Germany continues to be one of the most attractive destinations for international students seeking affordable, high-quality MBA programs taught in English. Whether you’re interested in full-time, one-year, tuition-free, or executive MBA programs in Germany, this complete 2025 guide highlights the top options across public and private universities.
Why Study an MBA in Germany?
- World-class education with strong industry links
- Affordable tuition fees (many under €10,000 or tuition-free!)
- English-taught programs across major cities
- Post-study work visa & career opportunities in the EU
- DAAD and university-based scholarships available
Affordable MBA Programs in Germany (Public Universities | Under €10K)
These top MBA programs in Germany offer low-cost tuition, strong job placements, and courses in English—perfect for international students.
1. Johannes Gutenberg University Mainz
- Program: MBA in Management
- Tuition: ~€3,500 total
- Intake: October
- Internship: Optional
- Scholarships: DAAD, merit-based options
2. University of Bayreuth
- Program: MBA in General / Healthcare Management
- Tuition: ~€7,338
- Intake: October
- Internships: Strong industry partnerships
3. LMU Munich (Executive MBA)
- Program: Executive MBA (via Munich School of Management)
- Tuition: ~€4,800/year
- Language: English
- Scholarships: Limited + DAAD options
4. Esslingen University of Applied Sciences
- Program: MBA in International Industrial Management
- Tuition: €5,600
- Internship: Mandatory 1 semester
- Scholarships: STIBET & DAAD
5. Reutlingen University (ESB Business School)
- Program: MBA in International Management
- Tuition: ~€3,450 total
- Internship: Built-in + company thesis
6. Offenburg University of Applied Sciences
- Program: MBA in International Business Consulting
- Tuition: ~€10,400
- Internship: Optional, highly encouraged
Best Private MBA Programs in Germany (English-Taught)
If you’re looking for flexible formats, blended learning, and strong industry ties, these private universities offer some of the top MBA programs in Germany for international students:
1. CBS International Business School
- Program: MBA in General Management
- Tuition: ~€11,700/year
- Scholarships: Up to 25% merit-based
2. IU International University of Applied Sciences (Berlin)
- Program: 1-Year or 2-Year MBA
- Tuition: ~€12,167 (non-EU)
- Intake: Monthly
- Scholarships: Up to 75% discount
3. Fresenius University of Applied Sciences
- Program: MBA in International Business
- Tuition: ~€11,610
- Intake: March / September
4. GISMA Business School
- Program: Global MBA
- Tuition: ~€18,000–€19,000
- Scholarships: Up to 50%
Top-Ranked Elite MBA Programs in Germany (For 2025)
| Business School | Format | Tuition(€) |
| Mannheim Business School | Full-time (12-15 months) | ~42,500 |
| Frankfurt School of Finance | Full-time | ~39,000-48,500 |
| WHU-Otto Beisheim School | Full-time | 40,500-48500 |
| ESMT Berlin | Full-time(15 months) | ~45,000-50,000 |
| TUM School of Management | Full-time/ Executive MBA | ~28,000-32,000 |
Strengths: International placements, strong in consulting, finance, and leadership training.
Admissions & Requirements for 2025 Intake
To apply for English MBA programs in Germany for international students, prepare the following:
- Bachelor’s degree (in any discipline)
- 2–5 years of work experience (preferred)
- GMAT/GRE (some top schools)
- English proficiency: IELTS 6.5+ / TOEFL 90+
- SOP (Statement of Purpose)
- CV / Resume
- Budget planning: Living costs ~€1,200–1,500/month
Application Periods:
Most MBA programs start in September/October, but several offer January, March, or rolling intakes.
Final Tips: How to Choose the Right MBA in Germany
- Compare tuition vs. ROI
- Check internship integration
- Consider city cost of living
- Apply early for scholarships (DAAD, institutional, private)
- Attend virtual info sessions and request consultation
Conclusion
Whether you’re seeking a top-ranked, tuition-free, or 1-year English MBA in Germany, the 2025 landscape is full of options tailored for international students. With proper planning, strong documentation, and clear goals, studying an MBA in Germany can be a life-changing step toward global career success.