documentation
- Feasible application schedule
Your next step towards a master's degree in Germany
Choosing the ideal master's degree in Germany is a decision that will shape your professional trajectory. With the criteria presented in this guide, you have a solid framework for evaluating your options and making the best decision.
Germany offers exceptional opportunities through the program Study and work in Germany. With proper preparation and expert support, your dream can become a reality.
Be Easy
Ready to take the next step towards your master's degree in Germany? A Be Easy offers expert advice to guide you through each stage of this transformative journey. Our experienced team is deeply knowledgeable about the German education system and can help you choose the ideal university and program for your goals. Contact us and turn your dream of studying in Germany into a real achievement!
