University of Bremen - Uni4edu

University of Bremen

Bremen, Germany

University of Bremen campus wide aerial view showing modern concrete and glass faculty buildings surrounded by lush green parkland, the Technology Park visible in the background, flat North German landscape under a clear blue sky

University of Bremen

Bremen, Germany

Founded

1971

Institution Type

Public Research University

Total Students

23,000+

International Students

3,000+

Discover the University of Bremen: A Leading German Research University

Founded in 1971 as a reform university, the University of Bremen (Universität Bremen) has grown from a small teacher-training institution with just 459 students into one of Germany's foremost public research universities. Today, around 23,000 people learn, teach, research, and work on its international campus, which offers well over 100 degree programs across 12 faculties.

The university was designated a University of Excellence in 2012 — one of only 11 German institutions to receive this prestigious recognition. Its research profile is shaped by interdisciplinary high-profile areas including marine, polar, and climate research; social change and social policy; materials science; minds, media, and machines; and health sciences.

As a member of the YUFE (Young Universities for the Future of Europe) alliance and the International Universities Climate Alliance (IUCA), the University of Bremen is deeply embedded in global academic networks. Its campus is surrounded by the Technology Park Bremen, one of Germany's most advanced science parks, hosting over 400 enterprises and 6,000 employees.

Key Milestones

  • 1971: University founded as a reform university; first semester begins with 459 students focused on teacher training.
  • 1986: Accepted into the German Research Foundation (DFG), marking its transition to a recognized research university.
  • 2012: Awarded the title University of Excellence under Germany's Excellence Initiative — one of only 11 institutions nationwide.
  • 2018: Joined the YUFE (Young Universities for the Future of Europe) alliance to help create one of the first European Universities.

Academic Structure and Faculties

The University of Bremen comprises 12 faculties covering a broad spectrum of disciplines from natural sciences and engineering to humanities and social sciences. With over 100 bachelor's, master's, and doctoral programs — many taught in English — the university emphasizes interdisciplinary cooperation and research-based learning.

Faculty of Physics and Electrical Engineering

Combines fundamental physics research with applied electrical engineering, hosting cutting-edge laboratories and close ties to the ZARM Center for Applied Space Technology and Microgravity.

  • B.Sc. Physics
  • M.Sc. Space Engineering
  • M.Sc. Space Sciences and Technologies

Faculty of Biology and Chemistry

Offers programs in the life sciences with a strong research focus on marine biology, biochemistry, and molecular biology, leveraging proximity to MARUM and the Leibniz Centre for Tropical Marine Research.

  • B.Sc. Biology
  • M.Sc. Marine Biology
  • M.Sc. Biochemistry and Molecular Biology

Faculty of Mathematics and Computer Science

Provides rigorous training in mathematics, computer science, and digital media, with research strengths in artificial intelligence, data science, and human-computer interaction.

  • B.Sc. Computer Science
  • M.Sc. Digital Media
  • B.Sc. Mathematics

Faculty of Geosciences

Home to the internationally renowned MARUM Center for Marine Environmental Sciences, this faculty leads groundbreaking research in oceanography, climate science, and Earth system science.

  • B.Sc. Geosciences
  • M.Sc. Marine Geosciences
  • M.Sc. Environmental Physics

Faculty of Business Studies and Economics

Offers comprehensive programs in business administration, economics, and management with a focus on innovation, entrepreneurship, and international business within the Bremen economic region.

  • B.Sc. Business Administration
  • M.Sc. Business Administration
  • B.A. Economics

Faculty of Social Sciences

Renowned for its research on social policy, welfare state analysis, and political science, this faculty is closely linked to the Bremen International Graduate School of Social Sciences (BIGSSS).

  • B.A. Political Science
  • M.A. Sociology and Social Research
  • M.A. Digital Media and Society

Admission Requirements for International Students

Undergraduate Admission

  • Academic QualificationSecondary school certificate equivalent to German Abitur; assessed via uni-assist (VPD)
  • German ProficiencyDSH-2, TestDaF 4x4, or equivalent (for German-taught programs)
  • English ProficiencyIELTS 6.5+ or TOEFL iBT 80+ (for English-taught programs)
  • Application PortalApply via uni-assist for preliminary document review (VPD), then submit to the university portal
  • Required DocumentsCertified transcripts, school leaving certificate, language certificates, CV, and certified translations
Some programs have a numerus clausus (NC) with limited places allocated by GPA. International students should apply well in advance as uni-assist processing takes approximately four weeks.

Graduate Admission

  • Academic QualificationRecognized bachelor's degree in a relevant field with strong academic performance
  • English ProficiencyIELTS 6.5-7.0 or TOEFL iBT 90-95 depending on program
  • German ProficiencyDSH-2 or equivalent for German-taught programs; not required for English-taught programs
  • Application PortalApply directly online via the university's master's application portal
  • Required DocumentsBachelor's degree certificate, transcripts, CV, motivation letter, letters of recommendation, language certificates
Master's students can only submit one application for one program at a time. Applications open approximately six weeks before the deadline. Some programs may require aptitude tests.
July 15
Winter Semester (International)

Application deadline for international students applying to programs starting in October.

January 15
Summer Semester (International)

Application deadline for international students applying to programs starting in April. Note: not all programs accept summer semester admissions.

May - June
uni-assist VPD Submission

Recommended period to submit documents to uni-assist for preliminary review, allowing four weeks of processing time before the July 15 deadline.

October / April
Semester Start Dates

Winter semester begins in October and summer semester begins in April. Orientation programs for international students are held shortly before each semester start.

Tuition Fees, Semester Costs, and Scholarships

As a public university in Germany, the University of Bremen does not charge tuition fees for national or international students. Students are only required to pay a semester contribution that covers administrative costs and a public transport ticket valid nationwide.

Cost CategoryEU/EEA StudentsNon-EU/EEA Students
Tuition Fees (per semester)EUR 0EUR 0
Semester Contribution~EUR 430~EUR 430
Health Insurance (per month)~EUR 120~EUR 120
Living Expenses (per month)~EUR 820~EUR 820
Total~EUR 430 per semester + ~EUR 820/month living costs~EUR 430 per semester + ~EUR 820/month living costs

DAAD Scholarships

The German Academic Exchange Service (DAAD) offers a range of scholarships for international students at all academic levels, covering living expenses, travel costs, and insurance.

  • Coverage: Monthly stipend, travel allowance, health insurance
  • Eligibility: International students with strong academic records
  • Application: Apply via the DAAD portal; deadlines vary by program

Erasmus+ Exchange Scholarships

Through the Erasmus+ program, exchange students from partner universities can receive mobility grants to study at the University of Bremen for one or two semesters.

  • Coverage: Monthly mobility grant for living expenses
  • Eligibility: Students enrolled at an Erasmus+ partner university
  • Duration: One or two semesters of exchange study

Campus and Facilities at the University of Bremen

The University of Bremen features a modern, compact, and green campus located in the northeast of the city in Bremen-Horn. The campus is directly adjacent to the Technology Park Bremen, one of Germany's largest science and technology parks, creating a vibrant ecosystem of research, innovation, and learning.

Housing and Dining

Student Housing

The Studierendenwerk Bremen provides student residences close to campus. Private housing options and shared apartments are also available through university-affiliated agencies.

  • Six student residence halls at various city locations
  • Shared flats (WG) and individual apartments available
  • Exchange students receive housing support from the International Office

Dining and Services

The campus features multiple cafeterias (Mensa), cafes, and restaurants operated by Studierendenwerk Bremen, offering affordable meals for students.

  • Central Mensa with daily hot meals and vegetarian options
  • Several campus cafes and coffee shops
  • Shops, bank, and insurance services on campus

Student Life at the University of Bremen

Student life at the University of Bremen is enriched by a diverse and international community, with students from over 100 nations on campus. Numerous clubs, cultural events, workshops, and social activities create a vibrant atmosphere that extends well beyond the classroom.

Clubs and Organizations

The university hosts a wide range of student-led clubs and organizations spanning academic, cultural, social, and recreational interests, providing platforms for personal growth and community engagement.

Academic and Research Groups

Student-led academic societies organize seminars, study groups, and research discussions across various disciplines, fostering intellectual exchange.

Cultural and International Associations

International student groups and cultural associations celebrate diversity through intercultural events, language exchanges, and national festivals organized by the Kompass team.

Social and Political Engagement

Rooted in the university's reform tradition, student political groups and social initiatives address sustainability, social justice, and community service.

Arts, Music, and Creative Groups

Theater groups, music ensembles, and creative collectives offer students opportunities to explore artistic expression and organize campus performances.

University Sports (Hochschulsport)

German University Sports Federation (adh) — Partner University of Elite Sports

  • Football (Soccer)
  • Swimming
  • Fitness and Strength Training
  • Dance (Zumba, Jazz, Afrobeats)
  • Tennis
  • Yoga and Wellness
Member of the German University Sports Federation (adh)

Bremen: A Historic Hanseatic City on the River Weser

Bremen city skyline featuring the historic Town Hall and Roland statue on the Marktplatz, St. Peter's Cathedral spires, the Weser River in the foreground, traditional Hanseatic architecture, warm golden hour lighting
Bremen's UNESCO World Heritage Market Square with the historic Town Hall and Roland statue

Living in Bremen

Bremen is a vibrant Hanseatic city with around 570,000 inhabitants, beautifully situated on the River Weser in Northern Germany. With over 1,200 years of history, affordable living costs, excellent public transport, and a thriving cultural scene, it offers an outstanding quality of life for students.

UNESCO World Heritage Site

Bremen's historic Market Square features the Town Hall and Roland statue, both designated as a UNESCO World Heritage Site, alongside the famous Bremen Town Musicians bronze statue.

Affordable Cost of Living

Average monthly expenses including rent, food, and essentials are approximately EUR 820, making Bremen one of the more affordable major cities in Germany for students.

Green and Bike-Friendly

Bremen is known as a green cycling city with extensive bike paths, parks, and waterfront areas along the Weser, making it easy and enjoyable to get around without a car.

Cultural Hub

From the medieval Schnoor quarter to modern theaters, museums, and year-round festivals, Bremen offers a rich cultural experience blending historic charm with contemporary creativity.

Career Outcomes and Alumni Network

88%
Employment Rate
Within six to eight months of graduation
EUR 56,000
Average Starting Salary
Annual salary for recent graduates
600+
Partner Universities
Global academic and industry network

Where Graduates Work

Airbus Defence and Space Mercedes-Benz Group German Aerospace Center (DLR) Alfred Wegener Institute Siemens AG Fraunhofer Society Max Planck Society OHB System AG

Practical Information for International Students

For International Students

International Office

The International Office assists with admissions, visa support, orientation programs, and integration services. They also offer the VisaFlow platform to help with visa and residence permit applications.

Language Center (SZHB)

The Languages Centre of the Universities in the Land of Bremen offers German language courses at all levels, as well as courses in other languages for both international and local students.

Career Center and Mind The Gap!

The Career Center, a joint initiative with the German Federal Employment Agency, provides career coaching, internship listings, and job fairs. The Mind The Gap! project specifically helps international students enter the German job market.

Key Contacts

International Office — University of Bremen
  • +90 5435286292
  • +44 7868736984
  • corporate@uni4edu.com
  • info@uni4edu.com

University of Bremen: Worldwide Rankings

The University of Bremen holds strong positions in international university rankings, reflecting its research excellence, particularly in marine sciences, geosciences, and social sciences. Its designation as a University of Excellence underscores its standing among Germany's top research institutions.

QS World University Rankings
#530
2026
Times Higher Education (THE)
#301-350
2026
US News Global Universities
#601
2025
Shanghai (ARWU)
#501-600
2025
SubjectRanking BodyRank
Marine and Freshwater BiologyUS News#49
Meteorology and Atmospheric SciencesUS News#54
GeosciencesUS News#67
SociologyQS World Rankings by Subject#101
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1495
Graduate Students
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2289
Academic Stuf
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18335
Students
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Instution Type

Features

The University of Bremen is a modern, research-focused university located in Bremen, Germany. It offers a wide range of programs in natural sciences, engineering, social sciences, and humanities. Known for its interdisciplinary approach, the university fosters innovation through strong collaborations with research institutes and industry. It features a vibrant campus life with numerous student services, including affordable on-campus housing options. The university supports international students with tailored programs and language courses. Bremen’s dynamic city environment, combined with excellent public transport and affordable living, makes it an attractive place to study and live.

Accommodation

Accommodation

Yes, accommodation is available for students at the University of Bremen.

Work While Studying

Work While Studying

Yes, students can work 20 hours per week.

Co-op/Internship Participation

Co-op/Internship Participation

Yes, students can work 20 hours per week.

Featured Programmes

Bachelor's Degree

36 months

Economics

location

University of Bremen, Bremen, Germany

Earliest Intake

May 2026

Gross Tuition

851 €

Master's & Postgraduate

24 months

Business Studies

location

University of Bremen, Bremen, Germany

Earliest Intake

December 2025

Gross Tuition

851 €

Bachelor's Degree

36 months

Business Studies

location

University of Bremen, Bremen, Germany

Earliest Intake

December 2025

Gross Tuition

851 €

Average Time To Receive Acceptance Letter

May - July

December - January

Location

Bibliothekstraße 1, 28359 Bremen, Germany

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