Augsburg is Bavaria’s third largest city and one of Germany’s oldest (founded by the Romans in 15 BC). It’s a growing destination for international students who want the quality of Bavarian higher education without the expense or competitive pressure of Munich. Augsburg is just 80 km from Munich with excellent rail connections and is the gateway to Bavaria’s economic powerhouse with a calmer, more affordable, and highly livable environment.

The city hosts two institutions: the University of Augsburg, a full public research university, and the Technical University of Applied Sciences Augsburg (THA), a specialized technical school. They constitute a small but potent academic ecosystem in the heart of Bavaria.

Top Universities to study in Augsburg

The University of Augsburg, founded in 1970, is a modern, interdisciplinary university with eight faculties and a broad spectrum of programs. Although relatively young as a university in Germany, The University of Augsburg is internationally recognized and appears in major global rankings including Times Higher Education, QS World University Rankings, and Shanghai ARWU. A true multicultural campus experience in a stunning Bavarian city, with ~19,000 students, around 12–14% international students .

THA is one of the largest technical universities of applied sciences in Bavaria which was founded in 1971. It strongly focuses on engineering, design, and computer science. THA now offers approximately more than 60 degree programmes . International students account for approximately 10–12% of the student body from over 90 countries, and the campuses are compact with around 7,000 students . Its industry-linked, practical programs are particularly popular for their direct employment outcomes. 

Augsburg combines Bavarian quality of life with a significantly lower price tag than Munich — approximately 30–40% cheaper on average.

Augsburg's strong manufacturing, aerospace, and automotive sectors—combined with proximity to Munich's massive job market—gives students excellent part-time work access.

Augsburg is a smart choice for students who want the prestige and opportunities of Bavarian higher education, but without the intense competition and high cost of Munich. Augsburg is a very strong value proposition with the University of Augsburg’s interdisciplinary strength, THA’s excellent engineering and design programs, Bavaria's strong manufacturing, engineering and technology sectors, zero non-EU tuition fees and living costs well below the Bavarian average. Munich is approximately 30–50 minutes away by ICE and around 40–60 minutes by regional train.