University of Erlangen–Nuremberg
Erlangen, Germany
Friedrich-Alexander-Universität Erlangen-Nürnberg (FAU)
Erlangen & Nuremberg, Germany
Founded
1743
Institution Type
Public Research University
Total Students
~40,000
Degree Programs
275+
Discover FAU Erlangen-Nuremberg: A Leading German Research University
Discover FAU Erlangen-Nuremberg: A Leading German Research University
Friedrich-Alexander-Universität Erlangen-Nürnberg (FAU) is a public research university located in the cities of Erlangen and Nuremberg in Bavaria, Germany. Founded in 1743 by Margrave Friedrich von Brandenburg-Bayreuth, it is one of the largest and most research-intensive universities in Germany, with approximately 40,000 students and over 275 degree programs across five faculties.
FAU is named after its founder Friedrich and its benefactor Alexander, Margrave of Brandenburg-Ansbach, who expanded the university from 1769. The university is renowned for its interdisciplinary approach, combining strengths in engineering, natural sciences, medicine, humanities, and economics. It is a member of the prestigious U15 group of leading German research universities.
With nearly 20% of its student body coming from abroad and researchers from over 100 countries, FAU has a strong international orientation. The university's motto, 'Moving Knowledge,' reflects its commitment to generating insights that shape the future and drive societal progress through close collaboration between research and teaching.
Key Milestones
- 1743: University officially opened on November 4 in Erlangen, founded by Margrave Friedrich von Brandenburg-Bayreuth.
- 1961: Nuremberg University of Economics and Social Sciences incorporated, giving FAU its current name and second major campus.
- 1966: Faculty of Engineering formally established, making FAU the only German university with an integrated engineering faculty at the time.
- 2007: Major structural reform merged eleven faculties into five large faculties, modernizing the university's academic organization.
Academic Structure and Faculties at FAU
Academic Structure and Faculties at FAU
FAU offers one of the widest ranges of academic disciplines in Germany, organized into five faculties that cover the entire spectrum of modern scholarship. With around 600 professorships and numerous interdisciplinary research centers, the university fosters collaboration across traditional boundaries.
Faculty of Humanities, Social Sciences, and Theology
The largest faculty by number of disciplines, encompassing around 50 different subjects from history and philosophy to education sciences and theology. It is a rich source of both historical and contemporary cultural knowledge.
- Political Science
- History
- English and American Studies
Faculty of Business, Economics, and Law
Composed of the School of Law in Erlangen and the School of Business, Economics and Society in Nuremberg, this faculty contributes to FAU's research profile through centers focused on cohesion, transformation, and innovation in law and economics.
- Business Administration
- Economics
- Law (Staatsexamen)
Faculty of Medicine
Closely linked with the University Hospital Erlangen (Uniklinikum Erlangen), this faculty provides excellent clinical training and research opportunities. It is one of the most respected medical faculties in Germany.
- Medicine (Staatsexamen)
- Dentistry
- Medical Engineering
Faculty of Sciences
Covering mathematics, physics, chemistry, biology, pharmacy, and geosciences, this faculty is home to cutting-edge research in areas such as optical technologies, advanced materials, and molecular life sciences.
- Physics
- Chemistry
- Mathematics
Faculty of Engineering
One of FAU's flagship faculties, covering electrical engineering, mechanical engineering, chemical engineering, computer science, and materials science. It benefits from strong industry partnerships, particularly with Siemens and other major technology companies in the region.
- Mechanical Engineering
- Computer Science
- Electrical Engineering
Interdisciplinary Research Centers
FAU operates numerous cross-faculty research centers and clusters of excellence, including the Erlangen Centre for Astroparticle Physics (ECAP) and initiatives in advanced materials, optical technologies, and artificial intelligence involving over 70 professorships.
- Artificial Intelligence (M.Sc.)
- Computational Engineering (M.Sc.)
- Advanced Materials and Processes (M.Sc.)
Admission Requirements for International Students
Admission Requirements for International Students
Undergraduate Admission
- Educational QualificationRecognized secondary school leaving certificate equivalent to German Abitur, or completion of Studienkolleg with Feststellungsprüfung
- Language ProficiencyGerman: DSH-2, TestDaF 4x4, or equivalent; English programs: IELTS 6.5+ or TOEFL 80+
- Application PortalApply via campo.fau.de or hochschulstart.de depending on program
- Processing Fee (non-EU)EUR 100 per application (from Winter Semester 2026/27)
- Additional RequirementsAPS certificate required for applicants from India, China, and Vietnam
Graduate Admission
- Prior DegreeRecognized Bachelor's degree in a relevant field with sufficient credit hours
- Language ProficiencyVaries by program; English-taught programs typically require IELTS 6.5+ or TOEFL 80+
- Academic PerformanceStrong academic record; specific GPA requirements vary by program
- Application PortalApply via campo.fau.de; some programs use additional portals
- Supporting DocumentsTranscripts, CV, motivation letter, letters of recommendation (program-dependent)
Application deadline for international students applying to most programs starting in October.
Application deadline for international students applying to programs starting in April (limited programs available).
Lectures for the winter semester typically begin in mid-October.
Lectures for the summer semester typically begin in mid-April.
Tuition Fees and Scholarships at FAU
Tuition Fees and Scholarships at FAU
FAU does not charge tuition fees for regular degree programs, making it an exceptionally affordable option for international students. Students only pay a modest semester contribution covering student services and a public transportation ticket.
| Cost Category | Per Semester (EU/EEA) | Per Semester (Non-EU/EEA) |
|---|---|---|
| Tuition Fees | EUR 0 | EUR 0 |
| Student Services Fee | EUR 72 | EUR 72 |
| Semester Transit Ticket | EUR 55 | EUR 55 |
| Estimated Monthly Living Costs | ~EUR 934/month | ~EUR 934/month |
| Total | ~EUR 127/semester + living costs | ~EUR 127/semester + living costs |
Deutschlandstipendium (Germany Scholarship)
FAU supports its top students through the Germany Scholarship program, awarding scholarships to the most gifted students each year. Half the funding comes from private donors and companies, and the other half from the federal government.
- Award Amount: EUR 3,600 per year (EUR 300/month)
- Duration: One year, renewable
- Eligibility: Outstanding academic performance (grade 2.0 or better)
DAAD PROMOS & External Scholarships
International students can apply for PROMOS scholarships for short-term academic mobility, as well as funding from organizations like DAAD, BAYHOST, and various political foundations. FAU also offers special fellowships through its Collaborative Research Centres.
- PROMOS Award: Varies by program and duration
- Application: Through FAU's International Office or directly to funding bodies
- Additional Options: CRC Equal Opportunity Fellowships, Emerging Talents Initiative, Alexander von Humboldt Professorships
Campus and Facilities at FAU Erlangen-Nuremberg
Campus and Facilities at FAU Erlangen-Nuremberg
FAU's campus spans two main cities — Erlangen and Nuremberg — with additional facilities in Fürth. About two-thirds of students are based in Erlangen, while one-third study at the Nuremberg campus, creating a unique dual-city university experience.
The historic palace and its gardens form the heart of the Erlangen campus, serving as both administrative headquarters and a beloved gathering spot for students.
Home to the Faculty of Engineering and natural sciences, the South Campus features modern laboratories, lecture halls, and research facilities built since the 1960s.
The School of Business, Economics and Society is located in Nuremberg's Old Town, offering students a vibrant urban learning environment with over 100 years of academic tradition.
Housing & Dining
Student Accommodation
Student Services Erlangen-Nürnberg operates student residences in both Erlangen and Nuremberg. Accommodation is in high demand, so early application is strongly recommended.
- Student dormitories in Erlangen and Nuremberg
- Average rent approximately EUR 410/month including utilities
- Private housing options in Erlangen, Fürth, and Nuremberg
Dining & Facilities
Multiple cafeterias (Mensa) and cafés are operated by Student Services across both campuses, offering affordable meals. Modern libraries, sports facilities, and laboratories serve the entire university community.
- Cafeterias on Erlangen and Nuremberg campuses
- University library system with multiple branch locations
- Comprehensive university sports program with low-cost courses
Student Life at FAU Erlangen-Nuremberg
Student Life at FAU Erlangen-Nuremberg
Student life at FAU is vibrant and culturally diverse, with the dual-city setting offering both the intimate atmosphere of the university town Erlangen and the metropolitan energy of Nuremberg. From student initiatives and cultural events to sports and nightlife, there is something for everyone.
Erlangen and Nuremberg: Location and City Life
Erlangen and Nuremberg: Location and City Life
Life in the Nuremberg Metropolitan Region
FAU is situated in the heart of the Nuremberg Metropolitan Region, a highly productive area with 3.5 million inhabitants generating more than 4% of Germany's GDP. Erlangen is a bicycle-friendly city of 100,000 known as a key Siemens location, while Nuremberg offers a population of half a million with a rich cultural scene and metropolitan flair.
Innovation Hub
Erlangen has the highest number of patents per capita in the EU according to Eurostat, and the region is home to the ZOLLHOF tech incubator co-founded by FAU.
Cultural Richness
The region offers opera, theater, museums, the Bardentreffen world music festival, Rock im Park, the International Comic Salon, and the famous Nuremberg Christmas Market.
Nature & Recreation
The nearby Fränkische Schweiz offers climbing and hiking, while the Fränkische Seenland lakes provide water sports. FAU operates its own water sports center.
Excellent Connectivity
Nuremberg Airport provides links to major European destinations. The semester ticket covers public transport across Erlangen, Nuremberg, and Fürth via S-Bahn, U-Bahn, tram, and bus networks.
Career Outcomes and Alumni Network
Career Outcomes and Alumni Network
Top Recruiters and Industry Partners
Practical Information for International Students
Practical Information for International Students
For International Students
International students from outside the EU/EEA need a student visa. FAU's International Office provides guidance on visa applications, residence permits, and the required blocked account with a minimum of EUR 11,208 per year.
FAU offers comprehensive orientation programs, pre-semester courses, and ongoing support through the Student Advice Center and International Affairs office to help you settle into university life.
German language courses are available for international students. Many Master's programs are taught entirely in English, and FAU's diverse campus community with students from over 100 countries fosters an inclusive environment.
Key Contacts
- +90 5435286292
- +44 7868736984
- corporate@uni4edu.com
- info@uni4edu.com
FAU Erlangen-Nuremberg World University Rankings
FAU Erlangen-Nuremberg World University Rankings
FAU consistently ranks among the top universities in Germany and worldwide, recognized for its research excellence, innovation leadership, and strong industry connections. It achieved first place globally in the THE industry category and ranks among the top 10 German universities for research funding from the German Research Foundation (DFG).
| Subject | Ranking Body | Rank |
|---|---|---|
| Materials Science | QS Subject Rankings | #95 (Top 100 globally) |
| Chemical Engineering | QS Subject Rankings | Top 200 (5th in Germany) |
| Electrical Engineering | QS Subject Rankings | Top 200 (6th in Germany) |
| Medicine | QS Subject Rankings | #172 (9th in Germany) |
Features
The University of Erlangen-Nuremberg (FAU) is a large research university in Germany known for its commitment to interdisciplinary teaching and research, spanning a wide range of subjects from humanities and law to medicine and engineering. Key features include its strong research focus, a high number of degree programs, and the establishment of unique programs and collaborations with institutions like Fraunhofer and Max Planck, as well as an active presence in international rankings, especially for innovation.
Featured Programmes
Average Time To Receive Acceptance Letter
May - July
Location
Hugenottenpl. 6, 91054 Erlangen, Germany
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