GERMANY · ERFURT

Fachhochschule Erfurt

public · Founded 1991 · Languages: de, en

In short

Fachhochschule Erfurt is a practice-oriented public university in central Germany offering many programs with no tuition fees for international students. It provides an affordable living cost in the historic city of Erfurt and is recognized for its strengths in Applied Computer Science, Social Work, and Forestry.

Key facts

Type: Public
Founded: 1991
Students: 4,800
International students: 500
Acceptance rate: 70%
Tuition (intl): €2–3k/yr
Languages: DE, EN
Location: Erfurt, Germany

For international students

Germany

Student 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.

SourcesStudy in Germany — Proof of financial resources · Make it in Germany — Studying and working · BAMF — To Germany as a graduate · Make it in Germany — Opportunity Card · DAAD — Admission requirements · DAAD — Costs of education and living

Programs

a selection

View top programs →

Fachhochschule Erfurt · Germany

Bachelor Applied Computer Science Dual

The Bachelor Applied Computer Science Dual program offers a practical, job-integrated learning experience. Over seven semesters, you will gain a Bachelor of Science (B.Sc.) degree while working closely with a partner company. This dual approach means you'll spend a significant portion of your studies (50 ECTS out of 210) gaining practical experience within a company, becoming fully integrated from the third semester onwards. The program fosters a personal learning environment with small class sizes, direct contact with professors and staff, and well-equipped labs for hands-on learning. The curriculum focuses on providing practical knowledge and skills in core areas of computer science, including technologies, algorithms, and programming, alongside analytical and design methodologies. This blend of theoretical knowledge and practical application prepares graduates for development roles in various industries.

Fachhochschule Erfurt · Germany

Bachelor of Arts in Architecture

The Bachelor of Arts in Architecture program at Fachhochschule Erfurt is a full-time, six-semester program designed to equip students with foundational knowledge and practical skills in architectural design and urban planning. The curriculum covers essential areas such as representation, design, construction, and social competencies, progressively introducing more advanced topics like urban development, architectural history, theory, and building management. A key feature of the program is the compulsory integrated practical semester in the fifth term, which provides hands-on experience through collaboration with architectural firms, either domestically or internationally. Learning at Fachhochschule Erfurt emphasizes a project-based approach, where students tackle real-world design challenges in small seminar groups. This method encourages active participation, critical thinking, and the development of methodological skills transferable to various problem-solving scenarios. The program aims to foster students' ability to analyze complex issues, integrate functional, aesthetic, economic, and ecological considerations, and develop innovative solutions for shaping living spaces.

Fachhochschule Erfurt · Germany

Horticulture

The Horticulture program at the Department of Horticulture, part of the Faculty of Landscape Architecture, Horticulture and Forestry, offers a practical and academic approach to the field. This degree program is designed to equip students with the knowledge and skills needed for management roles in horticultural businesses, research, consulting, and related economic sectors. The curriculum emphasizes the integration of ecological, economic, and social responsibility, drawing inspiration from the historical contributions of Christian Reichart, considered a pioneer of German horticulture.

Fachhochschule Erfurt · Germany

Master Applied Computer Science

The Master of Science (M.Sc.) in Applied Computer Science is a practice-oriented program building upon a Bachelor's degree in Computer Science or a related field. It aims to deepen fundamental knowledge in areas like algorithms, mathematics, technologies, and programming, while allowing for specialization in specific topics. The program emphasizes the development of skills to analyze complex requirements, propose solutions, plan implementation, and manage projects using modern methods. It fosters interdisciplinary thinking, scientific approaches, and conceptual work, preparing graduates for leadership roles in planning and executing challenging, multidisciplinary projects in companies.

Fachhochschule Erfurt · Germany

Master of Arts in Architecture

The Master of Arts (M.A.) in Architecture is a postgraduate program designed for graduates of Bachelor's degree programs in Architecture. It spans four semesters and covers all essential areas of planning and construction. The program aims to provide a practice-oriented, broad-based education grounded in scientific knowledge and methods, preparing students for independent professional practice as architects. Students in this program are encouraged to take ownership of their learning and self-organize their work and study processes. The curriculum allows students to tailor their studies by selecting from project offers, elective compulsory modules, and optional modules based on their individual interests. 'Project Studios' offer opportunities to focus on various specific themes, fostering an independent and self-directed approach to architectural education.

Fachhochschule Erfurt · Germany

Master of Arts in International Social Work

The Master's in International Social Work equips you to address global challenges by focusing on human rights, educational work, civil society engagement, and democracy promotion on an international level. The program encourages you to develop a cross-border perspective on social work. It combines theoretical analysis with practical application, preparing you for complex international contexts. The curriculum explores international comparisons of social problems and their solutions, the political and professional frameworks of international social work, and human rights. You will also develop specialist English language skills, learn about European and international funding policies, and gain project management experience, from proposal development to implementation. This program is designed for individuals interested in taking global responsibility and working within transnational service and provider structures.

Scholarships

for Germany

Browse all scholarships →

full funding

The 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.

Munich 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.

Helmholtz-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.

Leibniz 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.

Forschungszentrum 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.

Alexander 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.

Frequently asked questions

What are the tuition fees for international students at Fachhochschule Erfurt?

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Most programmes at Fachhochschule Erfurt have no tuition fees for international students, regardless of their country of origin. Students are required to pay a semester contribution of approximately €300, which covers student services and a public transport ticket.

What are the living costs in Erfurt for students?

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The estimated monthly living costs in Erfurt range from €700 to €900, which covers accommodation, food, and personal expenses. This is considered well below the average costs in other German cities.

Are there any language requirements for international students?

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The primary language of instruction is German, so proficiency is required for most programmes, typically at a B2/C1 level. For English-medium electives, an IELTS score of 6.0 is accepted.

What academic areas is Fachhochschule Erfurt known for?

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Fachhochschule Erfurt offers practice-oriented programs in fields such as architecture, civil engineering, social work, horticulture, forestry, landscape architecture, transport logistics, and computer science. It is recognized in rankings for Applied Computer Science, Social Work, and Forestry.

Does Fachhochschule Erfurt offer scholarships for international students?

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Yes, international students can explore scholarships through the DAAD portal, which offers various options. Additionally, the Deutschlandstipendium provides €300 per month for high-achieving students nominated by the university.

Fachhochschule Erfurt

Why study here

Student life

For international students