GERMANY
Europa Fachhochschule Fresenius
private · Founded 1848 · Languages: German, English
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In short
Hochschule Fresenius is a well-regarded private university of applied sciences in Germany, offering practice-oriented degrees with small class sizes. It has multiple campuses and provides support for international students, including English-taught programs and scholarship options.
Key facts
- Type
- Private
- Founded
- 1848
- Students
- 15,000
- International students
- 2,000
- Acceptance rate
- 60%
- Tuition (intl)
- €7–14k/yr
- Languages
- GERMAN, ENGLISH
- Location
- Germany
Hochschule Fresenius (Europa-Fachhochschule Fresenius) is one of Germany's oldest and largest private universities of applied sciences, with roots in a chemical laboratory founded by Carl Remigius Fresenius in 1848. It operates across multiple German cities and offers practice-oriented bachelor's and master's programmes in business, media and design, health and social sciences, psychology and natural sciences. With small class sizes, strong industry links and a growing range of English-taught and online degrees, it caters to both school leavers and working professionals.
Why study here
- One of Germany's oldest and largest private universities of applied sciences, founded in 1848.
- Campuses in major cities including Cologne, Munich, Hamburg, Frankfurt and Berlin.
- Highly practice-oriented programmes with integrated internships and close industry ties.
- Small class sizes and intensive personal support typical of a private institution.
- Flexible study formats including full-time, part-time, dual and online (distance) study.
Student life
With campuses spread across several major German cities, students enjoy vibrant urban student life alongside a more personal, small-cohort learning environment. The university organises company visits, guest lectures, project work and networking events, and maintains an active careers service. International students receive dedicated support with admissions, German language and integration.
Fees
InternationalApproximately EUR 7,000-14,000 per year depending on programme and campus.
HomeSame fee structure as for international students, as it is a private university.
LivingAround EUR 11,000-13,000 per year depending on the city; cities like Munich are more expensive than smaller campuses.
As a private Fachhochschule, Hochschule Fresenius charges monthly tuition fees that vary by programme and format. Scholarships and financing options are available.
Admissions
Bachelor's entryA higher education entrance qualification (Abitur, Fachhochschulreife or recognised international equivalent); some programmes include an aptitude or admissions interview.
Master's entryA recognised bachelor's degree in a relevant field with the required grade; some programmes require professional experience.
IELTS6.0-6.5 for English-taught programmes
TOEFL iBT80+ for English-taught programmes
Rankings
CHE Ranking (German universities of applied sciences)Well-regarded private Fachhochschule; not consistently ranked in global tables
University scholarships
DeutschlandstipendiumEUR 300 per month (state and private co-funded)
Hochschule Fresenius internal scholarships and tuition discountsPartial tuition reduction for selected students
Accreditation
State-recognised university of applied sciences (Fachhochschule) in Germany; degree programmes are accredited by recognised German accreditation agencies and the institution is system-accredited.
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.
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
12d 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 Hochschule Fresenius?
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As a private university, international students can expect to pay approximately EUR 7,000-14,000 per year. The exact fees depend on the specific program and campus location.
What are the living costs for students in Germany at Hochschule Fresenius?
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Estimated living costs range from EUR 11,000-13,000 per year. This can vary by city, with larger cities like Munich being more expensive than smaller campuses.
What are the admission requirements for English-taught programs?
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For English-taught programs, applicants typically need an IELTS score of 6.0-6.5 or a TOEFL iBT score of 80+. A higher education entrance qualification or a recognized bachelor's degree is also required depending on the program level.
Does Hochschule Fresenius offer scholarships to international students?
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Yes, Hochschule Fresenius offers scholarships and tuition discounts, including the Deutschlandstipendium which provides EUR 300 per month. Other internal scholarships and tuition reductions are available for selected students.
What kind of support does the university provide for international students?
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International students receive dedicated support with admissions, learning German, and integration into German life. The university also offers assistance with careers and networking opportunities.
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