GENERAL

LLM in Germany 2025: Top Universities, Fees, Eligibility, Scholarships, Jobs for Indian Students

RD
Rajat Diwakar • 9 Mins read • 23 Jul 25
LLM in GermanyLLM in Germany

If you are planning to pursue an LLM in Germany. The candidate must be aware of their tuition fee, top-ranked law schools, the Average salary, and the placement rate. In this blog, we will cover everything you need to know about LLM in Germany, from top universities to tuition fees, the application process, to the visa process.

An LLM in Germany offers great academic excellence with affordable tuition fees. Whether you are planning to work in international law, corporate law, or human rights, German LLM programs provide practical exposure, global networking, and specialization in various fields. This makes pursuing an LLM in Germany easy.

Candidates can practice LLM in Germany in top universities like Heidelberg University, LMU Munich, Humboldt University, Bucerius Law School, University of Hamburg, and more. Germany offers LLM courses in the English language, making it an ideal choice for Indian students. Additionally, law graduate students offer roles at various organisations like Clifford Chance, Baker McKenzie, Linklaters, and Deutsche Bank, with an average salary of around $65,000 to $100,000 yearly.

Germany also offers global exposure by offering internships and the option to practice in a different country. Germany is the best choice for Indian as well as for global law graduates, with an affordable cost of living, low tuition fees, making an LLM in Germany a top choice for Indian students.


LLM in Germany: Quick Highlights

The table below provides a quick overview of LLM in Germany

Feature

Details

Program Duration

1–2 years

Top Universities

Ludwig Maximilians University, Humboldt University, University of Heidelberg, Free University

Annual Tuition Fees

€144–€18,000

Cost of Living

€850–€1,200 per month

Eligibility

LLB with 65%+; IELTS 6.5 (English) or DSH 2/TestDaF (German)

Popular Scholarships

DAAD Scholarships, Erasmus Mundus

Key Job Roles

Legal Advisor, Lawyer, Barrister, Attorney

Average Salary

$65,000 - $100,000 yearly

Job Opportunities

Private sector (40%), Big law firms (10–20%), NGOs, Government Agencies

Projected Legal Revenue (2025)

€29.84 billion


LLM in Germany: Application Start & End Dates for Top Universities

The data below represents the upcoming dates for LLM in Germany of the 2025-2026 academic year.

Intake

Semester Start

Applicant Type

Typical Application Deadline

Winter Intake

October 2025

All applicants

Between May and July 2025

Summer Intake

April 2026

Non-EU students

Around December 15, 2025



EU students

Around January 15, 2026


LLM in Germany: Visa Application Timeline

The table below represents the visa process timeline for Germany, which aims to ensure a smooth transition.

Process

Timeline

Visa Processing Time

Typically 6–12 weeks

Possible Extension

Up to 16 weeks (or longer)

Recommended Application

3–5 months before travel date


LLM in Germany: Scholarship Deadline for 2025

Germany offers a wide range of scholarships for Indian students. The table below represents some of the most demanding scholarships available. While there are many more programs available. 

Scholarship

Who Can Apply

Deadline

DAAD Scholarship

Global students for Master’s, PhD, and research

Varies by country/program

Expatrio Scholarship

All international students (Winter intake)

Sep 30, 2025

Heinrich Böll Foundation

Master’s & doctoral students worldwide

Mar 1 & Sep 1 yearly

Deutschlandstipendium

Students at German universities

Jun–Aug (varies by university)

KAS Scholarship

Master’s & PhD students (select countries)

Feb & Mar 2025


LLM in Germany: Fees

The table below represents the top 10 universities that offer the best LLM in Germany, along with the latest fee structure.

University

Average Tuition Fees (INR/EUR)

University of Heidelberg

INR 7,00,000 (EUR 8,500)

Ludwig Maximilian University of Munich

INR 5,90,000 (EUR 7,000)

Humboldt University of Berlin

INR 5,90,000 (EUR 7,000)

University of Freiburg

INR 4,20,000 (EUR 5,000)

University of Frankfurt

INR 6,80,000 (EUR 8,200)

University of Göttingen

INR 4,20,000 (EUR 5,000)

University of Cologne

INR 6,80,000 (EUR 8,200)

University of Hamburg

INR 6,30,000 (EUR 7,500)

University of Tübingen

INR 4,20,000 (EUR 5,000)

University of Bonn

INR 4,20,000 (EUR 5,000)


Why Choose an LLM in Germany?

The data shown below represents the key reasons why many international students, especially from India, choose to pursue their LLM in Germany for a high-quality, affordable, and globally recognized legal education.

Reason

Details

Top-Quality Education

Germany has top law schools with LLMs in International, Business & Human Rights Law

Low Tuition Fees

Many public universities charge little to no tuition fees

European Career Access

Opens doors to legal jobs across the EU and international markets

Strong Job Prospects

Opportunities in law firms, corporates, and government post-graduation

Global Learning Environment

Diverse international student community & English-taught programs


Interested in studying LLM abroad? Check out LLM opportunities in Ireland

LLM in Germany:  Qualification

The table below highlights the key qualifications and documents candidates need to apply for an LLM in Germany.

Requirement

Details

Educational Background

Bachelor’s degree in Law (LLB or equivalent)

Academic Score

Minimum 60–70% or equivalent GPA in your undergraduate law degree

Language Proficiency

  • English-taught: IELTS 6.5–7.0 / TOEFL 90–100
  • German Test: DaF, DSH, or Goethe C2

Documents Needed

Transcripts, LORs, SOP, CV


LLM in Germany: Eligibility Criteria Category-wise


  • Fresher: Fresh graduates can apply for LLM programs in Germany, provided they meet the academic and language requirements.


  • Experienced: While not always a mandatory requirement, legal work experience can be a significant advantage, especially for specialized LLM programs or if a university specifically values it. It can strengthen the application and demonstrate practical legal understanding. 


LLM in Germany: Application Process

Step 1: Check Eligibility & Choose Program
Make sure you meet the academic and language requirements. Most programs require a law degree and English or German proficiency.


Step 2: Gather Documents
Prepare all required documents, including

  • Academic transcripts
  • 2–3 Letters of Recommendation
  • Statement of Purpose (SOP)
  • CV/Resume
  • Language test scores (IELTS/TOEFL or TestDaF/DSH)
  • GRE/GMAT (if needed)
  • Legal writing sample (if asked)
  • Passport photos & application form

Step 3: Submit Application
Apply directly through the university’s portal or via Uni-Assist if required


Step 4: Wait for Results & Interview (if needed)
Some universities may conduct interviews via phone or video.


Step 5: After Acceptance
Once accepted, start your student visa application and prepare for your move to Germany.


LLM in Germany: SOP, LOR, and Resume

For an LLM in Germany, your application must include well-prepared documents that showcase your academic background, motivation, and readiness for advanced legal studies.

Document

Details

SOP

Clearly outline your motivation for pursuing an LLM, your legal interests, and why you chose Germany.

LOR

Usually 2–3 letters from academic professors or legal professionals who can speak to your abilities.

Resume/CV

Include your education, internships, legal experience, skills, and any research or publications.

Transcripts

Official academic transcripts from your undergraduate law degree and any other relevant studies.


LLM in Germany: Entrance Exams

The table below explains how most LLM programs in Germany don’t require standard entrance exams, but strong language proficiency and well-prepared documents are key to getting admitted.

Aspect

Details

Language Proficiency

Mandatory – IELTS/TOEFL for English programs

Standardized Tests

Not usually required for GRE/GMAT 

Entrance Exams

No general entrance test for LLM programs in Germany

Admission Basis

Primarily document-based, academic transcripts, SOP, LORs, CV, and language test scores


LLM in Germany: IELTS/TOEFL Tips

For Indian students, achieving a good score in IELTS or TOEFL is crucial for admission to an LLM in Germany, especially for English-taught programs. Here are some quick tips to help you prepare effectively.

Tip

What to Do

Practice Speaking

Talk in English with friends.

Watch English Content

Follow English news, shows, or movies.

Take Mock Tests

and practice tests regularly.

Improve Vocabulary

Learn new words and use them in context.


LLM in Germany: Cutoff

There is no entrance examination for pursuing LLM in Germany; however, A Bachelor's degree in Law (LLB) or equivalent is mandatory, with a strong emphasis on a good academic record. 


LLM in Germany: IELTS/TOEFL Score Cutoffs

Category

IELTS Score Requirement

General University Admission

Overall band score of 6.0 to 6.5

Top Universities 

6.5 or higher, sometimes up to 7.0

Student Visa (English-taught programs)

At least 6.5 overall, with 6.0 in each section


LLM in Germany: Course Seats

The table below shows the approximate number of seats available in LL.M. programs at some of the top German universities. 

University

Approximate Seats.

Humboldt University of Berlin

30–50

Ludwig Maximilian University of Munich (LMU)

35–60

University of Heidelberg

40–50

University of Freiburg

25–40

University of Hamburg

40–60

Goethe University Frankfurt

50–70

University of Münster

30–45

University of Cologne

35–50

Free University of Berlin

30–40

Bucerius Law School

50


LLM in Germany: Syllabus

The table below gives an overview of the subjects required for the LL.M. program in Germany. 

Core Subjects

Description

European Union Law

Covers EU institutions, legislation, legal procedures, and integration issues.

International Business Law

Focuses on international trade, contracts, arbitration, and commercial disputes.

Comparative Law

Studies legal systems across countries—civil, common, and mixed systems.

Constitutional & Administrative Law

Discusses principles of German and international constitutional law.

Human Rights Law

Covers the European Convention on Human Rights and other international treaties.

Legal Theory & Methodology

Teaches analytical methods, legal reasoning, and academic writing.

Corporate and Commercial Law

Includes company law, M&A, and financial regulation.

Legal Research & Thesis

Students conduct independent legal research and write a dissertation.


LLM in Germany: Core Courses

Some of the core subjects in an LLM include

  • International Law
  • Corporate and Business Law
  • Intellectual Property (IP) Law
  • European Law
  • Dispute Resolution
  • Tax Law
  • IT and Digitalization Law
  • Banking & Finance Law
  • Criminal Law and Criminology


LLM in Germany: Electives & Specializations

Some of the specialization courses in an LLM include

  • International Law
  • Business and Commercial Law
  • Intellectual Property Law (IPR)
  • Human Rights Law
  • Dispute Resolution
  • Corporate Law
  • Taxation
  • European Law
  • Environmental Law
  • Criminal Law
  • Comparative Law


Best Universities for LLM in Germany

The table below represents the top 10 universities that offer the best LLM in Germany, along with the latest ranking.

University Name

QS World Ranking (2025)

Ludwig Maximilian University of Munich (LMU)

59

Heidelberg University

65

Humboldt University of Berlin

120

University of Freiburg

192

Goethe University Frankfurt

262

University of Hamburg

205

University of Cologne

268

University of Münster

364

University of Bonn

239

Technical University of Munich (TUM)

37


Read More: Best LLM Colleges in the World

LLM in Germany vs LLM in India

The table below highlights the key differences between pursuing an LLM in Germany and in India,

Aspect

LLM in Germany

LLM in India

Duration

1–2 years

1 year

Language

English or German (varies by university)

English

Tuition Fees

Low or free at public universities (approx. €250–€1,000/year)

Moderate to high (₹50,000–₹3 lakh/year)

Living Expenses

Higher – around €850 to €1,200/month

Lower – ₹15,000 to ₹40,000/month

Curriculum Focus

International, EU, and comparative law

Indian constitutional, criminal, and civil law

Global Exposure

High – diverse student base, European legal context

Low – mostly Indian-focused legal education

Post-Study Work Visa

18 months job search visa offered

No post-stud


Career Scope After LLM in Germany

The table below highlights popular job roles and average salary ranges after completing an LLM in Germany.

Career Role

Average Salary (EUR/year)

Legal Advisor

€50,000 – €80,000

Corporate Lawyer

€60,000 – €100,000

Compliance Officer

€45,000 – €75,000

Human Rights Advocate (NGOs)

€40,000 – €65,000

IP/Patent Lawyer

€55,000 – €90,000

Academic/Researcher

€35,000 – €60,000

Legal Consultant (International)

€55,000 – €85,000

Government/Policy Advisor

€45,000 – €70,000


LLM in Germany: Salary Package

The table below gives a general idea of expected salaries

Job Role

Average Starting Salary (EUR/year)

With 3–5 Years Experience (EUR/year)

Legal Advisor

€45,000 – €60,000

€65,000 – €80,000

Corporate Lawyer

€55,000 – €70,000

€85,000 – €110,000+

IP/Patent Lawyer

€50,000 – €65,000

€75,000 – €95,000

Compliance Officer

€40,000 – €55,000

€60,000 – €75,000

Human Rights Lawyer (NGOs)

€35,000 – €50,000

€55,000 – €70,000

Legal Consultant (Intl. Law)

€50,000 – €65,000

€70,000 – €90,000


Frequently Asked Questions


Ques: Is LLM from Germany valid in India?

Ans: Yes, an LLM from Germany is valid in India for academic and corporate roles. However, to practice law in Indian courts, you must still clear the Bar Council of India's requirements.


Ques: Can Indian students work while studying LLM in Germany?

Ans: Yes, international students in Germany can work up to 120 full days or 240 half days per year while studying, including internships.


Ques: Is the German language mandatory for an LLM in Germany?

Ans: No, many LLM programs in Germany are taught in English. However, knowing basic German can help with daily life and increase job prospects.


Ques: What is the average cost of studying LLM in Germany?

Ans: The tuition fee is relatively low (as little as €250 to €1,000/year in public universities), but living costs can range from €850 to €1,200 per month.


Ques: What are the job prospects after LLM in Germany?

Ans: Graduates can work as legal advisors, corporate lawyers, compliance officers, or legal consultants, with average salaries ranging between €50,000 to €100,000 per year.