University of Frankfurt (Goethe University Frankfurt)
Frankfurt am Main, Germany
Goethe University Frankfurt (Johann Wolfgang Goethe-Universität)
Frankfurt am Main, Germany
Founded
1914
Institution Type
Public Research University
Total Students
48,000+
Faculties
16
Discover Goethe University Frankfurt: A Leading Research University in the Heart of Europe
Discover Goethe University Frankfurt: A Leading Research University in the Heart of Europe
Goethe University Frankfurt is a public research university located in Frankfurt am Main, Germany. Founded in 1914 as a unique citizens' university, it was established and funded by the wealthy and active liberal citizenry of Frankfurt, a distinctive feature in German university history. In 1932, the university was renamed in honour of Johann Wolfgang von Goethe, one of Frankfurt's most famous native sons.
With around 48,000 students distributed across four major campuses within the city, Goethe University is one of Germany's largest and most research-intensive universities. It is a member of the German U15, the association of the 15 most research-intensive German universities, and forms part of the Rhine-Main Universities (RMU) alliance alongside TU Darmstadt and the University of Mainz.
The university offers approximately 170 undergraduate and graduate degree programs across 16 faculties, spanning the humanities, social sciences, natural sciences, life sciences, and medicine. In 2008, Goethe University returned to its roots as a foundation university, gaining significant autonomy in administrative and academic matters while maintaining substantial state funding.
Key Milestones
- 1914: Founded as a citizens' university with permission from Kaiser Wilhelm II, making it unique in German university history.
- 1932: Renamed in honour of Johann Wolfgang von Goethe, Frankfurt's most celebrated literary figure.
- 2008: Returned to its roots as a foundation university, gaining significant autonomy in academic and administrative matters.
- 2014: Celebrated its 100th anniversary with official ceremonies attended by Federal President Joachim Gauck at the historic Paulskirche.
Academic Structure and Faculties at Goethe University Frankfurt
Academic Structure and Faculties at Goethe University Frankfurt
Goethe University Frankfurt comprises 16 faculties offering a comprehensive range of academic disciplines. The university provides Bachelor's, Master's, and doctoral programs, with some Master's programs taught entirely or partially in English. Medicine, Dentistry, and Law are completed with a state examination (Staatsexamen).
Faculty of Law
One of Germany's leading law faculties, benefiting from Frankfurt's status as a major financial and legal center. The faculty is home to the Institute for Law and Finance (ILF) and offers strong connections to European institutions.
- Law (Staatsexamen)
- International Finance (LL.M.)
- European and International Law
Faculty of Economics and Business
Renowned for its proximity to the European Central Bank and Frankfurt's financial industry, the faculty houses the Goethe Business School and the House of Finance. It is particularly strong in finance, macroeconomics, and quantitative methods.
- Economics (B.Sc.)
- Money, Macro and Finance (M.Sc.)
- Management (M.Sc.)
Faculty of Social Sciences
Rooted in the tradition of the Frankfurt School of critical theory, the faculty has a distinguished history in sociology, political science, and social research. It is one of the oldest social science faculties in Germany.
- Political Science (B.A.)
- Sociology (B.A.)
- International Studies / Peace and Conflict Studies (M.A.)
Faculty of Medicine
Located on the Niederrad Campus adjacent to the University Hospital Frankfurt, the medical faculty provides comprehensive medical training and is a leader in clinical research, particularly in immunology and oncology.
- Medicine (Staatsexamen)
- Dentistry (Staatsexamen)
- Molecular Medicine (M.Sc.)
Faculty of Biochemistry, Chemistry and Pharmacy
Based on the Riedberg Campus, this faculty is known for cutting-edge research in structural biology, drug development, and chemical synthesis. It benefits from close collaboration with nearby Max Planck Institutes.
- Biochemistry (B.Sc.)
- Chemistry (B.Sc./M.Sc.)
- Pharmacy (Staatsexamen)
Faculty of Philosophy and History
With a strong tradition in continental philosophy and historical research, this faculty is ranked among the top globally. Philosophy at Goethe University is ranked 38th worldwide by QS, reflecting its outstanding academic reputation.
- Philosophy (B.A./M.A.)
- History (B.A./M.A.)
- Art History (B.A./M.A.)
Admission Requirements for Goethe University Frankfurt
Admission Requirements for Goethe University Frankfurt
Undergraduate Admission
- Academic QualificationRecognized secondary school certificate equivalent to German Abitur (Hochschulzugangsberechtigung)
- German LanguageTestDaF TDN 4 or DSH-2 for German-taught programs
- English LanguageIELTS 6.5+ or TOEFL 80+ for English-taught programs (where applicable)
- Application PortalOnline via uni-assist or directly through the university portal
- Additional RequirementsSome programs require subject-specific aptitude tests or numerus clausus (NC)
Graduate Admission
- Academic QualificationRecognized Bachelor's degree in a relevant field with strong academic performance
- English LanguageIELTS 7.0 or TOEFL 95 for English-taught Master's programs
- German LanguageTestDaF TDN 4 or DSH-2 for German-taught programs
- Standardized TestsGRE/GMAT may be required for select programs (e.g., finance, economics)
- Additional DocumentsCV, motivation letter, letters of recommendation, and translated transcripts
Application deadline for most programs starting in October. International applicants should apply early via uni-assist.
Application deadline for programs with summer intake starting in April. Not all programs offer a summer intake.
Recommended early deadline for Graduate School of Economics, Finance, and Management programs to be considered for financial aid.
Regular deadline for Graduate School of Economics, Finance, and Management doctoral and Master's programs.
Tuition Fees and Scholarships at Goethe University Frankfurt
Tuition Fees and Scholarships at Goethe University Frankfurt
As a public university in Germany, Goethe University Frankfurt does not charge tuition fees for most programs. Students are required to pay a semester contribution that covers administrative costs, the student union, and a semester ticket for free public transportation across the entire state of Hesse.
| Fee Category | German/EU Students | International Students |
|---|---|---|
| Tuition Fees | EUR 0 | EUR 0 |
| Semester Contribution | Approx. EUR 350 per semester | Approx. EUR 350 per semester |
| Semester Ticket (Public Transport) | Included in semester fee | Included in semester fee |
| Estimated Living Costs (Monthly) | EUR 850 - EUR 1,200 | EUR 850 - EUR 1,200 |
| Total | Approx. EUR 700 per year (fees only) | Approx. EUR 700 per year (fees only) |
Deutschlandstipendium (Germany Scholarship)
A merit-based scholarship open to all students at Goethe University regardless of nationality. It provides a monthly stipend funded jointly by the German government and private sponsors.
- Award Amount: EUR 300 per month
- Duration: At least two semesters, renewable
- Eligibility: All enrolled students based on academic merit and social engagement
DAAD Scholarships (German Academic Exchange Service)
The DAAD offers a wide range of scholarships for international students coming to Germany, covering graduate studies, research stays, and doctoral programs at Goethe University.
- Award Amount: Varies by program (typically EUR 861 - EUR 1,200 per month)
- Coverage: Monthly stipend, health insurance, travel allowance
- Eligibility: International students depending on country of origin, subject, and academic level
Campus and Facilities at Goethe University Frankfurt
Campus and Facilities at Goethe University Frankfurt
Goethe University is spread across four major campuses within Frankfurt am Main, each dedicated to specific academic disciplines. The campuses feature modern lecture halls, research laboratories, extensive libraries, and student dining facilities, all connected by Frankfurt's excellent public transportation network.
The main campus housing humanities, social sciences, law, and economics faculties in the historic IG Farben Building and modern surrounding structures.
A modern natural sciences campus featuring state-of-the-art laboratories for physics, chemistry, biology, pharmacy, and geosciences.
Home to the Faculty of Medicine and the University Hospital Frankfurt, offering comprehensive clinical training and medical research facilities.
Housing and Dining
Student Housing
The Studentenwerk Frankfurt manages student residences across the city. Due to high demand in Frankfurt, students are advised to apply for housing as early as possible.
- Student residences ranging from EUR 300 to EUR 500 per month
- Shared apartments (WGs) available from EUR 400 to EUR 600 per month
- Housing application through Studentenwerk Frankfurt am Main
Dining and Services
Each campus features Mensa dining halls operated by Studentenwerk, offering affordable meals for students. Additional cafeterias and cafes are available across all campuses.
- Mensa dining halls on all four campuses with subsidized meals
- University libraries with extensive digital and print collections
- Sports facilities and university sports program with 80+ activities
Student Life at Goethe University Frankfurt
Student Life at Goethe University Frankfurt
Goethe University offers a vibrant student life enriched by Frankfurt's cosmopolitan atmosphere. With over 200 student organizations, diverse cultural events, and a dynamic international community, students enjoy a well-rounded university experience in one of Europe's most connected cities.
Frankfurt am Main: Europe's Financial Capital and Cultural Hub
Frankfurt am Main: Europe's Financial Capital and Cultural Hub
Living in Frankfurt am Main
Frankfurt am Main is Germany's financial capital and one of Europe's most international cities. Home to the European Central Bank, the Deutsche Bundesbank, and the Frankfurt Stock Exchange, the city offers unparalleled career opportunities in finance, consulting, and technology. Despite its global significance, Frankfurt maintains a high quality of life with excellent cultural institutions, green spaces, and one of Europe's busiest international airports.
Financial Hub of Europe
Frankfurt hosts the European Central Bank, major international banks, and consulting firms, providing students with exceptional internship and career opportunities in finance and business.
Cultural Richness
The Museumsufer (Museum Embankment) along the River Main features over a dozen museums, while the city hosts the world's largest book fair and a thriving arts scene.
International Connectivity
Frankfurt Airport is one of Europe's largest, and the city's central train station connects to all major European cities, making it an ideal base for international students.
Quality of Life
Frankfurt offers diverse dining, vibrant nightlife in areas like Alt-Sachsenhausen, extensive green spaces including the Palmengarten, and a multicultural population from over 180 nations.
Career Outcomes and Alumni Network
Career Outcomes and Alumni Network
Top Employers of Goethe University Graduates
Practical Information for International Students
Practical Information for International Students
For International Students
The International Office assists students with visa applications, residence permits, and immigration requirements. Students should begin the visa process at least 2-3 months before arrival, as a blocked account with approximately EUR 11,904 per year is required.
Special orientation weeks and mentorship programs are organized each semester to help international students acclimate to the university and life in Frankfurt. German language courses are also available.
Graduates can stay in Germany for an additional 18 months on a post-study job-seeker visa, allowing time to find employment related to their field of study without needing a prior job offer.
Key Contacts
- +90 5435286292
- +44 7868736984
- corporate@uni4edu.com
- info@uni4edu.com
Goethe University Frankfurt: Worldwide University Rankings
Goethe University Frankfurt: Worldwide University Rankings
Goethe University Frankfurt is consistently recognized among the top universities globally and within Germany. It holds strong positions across multiple international ranking systems, reflecting its research excellence and academic reputation across diverse disciplines.
| Subject | Ranking Body | Rank |
|---|---|---|
| Philosophy | QS World University Rankings by Subject | #38 |
| Law | Times Higher Education Subject Rankings | #65 |
| Pharmacy and Pharmacology | QS World University Rankings by Subject | #51 |
| Sociology | QS World University Rankings by Subject | #93 |
Features
At the heart of Europe and open to the world, Goethe University Frankfurt is a workshop for the future. Founded by and for citizens in 1914, it resumed this tradition in 2008 as an autonomous foundation university. Obligated by its eventful history, the University is guided by the concepts of European Enlightenment, democracy and rule of law, and opposes racism, nationalism and antisemitism. Goethe University Frankfurt is a place of argumentative debate; research and teaching have a social responsibility. The University and Johann Wolfgang Goethe, as writer, thinker and naturalist, have in common innovative thinking and interdisciplinary action.\n\n\n\n
Accommodation
Accommodation service is available.\n
Work While Studying
Students can work while studying.
Co-op/Internship Participation
There is an internship service.\n
Featured Programmes
Average Time To Receive Acceptance Letter
December - January
May - July
Location
Theodor-W.-Adorno-Platz 6 (PEG Building) 60323 Frankfurt am Main
Map not found.
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