Just Over 400 Million VND for a Master’s Degree in Germany (2027) – Why Is Germany the Most Cost-Effective Choice in Europe?
With the costs of studying in the UK, Australia, Canada, or the Netherlands steadily rising, many Vietnamese students are seeking a destination that offers high quality and affordability, alongside opportunities for long-term employment after graduation. Germany has emerged as the standout choice in recent years.
In fact, with a total budget of just over 400 million VND, students can fully complete a Master’s program starting in September 2026 at prestigious public universities in Germany. So, why is Germany considered the most cost-effective destination in Europe? Read on to find out.
>>> Of interest: Master’s Study in Germany (German/English) – September 2026 Intake – 100% Tuition-Free
1. Tuition fees near zero – The biggest advantage of a German Master’s degree
The key factor making Germany a top choice for international students is the tuition-free policy at public universities.
In the majority of German states:
♦ No tuition fees are charged for Master’s programs
♦ Students only pay administrative fees ranging from 250 to 400 Euros per semester
♦ This fee often includes a regional public transport pass
Compared to:
♦ UK: 15,000–25,000 GBP/year
♦ Netherlands: 12,000–20,000 Euros/year
♦ Australia: 25,000–40,000 AUD/year
The cost in Germany represents a significant advantage.
This policy keeps the total cost of a Master’s program in Germany very reasonable, even when living expenses are factored in. >>> Read more: Pursuing a Master’s Degree in Germany in 2026 – Secure Your Spot Early – APS Interview Preparation with CHD
2. What is the actual total cost for a Master’s program in Germany starting in September 2026?
Many people are surprised to learn that the total average budget required to complete a two-year Master’s program in Germany is only around 400–500 million VND.
The basic cost structure includes:
2.1. Living expenses
Living costs in Germany range from approximately 850 to 1,000 EUR per month, depending on the city.
Smaller cities such as:
♦ Leipzig
♦ Dresden
♦ Magdeburg
♦ Erfurt
…have lower costs compared to Munich or Frankfurt.
Average annual living expenses: Approximately 10,000–12,000 EUR (equivalent to 270–330 million VND).
2.2. Administrative & insurance fees
♦ Semester fees: 500–800 EUR/year
♦ Health insurance: approximately 120 EUR/month
2.3. Application & visa costs
♦ APS interview – mandatory for university graduates
♦ Translation and notarization
♦ Visa fee
♦ Airfare
Total costs for application preparation usually range from 30 to 60 million VND. Overall, with a sound financial plan, students can certainly complete a Master’s program in Germany with a budget of just over 400 million VND.
>>> Read more: WHAT IS A BLOCKED ACCOUNT? HOW MUCH MONEY IS NEEDED? HOW DO YOU OPEN ONE?
3. Part-time work opportunities in Germany help alleviate financial pressure
A key reason why studying in Germany is cost-effective is that students are legally permitted to work part-time: 120 full days or 240 half-days per year. Typical part-time wages range from €12 to €15 per hour.
Part-time income can help students:
♦ Cover a portion of living expenses
♦ Reduce the financial burden on their families
♦ Gain practical experience in Germany
Many students with good financial management skills are able to cover the majority of their living expenses by their second year.
4. German Master’s degrees are globally recognized
Cost-effectiveness does not mean compromising on quality.
Germany is:
♦ Europe’s largest economy
♦ A world-leading hub for industry, engineering, and technology
♦ Renowned for education in fields such as engineering, IT, logistics, economics, and management
German public universities maintain high academic standards, and their degrees are recognized worldwide.
This helps students:
♦ Secure employment easily within Germany
♦ Access job opportunities in other European countries
♦ Gain a competitive edge upon returning to Vietnam
>>> Don’t miss: ADMISSION PERIODS AND APPLICATION DEADLINES FOR 2026 MASTER’S PROGRAMS IN GERMANY FOR INTERNATIONAL STUDENTS
5. Opportunities to stay and work in Germany after graduation
