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MS in Economics in Germany 2025 – Top Universities, Fees, Eligibility & Jobs

VS
Vartika Singh • 10 Mins read • 25 Jul 25
MS in Economics in GermanyMS in Economics in Germany

Latest Updates: MS in Economics in Germany

  • The GRE for MS in Germany 2025 has been scheduled between September 8, 2025, and September 21, 2025.
  • The GMAT 2025 will have test dates from June 2025 to December 2025.
  • The PTE Academic 2025 will have its test dates from July 2025 to December 2025.
  • The IELTS 2025 will be held between August 2025 and December 2025.

Masters in Economics in Germany is a 2-year postgraduate course in economic theory, quantitative methods, and the analysis of policies. Known for its tuition-free or low-cost education, Germany imparts this course through top-ranking universities like LMU Munich, University of Mannheim, Humboldt University of Berlin, and Heidelberg University.

GRE, IELTS, and TOEFL are commonly accepted for these entrance exams. The average cost of studying an MS in Economics in Germany ranges from €300 to €3,000 per annum, while many public universities charge low or no tuition fees. Scholarships such as DAAD are an added advantage for Indian students. 

Career opportunities in Germany after MS Economics include economist, policy analyst, data analyst, or financial consultant, earning an average salary of €45,000 to €70,000 per year. The coursework includes subjects such as econometrics, microeconomics, macroeconomics, International trade, and development economics.


MS in Economics in Germany: Quick Highlights

MS in Economics in Germany is an opportunity to gain world-class, research-oriented education with cheap tuition fees, and excellent career opportunities at the heart of the world economy, in Europe.

Below is a table containing everything you need to know about the course:

Particulars

Details

MS in Eco Full form

Masters in Economics

Course Duration

2 years

Required Examinations

GRE, IELTS, TOEFL

Course Fee

€300 to €3,000 per year (mostly tuition-free in public universities)

Course Level

Post-Graduate Level

Average Salary

€45,000 to €70,000 annually

Top Universities

LMU Munich, Heidelberg University, University of Mannheim, Humboldt University of Berlin, University of Bonn, Goethe University Frankfurt, University of Cologne, University of Freiburg, University of Hamburg

Mode of Application

Online


MS in Economics in Germany: Important Dates and Events

Germany admissions to MS in Economics start with October or April intake periods, and the application deadlines are usually between November and March, and vary depending on the university.

Here is a table with the important dates you should never miss:

Upcoming Events

Dates

GRE 2025 Exam

8th September, 2025 – 21st September, 2025

GMAT 2025 Exam

June, 2025 – December, 2025

PTE 2025 Exam

July, 2025 – December, 2025

IELTS Exam 2025

August, 2025 – December, 2025

LMU Munich Application Deadline (Winter Semester)

15th July, 2025

University of Mannheim

Application Deadline 15th May, 2025 – 15th July, 2025

Heidelberg University

Application Window 1st June, 2025 – 15th July, 2025

Humboldt University Berlin

Application Deadline May 2026 – July 2026

University of Bonn Economics

Application Start Date April 2026

Goethe University Frankfurt

Application Deadline May 2026 – July 2026

University of Cologne MSc Economics

Application June, 2026 – July, 2026


Why Study MS in Economics in Germany?

Germany is one of the top countries to pursue a Master's in Economics education. The following are some firm reasons why students go to do MS in Economics in Germany:

1. Worldwide Recognition - LMU Munich, University of Mannheim, and Heidelberg University of Germany's most famous schools invite applications for MS in Economics. These institutions enjoy a high reputation across the world and create a conducive environment for study.

2. Low Fees - In general, most public universities in Germany provide low semester fees, or a cost-effective fee structure in comparison to universities in the US or the UK. 

3. Great Career Opportunities in the EU & Worldwide - Germany has a solid economy and great job openings in economic research, policy-making, finance, and consultancy. MS in Economics Graduates 

4. Industry Exposure & Internship Opportunities - German universities maintain close connections with industry and government bodies. This gives students a rare opportunity to work on live economic projects, internships, and research assignments during their studies.


MS in Economics in Germany: Fee Structure  

The average tuition fees for MS in Economics courses in Germany vary between €0 and €7,500 per year, depending on whether it's a public or private university. Here is a look at the availability of seats.:

University

Fee in EUR

Fee in INR

LMU Munich

€128 (only semester contribution)

₹11,500 (only semester contribution)

University of Mannheim

€1500

₹1,52,300

University of Bonn

€108 (only semester fee)

₹11,000 (only semester fee)

University of Göttingen

€403.92 (only semester fee)

₹41,079

University of Konstanz

€1,500

₹1,52,300

University of Cologne

€700

₹71,000

University of Tübingen

€1,500

₹1,52,300

University of Frankfurt

€500

₹52,000


MS in Economics: Private Universities in Germany

There are private universities or private business schools in Germany that also provide MS in Economics to foreign students at manageable fees:

Private B-Schools

Seats

Fee in EUR

ESMT Berlin

50

€29,500

Frankfurt School of Finance & Management

70

€34,500

WHU – Otto Beisheim School of Management

60

€26,000

Jacobs University Bremen

40

€20,000


MS in Economics in Germany: Eligibility

Although the Qualifications for MS in Economics vary depending on different universities, here are a few conditions that are common among all the universities for the MS in Economics in Germany for an Indian Student.

Below is a table highlighting the Eligibility for MS in Economics in Germany:

Eligibility Criteria

Details

Undergraduate Degree

Bachelor’s in Economics, Mathematics, Statistics, Quantitative Social Sciences

GPA

Minimum 2.3 on the German GPA scale or equivalent to 7.5+ CGPA in the Indian scale

GRE Score

305 to 325 (recommended, not mandatory)

English Proficiency Exams

IELTS - 6.5 +  TOEFL - 80 to 100 PTE - 65+  DET - 105+

German Language Proficiency

Required if course is in German: TestDaF (TDN 4–5) / DSH-2

Quantitative Skills

Mandatory coursework in Microeconomics, Macroeconomics, and Econometrics

Other Statement of Purpose

Letter of Recommendation, Passport, APS Certificate (if applicable)

Other

Cost of studying in Germany

Indian students pursuing MS in Economics in Germany should budget between €800 - €1200 per month, including all the necessary expenses and leisure, which is equivalent to ₹82,000 - ₹1,22,000 per month. Below is the table classifying all expenses for a month:

Expenses

Cost in EUR (€)

Cost in INR (₹)

Accommodation

€400 - €600

₹40,000 - ₹60,000

Food and Groceries

€150 - €200

₹15,000 - ₹20,000

Transportation 

€49 (unlimited travel per month)

₹4,800

Health Insurance

€100 - €150

₹10,000 - ₹15,000

Utilities and Internet

€50 - €200

₹5000 - ₹20,000

Miscellaneous 

€100 - €200

₹10,000 - ₹20,000


MS in Economics in Germany: Application Process

The application process for MS in Economics in Germany starts with filling out the exam form for exams like IELTS, TOEFL, PTE, GRE (if necessary), etc. Once admitted with the test scores, students have to apply for admission on the official website of the particular university after ensuring they meet the criteria.

  • Visit the official website for IELTS, TOEFL, or GRE as the university instructs and apply for the exam.
  • Download the admit card and appear for the exam.
  • After the result has been declared, visit the official website of the university you prefer and check for the eligibility requirements.
  • For most top universities, a minimum of 2.3 German Grade Point Average (or equivalent) is required in a bachelor’s degree.
  • Though GRE and English proficiency scores might vary.
  • Once the eligibility requirements have been checked, apply for the MS in Economics program.
  • After applying, wait for the results of the shortlisted candidates.


MS in Economics in Germany: Documents Required

Documentation required for applying for MS in Economics in Germany would consist of academic, language, identity proof documents, etc. At times, some variation is seen depending on the university, but most top universities agree to the following:

  1. Bachelor’s Degree Certificate
  2. Academic Transcripts
  3. English Language Proficiency Proof
  4. GRE/GMAT Scores (if required)
  5. Statement of Purpose (SOP)
  6. Curriculum Vitae (CV)
  7. Letters of Recommendation
  8. Passport Copy
  9. Passport-Sized Photos
  10. Proof of Financial Resources
  11. German Language Certificate (if any)

MS in Economics in Germany:  Entrance Exam

The entrance exam required for the Master's of Economics in Germany includes an English proficiency test, such as IELTS, TOEFL, PTE, and GRE. Most of the universities accept these entrance exams scores to accept the admission.

Exam

Details

TOEFL 

The Test of English as a Foreign Language.

IELTS

The International English Language Testing System.

PTE

The Pearson Test of English.

CAEL

The Canadian Academic English Language Assessment.

GRE

Graduate Record Examinations.


MS in Economics in Germany: Scholarships for Indian students

Numerous scholarships in Germany for Indian students are available who want to get enrolled in Masters in Economics programs.

Scholarship

Eligibility Details

Benefit

DAAD Scholarship

Academic excellence, planning a 1–2 year master’s in Germany

€861/month + travel & insurance

Heinrich Böll Foundation

International students committed to green values & social engagement

€934/month + health cover

Deutschlandstipendium

Merit-based award to students at partner German universities

€300/month

Konrad-Adenauer-Stiftung (KAS)

Students from developing countries with a civic leadership profile

€934/month + language & study support

Alexander von Humboldt Foundation

Graduate students aiming for research collaboration in Germany

Fully funded fellowships

Studienstiftung (German National Academic Foundation)

High-potential students (UG/MS/PhD) with academic leadership

€300–855/month + mentoring 


Top Universities for MS in Economics in Germany

Top universities in Germany offering MS Economics are world-famous and most of them are ranked in QS World University Rankings 2024; LMU Munich, University of Mannheim, and Humboldt University of Berlin are some of them. Here is a detailed breakdown:

University

Location

QS World Ranking 2025

LMU Munich

Munich, Bavaria

58

University of Mannheim

Mannheim, Baden-Württemberg

416

Humboldt University Berlin

Berlin

126

University of Bonn

Bonn, North Rhine-Westphalia

207

Heidelberg University

Heidelberg, Baden-Württemberg

84

Goethe University Frankfurt

Frankfurt, Hesse

316

University of Cologne

Cologne, North Rhine-Westphalia

272

University of Hamburg

Hamburg

191

University of Freiburg

Freiburg, Baden-Württemberg

201


MS in Economics in Germany: Private B-Schools 

Business schools (B-Schools) in Germany are known for integrating modern economics and AI-driven decision sciences into their management curriculum. These schools offer master’s programs in economics, finance, business analytics, and economic policy, usually with international recognition like AACSB, EQUIS, and AMBA.

University

Location

ESMT Berlin

Berlin

Frankfurt School of Finance & Management

Frankfurt

WHU – Otto Beisheim School of Management

Vallendar & Düsseldorf

HHL Leipzig Graduate School of Management

Leipzig

Mannheim Business School

Mannheim


MS in Economics in Germany: Career opportunities 

Graduates of MS in Economics in Germany enjoy strong career prospects across Europe. Average starting salaries typically range between €45,000 to €68,000 per year.

Top roles and Career opportunities in Germany after an MS in Economics are given below:

Profession

Salary

Economist

€65,000 – €95,700

Data Analyst

€50,000 – €60,000 

Financial/Policy Analyst 

€45,000 – €70,000

Research Assistant 

€40,000 – €60,000


GRE/IELTS/TOEFL Preparation Tips

GRE for MS in Germany:

Your quantitative reasoning, verbal reasoning, and analytical writing are evaluated in the Graduate Record Examination (GRE). The GRE is accepted by most universities in Germany and particularly in the technical/research-oriented Economics programs.

Follow these tips to prepare the best:

  • Know Your Exam Format
  • Take Mock Tests Anticipating Consistently
  • Study Official Study Guides
  • Pay attention to Quant and AWA


 IELTS / TOEFL:

TOEFL / IELTS for Germany 2025 requires you to focus on these few points:

  1. Become familiar with the Test Format

The duration of IELTS is about 2 hours and 45 minutes

  1. Build up Vocabulary and Grammar

Spend some time each day to develop an excellent academic vocabulary. 

  1. Exercise in listening every day

Listen to English language videos, podcasts, and documentaries to develop your listening comprehension and pronunciation.

  1. Write Essays Every Day 

To study IELTS and TOEFL writing, you will have to write an essay 250 words in length, using typical academic subjects. 

  1. Practice Tests

Sample papers with practice modules are available on both the TOEFL and IELTS websites free of charge. Download them and take the mock test 


MS in Economics Germany vs India

Germany offers globally recognised MS in Economics programs with low tuition, high ROI, and strong EU job prospects. Compared to India, it provides better salaries, international exposure, and broader alumni networks despite higher living costs.

A direct comparison showcasing differences:

Factor

MS in Economics – Germany

MS in Economics – India

Global Recognition

High

Moderate

Top Universities

LMU, Mannheim, Heidelberg

Delhi School of Economics, IIT Delhi

Tuition Fees

€0 (with some scholarships) –3,000/year (public) & up to €33,000/year (private)

₹1–5 Lakh/year

Average Starting Salary

€45,000– €68,000/year (₹70,000–1 Lakh)

₹25,000–50,000/month

ROI

Very High

Moderate to High

Alumni Network

Strong across the EU & growing globally

Strong within India

Living Costs

€800–1,200/month (~₹70,000–1 Lakh)

₹25,000–50,000/month


Frequently Asked Questions


Ques. Which examinations are mandatory to get admission to an MS in Economics in Germany?

Ans. The IELTS/TOEFL is mandatory is optional but suggested for taking admission in MS in Economics in Germany


Ques. Do you need to know German to do an MS in Economics?

Ans. In the MS in Economics, which is an English language-based program, German language is not necessary, but nevertheless, German is useful in day-to-day life and internship.


Ques. How much does an MS in Economics in Germany cost?

Ans. The majority of public universities provide tuition-free education. Cost of living is ~€9600 14400/yr.


Ques. What is the average salary of an MS in Germany?

Ans. The average salary received by graduates is around €45,000-95,700 per annum, depending on the position.


Ques. Is it possible for Indian students to apply for DAAD scholarships by Indian students for an MS in Economics in Germany?

Ans. Yes, Indian students are eligible for DAAD and other foundation scholarships, including Heinrich Boll and KAS.


Ques. What is the post-MS existence limit for graduates to seek employment?

Ans. Germany provides an 18-month Job Seeker Visa to graduates of master's programs.