Public universities in Frankfurt are funded by the German government and follow a high academic standard. They focus on research, practical learning, and global exposure. Students only pay a semester contribution, which covers administrative services and public transport.
Frankfurt is especially attractive for students interested in business, economics, finance, engineering, IT, social sciences, and arts, thanks to its strong industry presence.
Top Public Universities in Frankfurt
Goethe University Frankfurt
A leading research university offering programs in economics, law, medicine, natural sciences, humanities, and social sciences. Highly popular among international students.
Frankfurt University of Applied Sciences
A practice-oriented public university focusing on engineering, IT, business, architecture, social work, and health sciences. Strong industry connections.
Frankfurt University of Music and Performing Arts (HfMDK)
Specialised public university for music, theatre, and performing arts.
Städelschule: State Academy of Fine Arts
A prestigious public fine arts academy, known for visual arts and contemporary creative studies.
Public universities in Frankfurt Popular Courses
Public universities in Frankfurt are best known for:
- Business Administration & Economics
- Finance & Management
- Computer Science & Data Science
- Engineering (Mechanical, Electrical, Civil)
- Law & Social Sciences
- Architecture & Urban Planning
- Natural Sciences (Physics, Chemistry, Biology)
- Music, Performing Arts & Fine Arts
Many Master’s programs are taught in English, while most Bachelor’s programs are in German.
Fee Structure at Public Universities in Frankfurt
Tuition Fees
- Bachelor’s & most Master’s programs: No tuition fees
- Special executive or continuing education programs: Tuition may apply
Semester Contribution
Students pay approximately €300-€390 per semester, which includes:
- Administrative services
- Student welfare services
- Semester transport ticket (free regional public transport)
Semester & Non-Semester System
Frankfurt’s public universities follow a two-semester academic structure:
Winter Semester
- Starts: October
- Ends: March
- Main intake for international students
Summer Semester
- Starts: April
- Ends: September
- Limited programs available
Each semester lasts 4–5 months, and students must pay the semester contribution before each term.
Cost of Living in Frankfurt
Frankfurt is slightly more expensive than other German cities, but still manageable for students.
Average Monthly Expenses
- Accommodation: €400 - €700
- Food & groceries: €200 - €300
- Health insurance: €110 - €120
- Utilities & internet: €100 - €150
- Transport: Included in semester ticket
Estimated monthly cost: €900 - €1,400
Realistic Cost of Living Example
Meet Mr. Rohan an international Master’s student living in a shared apartment near Bockenheim:
- Rent (shared room): €550
- Food & groceries: €250
- Health insurance: €115
- Utilities & internet: €120
- Personal expenses: €100
Total monthly cost: ~€1,135
Cost of Living Calculator (Student Estimate)
You can estimate your monthly budget using this simple formula:
Monthly Cost = Rent + Food + Health Insurance + Utilities + Personal खर्च
Example: €550 (rent) + €250 (food) + €115 (insurance) + €120 (utilities) + €100 (misc.) = €1,135/month
Nearby Places & Student Hotspots
Studying in Frankfurt gives access to vibrant student areas:
- Innenstadt: shopping & city life
- Sachsenhausen: nightlife & cafés
- Westend: university campuses & greenery
- Main River & Museumsufer: leisure & culture
- Bockenheim & Gallus: affordable student living
- Wiesbaden, Mainz & Offenbach: nearby cities with lower rent
Excellent public transport connects all areas easily.
How Acolyte Living Makes Student Life Easier
Finding accommodation in Frankfurt can be stressful for international students. Acolyte Living simplifies the entire process.
How Acolyte Living Helps
- Student-friendly accommodation near Frankfurt universities
- Verified listings close to campuses & public transport
- Budget filters for shared rooms and private studios
- Support with documents, contracts & move-in process
- Saves time, reduces stress, and avoids rental scams
Types of Student Accommodation Available
- Shared apartments (WG)
- Private studios
- Student residences
- Short-term & long-term rentals
- Fully furnished student rooms
End-to-End Support by Acolyte Living
Acolyte Living supports students from search to settlement:
- Pre-arrival accommodation guidance
- Room selection & booking assistance
- Rental agreement support
- Move-in coordination
- Local area guidance
90-Day Student Support
- Help with initial settling issues
- Assistance with accommodation-related queries
- Ongoing support during the first 90 days
FAQs:
Are public universities in Frankfurt free for international students?
Yes. Most public universities in Frankfurt charge no tuition fees. Students only pay a semester contribution.
Is Frankfurt a good city for international students?
Yes. Frankfurt offers strong career opportunities, global exposure, and excellent public transport.
Can international students study in English in Frankfurt?
Yes. Many Master’s programs are taught in English, especially in business, engineering, and sciences.
How much money do students need per month in Frankfurt?
On average, students need €900-€1,400 per month, depending on accommodation and lifestyle.
Is student accommodation hard to find in Frankfurt?
Yes. Demand is high, so students are advised to secure accommodation early using reliable platforms.
Public universities in Frankfurt offer an excellent combination of high-quality education, low tuition costs, and global career exposure. With the right accommodation support from Acolyte Living, international students can enjoy a smooth, secure, and stress-free student life in Germany.
