University of Erfurt
Erfurt, Germany
University of Erfurt
Erfurt, Germany
Founded
1379
Institution Type
Public
Total Students
~6,000
Tuition Fees
None (semester fee only)
Discover the University of Erfurt: Germany's Oldest and Youngest University
Discover the University of Erfurt: Germany's Oldest and Youngest University
The University of Erfurt is a public university located in the capital city of Thuringia, Germany. Originally founded in 1379, it holds the distinction of being considered the oldest university in present-day Germany, predating Heidelberg (1385) and Cologne (1388). After being closed in 1816 under Prussian rule, it was re-established in 1994 following German reunification, making it simultaneously one of the country's youngest modern institutions.
The university operates as a liberal arts institution with a reformed and socio-cultural profile, focusing on the humanities, social sciences, education, and theology. Its four faculties and affiliated research centers, including the prestigious Max Weber Center for Advanced Cultural and Social Studies and the Willy Brandt School of Public Policy, promote interdisciplinary research and teaching. The university's mentoring system, required general education program, and integrated career orientation make it a model for other institutions.
With approximately 6,000 students and around 100 professorships, the University of Erfurt offers an intimate academic environment on a modern campus just a short walk from Erfurt's beautifully preserved medieval old town. The university is notable for having no general tuition fees, and its affordable cost of living makes it an attractive destination for both domestic and international students seeking a high-quality education in the heart of Germany.
Key Milestones
- 1379: Pope Clemens VII grants the founding privilege, establishing the University of Erfurt as the oldest university in present-day Germany.
- 1501: Martin Luther enrolls at the University of Erfurt to study Liberal Arts, later becoming one of history's most influential figures.
- 1994: The university is re-founded by the Thuringian State Government following German reunification, with lectures beginning in 1999.
- 2001: The Erfurt Teachers' Training College (Pädagogische Hochschule Erfurt) is integrated into the university, expanding its educational mission.
Academic Structure and Faculties
Academic Structure and Faculties
The University of Erfurt organizes its academic programs across four faculties and several specialized research institutes, following a liberal arts model that is unique in the German university landscape. With a strong emphasis on interdisciplinary learning, the university offers Bachelor's, Master's, and doctoral programs primarily in the humanities, social sciences, education, and theology.
Faculty of Philosophy
The largest faculty at the university, covering a broad range of disciplines in the humanities including history, literature, languages, and cultural studies with a strong interdisciplinary focus.
- History
- Literary Studies
- Philosophy
Faculty of Education
Focuses on educational science, teacher training, and pedagogical research. The faculty is central to the university's profile as a leading institution for education studies in Germany.
- Primary Education
- Special Needs Education
- Educational Science
Faculty of Economics, Law and Social Sciences
Offers programs spanning political science, sociology, economics, management, and communication studies, preparing students for careers in public service, media, and the private sector.
- Communication Science
- International Relations
- Management
Faculty of Catholic Theology
One of the few Catholic theology faculties in eastern Germany, offering programs in theology and religious studies with an ecumenical and interreligious perspective.
- Catholic Theology (Magister)
- Catholic Religious Education
- Religious Studies
Willy Brandt School of Public Policy
A professional school modeled on the American system, offering an English-language Master of Public Policy (MPP) program that prepares students for careers in governance, international organizations, and public service.
- Master of Public Policy (MPP)
- Executive Education Programs
- Policy Research Projects
Max Weber Center for Advanced Cultural and Social Studies
An interdisciplinary research institute focusing on religion, culture, and social theory. It hosts doctoral and postdoctoral programs and serves as a hub for international scholars.
- Doctoral Program in Religion and Society
- Postdoctoral Research Fellowships
- Interdisciplinary Cultural Studies
Admission Requirements for International Students
Admission Requirements for International Students
Undergraduate (Bachelor's)
- Educational QualificationGerman Abitur or recognized equivalent higher education entrance qualification
- German LanguageDSH-2, TestDaF (4x4), or telc C1 Hochschule required at enrollment
- Minimum German at ApplicationB1 level (CEFR) required at time of application
- StudienkollegRequired for non-equivalent qualifications (G-course or S-course only)
- Application PortalOnline application via the university's portal for non-EU students
Graduate (Master's)
- Degree RequirementCompleted Bachelor's degree in a relevant field
- German LanguageDSH-2 or equivalent for German-taught programs
- English LanguageRequired for English-taught programs (Global Communication, Public Policy, Religious Studies)
- TranscriptsOfficial copies and certified translations of all academic transcripts
- Additional DocumentsLetters of recommendation, statement of purpose (varies by program)
Deadline for admission-restricted Bachelor's and Master's programs for the winter semester starting in October.
Extended deadline for unrestricted Bachelor's programs. Check the university portal for exact dates.
The online application portal opens for international applicants for the upcoming winter semester.
The Master of Public Policy program has its own application timeline. Check the Brandt School website for current deadlines.
Tuition Fees and Cost of Studying
Tuition Fees and Cost of Studying
As a public university in Thuringia, the University of Erfurt does not charge general tuition fees for most programs. Students pay only a semester contribution that covers student services, a semester ticket for public transport, and administrative fees. The Willy Brandt School of Public Policy is an exception with its own tuition structure.
| Cost Item | Standard Programs | MPP (Brandt School) |
|---|---|---|
| Tuition Fees (per semester) | EUR 0 | EUR 2,100 |
| Semester Contribution | ~EUR 340 | ~EUR 340 |
| Estimated Living Costs (per month) | ~EUR 853 | ~EUR 853 |
| Health Insurance (per month) | ~EUR 82 | ~EUR 82 |
| Total | ~EUR 340 per semester + living costs | ~EUR 2,440 per semester + living costs |
Deutschlandstipendium (Germany Scholarship)
A national scholarship program open to German and international students, providing financial and non-material support to high-achieving and socially committed students at the University of Erfurt.
- Amount: EUR 300 per month
- Eligibility: Outstanding academic performance and social engagement
- Funding: Half by federal government, half by private sponsors
Helmut Schmidt Programme (DAAD)
Funded by the German Federal Foreign Office, this scholarship supports outstanding students from developing countries pursuing the Master of Public Policy at the Willy Brandt School.
- Coverage: Full tuition waiver, living expenses, and travel allowance
- Eligibility: Applicants from Africa, Latin America, Asia, and select European countries
- Requirements: Strong academic record and at least 1 year of relevant work experience
Campus and Facilities
Campus and Facilities
The University of Erfurt is a modern campus university located on Nordhäuser Straße, just a short distance from Erfurt's beautifully preserved medieval old town. The compact campus brings together academic buildings, the university library, student residences, dining facilities, and recreational spaces in one accessible location.
The campus library houses over one million printed volumes, 500 databases, and 9,000 electronic journals, including the historic Bibliotheca Amploniana collection.
The historic main building in Erfurt's old town symbolizes the university's centuries-old tradition and serves as a ceremonial venue.
The campus features modern lecture halls, seminar rooms, a kindergarten, and green spaces designed for study and relaxation.
Housing and Dining
Student Housing
On-campus and nearby student residences are available through the Studierendenwerk Thüringen. Average rent in Erfurt is approximately EUR 330 per month, well below the German national average.
- Student residence at Nordhäuser Straße 78 with 247 places
- Shared apartments (WG) widely available in the city
- Housing support from the International Office
Dining and Services
The campus features a large cafeteria (Mensa) operated by the Studierendenwerk, offering affordable daily meals. Additional cafés and food options are available on campus and in the nearby old town.
- Campus Mensa with daily hot meals and vegetarian options
- Semester ticket for free public transport by tram, bus, and regional train
- On-campus kindergarten for students with children
Student Life at the University of Erfurt
Student Life at the University of Erfurt
Student life at the University of Erfurt is characterized by a welcoming, multicultural atmosphere and a compact campus that fosters close connections between students and faculty. The university offers a wide range of extracurricular activities, cultural events, and support programs designed to enrich the student experience.
Erfurt: A Medieval Gem in the Heart of Germany
Erfurt: A Medieval Gem in the Heart of Germany
Living in Erfurt
Erfurt is the capital of Thuringia with approximately 211,000 inhabitants, located in the geographic center of Germany. Known as the City of Towers for its numerous historic churches and monasteries, Erfurt offers a beautifully preserved medieval old town, affordable cost of living, and excellent transport connections to Berlin, Frankfurt, and Munich within two to three hours by train.
Krämerbrücke (Merchants' Bridge)
One of Europe's most remarkable medieval structures, this inhabited bridge features the longest row of houses on any bridge in Europe, now home to art galleries, shops, and wine bars.
Erfurt Cathedral and Domplatz
The magnificent Gothic cathedral, built during the 1300s and 1400s, towers over the 3.5-hectare Domplatz square and hosts the famous Cathedral Steps Festival each summer.
Petersberg Citadel
One of the largest and best-preserved Baroque city fortresses in Central Europe, offering panoramic views of the city and underground tunnel tours.
Old Synagogue and Jewish Heritage
Dating back to the 11th century, the Old Synagogue is one of the oldest in Europe and now houses a museum featuring the Erfurt Treasure. It was designated a UNESCO World Heritage Site in 2023.
Career Outcomes and Alumni Network
Career Outcomes and Alumni Network
Career Pathways and Employers
Practical Information for International Students
Practical Information for International Students
For International Students
The International Office provides comprehensive support for incoming students, including visa guidance, housing assistance, orientation programs, and the award-winning buddy program to help you settle into life in Erfurt.
The university's Language Center offers German as a Foreign Language courses at all levels, as well as courses in English, French, Spanish, Italian, Chinese, Japanese, Arabic, and more. DSH exam preparation is also available.
Central Student Advisory Services offer guidance on course selection, examination systems, study-related challenges, and career planning through the university's Career Center and JobTeaser portal.
Key Contacts
- +90 5435286292
- +44 7868736984
- corporate@uni4edu.com
- info@uni4edu.com
University of Erfurt: Rankings and Academic Standing
University of Erfurt: Rankings and Academic Standing
As a specialized humanities and social sciences university, the University of Erfurt is recognized for its focused academic profile rather than broad-based global rankings. The university is particularly noted for its strengths in liberal arts, education, philosophy, political science, and religious studies within the German and European higher education landscape.
| Subject | Ranking Body | Rank |
|---|---|---|
| Liberal Arts & Social Sciences | EduRank | #71 in Germany |
| Philosophy | EduRank | Top 50% globally |
| Psychology | EduRank | #73 in Germany |
| Economics | EduRank | #74 in Germany |
Features
Diversity as a fact, inclusion as an act.\n\nDiversity is important to us – it is an integral part of our university's profile and is therefore also present on campus every day.
Accommodation
Accommodation service is available\n
Work While Studying
Students can work while studying\n
Co-op/Internship Participation
There is an internship service
Featured Programmes
Average Time To Receive Acceptance Letter
October - February
Location
University of Erfurt (Campus)\nNordhäuser Str. 63\n99089 Erfurt
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