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In short
Fachhochschule für die Wirtschaft (FHDW) is a private German university offering business, economics, and computer science degrees with a unique dual-study model. This program combines academic learning with paid industry placements, ideal for students seeking practical experience and strong career prospects.
Key facts
- Type
- Private
- Founded
- 1991
- Students
- 2,500
- International students
- 150
- Tuition (intl)
- €7–10k/yr
- Languages
- DE
- Location
- Germany
The Fachhochschule für die Wirtschaft (FHDW) is a private, state-recognised university of applied sciences in Germany, founded in 1991. With campuses in Bergisch Gladbach, Bielefeld, Hanover, and Paderborn, it specialises in business administration, economics, and computer science. FHDW is known for its dual-study model that combines academic learning with paid industry placements.
Why study here
- Dual-study model combines university study with paid practical training at a partner company.
- Small cohort sizes ensure personal mentoring and direct access to faculty.
- Strong industry links with regional employers across Germany, boosting job placement.
- Located across four economically active German cities with strong business sectors.
- State-recognised degrees fully valid across Germany and the EU.
Student life
FHDW's compact campuses create a close-knit community atmosphere. Students benefit from dedicated study rooms, IT labs, and career services. The dual-study format means many students already have work experience and industry contacts by graduation. Campus life includes student associations, networking events with partner companies, and academic workshops.
Fees
InternationalInternational students pay approximately EUR 7,200–9,600 per year in tuition fees. The dual-study model may offset costs through remuneration from partner companies.
HomeDomestic students in dual programmes typically receive remuneration from their employer partner that covers a significant share of tuition costs.
LivingMonthly living costs in FHDW cities (Bergisch Gladbach, Bielefeld, Hanover, Paderborn) average EUR 800–1,100 including rent, food, and transport.
Fees vary by programme; prospective students should confirm current rates with the admissions office.
Admissions
Entry qualificationAbitur, Fachhochschulreife, or equivalent secondary school leaving certificate
Dual studyA training contract with an FHDW partner company is required for dual-study enrolment
ApplicationDirect application to FHDW; international credentials assessed individually
University scholarships
Deutschland-StipendiumEUR 300/month (state co-funded scholarship available at many German universities)
Accreditation
FHDW is a state-recognised (staatlich anerkannt) private university of applied sciences in North Rhine-Westphalia and Lower Saxony. Programmes are accredited by the German Accreditation Council (Akkreditierungsrat).
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
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 Fachhochschule für die Wirtschaft (FHDW)?
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International students can expect to pay approximately EUR 7,200–9,600 per year in tuition fees. The university's dual-study model often allows students to offset these costs through remuneration from partner companies.
What is the dual-study model at FHDW?
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FHDW's dual-study model integrates academic education with practical, paid work experience at a partner company. This approach combines theoretical knowledge with real-world application and can help cover study costs.
What are the living costs for students in FHDW cities?
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Monthly living costs in cities where FHDW has campuses (Bergisch Gladbach, Bielefeld, Hanover, Paderborn) average between EUR 800–1,100. This estimate includes expenses for rent, food, and transportation.
What are the general admission requirements for FHDW?
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To be considered for admission, you generally need an Abitur, Fachhochschulreife, or an equivalent secondary school leaving certificate. For dual-study programs, securing a training contract with an FHDW partner company is also a requirement.
Does FHDW offer scholarships for international students?
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FHDW participates in the Deutschland-Stipendium, a state co-funded scholarship providing EUR 300 per month. This scholarship is available at many universities across Germany.
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