The two basic pricing models
Public distance-learning universities are mostly publicly funded and usually charge only moderate semester or course fees. This makes the studies inexpensive, but they demand a great deal of self-organisation.
Private distance-learning universities, as a rule, charge a monthly tuition fee multiplied by the duration. In return you get closer support, flexible start dates and often sophisticated learning platforms. The total price is noticeably higher, but the package is more comprehensive.
Why a price-only comparison misleads
Two offers with the same monthly fee can end up costing different amounts, because the duration, examination fees and services differ. That is why the Hochschulnavigator shows, alongside the specific, dated price, a relative price level of one to five euro signs. This scale is relative within the comparison and takes the whole package into account, not just the monthly fee.
Exactly how the scale is derived is set out in the methodology. The binding reference is always the university's own price, which is linked with a source on every profile page.
Extra costs that are often overlooked
The tuition fee alone is rarely the final price. Factor in these items:
- Examination and registration fees, in some cases per module.
- Costs for on-site phases or examination centres, including travel.
- Extension fees, if you need longer than the standard period of study.
- Books and software, where not included in the price.
How to lower the total cost
Two levers have the greatest effect. First, the crediting of prior learning: if professional experience or earlier training is credited, the study time is shortened and with it the sum of the monthly fees. Second, funding: BAföG, education loans, employer contributions and tax deductibility can noticeably reduce the actual burden. The guide to funding works through the options.