University of Erlangen–Nuremberg (FAU)
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. Named after its founder Friedrich, Margrave of Brandenburg-Bayreuth, and its benefactor Alexander, Margrave of Brandenburg-Ansbach, FAU is one of the 15 largest universities in Germany with approximately 40,000 students and over 275 degree programs across five faculties.
FAU is renowned for its interdisciplinary approach to research and teaching, with key research priorities in areas such as new materials, optical technologies, medical engineering, energy systems, and artificial intelligence. The university attracts over EUR 210 million in third-party funding annually, with more than EUR 70 million coming from industry, underscoring its strong ties to the private sector.
With around 500 partnerships with universities worldwide and approximately 20% of its student body coming from abroad, FAU offers a truly international academic environment. The university is a member of the U15 group of leading German research universities and has been ranked the leading university in innovation by the THE Impact Ranking.
Key Milestones
- 1743: University officially opened in Erlangen after being established in Bayreuth in 1742 by Margrave Friedrich von Brandenburg-Bayreuth.
- 1961: Nuremberg Commercial College for Business and Social Science incorporated, giving the university its current name and second major location.
- 1966: Faculty of Engineering formally established, making FAU the first traditional German university to integrate an engineering faculty.
- 2007: University restructured into five faculties, streamlining its academic organization for interdisciplinary collaboration.
Academic Structure and Faculties at FAU
Academic Structure and Faculties at FAU
FAU offers one of the widest ranges of subjects in Germany through its five faculties, encompassing everything from humanities and social sciences to cutting-edge engineering and medicine. The university provides over 275 degree programs, including approximately 50 programs specifically developed for international students, at all qualification levels.
Faculty of Humanities, Social Sciences, and Theology
A rich source of historical and contemporary cultural knowledge, covering around 50 different disciplines from humanities, social sciences, economics, education sciences, and theology.
- 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, contributing to research in cohesion, transformation, and innovation in law and economics.
- Business Administration
- Economics
- Law (Staatsexamen)
Faculty of Medicine
Together with the university hospital Uniklinikum Erlangen, this faculty emphasizes the links between research, teaching, and healthcare, rapidly translating research findings into clinical practice.
- Human Medicine (Staatsexamen)
- Dentistry
- Molecular Medicine
Faculty of Sciences
Home to the departments of Mathematics, Physics, Biology, Chemistry and Pharmacy, and Geography and Geology, which regularly achieve top positions in national and international rankings.
- Physics
- Chemistry
- Biology
Faculty of Engineering
Founded in 1966, this faculty covers five departments including computer science, electrical engineering, mechanical engineering, chemical engineering, and materials science, with particular strengths in materials science ranked among the top 100 globally.
- Mechanical Engineering
- Computer Science
- Materials Science and Engineering
International Programs and Interdisciplinary Centers
FAU offers around 50 programs designed specifically for international students, many taught in English, along with interdisciplinary research centers in areas such as optical technologies, energy, and artificial intelligence.
- MSc Artificial Intelligence
- MSc Information and Communication Technology
- MSc Medical Engineering
Admission Requirements for FAU Erlangen-Nuremberg
Admission Requirements for FAU Erlangen-Nuremberg
Undergraduate Admission
- Academic QualificationUniversity entrance qualification (Abitur or equivalent); international applicants may need Studienkolleg preparation year
- Language ProficiencyGerman: DSH-2, TestDaF 4x4, or equivalent; English programs: IELTS 6.5 or TOEFL 80+
- Application PortalApply via campo.fau.de or uni-assist for international applicants
- Application FeeNo application fee at FAU; uni-assist processing fee may apply
- Additional RequirementsSome programs require entrance exams, aptitude tests, or specific subject prerequisites
Graduate Admission
- Degree RequirementCompleted bachelor's degree in a relevant field from a recognized institution
- GPA RequirementTypically a minimum of 3.0 on a 4.0 scale; competitive programs may require higher
- Language ProficiencyEnglish-taught programs: IELTS 6.5+ or TOEFL 80+; German-taught programs: DSH-2 or equivalent
- Supporting DocumentsTranscripts, CV, motivation letter, letters of recommendation (program-specific)
- Additional RequirementsSome programs require GRE scores, portfolios, or relevant work experience
Application deadline for most programs starting in the winter semester (October). International applicants should check program-specific dates.
Application deadline for programs offering summer semester intake (April). Not all programs accept summer applications.
Programs with admission restrictions (Numerus Clausus) may have earlier deadlines. Check campo.fau.de for specific dates.
PhD applications are typically accepted on a rolling basis. Contact the relevant faculty or supervisor directly.
Tuition Fees and Scholarships at FAU
Tuition Fees and Scholarships at FAU
FAU does not charge tuition fees for any students, including international students, making it an exceptionally affordable option for higher education in Germany. Students are only required to pay a modest semester contribution covering student services and public transportation.
| Cost Item | Per Semester (EU/EEA) | Per Semester (International) |
|---|---|---|
| Tuition Fees | EUR 0 | EUR 0 |
| Semester Contribution (Student Services) | EUR 72 | EUR 72 |
| Semester Ticket (Public Transport) | 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)
A merit-based scholarship funded equally by the German federal government and private sponsors, supporting talented students regardless of nationality.
- Award Amount: EUR 300 per month
- Duration: Minimum 2 semesters, renewable
- Eligibility: Outstanding academic performance and social engagement
DAAD Scholarships for International Students
The German Academic Exchange Service (DAAD) offers various scholarships for international students to study at German universities, including FAU.
- Award Amount: EUR 861-1,200 per month (varies by program)
- Coverage: Living expenses, health insurance, travel allowance
- Eligibility: International students with excellent academic records
Campus and Facilities at FAU
Campus and Facilities at FAU
FAU operates across multiple campuses in the cities of Erlangen and Nuremberg, with about two-thirds of students based in Erlangen and one-third in Nuremberg. The university's properties span several hundred locations throughout the Nuremberg Metropolitan Region, offering state-of-the-art research facilities and modern learning environments.
The historic heart of FAU featuring the Erlangen Castle and central administrative buildings surrounded by the scenic Schlossgarten.
Home to the Faculty of Engineering and natural sciences, featuring modern laboratories and research facilities built from the 1960s onward.
The Nuremberg location houses the School of Business, Economics and Society and the Department of Education in the vibrant city center.
Housing and Student Services
Student Housing
Student Services Erlangen-Nürnberg (Studentenwerk) operates student accommodation in both Erlangen and Nuremberg, offering affordable housing options for enrolled students.
- Student dormitories in Erlangen and Nuremberg
- Shared apartments (WG) widely available
- Average rent approximately EUR 410/month including utilities
Dining and Amenities
The Studentenwerk runs multiple cafeterias (Mensen) across both cities, providing affordable meals for students with a variety of dietary options.
- Multiple Mensa locations across campuses
- University libraries with extensive digital resources
- Sports facilities and university fitness center (RRZE)
Student Life at FAU Erlangen-Nuremberg
Student Life at FAU Erlangen-Nuremberg
Student life at FAU is enriched by the vibrant cultural scenes of both Erlangen and Nuremberg. With opera, theatre, museums, a lively pub scene, and diverse sporting activities, students enjoy a well-rounded experience beyond the classroom.
Location: Erlangen and Nuremberg, Bavaria
Location: Erlangen and Nuremberg, Bavaria
Life in the Nuremberg Metropolitan Region
FAU is situated in the heart of the Nuremberg Metropolitan Region, offering students the best of two distinct cities. Erlangen is a bicycle-friendly city of 113,000 residents and a key location for Siemens, while Nuremberg is a metropolitan city of over 500,000 with rich cultural heritage and a vibrant nightlife.
Technology and Innovation Hub
The region is home to major technology companies including Siemens, Adidas, and Schaeffler, providing excellent internship and career opportunities for students.
Rich Cultural Heritage
Nuremberg's medieval old town, Imperial Castle, and renowned Christmas Market (Christkindlesmarkt) offer a unique cultural backdrop for student life.
Excellent Transport Links
Both cities are well connected by S-Bahn, U-Bahn, and regional trains. The semester ticket provides affordable public transport across the VGN network.
Affordable Cost of Living
Compared to Munich or Frankfurt, the Erlangen-Nuremberg region offers significantly lower living costs while maintaining a high quality of life with diverse leisure options.
Career Outcomes and Alumni Network
Career Outcomes and Alumni Network
Top Employers of FAU Graduates
Practical Information for International Students
Practical Information for International Students
For International Students
FAU's International Office assists students with visa applications, residence permits, and immigration procedures. Non-EU students typically need a student visa and must provide proof of financial resources (approximately EUR 11,208 per year in a blocked account).
The FAU Language Center offers German language courses at all levels for international students, helping you integrate into daily life and meet language requirements for German-taught programs.
FAU organizes comprehensive orientation weeks for new international students and offers buddy programs pairing newcomers with experienced students to help with settling in.
Key Contacts
- +90 5435286292
- +44 7868736984
- corporate@uni4edu.com
- info@uni4edu.com
FAU Erlangen-Nuremberg Worldwide University Rankings
FAU Erlangen-Nuremberg Worldwide University Rankings
FAU consistently ranks among the top universities globally and is recognized as one of Germany's leading research institutions. The university has achieved particularly strong results in industry connections, citations per researcher, and innovation metrics.
| Subject | Ranking Body | Rank |
|---|---|---|
| Materials Science | QS Subject Rankings | #95 globally |
| Engineering (Mechanical) | QS Subject Rankings | Top 200 globally |
| Physics and Astronomy | QS Subject Rankings | Top 200 globally |
| Medicine | QS Subject Rankings | #172 globally |
Features
Friedrich-Alexander University Erlangen-Nuremberg (FAU) is one of Germany’s leading research universities, known for its strong innovation, interdisciplinary approach, and international outlook. With five faculties and a wide range of programs in sciences, engineering, medicine, humanities, and social sciences, FAU fosters excellence in both teaching and research. The university partners with major global institutions and industry leaders, offering students access to hands-on experience and career opportunities. FAU’s campuses in Erlangen and Nuremberg provide a vibrant academic environment supported by state-of-the-art facilities, a dynamic student community, and various support services, including career guidance, internships, and student accommodation.
Accommodation
Yes, FAU's Accommodation Service assists international students, particularly those enrolled in English-taught programs or exchange students.
Work While Studying
Yes, students can work up to 20 hours per week
Co-op/Internship Participation
Yes, Friedrich-Alexander University Erlangen-Nuremberg (FAU) offers comprehensive internship services to support students in gaining practical experience during their studies.\n\n
Featured Programmes
Average Time To Receive Acceptance Letter
December - January
April - July
Location
Hugenottenpl. 6, 91054 Erlangen, Germany
Uni4Edu AI Assistant
