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In short
Kirchliche Hochschule Bethel was a tuition-free college focused on Protestant theology, known for its close-knit community and ties to the Bethel charitable mission. Its programs continue under the merged Kirchliche Hochschule Wuppertal/Bethel.
Key facts
- Type
- Private
- Founded
- 1905
- Students
- 250
- International students
- 25
- Acceptance rate
- 70%
- Tuition (intl)
- €1–2k/yr
- Languages
- GERMAN
- Location
- Germany
Kirchliche Hochschule Bethel (KiHo Bethel) was a church-maintained university college of Protestant theology in Bielefeld-Bethel, Germany, founded in 1905. Closely linked to the charitable Bethel Institution, it specialised in theological scholarship and the training of pastors and church workers in a small, intensive academic setting. In 2007 it merged with the Kirchliche Hochschule Wuppertal to form the Kirchliche Hochschule Wuppertal/Bethel.
Why study here
- Specialist focus on Protestant theology and pastoral training
- Small institution with close student-faculty contact
- Strong ties to the renowned Bethel charitable and diaconal mission
- Tuition-free education typical of German church-maintained colleges
- Tradition continued through the Kirchliche Hochschule Wuppertal/Bethel
Student life
Students experienced an intimate, community-oriented campus life within the Bethel district of Bielefeld, shaped by the social and diaconal mission of the von Bodelschwingh Foundations. Theological study was complemented by close engagement with congregational and charitable work.
Fees
InternationalNo tuition fees typical of German church-maintained colleges; only modest semester contributions apply
HomeTuition-free for German and international students alike
LivingLiving costs in Bielefeld of roughly EUR 9,000-11,000 per year
Programmes are now continued under the Kirchliche Hochschule Wuppertal/Bethel following the 2007 merger.
Admissions
Secondary qualificationAbitur or recognised equivalent for university entry
Language skillsTheological study often requires Latin, Greek and Hebrew (Graecum, Hebraicum, Latinum)
German proficiencyStrong German language ability required for instruction
NoteInstruction is in German; German-language proficiency is required
University scholarships
Church and diaconal study grantsSupport via the Protestant Church and foundations
Accreditation
State-recognised church-maintained university college (kirchliche Hochschule); merged into the Kirchliche Hochschule Wuppertal/Bethel in 2007.
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
Is there tuition for international students at Kirchliche Hochschule Bethel?
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Kirchliche Hochschule Bethel, as a church-maintained college, does not charge tuition fees for German or international students. Only modest semester contributions are typically required.
What is the academic focus of Kirchliche Hochschule Bethel?
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The university college specialized in Protestant theology, focusing on theological scholarship and the training of pastors and church workers within an intensive academic setting.
What are the living costs for students in Bielefeld?
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Students can expect living costs in Bielefeld to be approximately EUR 9,000-11,000 per year.
Are there any language requirements for studying at Kirchliche Hochschule Bethel?
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Instruction was conducted in German, requiring strong German language proficiency. Theological study may also necessitate knowledge of Latin, Greek, and Hebrew.
What happened to Kirchliche Hochschule Bethel after 2007?
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Kirchliche Hochschule Bethel merged with Kirchliche Hochschule Wuppertal in 2007 to form the Kirchliche Hochschule Wuppertal/Bethel, continuing its tradition.
Last updated