GERMANY · DARMSTADT
Evangelische Fachhochschule Darmstadt
non-profit · Founded 1971 · Languages: de, en
E
In short
Evangelische Hochschule Darmstadt is a non-profit university of applied sciences rooted in Evangelical values, offering practical, job-ready skills in social, health, and educational fields across three campuses. It emphasizes small class sizes, a strong student-to-staff ratio, and a family-friendly, inclusive ethos.
Key facts
- Type
- Non-profit
- Founded
- 1971
- Students
- 1,650
- International students
- 80
- Acceptance rate
- 75%
- Tuition (intl)
- €2–5k/yr
- Languages
- DE, EN
- Location
- Darmstadt, Germany
Evangelische Hochschule Hessen (EHH) is a state-recognised non-profit university of applied sciences founded in 1971, rooted in Evangelical Church values and dedicated to social justice and community well-being. Campuses in Darmstadt, Schwalmstadt-Treysa and Kassel offer a mix of urban and rural study environments across Hesse. The university is known for small seminar groups, an outstanding student-to-staff ratio, and a family-friendly, inclusive ethos certified under the Evangelical Seal for Family Orientation. With 54 international Erasmus+ partner universities, EHH also provides meaningful opportunities for global exchange.
Why study here
- Gain practical, job-ready skills through curricula that tightly integrate theory with professional placements.
- Benefit from very small seminar groups and personalised mentoring in an inclusive campus community.
- Choose from flexible full-time, part-time and practice-integrated study formats, especially at the Kassel campus.
- Access a growing international network of 54 partner universities through the Erasmus+ programme.
- Graduate into high-demand social, health, and educational sectors backed by a respected, values-driven academic brand.
Student life
Campus life at EHH is intimate and community-centred. Students are known by name to faculty and benefit from psychosocial counselling, family-support services, and peer networks across three campuses. Social and cultural events reflect the university's commitment to well-being and inclusivity.
Fees
InternationalApprox. €1,500–€5,000 per year depending on programme and semester contribution.
HomeSemester contribution approx. €200–€300; no general tuition fees for domestic students.
LivingEstimated monthly living costs in Darmstadt: €900–€1,200 (rent, food, transport).
Scholarship options exist through the Diakonie Hessen. Dual-study formats at Kassel include employer-funded components.
Admissions
General higher education entrance qualificationAbitur or equivalent; some programmes accept vocational qualifications (Fachhochschulreife).
Motivation letterRequired for most programmes, demonstrating alignment with EHH values.
Work experiencePractical social-sector experience is expected for Social Work and related programmes.
No English language requirementInstruction is primarily in German; B1/B2 German proficiency required for most programmes.
University scholarships
Diakonie Hessen Scholarship (Heilerziehungspflege)Varies – supports academisation of therapeutic education
Deutschlandstipendium€300/month – available to eligible students via federal scheme
Accreditation
EHH is state-accredited by the Hessian state government and participates in the Erasmus+ programme, recognised by DAAD. In 2011 it ranked first in Lecturer Mobility among smaller universities of applied sciences (GES profile).
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 selectionEvangelische Fachhochschule Darmstadt · Germany
Certificate in Community Education (Gemeindepädagogik)
The Certificate in Community Education (Gemeindepädagogik) at the Evangelische Hochschule Darmstadt is designed for graduates of Social Work or similar fields. It provides professional orientation and skills for community, religious, and diaconal work within church and diaconal organizations. The program covers various areas such as working with the elderly, volunteers, adults, families, children, and youth, as well as children's church services and pastoral care. Successful completion can lead to the Master's program in Religious Education.
Certificate
Level
—
Tuition
24 mo
Duration
Evangelische Fachhochschule Darmstadt · Germany
Childhood Education (B.A.)
This Bachelor of Arts program in Childhood Education (B.A.) prepares you for professional work with children aged 0 to 10 years. It focuses on their upbringing, well-being, rights, and educational needs. The program emphasizes academic qualification to analyze, shape, and develop pedagogical and organizational structures, potentially leading to management roles, evaluation projects, and further training of pedagogical professionals. A significant portion of the curriculum includes practical experience to ensure graduates can plan, implement, and reflect on learning and educational processes with a focus on inclusive participation.
Bachelor's
Level
Free
Tuition
21 mo
Duration
Evangelische Fachhochschule Darmstadt · Germany
Diaconia / Parish Education and Social Work (B.A.)
This dual bachelor's degree program combines Social Work with Diaconia/Parish Education and Social Work, preparing you for roles in both secular social services and church-related social welfare. Upon graduation, you will hold two bachelor's degrees and receive state recognition as a Social Worker/Social Education Worker. The program emphasizes practical experience, including a significant internship, and is designed to equip you for diverse roles within communities and social institutions.
Bachelor's
Level
Free
Tuition
45 mo
Duration
Evangelische Fachhochschule Darmstadt · Germany
Diakonik / Gemeindepädagogik und Soziale Arbeit (B.A.)
This Bachelor of Arts program combines Diakonie (diaconal work), community pedagogy, and social work, preparing students for professional roles in church-related institutions and the broader social sector. It offers a unique dual qualification, awarding degrees in both "Soziale Arbeit (B.A.)" and "Diakonik/Gemeindepädagogik und Soziale Arbeit (B.A.)". The program emphasizes critical reflection on societal issues, faith, and its practical application in an increasingly secular world. Students engage with topics of social inequality and explore how faith can inform and transform communities. The curriculum is designed to foster personal growth and critical thinking, encouraging students to examine their own perspectives and those of society. It provides insights into challenging life situations and equips students with the knowledge and skills to effect positive change. The program aims to bridge theological understanding with practical social work, preparing graduates for diverse roles in social services, community development, and religious education.
Bachelor's
Level
—
Tuition
108 mo
Duration
Evangelische Fachhochschule Darmstadt · Germany
Evangelische Fachhochschule Darmstadt Programs
The Evangelische Hochschule Hessen (EHH) offers a range of Bachelor's and Master's degree programs focused on Social Work, Health, and Education. With campuses in Darmstadt, Schwalmstadt, and Kassel, the university emphasizes a personal, supportive learning environment with small class sizes and close relationships between students and faculty. The EHH is committed to inclusivity, family-friendliness, and value-based education, fostering an environment where students can thrive personally and professionally.
Master's
Level
—
Tuition
—
Duration
Evangelische Fachhochschule Darmstadt · Germany
Inclusive Education (B.A.)
This Bachelor of Arts program in Inclusive Education prepares you to work with individuals who are often described as having disabilities, focusing on societal structures that promote the tolerant coexistence of people with and without impairments. You will gain the skills to facilitate participation and integration in various aspects of social life.
Bachelor's
Level
Free
Tuition
96 mo
Duration
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
13d 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 Evangelische Hochschule Darmstadt?
+
International students can expect to pay approximately €1,500–€5,000 per year, depending on the specific program. This includes semester contributions, which are around €200–€300.
What are the estimated living costs for students in Darmstadt?
+
Monthly living expenses in Darmstadt are estimated to be between €900 and €1,200, covering costs such as rent, food, and transportation.
What are the admission requirements for international students?
+
To apply, you typically need a general higher education entrance qualification (like Abitur or equivalent) and often a motivation letter. While instruction is primarily in German, B1/B2 German proficiency is generally required for most programs.
Does Evangelische Hochschule Darmstadt offer scholarships for international students?
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Yes, scholarship options are available, including those through Diakonie Hessen, which supports the academisation of therapeutic education. The Deutschlandstipendium is also an option for eligible students.
What is the learning environment like at Evangelische Hochschule Darmstadt?
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The university is known for its small seminar groups and an outstanding student-to-staff ratio, fostering a personalised and inclusive learning environment. It is also certified under the Evangelical Seal for Family Orientation.
Last updated