In short
Fachhochschule Kiel (HAW Kiel) is the largest University of Applied Sciences in Schleswig-Holstein, offering around 40 practical-oriented Bachelor's and Master's programs. It boasts a scenic waterfront campus location and strong industry links, with no general tuition fees for students.
Key facts
- Type
- Public
- Founded
- 1969
- Students
- 7,500
- International students
- 1,000
- Acceptance rate
- 55%
- Tuition (intl)
- €1–2k/yr
- Languages
- EN, DE
- Location
- Kiel, Germany
Kiel University of Applied Sciences (HAW Kiel) is the largest institution of its kind in Schleswig-Holstein, Germany. Founded in 1969 through the merger of several engineering and technical colleges, the university boasts a history spanning over 100 years. Its main campus is beautifully situated directly on the Kiel Fjord waterfront. HAW Kiel offers a diverse range of approximately 40 Bachelor's and Master's degree programs, along with supplementary and continuing education courses. These are distributed across its faculties of Agriculture, Business Management, Computer Science & Electrical Engineering, Mechanical Engineering, Media, and Social Work & Health. The university maintains a strong reputation within Schleswig-Holstein, fostering close collaborations with local industries, regional associations, and employers. This focus on practical relevance helps graduates secure well-paying jobs quickly, particularly within regional companies, as confirmed by a long-term study.
Why study here
- Study at the largest University of Applied Sciences in Schleswig-Holstein.
- Benefit from a wide selection of around 40 Bachelor's and Master's degree programs.
- Enjoy a unique campus location directly on the Kiel Fjord.
- Gain strong career prospects through close cooperation with regional industries and employers.
- Access international exchange opportunities through over 100 partner universities worldwide, including 80 within the Erasmus+ program.
Student life
Kiel University of Applied Sciences offers various housing options for students, including a dormitory at Eichenbergskamp 10 in Kiel-Dietrichsdorf, conveniently located next to the university's east campus. This dormitory provides 97 units in shared apartments, including two barrier-free rooms. All shared apartments have private showers/WCs, and rooms are available furnished or unfurnished. Amenities include internet, telephone, TV connections, washing machines, dryers, bicycle storage, and optional parking. The International Office serves as a central point of contact for international students, offering support and guidance for their studies and stay.
Fees
InternationalAs a German public university, FH Kiel charges no general tuition fees for either home or international students. Students pay only a semester contribution of roughly EUR 250-350, which typically includes a public transport ticket and student services.
HomeNo tuition fees; only the mandatory semester contribution (Semesterbeitrag) of approximately EUR 250-350 per semester.
LivingInternational students should budget around EUR 900-1,100 per month for rent, food, health insurance and personal expenses in Kiel; this figure also reflects the blocked-account amount required for a student visa.
While studying is essentially free, students must demonstrate sufficient funds (a blocked account of roughly EUR 11,900 per year) to obtain a German student visa.
Admissions
Bachelor's entryRecognised higher education entrance qualification (Hochschulzugangsberechtigung); applicants with non-EU qualifications may need to complete a Studienkolleg assessment.
German-taught programmesProof of German proficiency, typically DSH-2 or TestDaF level 4, is required for programmes taught in German.
IELTS6.0+ for English-taught programmes (varies by course)
TOEFL iBT80+ for English-taught programmes (varies by course)
Rankings
Carnegie/QS-style global rankingNot ranked among global research universities (university of applied sciences)
University scholarships
DeutschlandstipendiumEUR 300 per month
DAAD ScholarshipsMonthly stipend for international students and researchers (amount varies by programme)
Accreditation
Kiel University of Applied Sciences is a state-recognised public university of applied sciences in Germany; its degree programmes are accredited by German accreditation agencies under the national Accreditation Council system.
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 selectionScholarships
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 Kiel?
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As a German public university, Fachhochschule Kiel does not charge general tuition fees for international students. Students are only required to pay a semester contribution fee, which is approximately EUR 250-350 per semester and often includes a public transport ticket and student services.
What are the living costs for international students in Kiel?
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International students should budget approximately EUR 900-1,100 per month for living expenses in Kiel. This estimate covers rent, food, health insurance, and personal expenses, and aligns with the blocked account amount typically required for a German student visa.
What academic programs are offered at Fachhochschule Kiel?
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Fachhochschule Kiel offers a diverse range of approximately 40 Bachelor's and Master's degree programs. These programs are distributed across faculties such as Agriculture, Business Management, Computer Science & Electrical Engineering, Mechanical Engineering, Media, and Social Work & Health.
What are the admission requirements for international students?
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Admission requirements vary by program. Bachelor's applicants need a university entrance qualification recognized in Germany. For English-taught programs, a minimum IELTS score of 6.0 or TOEFL iBT of 80 is generally required, though this can vary by course.
Does Fachhochschule Kiel have international partnerships?
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Yes, Fachhochschule Kiel actively fosters international connections with over 100 partner universities worldwide. A significant portion of these, around 80, are within the Erasmus+ program, offering students ample opportunities for international exchange.
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