Study computer science and AI in Germany
Germany has become one of Europe’s most attractive destinations for students who want to study computer science and artificial intelligence (AI). With its world-class universities, cutting-edge research, and low tuition fees, Germany offers international students an excellent mix of academic quality and affordability.
In this article, we’ll look at the top German universities for computer science and AI, which offer English-taught programs and which may require the TestAS exam (a standardized aptitude test for international bachelor’s applicants).
1. Technical University of Munich (TUM)
Location: Munich, Bavaria
Type: Public university
Language: German (Bachelor’s), English (Master’s)
TUM is consistently ranked #1 in Germany and one of the top universities in Europe for computer Science and AI. It leads Germany’s AI research in robotics, autonomous systems, and data-driven technologies.
Why TUM stands out: Strong industry ties with BMW, Siemens, and Google Munich make it ideal for tech-focused students.
- English-taught programs (IELTS/TOEFL required):
- M.Sc. in Data Engineering and Analytics
- M.Sc. in Computer Science (partly in English)
- M.Sc. in Robotics, Cognition, Intelligence
For Bachelor’s, applicants must apply through uni-assist and obtain a VPD (preliminary review documentation). TestAS may be requested depending on the applicant’s country and qualifications, but it’s not mandatory for all.
2. Ludwig-Maximilians-Universität München (LMU Munich)
Location: Munich, Bavaria
Type: Public university
Language: German (Bachelor’s), English (Master’s)
LMU combines academic prestige with excellent research in AI, neuroscience, and data science. The AI Center at LMU collaborates with industry and top research institutions worldwide.
Why LMU stands out: Ideal for students planning advanced AI research or interdisciplinary work in data and cognitive sciences.
- English-taught programs:
- M.Sc. in Data Science
For Bachelor’s, LMU generally requires a German-taught entry qualification and sometimes TestAS for specific programmes. Requirements vary by country and programme.
Want to know more about TUM and LMU, and how to decide between the two universities? Read more in our blog post „Top universities in Germany 2025: TUM vs. LMU„.
3. RWTH Aachen University
Location: Aachen, North Rhine-Westphalia
Type: Public university
Language: German (Bachelor’s), English (Master’s)
RWTH Aachen is known for its engineering excellence and applied AI research. It has one of Europe’s largest technical faculties and a strong reputation in robotics and computer vision.
- English-taught programs:
- M.Sc. in Computer Science
- M.Sc. in Artificial Intelligence
- M.Sc. Data Science
Why RWTH stands out: Excellent choice for students interested in practical, engineering-oriented AI.
RWTH may require or accept TestAS for Bachelor’s depending on your school-leaving certificate. Strong results can compensate for lower grades.
4. Karlsruhe Institute of Technology (KIT)
Location: Karlsruhe, Baden-Württemberg
Type: Public university
Language: German (Bachelor’s), English (Master’s)
KIT bridges academia and industry with strong AI research in automation, cybersecurity, and data systems.
- English-taught programs:
- M.Sc. Computer Science (English track available)
- M.Sc. Informatics (mixed language options)
Why KIT stands out: Excellent for students seeking a strong engineering + CS foundation.
For Bachelor’s, KIT follows standard German public university rules: applicants from outside the EU apply via uni-assist. TestAS is not mandatory but can be submitted to strengthen your application. In this case, the TestAS is recommended.
5. University of Tübingen
Location: Tübingen, Baden-Württemberg
Type: Public university
Language: German (Bachelor’s), English (Master’s)
The University of Tübingen is a global research hub for machine learning and neural networks, closely linked with the Max Planck Institute for Intelligent Systems.
- English-taught programs:
- M.Sc. Machine Learning
- M.Sc. Data Science
- M.Sc. Neural Information Processing
Why Tübingen stands out: One of the best choices in Europe for AI-focused research degrees.
For Bachelor’s, Tübingen usually requires uni-assist (VPD) and may request TestAS depending on your school certificate.
Quick comparison
| University | Location | TestAS required for Bachelor’s | Known for |
|---|---|---|---|
| TUM | Munich | Possible | Germany’s top CS/AI university |
| LMU | Munich | Possible | Research and interdisciplinary AI |
| RWTH Aachen | Aachen | Often requested | Engineering-driven AI |
| KIT | Karlsruhe | Optional but recommended | Applied AI and automation |
| University of Tübingen | Tübingen | Possible | Machine learning research |
Do you need the TestAS?
The TestAS is a standardized aptitude exam for international students applying for Bachelor’s programmes in Germany. We offer a full range of TestAS preparation books in both English and German, from the Core Test to each individual subject model.
- Bachelor’s applicants from non-EU countries typically must take the TestAS unless they already have one year of university study or a recognized international qualification (e.g., IB diploma).
- Some universities make it mandatory; others treat it as optional or use it to improve your admission ranking.
- Always confirm on the university’s own admission page before registering.
- Master’s applicants do not need TestAS, but must provide proof of an undergraduate degree and often English proficiency (IELTS/TOEFL).
Computer science Bachelor’s programs in English
Most bachelor’s programs in Germany are still taught in German — so basic language skills are helpful even if you choose an English-taught path later. If private universities are in your budget, the English program selection is larger. Below are a few options for university which offer English programs, both public and private.
| University & Programme | Type | Language of Instruction | Duration |
|---|---|---|---|
| Saarland University – B.Sc. Computer Science (English) | Public | 100 % English from Semester 3 onward | 6 semesters |
| SRH University Berlin – B.Sc. Computer Science | Private | Fully English | 6–7 semesters |
| IU International University of Applied Sciences – B.Sc. Computer Science (On-campus Germany, English) | Private | English | 36 months (≈3 yrs) |
| FOM International University of Applied Sciences – B.Sc. Computer Science & Digital Technologies | Private | Fully English | Standard full-time duration (varies) |
| Otto von Guericke University Magdeburg – Bilingual Bachelor’s in Computer Science (English Track) | Public | English-track (with German language components) | 7 semesters |
No matter which school you choose, for international students interested in computer science or AI, Germany offers an unbeatable mix of quality education, low costs, and research opportunities.
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