University of Bayreuth
Bayreuth, Germany
University of Bayreuth
Bayreuth, Germany
Founded
1975
Institution Type
Public Research University
Total Students
~13,500
Faculties
7
Discover the University of Bayreuth: A Young, Dynamic Research University
Discover the University of Bayreuth: A Young, Dynamic Research University
The University of Bayreuth is a public research university established in 1975 in the Bavarian city of Bayreuth. Founded with an explicit interdisciplinary mission, it has grown from 637 students in its first semester to approximately 13,500 students enrolled in over 160 degree programmes across seven faculties today.
The university is a member of the Elite Network of Bavaria and hosts the Cluster of Excellence Africa Multiple, placing it among only six Bavarian universities with excellence clusters. Its research strengths span polymer and colloid science, African studies, ecology and environmental sciences, high-pressure geophysics, and energy materials including the Bavarian Center for Battery Technology (BayBatt).
As a compact campus university, Bayreuth fosters close collaboration between disciplines and offers students from over 100 countries a supportive learning environment. Several master's and doctoral programmes are taught entirely in English, and the university maintains over 300 strategic international partnerships worldwide.
Key Milestones
- 1972: Established by the Bavarian Parliament as the seventh Bavarian state university on 1 January 1972.
- 1975: Opened for teaching and research in the winter semester 1975/76 with 637 students and 25 professors.
- 2007: Bayreuth International Graduate School of African Studies (BIGSAS) selected for the German Excellence Initiative.
- 2019: Cluster of Excellence Africa Multiple launched; seventh faculty (Life Sciences: Food, Nutrition and Health) established in Kulmbach.
Academic Structure and Faculties
Academic Structure and Faculties
The University of Bayreuth is organized into seven faculties that emphasize interdisciplinary research and teaching. Each faculty sets its own admission standards and offers programmes at the bachelor's, master's, and doctoral levels, many with a strong international orientation.
Faculty of Mathematics, Physics and Computer Science
This faculty covers fundamental and applied research in mathematics, physics, and computer science, with particular strengths in nonlinear dynamics and experimental physics.
- B.Sc. Mathematics
- B.Sc. Physics
- M.Sc. Computer Science
Faculty of Biology, Chemistry and Earth Sciences
Combining the life and earth sciences, this faculty is home to renowned research in ecology, geosciences, and polymer chemistry, including the Bavarian Geoinstitute (BGI).
- B.Sc. Biology
- M.Sc. Global Change Ecology
- M.Sc. Polymer Science
Faculty of Law, Business and Economics
Ranked among the top 175 worldwide for Business and Economics by THE, this faculty offers innovative programmes blending law, economics, and management studies.
- B.A. Philosophy and Economics
- LL.B. German and English Law
- M.Sc. Health Economics
Faculty of Languages and Literatures
This faculty focuses on linguistics, literary studies, and intercultural communication, with a strong emphasis on African languages and English/American studies.
- B.A. English and American Studies
- B.A. Theatre and Media Studies
- M.A. Intercultural Studies
Faculty of Humanities and Social Sciences
Covering philosophy, history, sociology, sports science, and education, this faculty has won the European Award for Excellence in Teaching in the Social Sciences and Humanities.
- B.A. History
- M.A. Development Studies
- B.Sc. Sports Economics
Faculty of Engineering Science
Renamed from the Faculty of Applied Natural Sciences in 2013, this faculty specializes in materials science, energy technology, and advanced manufacturing including biofabrication.
- B.Sc. Engineering Science
- M.Sc. Biofabrication
- M.Sc. Battery Materials and Technology
Admission Requirements for International Students
Admission Requirements for International Students
Undergraduate Admission
- Secondary EducationRecognized secondary school diploma equivalent to the German Abitur (Hochschulzugangsberechtigung)
- German LanguageDSH-2 or TestDaF (TDN 4 in all sections) for German-taught programmes
- English LanguageIELTS or TOEFL required for English-taught programmes
- Application PortalApply via uni-assist for international credential evaluation
- Application FeeEUR 75 via uni-assist
Graduate Admission
- Bachelor's DegreeRecognized bachelor's degree in a relevant field with strong academic standing
- Language ProficiencyEnglish: IELTS 6.5+ or TOEFL 80+ for English-taught programmes; German: DSH-2 or equivalent for German-taught programmes
- Standardized TestsGRE or GMAT may be required for select programmes; check individual programme requirements
- Supporting DocumentsCV, motivation letter, academic transcripts, letters of recommendation
- Application PortalOnline application via the university portal or uni-assist
Application deadline for programmes starting in April. Some programmes may have earlier deadlines.
Application deadline for programmes starting in October. This is the main intake for most programmes.
Programmes with Numerus Clausus may have separate earlier deadlines. Check the specific programme page.
PhD positions are typically advertised individually. Contact the relevant faculty or research group directly.
Tuition Fees and Scholarships
Tuition Fees and Scholarships
As a public university in Bavaria, the University of Bayreuth does not charge tuition fees for most degree programmes, regardless of nationality. Students pay only a modest semester contribution covering administrative services, the student union, and a semester transport ticket.
| Cost Component | German/EU Students | International Students |
|---|---|---|
| Tuition Fees | EUR 0 | EUR 0 |
| Semester Contribution | ~EUR 130 per semester | ~EUR 130 per semester |
| Health Insurance (est.) | ~EUR 630 per semester | ~EUR 630 per semester |
| Living Expenses (est.) | ~EUR 5,500 per semester | ~EUR 5,500 per semester |
| Total | ~EUR 6,260 per semester | ~EUR 6,260 per semester |
DAAD Scholarships
The German Academic Exchange Service (DAAD) offers a range of scholarships for international students at all levels, covering living expenses and travel costs for study in Germany.
- Coverage: Monthly stipend, health insurance, travel allowance
- Eligibility: International students with strong academic records
- Application: Apply via the DAAD portal; deadlines vary by programme
Deutschlandstipendium (Germany Scholarship)
A merit-based scholarship funded jointly by the federal government and private sponsors, awarded to high-achieving students regardless of nationality.
- Amount: EUR 300 per month
- Duration: Minimum two semesters, renewable
- Criteria: Academic excellence and social engagement
Campus and Facilities
Campus and Facilities
The University of Bayreuth's modern campus spans approximately 82 hectares and is organized around the iconic Rondell, a central circular plaza connecting lecture halls, research institutes, and the library. A second campus in nearby Kulmbach hosts the Faculty of Life Sciences: Food, Nutrition and Health.
The heart of campus life, connecting all major buildings with radiating pathways.
Founded in 1978, the garden serves as both a research facility and a public green space.
The central library provides extensive print and digital resources across all disciplines.
Housing and Dining
Student Housing
The Studentenwerk Oberfranken operates several residence halls near campus. A room in a shared apartment in Bayreuth averages around EUR 390 per month, making it the most affordable Bavarian university city.
- Multiple dormitories within walking distance of campus
- Private shared flats (WG) widely available
- Alexander von Humboldt Guest House for visiting researchers
Dining Options
The campus Mensa (cafeteria) operated by Studentenwerk Oberfranken offers affordable daily meals. Additional cafes and a Fresh Room provide snacks and beverages throughout the day.
- Main Mensa with daily rotating menus
- Fresh Room for quick meals and coffee
- Cafeteria at the Kulmbach campus for Life Sciences students
Student Life at the University of Bayreuth
Student Life at the University of Bayreuth
Campus life at the University of Bayreuth is vibrant and community-oriented, benefiting from the compact campus layout that brings students from all disciplines together. The Glashaus, a nationally recognized student-run event venue, hosts live music and cultural events year-round.
Bayreuth: A Cultural Gem in Upper Franconia
Bayreuth: A Cultural Gem in Upper Franconia
Living in Bayreuth
Bayreuth is a small yet culturally rich city in Upper Franconia, Bavaria, famous worldwide for the annual Richard Wagner Festival. With affordable living costs, picturesque baroque architecture, and easy access to nature, it offers students an excellent quality of life in a welcoming community of around 75,000 residents.
Richard Wagner Festival
The world-renowned Bayreuth Festival draws opera enthusiasts from across the globe each summer to the historic Festspielhaus.
Margravial Opera House
A UNESCO World Heritage Site and masterpiece of baroque theatre architecture, located in the city center.
Fichtel Mountains
Just 50 km east of Bayreuth, the Fichtel Mountains offer hiking, skiing, and outdoor recreation throughout the year.
Affordable Living
With average shared-flat rents around EUR 390 per month, Bayreuth is the most affordable university city in Bavaria.
Career Outcomes and Alumni Network
Career Outcomes and Alumni Network
Career Services and Industry Partners
Practical Information for International Students
Practical Information for International Students
For International Students
The International Office provides comprehensive support including visa guidance, orientation programmes, buddy services, and assistance with administrative procedures for students from over 100 countries.
The university's Language Centre offers German language courses at all levels, helping international students integrate into local culture and expand their academic opportunities.
Dedicated welcome services help international guests with housing search, registration, insurance, and settling into life in Bayreuth and the surrounding region.
Key Contacts
- +90 5435286292
- +44 7868736984
- corporate@uni4edu.com
- info@uni4edu.com
University of Bayreuth: Worldwide Rankings
University of Bayreuth: Worldwide Rankings
The University of Bayreuth consistently ranks among the top universities globally and is recognized as one of Germany's most successful young universities. It performs particularly well in sustainability, faculty-to-student ratio, and international research networks.
| Subject | Ranking Body | Rank |
|---|---|---|
| Business and Economics | THE Subject Ranking | #151-175 |
| Environmental Science | EduRank | #388 (World), #24 (Germany) |
| Arts and Humanities | THE Subject Ranking | #251-300 |
| Physics | EduRank | #404 (World), #34 (Germany) |
Features
Key Features:\nResearch Excellence: The university is well-regarded for its research in natural sciences, economics, law, cultural studies, and African studies. It hosts several interdisciplinary research centers and graduate schools.\n\nInternational Orientation: About 17% of the student body is international. The university offers many English-taught programs and maintains numerous international academic partnerships.\n\nInterdisciplinary Teaching: Bayreuth promotes unique subject combinations, encouraging collaboration across disciplines. Programs like Philosophy & Economics or Sport, Business & Law exemplify this approach.\n\nModern, Green Campus: The campus is compact, walkable, and environmentally friendly, featuring facilities like the Ecological-Botanical Garden and modern research infrastructure.\n\nAcademic Staff: Over 1,600 academic staff members, including more than 280 professors, provide high-quality teaching and research supervision.\n\nGlobal Recognition: The university ranks in t
Accommodation
The university assists students in finding accommodation, especially for international and first-year students. Options include:\nStudent dormitories managed by Studentenwerk Oberfranken\nPrivate housing support via online platforms and bulletin boards\nShort-term and emergency housing help\nThe university does not guarantee housing, but provides guidance and resources to help students secure it.
Work While Studying
2. Students Can Work While Studying\nYes, students are allowed to work while studying. In Germany:\n\nInternational students from outside the EU can work 120 full days or 240 half days per year without needing a special permit.\n\nPart-time jobs on campus (e.g., research assistants or tutors) are common.\n\nThe university provides job listings and support through its Career Services and Job Portal.
Co-op/Internship Participation
Internship Services\nThe university offers a dedicated Career Services unit that supports students in finding internships:\n\nAssistance with finding mandatory and voluntary internships\n\nListings of internships in Germany and abroad\n\nHelp with CV writing, applications, and interview preparation\n\nStrong ties with regional and international employers
Featured Programmes
Average Time To Receive Acceptance Letter
January - July
Location
The University of Bayreuth is located at Universitätsstraße 30, 95447 Bayreuth, Germany. It’s the main campus, featuring modern facilities and green spaces like the Ecological-Botanical Garden. The campus is easily accessible by public transport and car, with central administration and key departments nearby.\n
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