You can study AI and computer science in Germany entirely in English. You do not need to speak fluent German to start. Private universities in Berlin and Potsdam offer fully English-taught programs in data science, artificial intelligence, and computer science — with practical German language classes bundled in to help you settle in and find part-time work.
This guide explains how English-taught tech programs in Germany work, which schools offer them, and what you need to apply.
Note: This article focuses on private universities with English-taught programs. Most public universities in Germany teach in German. If you are not yet fluent in German, a private university is the most practical route to studying tech in Germany as an international student.
Does studying in Germany require German language skills?
It depends on the type of university. Public universities in Germany mostly teach in German. For most computer science and AI programs at public institutions, you will need a high level of German proficiency — typically B2 or C1 on the CEFR scale (a European language grading system).
Private universities are different. Many private universities in Germany, especially in Berlin and Potsdam, offer programs taught fully in English. You can complete your entire degree without needing German fluency. Most of these schools also offer basic German language classes as part of your program, so you can build everyday skills while you study.
Public universities
Mostly German-taught. Low or no tuition fees. Highly competitive. Require B2 or C1 German proficiency for most tech programs.
Private universities
English-taught programs available. Tuition fees apply. Designed for international students. German classes often included.
English-taught programs
Available at private universities in Berlin, Potsdam, Hamburg, and Hanover. Cover AI, data science, computer science, and digital business.
Study AI or computer science in Germany — in English
Browse English-taught programs at GISMA and UE on ApplyBoard and apply for free.
Why study tech in Germany?
Germany is one of Europe's leading technology hubs. Berlin in particular has one of the fastest-growing startup ecosystems in the world, with companies in AI, fintech, health tech, and software engineering hiring thousands of graduates every year.
- Tech industry access: major employers including SAP, Siemens, Bosch, and Deutsche Telekom are headquartered in Germany, alongside thousands of startups and scale-ups.
- Post-study work rights: international graduates from German universities can apply for an 18-month job-seeker residence permit (an Aufenthaltserlaubnis zur Arbeitsplatzsuche) after graduation to find work in Germany.
- EU access: a German degree and work experience can open pathways to jobs across the European Union.
- Free or discounted public transport for students: German universities provide students with the nationwide Deutschlandsemesterticket, offering unlimited regional and local public transport across Germany for a low semester fee.
Which English-taught AI and computer science programs are available in Germany?
Two ApplyBoard partner universities offer fully English-taught AI and computer science programs in Berlin and Potsdam: GISMA University of Applied Sciences and the University of Europe for Applied Sciences (UE).
GISMA University of Applied Sciences
GISMA is a private, state-recognized university established in 1999, originally as a joint initiative between the German state of Lower Saxony and major corporations including Volkswagen, Continental, Siemens, and TUI. It features a flagship tech campus in Potsdam (just outside Berlin) alongside campuses in Berlin, Hamburg, and Hanover. With over 15,000 students across its network, it is one of the largest private higher education providers in Germany.
GISMA's tech programs are taught entirely in English and combine data science and AI skills with practical business and management knowledge.
The MSc Data Science program at GISMA was ranked in the top 4 in Germany in the Eduniversal Best Masters Rankings. The BSc program combines data science and AI modules with general business skills, and students may also have the option to spend a semester abroad at tech hubs globally.
University of Europe for Applied Sciences (UE)
The University of Europe for Applied Sciences (UE) is a private, state-accredited university founded in 2000, with campuses in Berlin, Potsdam, Hamburg, and Iserlohn.
UE offers English-taught programs in computer science, AI, and digital technologies at its Berlin and Potsdam campuses. Its iHubMinds initiative focuses specifically on artificial intelligence, machine learning, cybersecurity, Internet of Things (IoT), and data science.
Note: Program availability and names may update periodically. Check the ApplyBoard platform for current real-time program listings for GISMA and UE.
Explore AI and computer science programs in Germany
Browse English-taught programs at GISMA and UE on ApplyBoard and start your application process.
Do I need to learn German at all?
For your studies, no. Your classes, assignments, exams, and lectures will all be delivered in English.
For everyday life and part-time work, basic German will help you. Most shops, public services, and local employers in Germany use German day to day. Both GISMA and UE include practical German language classes in their programs so you can build essential skills during your first year — enough to manage daily tasks and communicate with local employers when looking for part-time work.
Tip! International students in Germany are permitted to work up to 140 full days or 280 half days per calendar year. Berlin's tech industry has many entry-level and internship roles where English is the primary working language — making it easier to find work even as your German improves.
What are the entry requirements for English-taught tech programs in Germany?
Requirements vary by program and institution. The following is a general guide for GISMA and UE programs.
Note: Germany requires non-EU international students to obtain a student visa (Visum zu Studienzwecken) before arriving. You will need a university admission letter, proof of financial means (such as a Blocked Account / Sperrkonto), and health insurance to apply.
How much does it cost to study AI or computer science in Germany at a private university?
Private university tuition fees in Germany are competitive compared to equivalent programs in the UK, USA, or Australia:
- Tuition at private institutions like GISMA and UE generally ranges between €12,000 and €14,000 per year prior to scholarships or promotional discounts.
Tip! Both GISMA and UE offer merit-based scholarships for international students. Check ApplyBoard for which scholarships you may qualify for based on your academic background.
Frequently asked questions
Yes. Private universities in Germany, including GISMA and the University of Europe for Applied Sciences (UE), offer fully English-taught programs in computer science and AI. You do not need German language skills for admission or for your studies. Both universities include practical German language classes in the program to help you manage daily life and find part-time work in Germany.
Yes. GISMA and UE are both state-recognized private universities in Germany. Degrees awarded by state-recognized institutions are legally valid in Germany and across the EU. GISMA holds AMBA accreditation for its MBA and is a member of SAP University Alliances. UE received the German Education Award. Both institutions offer strong employer relationships and career support services.
Requirements differ between the two schools. At UE, the minimum IELTS score is 5.5 overall for Bachelor's programs and 6.0 overall for Master's programs. UE also accepts Duolingo (100 for Bachelor's, 105 for Master's) and TOEFL iBT (60 for Bachelor's, 72 for Master's). At GISMA, the general range is 6.0–6.5 for Bachelor's programs and 6.5–7.0 for Master's programs — both schools also accept Duolingo for eligible programs. Your ApplyBoard counsellor can confirm the exact requirement for the specific program you want to apply for.
Yes. Non-EU international students on a student visa are permitted to work up to 140 full days or 280 half days per calendar year. Berlin's tech industry has many internship and entry-level roles where English is the primary working language, so you can build professional experience while studying.
Yes. International graduates from German universities can apply for a post-study job-seeker residence permit (Aufenthaltserlaubnis zur Arbeitsplatzsuche) that allows you to stay in Germany for up to 18 months to find work after graduation.
For tech roles in Berlin's startup ecosystem, many companies operate in English and hire international graduates without requiring fluency in German. However, learning conversational German will significantly expand your job options and improve your day-to-day experience. The German language classes bundled into GISMA and UE programs give you a practical foundation during your studies.
Public universities in Germany charge little or no tuition fees, but most tech programs are taught in German and competition for places is high. Private universities charge tuition fees but offer more English-taught programs, smaller class sizes, and dedicated support for international students. Both types of institutions award state-recognized degrees.
Studying AI or computer science in Germany is within reach — even if you do not speak German yet. With fully English-taught programs at GISMA and UE in Berlin and Potsdam, you can earn a recognized German degree, build practical tech skills, and launch your career in one of Europe's most exciting technology markets.
Start your application to study tech in Germany
Browse English-taught AI and computer science programs at GISMA and UE on ApplyBoard and get started today.