GERMANY · ERFURT (HQ) / FULLY ONLINE

IU Internationale Hochschule GmbH

private · Founded 1998 · Languages: de, en

In short

IU Internationale Hochschule is Germany's largest private university, offering over 250 online programmes in English and German. It provides flexible, affordable, and internationally recognised degrees with study options available from anywhere in the world.

Key facts

Type: Private
Founded: 1998
Students: 100,000
International students: 25,000
Acceptance rate: 80%
Tuition (intl): €3–10k/yr
Languages: DE, EN
Location: Erfurt (HQ) / Fully Online, Germany

For international students

Germany

Student 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.

SourcesStudy in Germany — Proof of financial resources · Make it in Germany — Studying and working · BAMF — To Germany as a graduate · Make it in Germany — Opportunity Card · DAAD — Admission requirements · DAAD — Costs of education and living

Programs

a selection

View top programs →

IU Internationale Hochschule GmbH · Germany

B.A. Architecture

This Bachelor of Arts in Architecture program is offered entirely online, allowing for flexible, time- and location-independent study. It covers architectural principles from artistic, technical, historical, and societal perspectives. You will explore fundamental areas like residential, urban, and commercial building design, and gain practical experience through design projects that incorporate future-oriented methods. The program concludes with a 16-week Creative Lab and a Bachelor's thesis, preparing you for professional practice. The curriculum is modular, with ECTS credits awarded for each completed module, ensuring international recognition. Please note that the program is currently not eligible for chamber accreditation.

IU Internationale Hochschule GmbH · Germany

B.Sc. Wirtschaftspsychologie / Industrial and Organizational Psychology

This program combines economic principles with psychological insights to help you understand human behavior in a business context. You will learn to apply psychological knowledge in practical business situations and integrate it with management skills. The curriculum is designed to equip you with the tools to analyze and influence economic actors, ultimately contributing to company success. Graduates are prepared for roles at the intersection of business and psychology.

IU Internationale Hochschule GmbH · Germany

Bachelor of Arts in Health Management (Distance Learning)

The IU International University of Applied Sciences offers a Bachelor of Arts in Health Management through distance learning, designed for individuals who wish to advance in the growing healthcare sector without interrupting their current careers or personal commitments. This program provides a flexible, fully digital learning experience, equipping students with the skills to actively shape the healthcare industry. It focuses on future-oriented subjects like artificial intelligence and health services research, preparing graduates for diverse roles in administration, consulting, and quality management within the healthcare field. Students benefit from a practice-oriented approach that addresses real-world challenges in health management. The program is accredited and state-recognized, ensuring excellent career prospects. A unique feature is the potential for credit recognition for prior vocational training, such as 'Kaufmann:frau im Gesundheitswesen' (Business Administrator in Healthcare), which can significantly reduce the study duration and cost by saving at least 50 ECTS credits.

IU Internationale Hochschule GmbH · Germany

Bachelor of Arts in Mediendesign

The Bachelor of Arts in Mediendesign program at IU Internationale Hochschule equips you with creative skills for designing compelling visual communication across various media. You will learn to develop cross-media strategies and concepts, focusing on areas such as web design, video editing, and app development. This program prepares you for diverse roles in advertising, media agencies, publishing, and broadcasting, enabling you to shape the visual identity of products, companies, and brands in both online and print formats. The curriculum emphasizes both theoretical knowledge of visual communication and practical project implementation using modern software, helping you build a strong design portfolio for career entry.

IU Internationale Hochschule GmbH · Germany

Bachelor of Business Administration (B.A.)

This flexible online Bachelor's program in Business Administration (Betriebswirtschaftslehre) is designed to equip you with strategic thinking and essential leadership skills. You can choose from several specializations to tailor your studies to your career aspirations. The program emphasizes practical application and prepares you for the challenges of the modern business world. You have the flexibility to study full-time or part-time, and you can start your studies anytime.

IU Internationale Hochschule GmbH · Germany

Bachelor of Engineering in Civil Engineering (Distance Learning)

This distance learning Bachelor of Engineering in Civil Engineering program prepares you for a career in the dynamic and ever-evolving construction industry. You will gain comprehensive knowledge in planning, construction, and implementation of various building projects, from residential and commercial structures to essential infrastructure like bridges and industrial facilities. The curriculum emphasizes sustainable building practices, modern technologies, and environmental considerations, equipping you to address the challenges of contemporary construction. The program fosters analytical thinking, teamwork, and leadership skills essential for collaborating with architects, developers, and authorities. Learning is delivered entirely online, offering flexibility to study anytime, anywhere, with 24/7 online examination options. You will benefit from a digital campus featuring innovative learning tools and AI-powered support. The program is state-accredited and designed to provide excellent career prospects upon graduation.

Scholarships

for Germany

Browse all scholarships →

full funding

The 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.

Munich 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.

Helmholtz-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.

Leibniz 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.

Forschungszentrum 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.

Alexander 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.

Frequently asked questions

What programmes does IU Internationale Hochschule offer?

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IU offers over 250 state-recognised Bachelor's and Master's programmes in English and German across fields like business, technology, health, design, law, and social sciences. These programmes are delivered predominantly online.

What are the tuition fees for international students?

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Tuition fees range from EUR 286–800 per month, depending on the programme and study duration model. The annual equivalent is approximately EUR 3,400–9,600, with instalment payment options available.

Are there any English language requirements for admission?

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For English-taught programmes, you typically need an IELTS score of 6.0 or a TOEFL iBT score of 80+. Native English speakers or those who have completed prior study in English may also be accepted.

Does IU offer scholarships or discounts?

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Yes, IU offers a scholarship programme providing up to a 30% tuition reduction for high-achieving students, based on merit. An early-bird discount is also available for students who enrol before the term starts.

How is student life at a primarily online university?

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IU facilitates community through a digital campus, virtual study groups, and an active student app. Students can also attend optional on-site events and examination centres across Germany.

IU Internationale Hochschule GmbH

Why study here

Student life

For international students