GERMANY · GELSENKIRCHEN
Fachhochschule Gelsenkirchen
public · Founded 1992 · Languages: de, en
In short
Fachhochschule Gelsenkirchen (Westfälische Hochschule) is a public university in Germany offering practice-oriented programs with no tuition fees for international students. It provides affordable living costs in the Ruhr region and strong links to industry.
Key facts
- Type
- Public
- Founded
- 1992
- Students
- 7,000
- International students
- 800
- Acceptance rate
- 80%
- Languages
- DE, EN
- Location
- Gelsenkirchen, Germany
Westfälische Hochschule (WH) is a public university of applied sciences in Gelsenkirchen, Germany, part of the Ruhr metropolitan region. Founded in 1992, it offers practice-oriented bachelor's and master's programs in engineering, IT, business, and design across three campuses: Gelsenkirchen, Recklinghausen, and Bocholt. As a German public institution, WH charges only a semester administrative fee — no tuition — making it one of the most affordable options for international students in Europe. Its industry-connected curriculum and proximity to major Ruhr companies ensure strong graduate employability.
Why study here
- No tuition fees as a public German university — only a small semester contribution of around EUR 300.
- Strong practice orientation with mandatory industry internships and project-based learning.
- Three campuses in the economically vibrant Ruhr region with direct links to engineering and technology companies.
- English-taught programs available at the Bocholt campus for international students.
- Central Student Service Centre providing comprehensive support for all student queries.
Student life
Campus life at WH is active and international. The Ruhr region offers affordable living, a rich cultural scene, and excellent transport links across Germany. The official Campus App keeps students organised, while the student blog Trikon covers news, projects, and campus people. Students can shop the Hochschulshop for university merchandise and attend interdisciplinary events linking business, engineering, and design communities across campuses.
Fees
InternationalNo tuition fees for EU and non-EU students — WH is a public German university. A semester contribution of approximately EUR 300–350 covers the semester ticket for public transport and student services.
HomeSame as international: no tuition fees, semester contribution only.
LivingThe Ruhr region is among the most affordable areas in Germany. Expect EUR 700–900 per month for accommodation, food, transport, and personal expenses.
BAföG (German student financial aid) is available for eligible German and some EU students. Accommodation is available through Studierendenwerk Essen-Duisburg at subsidised rates.
Admissions
University entrance qualificationGerman Abitur or recognised equivalent (e.g. A-levels, international baccalaureate, or assessed foreign qualification)
Program prerequisite subjectsMaths and sciences for engineering/IT programs; business subjects for management programs
German language proficiencyDSH-2 or TestDaF TDN 4 for German-taught programs
Application via hochschulstart.de or uni-assistInternational applicants apply through uni-assist
IELTS6.0 for English-taught programs
TOEFL iBT80 for English-taught programs
University scholarships
DAAD ScholarshipEUR 861/month plus travel allowance for international students
DeutschlandstipendiumEUR 300/month merit-based scholarship
Stiftung der Deutschen Wirtschaft (sdw)Varies — for high-achieving students pursuing engineering and STEM
Accreditation
Westfälische Hochschule is a state-recognised university under the Higher Education Act of North Rhine-Westphalia (Hochschulgesetz NRW). Programs 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.
Programs
a selectionFachhochschule Gelsenkirchen · Germany
Doctorate / PhD at Westfälische Hochschule
The Westfälische Hochschule (WHS) supports doctoral candidates through its Graduate Center, offering resources and guidance for those pursuing a doctorate in a university of applied sciences context. This path is less traditional and WHS aims to provide a supportive environment for research and academic development. Dr. Gabriela Marginean serves as the central point of contact for doctoral candidates, offering personal consultations and support throughout the doctoral journey. The university encourages all doctoral candidates to participate in the offered programs and engage with the available resources.
PhD
Level
—
Tuition
—
Duration
Fachhochschule Gelsenkirchen · Germany
International Business and Communication
The Bachelor of International Business and Communication program at Westfälische Hochschule (WHS) is designed for students interested in the global business landscape and effective cross-cultural communication. This program equips you with a strong foundation in business administration, marketing, finance, and management, complemented by essential skills in intercultural communication, foreign languages, and international relations. You will learn to navigate complex international markets, understand diverse business practices, and develop strategies for successful global operations. The curriculum emphasizes practical application through case studies, projects, and internships, preparing you for a dynamic career in the international business environment.
Bachelor's
Level
Free
Tuition
42 mo
Duration
Fachhochschule Gelsenkirchen · Germany
Master's Programs at Westfälische Hochschule
Westfälische Hochschule offers a wide range of Master's programs across various disciplines, including engineering, computer science, business, and natural sciences. These programs are designed to provide advanced knowledge and practical skills, preparing students for specialized roles in their chosen fields. The university has multiple campuses located in Gelsenkirchen, Bocholt, and Recklinghausen, offering students diverse learning environments and opportunities. The focus is on applying theoretical knowledge to real-world challenges, ensuring graduates are well-equipped for the modern job market.
Master's
Level
—
Tuition
—
Duration
Fachhochschule Gelsenkirchen · Germany
Westfälische Hochschule Gelsenkirchen
The Westfälische Hochschule (WH) is a university of applied sciences located in Germany, with campuses in Gelsenkirchen, Bocholt, and Recklinghausen. It focuses on providing practical, application-oriented education in a range of engineering, business, and social science fields. The university emphasizes strong connections with industry and aims to equip students with the skills needed for successful careers in their chosen fields. WH offers a variety of Bachelor's and Master's programs, often with a focus on innovation, sustainability, and digitalization. Many programs are designed in collaboration with regional businesses, ensuring that the curriculum remains relevant to current industry demands. The university is committed to fostering a dynamic learning environment that encourages research, development, and entrepreneurial thinking among its students.
Bachelor's
Level
Free
Tuition
36 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 Fachhochschule Gelsenkirchen?
+
Fachhochschule Gelsenkirchen, as a public German university, does not charge tuition fees for international students. You only need to pay a semester contribution of approximately EUR 300-350.
What is the semester contribution fee and what does it cover?
+
The semester contribution is around EUR 300-350 per semester. This fee covers the semester ticket for public transport in the region and student services.
What are the estimated living costs for students in Gelsenkirchen?
+
The Ruhr region is considered one of the more affordable areas in Germany. Expect to spend around EUR 700-900 per month for accommodation, food, transport, and personal expenses.
Does Fachhochschule Gelsenkirchen offer programs taught in English?
+
Yes, Fachhochschule Gelsenkirchen offers English-taught programs, particularly at its Bocholt campus, specifically catering to international students.
What are the academic requirements for international students?
+
International students need a recognized university entrance qualification, such as A-levels or an international baccalaureate. For English-taught programs, a TOEFL iBT score of 80 or IELTS 6.0 is typically required.
Last updated