The University of Cologne (Universität zu Köln) is one of Germany’s largest and oldest universities, established in 1388. It is a public research university located in Cologne, North Rhine-Westphalia. The university is known for its strong research programs, international partnerships, and diverse academic offerings, particularly in business, law, social sciences, humanities, and natural sciences.
Does the University of Cologne Accept International Students?
Yes! The University of Cologne welcomes international students from all over the world. It offers several English-taught master’s and PhD programs, but most undergraduate courses are taught in German, requiring language proficiency.
Intakes
- Winter Semester (Main Intake) – October Start
- Application Deadline: April 15 – July 15 (varies by program)
- Summer Semester (Limited Programs) – April Start
- Application Deadline: October 15 – January 15
International students may have different deadlines for some programs.
Admission Requirements
| Program Level | Academic Requirements | Language Proficiency (English/German) |
|---|---|---|
| Undergraduate | High school diploma equivalent to the German Abitur (Studienkolleg may be required) | German-taught: TestDaF Level 4, DSH-2 English-taught: IELTS 6.5 / TOEFL 90 / PTE 62 |
| Postgraduate | Bachelor’s degree in a relevant field (some programs require GMAT/GRE) | English-taught: IELTS 6.5 / TOEFL 90 / PTE 62 German-taught: TestDaF Level 4, DSH-2 |
Some programs may require additional entrance exams or work experience.
Top Programs at the University of Cologne
Undergraduate Programs
- BA in Business Administration
- BA in Economics
- BSc in Psychology
- BSc in Biology
- BA in Political Science
Postgraduate Programs (Many available in English)
- MSc in International Management
- MSc in Economics
- MSc in Business Administration
- MSc in Data Science
- MSc in Biological Sciences
Tuition Fees at the University of Cologne
| Program Level | Tuition Fee (EUR) Per Semester |
|---|---|
| Undergraduate (EU/EEA students) | No tuition fees |
| Undergraduate (Non-EU students) | No tuition fees |
| Postgraduate (EU/EEA students) | No tuition fees |
| Postgraduate (Non-EU students) | No tuition fees |
| Semester Contribution | €300 – €350 per semester (includes public transport ticket) |
⚠️ Note: All fees and amounts can change anytime.
Scholarships for International Students at the University of Cologne
⚠️ Note: Scholarship amounts and eligibility can change anytime.
1. Deutschlandstipendium (Germany Scholarship)
- Eligibility: High-achieving students with excellent academic records.
- Amount: €300 per month.
- Renewable: Yes, based on academic performance.
2. University of Cologne Scholarships for International Students
- Eligibility: International students with strong academic achievements and financial need.
- Amount: €250 – €850 per month.
- Renewable: Yes, based on performance and financial situation.
3. DAAD Scholarships (German Academic Exchange Service)
- Eligibility: International students pursuing master’s or PhD degrees.
- Amount: €850 – €1,200 per month + travel & living expenses.
- Renewable: Yes, for 1–2 years.
Why Choose the University of Cologne?
- Ranked among Germany’s top universities for business, social sciences, and natural sciences
- No tuition fees for most programs, making it affordable for international students
- Strong research focus with global collaborations and modern facilities
- Located in Cologne, a vibrant city with a high quality of life and job opportunities
- Excellent internship, networking, and career prospects in Germany and beyond
The University of Cologne is a great choice for students looking for a prestigious, research-driven education in Germany with affordable costs and strong career opportunities!
