In short
Fachhochschule Mainz (FH Mainz) is a public university of applied sciences in Germany offering practice-oriented programs in Architecture, Business, Civil Engineering, and Design. It provides an international study environment with strong industry links and virtually tuition-free education, with only a semester contribution fee.
Key facts
- Type
- Public
- Founded
- 1971
- Students
- 5,473
- International students
- 600
- Acceptance rate
- 75%
- Tuition (intl)
- €2–3k/yr
- Languages
- GERMAN, ENGLISH
- Location
- Germany
Mainz University of Applied Sciences (FH Mainz) is a public university of applied sciences in Mainz, Germany, offering practice-oriented bachelor and master programs in Architecture, Civil Engineering, Business, and Design. Founded in 1971, it enrolls approximately 5,500 students and is known for strong industry links, applied research, and an international study environment. The university's compact campus fosters close contact between students and faculty, while its location in the Rhine-Main region provides excellent professional networking opportunities.
Why study here
- Practice-oriented programs with direct industry connections and project-based learning.
- Located in Mainz, a vibrant university city in one of Germany's strongest economic regions.
- Manageable class sizes allow close mentoring and hands-on faculty engagement.
- International exchange partnerships and English-medium modules support global career paths.
- Virtually tuition-free education (only a small semester fee applies) for all students.
Student life
FH Mainz students enjoy a lively campus atmosphere in the heart of Mainz, a city famous for its rich culture, wine festivals, and proximity to Frankfurt. The student union organises events, sports, and social activities throughout the year. Students have access to the city's excellent public transport network, libraries, and affordable canteen meals. The Rhineland-Palatinate student services organisation provides affordable housing in nearby dormitories.
Fees
InternationalApprox. EUR 1,500-3,000 per year in semester fees; no formal tuition fees for EU/non-EU students in most programs.
HomeSemester contribution of approx. EUR 300 (includes public transport pass and student services).
LivingMonthly living costs in Mainz are estimated at EUR 700-950, covering rent, food, and transport.
Some international master programs may charge additional program fees. Check the FH Mainz website for current fee schedules.
Admissions
Undergraduate entryGerman Abitur or equivalent international qualification (country-specific recognition may apply)
Postgraduate entryRelevant bachelor's degree in a related discipline with sufficient GPA
IELTS6.0 for English-taught programs
TOEFL iBT80 for English-taught programs
University scholarships
DAAD ScholarshipsVaries (German Academic Exchange Service funding for international students)
DeutschlandstipendiumEUR 300/month for high-achieving students
Accreditation
Accredited by the German Accreditation Council (ACQUIN/AQAS); recognized state university in Rhineland-Palatinate.
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 annual fees for international students at Fachhochschule Mainz?
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International students can expect to pay approximately EUR 1,500-3,000 per year in semester fees. Fachhochschule Mainz does not charge formal tuition fees for most programs, regardless of EU or non-EU status. Some international master's programs may have additional fees.
What is the estimated cost of living for students in Mainz?
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Monthly living costs in Mainz are estimated to be between EUR 700 and EUR 950. This estimate covers essential expenses such as rent, food, and transportation.
What are the English language proficiency requirements for English-taught programs?
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For admission to English-taught programs, applicants typically need an IELTS score of 6.0 or a TOEFL iBT score of 80. It is always recommended to check specific program requirements on the university website.
Does Fachhochschule Mainz offer scholarships for international students?
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Yes, international students may be eligible for scholarships such as DAAD Scholarships, which offer varying funding amounts, and the Deutschlandstipendium, providing EUR 300 per month for high-achieving students.
What kind of programs are offered at Fachhochschule Mainz?
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Fachhochschule Mainz offers practice-oriented bachelor and master programs primarily in the fields of Architecture, Civil Engineering, Business, and Design. These programs are known for their strong industry connections and applied research.
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