University of Hamburg
Hamburg, Germany
University of Hamburg (Universität Hamburg)
Hamburg, Germany
Founded
1919
Institution Type
Public Research University
Total Students
44,000+
Nobel Laureates
7
Discover the University of Hamburg: Northern Germany's Largest Research University
Discover the University of Hamburg: Northern Germany's Largest Research University
The University of Hamburg (Universität Hamburg, UHH) is a public research university and the largest institution for research and education in northern Germany. Founded on 28 March 1919, it was the first university in Germany to be established on democratic principles, created by a resolution of the newly elected Hamburg Parliament during the Weimar Republic.
As a designated University of Excellence since 2019, the university offers approximately 180 degree programs across eight faculties to more than 44,000 students, including over 5,000 international students from more than 130 countries. Its main campus is located in the central Rotherbaum district, with affiliated institutes and research centres distributed throughout the city-state of Hamburg.
The university is home to four clusters of excellence funded by the German Research Foundation: CUI: Advanced Imaging of Matter, Climate Climatic Change and Society (CLICCS), Understanding Written Artefacts, and Quantum Universe. Its researchers collaborate closely with renowned institutions such as DESY, the German Climate Computing Center, and three Max Planck Institutes.
Key Milestones
- 1919: Founded as the first democratically established university in Germany by the Hamburg Parliament on 28 March 1919.
- 1929: Ernst Cassirer became university principal, one of the first Jewish scholars to hold that role in Germany.
- 2019: Awarded the status of University of Excellence under Germany's Excellence Strategy with four clusters of excellence.
- 2021: Klaus Hasselmann, affiliated with UHH, received the Nobel Prize in Physics for climate modelling research.
Academic Faculties and Programs at the University of Hamburg
Academic Faculties and Programs at the University of Hamburg
The University of Hamburg offers a comprehensive academic structure with eight faculties covering virtually every discipline. With over 180 degree programs ranging from bachelor's to doctoral studies, the university provides both German-taught and English-taught courses, particularly at the master's level.
Faculty of Law
One of the founding faculties established in 1919, the Faculty of Law offers comprehensive legal education and is ranked among the top law programs globally, with strengths in European and international law.
- Law (Staatsexamen)
- European and European Legal Studies
- International Law
Faculty of Business, Economics and Social Sciences
This faculty combines economics, political science, and social sciences, providing interdisciplinary programs that address contemporary global challenges in governance, economics, and society.
- Economics
- Political Science
- Sociology
Faculty of Medicine
Located at the University Medical Center Hamburg-Eppendorf (UKE), the Faculty of Medicine is a leading center for clinical training and biomedical research, with strengths in infection research and neurosciences.
- Medicine (Staatsexamen)
- Dentistry
- Molecular Life Sciences
Faculty of Humanities
The Faculty of Humanities covers a broad spectrum from history and philosophy to languages and cultural studies. It hosts the internationally recognized cluster of excellence Understanding Written Artefacts.
- History
- Philosophy
- English and American Studies
Faculty of Mathematics, Informatics and Natural Sciences
This is one of the university's largest faculties, encompassing mathematics, computer science, physics, chemistry, biology, and earth sciences. It houses the Quantum Universe and CUI clusters of excellence.
- Physics
- Computer Science
- Chemistry
Faculty of Business Administration (Hamburg Business School)
The Hamburg Business School offers specialized programs in business administration and management, including English-taught master's programs that attract a significant proportion of international students.
- M.Sc. Business Administration
- B.Sc. Business Administration
- M.Sc. Human Resource Management
Admission Requirements for International Students
Admission Requirements for International Students
Undergraduate Admission
- Academic QualificationGerman Abitur or recognized equivalent secondary school leaving certificate
- German ProficiencyTestDaF Level 4, DSH-2, or Goethe C1 (most programs taught in German)
- Application PortalApply via uni-assist for international applicants (EUR 75 fee)
- Numerus Clausus (NC)Many programs have restricted admission; NC grades vary by program
- Additional DocumentsValid passport, APS certificate (if applicable), financial proof
Graduate Admission
- First University DegreeCompleted bachelor's degree in a relevant field from a recognized institution
- Language ProficiencyGerman C1 for German-taught programs; IELTS or TOEFL for English-taught programs
- Program-Specific RequirementsVaries by program; may include GRE/GMAT, letters of recommendation, or statement of purpose
- Application FeeEUR 75 via uni-assist for non-EU applicants
- Financial ProofBlocked account with approximately EUR 11,904 per year
Application deadline for international undergraduate applicants for the winter semester starting in October.
Deadline for summer semester applications. Not all programs accept summer intake.
Extended application period for select programs in the summer semester beginning in April.
Graduate program deadlines vary. Check specific master's program pages for exact dates, as some have earlier deadlines.
Tuition Fees and Scholarships at the University of Hamburg
Tuition Fees and Scholarships at the University of Hamburg
The University of Hamburg does not charge tuition fees for the vast majority of its programs, including for international students. Students are only required to pay a semester contribution that covers administrative costs, student services, and a public transport ticket for the Hamburg metropolitan area.
| Cost Item | EU/EEA Students (per semester) | International Students (per semester) |
|---|---|---|
| Tuition Fees | EUR 0 | EUR 0 |
| Semester Contribution | Approx. EUR 384 | Approx. EUR 384 |
| Public Transport Ticket (included) | Included in contribution | Included in contribution |
| Estimated Living Costs (monthly) | EUR 750 - EUR 1,000 | EUR 750 - EUR 1,000 |
| Total | Approx. EUR 384 per semester | Approx. EUR 384 per semester |
Deutschlandstipendium (Germany Scholarship)
A merit-based scholarship awarded to enrolled students with strong academic records. Open to both German and international students after at least two semesters of enrollment.
- Amount: EUR 300 per month
- Eligibility: Enrolled for at least 2 semesters with good academic record
- Application Period: Every fall semester
DAAD Scholarships
The German Academic Exchange Service (DAAD) offers various scholarships for international students pursuing studies or research at German universities, including the University of Hamburg.
- Amount: Varies by program (EUR 861 - EUR 1,200/month for graduate students)
- Eligibility: International students with strong academic records
- Coverage: Monthly stipend, health insurance, travel allowance
Campus and Facilities at the University of Hamburg
Campus and Facilities at the University of Hamburg
The University of Hamburg's main campus is located in the vibrant Rotherbaum and Grindel neighborhoods in central Hamburg. The university's buildings and research facilities are spread across the city, including the University Medical Center in Eppendorf and the Loki Schmidt Botanical Gardens in Klein Flottbek.
The iconic main building, originally donated by merchant Edmund Siemers in 1911, serves as the historic heart of the university.
Founded in 1479, this library contains over 5 million volumes and is the largest academic library in the Hamburg metropolitan area.
The university's botanical gardens in Klein Flottbek and Planten un Blomen Park offer living laboratories for research and public enjoyment.
Housing and Dining
Student Housing
The Studierendenwerk Hamburg manages student residences across the city. Due to high demand, students are advised to apply early and explore private accommodation options as well.
- Multiple student residence halls across Hamburg
- Rooms range from approximately EUR 250 to EUR 450 per month
- Private housing market also available with support from university services
Dining and Student Services
The Studierendenwerk operates several canteens (Mensa) and cafeterias across campus locations, offering affordable meals for students throughout the academic year.
- Multiple Mensa locations with subsidized meals
- Counselling services for academic, financial, and personal support
- Semester ticket included for unlimited public transport in Hamburg
Student Life at the University of Hamburg
Student Life at the University of Hamburg
Student life at the University of Hamburg is enriched by the city's vibrant cultural scene and the university's wide range of extracurricular activities. With no enclosed campus, the city of Hamburg itself becomes an extension of university life, offering theaters, museums, harbor cruises, and diverse culinary experiences.
Hamburg: A Global Port City with Rich Culture
Hamburg: A Global Port City with Rich Culture
Life in Hamburg, Germany
Hamburg is Germany's second-largest city and one of Europe's most important port cities. Known as the Gateway to the World, it combines maritime heritage with a thriving cultural scene, international business community, and high quality of life that makes it an ideal destination for international students.
Cultural Capital
Hamburg boasts over 60 theaters and museums, the famous Elbphilharmonie concert hall, and a vibrant music and nightlife scene including the legendary Reeperbahn district.
Green and Liveable
With the Alster Lake, the Elbe River, and extensive parks like Planten un Blomen, Hamburg offers abundant green spaces and a distinctive maritime atmosphere.
Economic Hub
Hamburg is home to major companies including Airbus, Beiersdorf, and Otto Group, as well as a thriving media, logistics, and technology sector offering excellent career opportunities.
International and Connected
With an excellent public transport network, an international airport, and a diverse population, Hamburg is one of Germany's most cosmopolitan and well-connected cities.
Career Outcomes and Alumni Network
Career Outcomes and Alumni Network
Notable Employers and Research Partners
Practical Information for International Students
Practical Information for International Students
For International Students
The International Office provides comprehensive support for international students, including guidance on applications, visa matters, orientation programs, and academic advising throughout your studies.
The university offers German language training options to help international students improve their language skills for academic success and daily life in Hamburg.
BeSI advises international students on social security, part-time work regulations, financial difficulties, and other practical aspects of living and studying in Germany.
Key Contacts
- +90 5435286292
- +44 7868736984
- corporate@uni4edu.com
- info@uni4edu.com
University of Hamburg: Worldwide Rankings
University of Hamburg: Worldwide Rankings
The University of Hamburg consistently ranks among the top universities in Germany and worldwide. As one of eleven Universities of Excellence in Germany, it has steadily improved its position in major international rankings and is recognized for its strong performance across multiple academic disciplines.
| Subject | Ranking Body | Rank |
|---|---|---|
| Law | THE Subject Rankings | #66 |
| Physics and Astronomy | QS Subject Rankings | #97 |
| Arts and Humanities | THE Subject Rankings | #97 |
| Environmental Science | EduRank | #155 |
Features
There are 4 clusters of excellence at the University of Hamburg. Clusters of excellence are interdisciplinary and cross-institutional research collaborations in which researchers work together in internationally competitive fields. In September 2018, the German Research Foundation announced that these 4 research alliances under the aegis of the University of Hamburg had been selected on the basis of various funding criteria. The German Research Foundation’s decision means that the University of Hamburg can use the additional funding to continue with research on 4 major issues until 2025. Its clusters of excellence center on:\n-the future of the world’s climate;\n-the origins of the universe;\n-the development of new materials;\n-understanding written artefacts.
Accommodation
Accommodation service is available.
Work While Studying
Students can work while studying.\n
Co-op/Internship Participation
There is an internship service.\n
Featured Programmes
Average Time To Receive Acceptance Letter
June - July
October - March
Location
University of Hamburg Mittelweg 177 20148 Hamburg
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