Choosing the right university is a crucial decision for international students. If you are considering studying in Germany, the University of Göttingen is a name that frequently comes up. Established in 1737, this prestigious institution is known for its research excellence, world-class faculty, and affordable tuition fees. However, understanding its acceptance rate, rankings, courses, and fees is essential before making a decision.
This guide provides international students with all the necessary details about the University of Göttingen, solving common concerns like admissions difficulty, tuition costs, and career opportunities after graduation.
Highlights
| Key Information | Details |
| Location | Göttingen, Germany |
| Founded | 1737 |
| Acceptance Rate | Approx. 15-20% (varies by program) |
| World Ranking | QS World University Ranking: ~200 |
| Popular Courses | Science, Business, Humanities, Medicine |
| Average Tuition Fees | Free for most programs (small semester fee applies) |
| Language of Instruction | German (some programs in English) |
| Scholarships Available | DAAD, Erasmus+, University Scholarships |
Acceptance Rate at the University of Göttingen
The University of Göttingen has an estimated acceptance rate of 15-20%, making it a competitive institution. Admissions are primarily based on academic performance, and some programs require additional entrance exams or interviews.
Admission Requirements:
- Undergraduate Programs: High school diploma equivalent to the German Abitur.
- Postgraduate Programs: Bachelor’s degree with strong academic performance.
- Language Proficiency:
- Additional Requirements: Some programs may require letters of recommendation, a statement of purpose, or research proposals.
Pro Tip: Competitive programs like medicine and law have stricter admission criteria, while STEM and humanities programs may have slightly higher acceptance rates.
University of Göttingen Rankings
The University of Göttingen is consistently ranked among the top 200 universities worldwide, especially recognized for its research in science and humanities.
| Ranking System | Rank |
| QS World University Rankings | ~200 |
| Times Higher Education | ~150-200 |
| Shanghai Ranking (ARWU) | ~100-150 |
| European University Rankings | Top 50 |
The university is highly regarded in fields like Physics, Biology, Medicine, Economics, and Law.
Courses Offered at the University of Göttingen
The university offers a wide range of undergraduate, postgraduate, and doctoral programs.
Popular Undergraduate Courses:
- B.Sc. in Physics
- B.A. in Political Science
- B.Sc. in Biology
- B.A. in History
- B.Sc. in Mathematics
Popular Postgraduate Courses:
- M.Sc. in Computer Science
- M.Sc. in Data Science
- M.A. in International Economics
- M.Sc. in Biochemistry
- LL.M. in International Law
Most undergraduate programs are in German, while many postgraduate courses are offered in English, making them more accessible to international students.
Tuition Fees and Living Costs
One of the biggest advantages of studying at the University of Göttingen is that tuition fees are either free or very low for most programs.
Cost Breakdown
| Expense | Average Cost (per semester/year) |
| Tuition Fees | Free (except some non-EU students) |
| Semester Contribution | €300 – €400 per semester |
| Accommodation | €300 – €600 per month |
| Food & Living Costs | €200 – €400 per month |
| Health Insurance | €110 – €120 per month |
| Public Transport | Included in semester fee (within Lower Saxony) |
Scholarships for International Students
- DAAD Scholarships: Covers tuition fees and living expenses.
- Erasmus+: For EU and some non-EU students.
- University of Göttingen Excellence Scholarships: Merit-based financial aid.
Pro Tip: Students can work part-time (up to 20 hours per week) to support their expenses, earning around €10-15 per hour.
Why Choose the University of Göttingen?
- Top-Ranked Research University: Strong focus on innovation and academic excellence.
- Affordable Education: Free tuition with minimal fees.
- Strong Industry Connections: Collaborations with global companies for internships and jobs.
- Diverse Student Community: Over 4,000 international students from 120+ countries.
- Post-Study Opportunities: Germany offers an 18-month post-study work visa for graduates.
How to Apply? Step-by-Step Guide
- Check the Eligibility Requirements
- Ensure you meet the academic and language criteria.
- Prepare Your Documents
- Include transcripts, CV, SOP, and recommendation letters.
- Apply Through Uni-Assist
- International students must apply via Uni-Assist or the university’s admission portal.
- Wait for Admission Decision
- Typically, decisions take 8-12 weeks.
- Apply for a Student Visa
- Non-EU students must apply for a German student visa (cost: ~€75).
- Find Accommodation
- Options include student dormitories or private apartments.
- Enroll at the University
- Complete enrollment, pay semester fees, and register for courses.
Conclusion
The University of Göttingen is a fantastic choice for international students looking for high-quality education at an affordable cost. With its competitive acceptance rate, strong rankings, diverse courses, and low living costs, it remains a top destination for students worldwide.
If you are ready to study in Germany and want an institution that values research, innovation, and career growth, the University of Göttingen is worth considering.
Thinking about applying? Start preparing your application today!