Hochschule Kempten offers practice-oriented degrees in diverse fields in Bavaria, Germany, with low tuition fees for international students and a focus on career preparation.
Hochschule Kempten - University of Applied Sciences - is located in Kempten, Germany. The university offers a practice-oriented education across a range of fields including engineering, business administration, social sciences, health, computer science, and multimedia. With a focus on preparing students for professional careers, Hochschule Kempten combines academic rigor with practical application, supported by close ties to industry and regional partners.
Hochschule Kempten offers a friendly, close-knit campus community in the heart of the Allgaeu. Students enjoy an active student union, sports and outdoor activities (with the Alps nearby for hiking and skiing), and cultural events in Kempten. The International Office runs buddy programmes, German language courses, and orientation events to help international students settle in, while modern labs and study spaces support hands-on learning.
A blocked account (Sperrkonto) demonstrating sufficient funds is normally required for the student visa. Health insurance is mandatory for all enrolled students.
Hochschule Kempten is a state-recognised public university of applied sciences in Bavaria, with degree programmes accredited under the German accreditation system.
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.
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 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.
Approximate all-in student budget; major cities run higher.
Hochschule Kempten (Kempten University of Applied Sciences) offers a range of Bachelor's and Master's programs in fields such as Engineering, Business and Tourism, Social Work and Health, and Computer Science and Multimedia. The university is committed to providing practical, application-oriented education, fostering innovation, and preparing students for their future careers. Located in the scenic Allgäu region, it offers a vibrant campus life and a supportive environment for international students. The university emphasizes strong connections with industry and research, leading to projects that address current societal and technological challenges. Students benefit from modern facilities, dedicated support services, and opportunities to engage in research and development. Hochschule Kempten aims to be a hub for knowledge transfer and a place where students can develop both their academic and professional skills.
Kempten University of Applied Sciences offers a range of bachelor's and master's degree programs across various faculties. The university emphasizes practice-based and future-focused education, set against the scenic backdrop of the Allgäu region. Students benefit from individual support, a strong connection to industry, and a high quality of life. The university fosters an international environment with over 110 partner institutions worldwide, enabling students to gain international experience through study or work abroad opportunities.
full fundingOpen 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 fundingOpen 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 fundingOpen 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.
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 fundingOpen 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 fundingFor 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.
As a public Bavarian university of applied sciences, Hochschule Kempten generally does not charge tuition fees for most degree programs. Students are required to pay a modest semester contribution, typically around EUR 100-150 per semester, which covers administrative and student services.
International students should budget approximately EUR 850-1,000 per month for living expenses. This estimate includes accommodation, food, mandatory health insurance, and transportation, aligning with German student visa requirements.
Hochschule Kempten offers practice-oriented degree programs in fields such as engineering, business administration, social sciences, health, computer science, and multimedia. The university focuses on preparing students for professional careers through academic rigor and practical application.
For English-taught programs, applicants typically need to provide proof of English proficiency such as an IELTS Academic score of 6.0-6.5 overall or a TOEFL iBT score of around 80+.
The university provides dedicated support for international students through its International Office. This includes assistance with settling in, German language courses, orientation events, and buddy programs to help students adjust to life in Kempten.