University of Kassel
Kassel, Germany
University of Kassel
Kassel, Germany
Founded
1971
Institution Type
Public University
Total Students
25,000+
International Students
From 115+ Countries
Discover the University of Kassel: Innovation, Sustainability & Interdisciplinary Excellence
Discover the University of Kassel: Innovation, Sustainability & Interdisciplinary Excellence
The University of Kassel (Universität Kassel) was founded in 1971 as Germany's first comprehensive university (Gesamthochschule) during a period of ambitious educational reform. Located in Kassel, Hesse, in the heart of central Germany, the university was established to integrate academic and vocational training, promote interdisciplinary work, and increase practical relevance in higher education.
Today, the University of Kassel enrolls approximately 25,000 students and employs around 3,300 staff members, including more than 300 professors. The university offers a remarkably wide range of programs spanning natural sciences, engineering, humanities, social sciences, fine arts, and agriculture, with a distinctive focus on sustainability, renewable energy, and interdisciplinary research.
International students from over 115 countries study at the university, supported by a dedicated International Office, Studienkolleg for language preparation, and an International House on the main campus. Each academic year, more than 100 visiting scholars pursue collaborative research projects, enriching the university's academic and cultural life.
Key Milestones
- 1971: Founded as the Gesamthochschule Kassel, Germany's first comprehensive university, opening with 2,913 students.
- 1993: Renamed to Universität Gesamthochschule Kassel, reflecting its dual identity as a research institution and reform university.
- 2002: Adopted its current name, Universität Kassel, marking its evolution into a full research university.
- 2021: Founded the Kassel Institute of Sustainability to strengthen interdisciplinary research in environmental and sustainability sciences.
Academic Structure & Faculties at the University of Kassel
Academic Structure & Faculties at the University of Kassel
The University of Kassel is organized into multiple faculties and schools offering over 120 degree programs. From natural sciences and engineering to fine arts and humanities, the university provides a uniquely broad academic spectrum with a strong emphasis on interdisciplinary collaboration and practical application.
Faculty of Engineering Sciences
Covers mechanical engineering, electrical engineering, and computer science with strong ties to industry and applied research in renewable energy and automation.
- Mechanical Engineering (B.Sc./M.Sc.)
- Electrical Communication Engineering (M.Sc.)
- Computer Science (B.Sc./M.Sc.)
Faculty of Architecture, Urban Planning & Landscape Planning
Focuses on sustainable design, urban development, and landscape architecture with an interdisciplinary approach linking ecology, technology, and creative design.
- Architecture (B.Sc./M.Sc.)
- Town and Regional Planning (M.Sc.)
- Landscape Architecture and Landscape Planning (M.Sc.)
Faculty of Natural Sciences
Offers programs in mathematics, physics, chemistry, and biology with research strengths in nanostructure science, materials science, and environmental systems.
- Biology (B.Sc./M.Sc.)
- Physics (B.Sc./M.Sc.)
- Mathematics (B.Sc./M.Sc.)
Faculty of Social Sciences
Known for its research-driven approach to contemporary societal challenges, offering programs in political science, sociology, and social work.
- Political Science (B.A./M.A.)
- Sociology (B.A./M.A.)
- Social Work (B.A.)
Faculty of Organic Agricultural Sciences (Witzenhausen)
Located at the Witzenhausen campus, this faculty specializes in international agriculture, sustainable food systems, and tropical and subtropical agriculture.
- Organic Agriculture (B.Sc./M.Sc.)
- International Food Business and Consumer Studies (M.Sc.)
- Sustainable International Agriculture (M.Sc.)
School of Art and Design (Kunsthochschule Kassel)
One of Germany's distinguished art schools, offering programs in fine arts, product design, and visual communication. Graduates have won Academy Awards for animated film.
- Fine Arts (Diploma)
- Product Design (B.A./M.A.)
- Visual Communication (B.A./M.A.)
Admission Requirements for International Students
Admission Requirements for International Students
Undergraduate Admission
- Educational QualificationSecondary school diploma equivalent to German Abitur (e.g., IB Diploma, A-Levels, or country-specific qualifications)
- German Language ProficiencyDSH-2 or TestDaF Level 4 (for German-taught programs)
- English Language ProficiencyIELTS 5.5+ or TOEFL iBT 72+ (for English-taught programs)
- Application PortalVia uni-assist for international applicants
- Financial ProofBlocked account with minimum EUR 11,904 for one year
Graduate Admission
- Educational QualificationRecognized bachelor's degree in a relevant field with a minimum GPA equivalent of 2.5 on a 4.0 scale
- German Language ProficiencyDSH-C1 or TestDaF Level 4 (for German-taught programs)
- English Language ProficiencyIELTS 5.5+ or TOEFL iBT 72-94 (for English-taught programs)
- Application PortalVia uni-assist or direct application depending on program
- Additional DocumentsCV, motivation letter, reference letters, and portfolio (program-dependent)
Application deadline for international students applying to most programs starting in the winter semester (October).
Application deadline for international students applying to programs with a summer semester intake (April).
Certain programs, especially in fine arts and restricted-admission courses, may have earlier or different deadlines. Check the specific program page.
International students applying for the Studienkolleg preparatory program must take an entrance examination typically held at the end of June.
Tuition Fees & Scholarships at the University of Kassel
Tuition Fees & Scholarships at the University of Kassel
As a public university in the state of Hesse, the University of Kassel does not charge tuition fees for undergraduate or graduate programs, regardless of nationality. Students are required to pay a semester fee that covers administrative services, a semester ticket for public transport, and student union contributions.
| Fee Component | German/EU Students | International Students |
|---|---|---|
| Tuition Fee | EUR 0 | EUR 0 |
| Semester Fee (Admin & Services) | Approx. EUR 357 | Approx. EUR 357 |
| Semester Ticket (Public Transport) | Included in Semester Fee | Included in Semester Fee |
| Estimated Living Costs (per month) | Approx. EUR 650 | Approx. EUR 650 |
| Total | Approx. EUR 357 per semester | Approx. EUR 357 per semester |
DAAD Scholarships
The German Academic Exchange Service (DAAD) offers various scholarships for international students to study in Germany, covering living expenses, travel costs, and health insurance.
- Coverage: Living allowance, travel costs, health insurance
- Eligibility: International students from all countries; varies by program
- Application: Apply through the DAAD portal; deadlines vary by program
Erasmus+ Exchange Grants
European students can benefit from the Erasmus+ program, which provides grants for studying abroad at partner universities including the University of Kassel.
- Coverage: Monthly grant for living and travel expenses
- Eligibility: EU/EEA students enrolled at Erasmus+ partner institutions
- Duration: Typically one to two semesters
Campus & Facilities at the University of Kassel
Campus & Facilities at the University of Kassel
The University of Kassel operates across multiple campuses in and around the city of Kassel, with the central campus at Holländischer Platz serving as the main hub. The campuses feature modern facilities housed in creatively repurposed industrial buildings, reflecting the university's innovative spirit.
The central campus houses most faculties, the library, IT Service Centre, International Studies Centre, and university administration in the converted former Henschel Company premises.
The campus library provides access to approximately 1.9 million volumes, including 30,000 current periodicals and extensive electronic media resources, serving as both an academic and state library.
Located approximately 40 kilometers north of Kassel, this campus is dedicated to international programs in organic agriculture, environmental sciences, and sustainable food systems.
Housing & Student Services
Student Housing
The Studierendenwerk (Student Services) operates student housing and assists with private accommodation. Student residences typically cost between EUR 200 and EUR 300 per month.
- On-campus and city dormitories managed by Studierendenwerk
- Private accommodation assistance through the university
- International House for visiting scholars and short-term guests
Dining & Services
The Studierendenwerk runs student canteens (Mensa) and cafeterias across campus locations, offering affordable meals. Additional support services include counseling and financial aid.
- Multiple Mensa locations with affordable daily menus
- Psychological, legal, and universal counseling services
- Financial aid processing under the Federal Training Assistance Act (BAföG)
Student Life at the University of Kassel
Student Life at the University of Kassel
The University of Kassel offers a dynamic student life with numerous clubs, cultural events, workshops, and public lectures. The Student Council (AStA) plays an active role in shaping campus culture and representing student interests across various committees.
Kassel: A City of Art, Culture & Fairy Tales
Kassel: A City of Art, Culture & Fairy Tales
Life in Kassel
Kassel is a vibrant city of approximately 200,000 inhabitants in northern Hesse, centrally located in Germany with excellent rail and road connections to Frankfurt, Hannover, and Leipzig. The city is internationally renowned as the home of the documenta contemporary art exhibition, held every five years, and as a key stop on the German Fairy Tale Route thanks to the legacy of the Brothers Grimm.
Bergpark Wilhelmshöhe (UNESCO World Heritage Site)
Europe's largest hillside park covering 240 hectares, featuring the iconic Hercules monument, spectacular water features, and Wilhelmshöhe Palace with its renowned Rembrandt collection.
documenta Contemporary Art Exhibition
The world's most important contemporary art exhibition, held every five years since 1955, transforming Kassel into a global art capital with works displayed across dozens of city venues.
Brothers Grimm Heritage
Kassel is deeply connected to the Brothers Grimm, who lived and worked here. The GRIMMWELT museum celebrates their legacy, and the city is a major stop on the 600-km German Fairy Tale Route.
Affordable Living & Central Location
Kassel offers a relatively affordable cost of living compared to larger German cities, with monthly expenses around EUR 650. Its central location provides easy access to Frankfurt Airport (200 km) and other major cities.
Career Outcomes & Notable Alumni
Career Outcomes & Notable Alumni
Notable Employers & Industry Partners
Practical Information for International Students
Practical Information for International Students
For International Students
The International Office provides comprehensive support from application through graduation, including orientation events, buddy programs that pair new students with experienced peers, and assistance with immigration and housing matters.
A special Studienkolleg unit prepares international students whose qualifications are not directly recognized, offering language courses and academic preparation. German language skills at B1 level are required for entry.
Health insurance is mandatory for enrollment. EU students can use the European Health Insurance Card (EHIC), while non-EU students must obtain German health insurance. The university assists with visa application processes.
Key Contacts
- +90 5435286292
- +44 7868736984
- corporate@uni4edu.com
- info@uni4edu.com
University of Kassel: Worldwide Rankings
University of Kassel: Worldwide Rankings
The University of Kassel is recognized in several major international ranking systems, reflecting its research output and academic contributions across multiple disciplines. The university performs particularly well in environmental sciences, engineering, and agricultural sciences.
| Subject | Ranking Body | Rank |
|---|---|---|
| Environmental Science | EduRank | #47 in Germany |
| Engineering | EduRank | #53 in Germany |
| Business | EduRank | #37 in Germany |
| Liberal Arts & Social Sciences | EduRank | #40 in Germany |
Features
The University of Kassel, established in 1971, is a dynamic public institution located in Kassel, Hesse, Germany. It offers a diverse range of undergraduate and postgraduate programs across disciplines such as natural sciences, engineering, social sciences, humanities, and fine arts. The university is renowned for its commitment to sustainability, interdisciplinary research, and international collaboration, boasting partnerships with over 500 institutions worldwide. With a vibrant student body of nearly 22,000 and a dedicated academic staff, the university fosters an inclusive and innovative learning environment. Its modern campuses are equipped with state-of-the-art facilities, supporting both academic excellence and a rich cultural life.
Accommodation
Yes, the University of Kassel offers accommodation services for international students through the Studierendenwerk Kassel, the university's student services organization.\n
Work While Studying
Yes, students can work up to 20 hours per week
Co-op/Internship Participation
Yes there is an internship service.
Featured Programmes
Average Time To Receive Acceptance Letter
March - July
Location
Mönchebergstraße 19, 34125 Kassel, Germany
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