GERMANY · COLOGNE
Deutsche Sporthochschule Köln
public · Founded 1947 · Languages: en, de
In short
Deutsche Sporthochschule Köln (DSHS Köln) is Germany's sole university focused entirely on sport science, offering a diverse academic environment with over 6,000 students from more than 85 countries.
Key facts
- Type
- Public
- Founded
- 1947
- Students
- 6,000
- International students
- 1,200
- Acceptance rate
- 0%
- Tuition (intl)
- €2–3k/yr
- Languages
- EN, DE
- Location
- Cologne, Germany
The Deutsche Sporthochschule Köln (DSHS Köln), founded in 1947, is Germany's only university exclusively dedicated to sport science. Situated within the Sportpark Müngersdorf in Cologne, it serves as a leading center for research, education, and practical application in the field of sport. With over 6,000 students from more than 85 countries and a staff of around 1,000, DSHS Köln provides a diverse and dynamic academic environment. The university is known for its comprehensive approach to sport science, integrating 19 institutes, five transfer centers, and four affiliated institutes. Its research spans a wide spectrum, including health, human performance, elite sports, and the societal, educational, economic, historical, and ethical aspects of sport and physical activity. This interdisciplinary focus enables the university to investigate complex issues holistically and develop innovative solutions with significant societal impact. DSHS Köln offers a broad range of programs, including teacher training, five Bachelor's degrees, eight consecutive Master's degrees, six continuing education Master's programs, and doctoral studies. The curriculum is both scientifically rigorous and practice-oriented, ensuring students gain the latest research insights and practical skills. The university is committed to preparing students for successful careers in various fields related to sport, movement, and physical activity.
Why study here
- Specialise in sport science at Germany's only dedicated university for the field.
- Benefit from an interdisciplinary approach to research and education, covering a wide range of sport-related topics.
- Engage with a diverse international student body and faculty.
- Gain practical skills and the latest research findings through a practice-oriented curriculum.
- Access excellent career support through programs like the 'Career Fitness Program' designed for sport science students.
Student life
Beyond academics, the university is integrated into the vibrant city of Cologne. Students can benefit from a unique campus infrastructure with various sports facilities, supporting both academic and athletic interests. The university also offers a 'Career Fitness Program' to help students with professional orientation, skill development, and job market readiness through five structured training stations covering career goals, competency profiles, and practical experience. Regular workshops and events are held to support career development.
Fees
InternationalAs a public German university, DSHS Koln does not charge tuition fees for most programs. Students pay a semester contribution of approximately €300–€400 covering administration and public transport in Cologne.
HomeGerman and EU students pay the same semester contribution (~€300–€400) with no tuition fees for standard programs.
LivingLiving costs in Cologne are approximately €900–€1,100 per month including housing, food, transport, and personal expenses.
Continuing education and part-time master's programs (Weiterbildungsstudium) may carry separate tuition fees. International students can apply for DAAD or Deutschlandstipendium scholarships.
Admissions
University entrance qualificationGerman Abitur or recognised equivalent (e.g. international baccalaureate or assessed foreign qualification)
Sport aptitude testApplicants must pass the university's sport aptitude test (Sporteignungsprüfung) for most programs
German language proficiencyDSH-2 or TestDaF TDN 4 for German-taught programs
Application portalInternational applicants apply through uni-assist; EU applicants through the DSHS online portal
IELTS6.0 for English-taught programs
TOEFL iBT80 for English-taught programs
Rankings
QS World University Rankings by Subject – Sport-relatedTop European sport science institution
CHE University RankingWell-regarded in sport science education
University scholarships
DAAD Scholarships€750–€1,200/month for eligible international students
Deutschlandstipendium€300/month – merit-based, jointly funded
DSHS Internal Study GrantsVaries – for academic achievement in sport science
Accreditation
Deutsche Sporthochschule Koln is a state-recognised public university under North Rhine-Westphalian higher education law. Its programs are subject to accreditation by the German Akkreditierungsrat. DSHS holds the right to award doctorates and habilitations in sport science.
For international students
GermanyStudent visa & funds
Non-EU/EEA students must obtain a national student visa (Type D) before arrival and then convert it to a student residence permit at the local Foreigners’ Authority (Ausländerbehörde). To prove financial self-sufficiency, most applicants open a blocked account (Sperrkonto) holding €11,904 — €992 per month for twelve months — an amount in effect since 2024 and unchanged for 2026. The blocked account caps monthly withdrawals at €992 so the funds last the year.
Working while you study
Non-EU international students may work up to 140 full days or 280 half-days per calendar year without approval from the Federal Employment Agency — an allowance raised from the previous 120/240-day limit under the 2024 skilled-immigration reform. A shift of more than four hours counts as a full day. Student-assistant roles at the university (Hiwi positions) generally fall outside this cap, and hours during semester breaks count toward the same annual allowance.
After you graduate
After completing a degree at a German university, non-EU graduates are entitled to an 18-month residence permit to seek work under the Residence Act, during which any employment is allowed. Separately, the Opportunity Card (Chancenkarte), introduced in June 2024, lets qualifying non-EU nationals enter to look for work for up to a year using a points system, with limited part-time work permitted. Recent German graduates qualify for the 18-month post-study permit directly, without the points test.
English tests
- IELTS6.0–6.5 for English-taught bachelor’s; 6.5–7.0 for most master’s
- TOEFL iBT80–90 for most programs; competitive universities (e.g. TUM) 88–95
- German (TestDaF/DSH)German-taught programs require TestDaF level 4 (TDN 4) or DSH-2
Main intakes
OctoberApril
Typical living cost
€1,050/month
Approximate all-in student budget; major cities run higher.
Programs
a selectionDeutsche Sporthochschule Köln · Germany
Bachelor- und Lehramtsstudium
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Master
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Deutsche Sporthochschule Köln · Germany
Masterstudium
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Masterstudium (deutschsprachig)
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Masterstudium (englischsprachig)
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PhD
PhD
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Scholarships
for Germany
full fundingThe Software Lab (CISPA & University of Stuttgart)
CISPA & University of Stuttgart Software Lab PhD Scholarships
Open to applicants who hold or expect a Master's degree in Computer Science or a related field, with strong coding skills, an interest in large-scale software projects and the ability to write and present in English (no German required). Candidates should be passionate about high-quality academic research, willing to mentor undergraduate students, and have a long-term vision and persistence for deep research. Positions are filled on a rolling basis as suitable candidates are identified.
full
Funding
€60k
Max
Dec 31, 2026
Deadline
full fundingMunich School for Data Science (MUDS)
Munich School for Data Science (MUDS) PhD Scholarships
Open to international students of all nationalities with a strong academic background in computer science, data science, or a related field, or a degree in a domain science (such as life sciences, medicine, health, earth observation, or robotics) or interdisciplinary fields (such as geoinformatics or bioinformatics) with a strong data science emphasis. Applicants need a passion for applying state-of-the-art data science techniques to real-world scientific challenges. Selection is based on academic record, research potential, and motivation.
full
Funding
€55k
Max
May 6, 2027
Deadline
full fundingHelmholtz-Zentrum Hereon, Institute of Hydrogen Technology
Helmholtz-Zentrum Hereon PhD Position in Materials Science and Mechanical Engineering
Open to applicants who hold a Master's degree in Materials Science, Mechanical Engineering or a related field, with strong knowledge of metallurgy, slip/twinning mechanisms and the mechanical behaviour of metals. Experience with magnesium (Mg) alloys, micro-compression or SEM techniques is an advantage. Candidates need strong problem-solving skills and the ability to work both independently and collaboratively in an interdisciplinary, international environment. The post is a salaried PhD position open to international applicants.
full
Funding
€55k
Max
May 11, 2027
Deadline
full fundingLeibniz University Hannover
Leibniz University Hannover Soil Science PhD Scholarship
Open to applicants of all nationalities who hold a Master's degree in soil science, geosciences, environmental sciences or a closely related field, are proficient in written and spoken English, and are physically fit for extended fieldwork in tropical regions (Ghana and India). Experience with soil analysis, spectral tools and drone operations is an advantage but not mandatory.
full
Funding
€45k
Max
14d left
Deadline
full fundingForschungszentrum Julich
Forschungszentrum Julich Funded PhD Positions
Open to international applicants who hold a master's degree in Chemical, Mechanical or Electrical Engineering or a related field with strong academic performance, with experience in electrochemical modelling and simulation, knowledge of PEM and AEM electrolyser technology, skills in automation and data analysis (Python, LabVIEW), and proficiency in German and English.
full
Funding
€42k
Max
Dec 31, 2026
Deadline
full fundingAlexander von Humboldt Foundation
Alexander von Humboldt Research Fellowships (for Postdoctoral and Experienced Researchers)
For researchers from abroad — postdoctoral (normally within 4 years of a PhD) or experienced (within 12 years of a PhD) — to carry out a long-term research stay in Germany with a host of their choice. Selection is on academic record and research potential; applications can be submitted at any time.
full
Funding
€40k
Max
Nov 15, 2026
Deadline
Frequently asked questions
What are the tuition fees for international students at Deutsche Sporthochschule Köln?
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As a public German university, DSHS Köln does not charge tuition fees for most programs. International students are required to pay a semester contribution of approximately €300–€400, which covers administrative costs and public transport in Cologne.
What are the living costs for students in Cologne?
+
Estimated living costs in Cologne range from €900 to €1,100 per month. This estimate includes expenses for housing, food, transportation, and personal needs.
Does Deutsche Sporthochschule Köln offer scholarships for international students?
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Yes, international students can apply for scholarships such as the DAAD scholarship, which provides approximately €750–€1,200 per month, or the Deutschlandstipendium, a merit-based scholarship of €300 per month.
What are the admission requirements for international students at DSHS Köln?
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International applicants need a recognized university entrance qualification and must pass the university's sport aptitude test for most programs. For English-taught programs, an IELTS score of 6.0 or TOEFL iBT of 80 is required.
What makes Deutsche Sporthochschule Köln unique?
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DSHS Köln is Germany's only university exclusively dedicated to sport science. It offers a comprehensive and interdisciplinary approach to research and education in the field.
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