Information for Parents

Neuschwanstein Castle
Neuschwanstein Castle

Your son or daughter wants to study abroad? We understand that when a child leaves home, it can be a daunting prospect for parents – especially when their loved ones are moving to a different country. However, there are many reasons why Bavaria is a great choice for international students.

Top Universities

Bavarian universities enjoy an excellent reputation both in Germany and the world and offer your child an excellent learning environment. Science, research and the arts have always been of utmost importance and have a long tradition in Bavaria. The University of Würzburg, the region’s oldest university, was founded as early as 1402. Many famous writers and philosophers like Bertolt Brecht, Rainer Maria Rilke and Karl Jaspers as well as nobel prize winners such as Max Planck, Wilhelm Röntgen and Werner Heisenberg studied in Bavaria.

Today, Bavarian universities are renowned for their pioneering research in state-of-the-art facilities. Studying here ideally prepares your child for professional life, while the university's International Offices, Advising Centres and Student Services Associations offer all-round help and support.

Affordable Studies

Generally, Bavarian universities do not charge tuition fees. Only at the Technical University of Munich (TUM), students from non-EU countries will have to pay tuition—with various exceptions. The government offers a number of grants and funding opportunities for international students. All universities are able to provide top research and learning facilities, because education is highly subsidised by the Bavarian State.

Excellent Support

Every Bavarian university has an International Office (Akademisches Auslandsamt) that offers support for international students. The International Office can provide advice on any questions concerning university or life in Bavaria, even before your child has left home. Highly qualified and motivated members of staff support students throughout their time at university and help with any questions or problems. Many universities also offer special programmes, such as buddy, tandem or host family schemes to help students settle in.

Great Career Opportunities

A degree from a Bavarian university will provide your child with excellent career prospects. The state has one of the strongest economies in Europe and many international companies are based here. This offers your child the opportunity to make valuable contacts during work experience or practical semesters throughout their studies. There are also numerous career possibilities for international graduates.

Quality of Life and Safety

Mountains, lakes and fairy-tale castles – there are so many beautiful places and sights in Bavaria that it is hardly surprising so many tourists from all over the world choose to visit the state. International students can expect a great quality of life here, and standards of accommodation, food and healthcare are very high.

Bavaria is also one of the safest states, with the lowest crime rates in Germany. You can rest assured that your child will feel secure and well looked after here.

Affordable Living Costs

Life in Bavaria is quite affordable. Food and drink in Germany are not very expensive compared with many other European countries, so that even students on a low budget can live comfortably here. University refectories and cafeterias offer meals and snacks at reasonable prices. The price of accommodation varies according to location - in general you will have to pay more for housing in larger cities like Munich than in smaller towns.