University of Paderborn
Paderborn, Germany
Paderborn University (Universität Paderborn)
Paderborn, Germany
Founded
1972
Institution Type
Public Research University
Total Students
20,000+
International Students
15%+
Discover Paderborn University: A Modern Research Institution in Germany
Discover Paderborn University: A Modern Research Institution in Germany
Paderborn University is a public research university located in Paderborn, North Rhine-Westphalia, Germany. Founded in 1972 as a comprehensive university (Gesamthochschule), it has since developed into a dynamic institution with over 20,000 students enrolled across five faculties and more than 70 degree programmes.
Known as the University for the Information Society, Paderborn University has a strong foundation in computer science, electrical engineering, and mathematics. The university closely collaborates with the Heinz Nixdorf Institute, the Paderborn Center for Parallel Computing, and two Fraunhofer Institutes for research in cutting-edge fields including quantum photonics.
Paderborn University is a founding member of the German University Alliance (UA) 11+, reinforcing its role as one of the leading mid-sized universities in Germany. More than 15% of its students are international, originating from over 100 different countries, reflecting a strong commitment to global academic exchange.
Key Milestones
- 1614: Original university founded by Prince Bishop Dietrich von Fürstenberg as the first Westphalian university with theological and philosophical faculties.
- 1972: Modern Paderborn University re-founded as a Gesamthochschule (comprehensive university) on August 1.
- 2002: Transformed into a full university; mathematician Preda Mihailescu proved the Catalan conjecture, which had been unresolved for 158 years.
- 2021: New high-performance computing centre completed on campus, hosting the Noctua supercomputer as one of only 9 National HPC sites in Germany.
Academic Structure and Faculties at Paderborn University
Academic Structure and Faculties at Paderborn University
Paderborn University is organized into five faculties covering a broad range of disciplines from arts and humanities to engineering and natural sciences. The university offers over 70 degree programmes at bachelor and master level, with additional teacher education programmes playing a significant role.
Faculty of Arts and Humanities
The largest faculty with over 7,500 students, covering English and American studies, educational science, theology, German studies, history, media studies, romance languages, and more. It incorporates crossover teaching in gender studies, comparative theology, and linguistics.
- English Literature and Culture (B.A./M.A.)
- Media Studies (B.A./M.A.)
- Education Science (B.A./M.A.)
Faculty of Business Administration and Economics
Offers programmes in management, taxation, accounting and finance, business information systems, economics, business and human resource education, and law. The faculty has strong industry connections in the OWL economic region.
- International Business Studies (B.Sc.)
- Business Administration (M.Sc.)
- Management Information Systems (M.Sc.)
Faculty of Science
Covers physics, chemistry, and sports and health sciences. The faculty conducts research in areas such as optoelectronics, sustainable materials, and applied neurosciences, contributing to the university's interdisciplinary research profile.
- Chemistry (B.Sc./M.Sc.)
- Physics (B.Sc./M.Sc.)
- Applied Sports Science (B.A.)
Faculty of Mechanical Engineering
A focused faculty with sixteen professors and four multidisciplinary, cross-faculty research institutions. Research strengths include intelligent technical systems, sustainable processes, and automated driving technologies.
- Mechanical Engineering (B.Sc./M.Sc.)
- Chemical Engineering (B.Sc.)
- Computer Engineering (M.Sc.)
Faculty of Computer Science, Electrical Engineering and Mathematics
One of the university's flagship faculties, housing departments of computer science, electrical engineering, and mathematics. The computer science programme has been ranked among the top 3 in Germany by CHE, and the faculty hosts the Heinz Nixdorf Institute.
- Computer Science (B.Sc./M.Sc.)
- Electrical Systems Engineering (M.Sc.)
- Mathematics (B.Sc./M.Sc.)
Teacher Education Programmes (Cross-Faculty)
Paderborn University is one of the largest teacher training institutions in North Rhine-Westphalia, offering approximately 166 subject combinations across all school types. Teacher education programmes draw on expertise from all five faculties.
- Teacher Training for Primary Schools
- Teacher Training for Secondary Schools (Gymnasium)
- Teacher Training for Vocational Schools
Admission Requirements for Paderborn University
Admission Requirements for Paderborn University
Undergraduate Admission
- Academic QualificationGerman Abitur or recognized international equivalent (e.g., A-Levels, IB Diploma)
- Language Proficiency (German)DSH-2 or TestDaF 4x4 for German-taught programmes
- Language Proficiency (English)IELTS 6.5+ or TOEFL iBT 80+ for English-taught programmes
- Application PortalApply via uni-assist or directly through the university portal
- Application FeeNo application fee at Paderborn University
Graduate Admission
- Academic QualificationRecognized bachelor's degree in a relevant field
- Language ProficiencyTOEFL iBT 100+ or Cambridge CAE Grade A/B for English-taught programmes
- GRE (select programmes)Quantitative Reasoning 157+, Analytical Writing 4.0+ (where required)
- Additional DocumentsCV, motivation letter, transcripts, and reference letters
- Research ProposalRequired for doctoral programmes, aligned with supervisor's research area
Application deadline for most programmes starting in October. International applicants should apply via uni-assist well in advance.
Application deadline for programmes with summer semester intake starting in April. Not all programmes offer summer admission.
Individual master's programmes may have earlier deadlines. Check the specific programme page on the university website.
Doctoral positions are typically advertised individually. Contact prospective supervisors directly to discuss opportunities.
Tuition Fees and Scholarships at Paderborn University
Tuition Fees and Scholarships at Paderborn University
Paderborn University does not charge tuition fees for any degree programmes, including for international students. As a publicly funded institution, students only pay a semester contribution that covers administrative costs and a public transport ticket.
| Cost Category | EU/Domestic Students | International Students |
|---|---|---|
| Tuition Fees (per semester) | EUR 0 | EUR 0 |
| Semester Contribution (incl. transport ticket) | ~EUR 300 | ~EUR 300 |
| Health Insurance (per month) | ~EUR 120 | ~EUR 120 |
| Estimated Living Costs (per month) | EUR 650–850 | EUR 800–950 |
| Total | ~EUR 600 per semester + EUR 770–970/month living | ~EUR 600 per semester + EUR 920–1,070/month living |
DAAD Scholarships
The German Academic Exchange Service (DAAD) offers a variety of scholarship programmes for international students, academics, and scientists from all countries to study or conduct research at German universities including Paderborn.
- Coverage: Monthly stipend, travel allowance, health insurance
- Eligibility: International students with strong academic profiles
- Application: Apply through the DAAD portal (deadlines vary by programme)
OWL Study Fund and Regional Scholarships
Paderborn University provides access to external and regional funding options through partnerships such as the OWL Study Fund. Additional scholarships from foundations and industry partners may be available.
- Coverage: Partial funding for living expenses
- Eligibility: Enrolled students at Paderborn University
- Application: Contact the International Office or Scholarship Office for details
Campus and Facilities at Paderborn University
Campus and Facilities at Paderborn University
Paderborn University is a compact campus university located in the south of the city, offering short distances between all five faculties, administration buildings, and central services. The campus features modern seminar buildings, lecture halls, well-equipped laboratories, and abundant green outdoor spaces.
The main campus at Warburger Strasse houses all five faculties, the university library, and central student services in a connected, walkable layout.
The university library is open 350 days a year, providing extensive collections, digital resources, and comfortable study spaces for all students.
Located 5 km from the main campus and connected by the uni-line bus, the Fürstenallee campus hosts key research centres including the Heinz Nixdorf Institute and the Noctua supercomputer.
Housing & Dining
Student Housing
Paderborn University owns two student halls of residence near the main campus. Additional housing is available through the Studierendenwerk and private rentals in the city.
- University residence halls (EUR 270–370/month)
- Private rooms and shared apartments (EUR 320–450/month)
- Host family accommodation available for exchange students
Dining & Services
The campus offers a Mensa (cafeteria) with affordable daily menus, a notebook cafe, and various smaller eateries. Student services include advisory offices and career counselling.
- Mensa with subsidized meals for students
- Notebook Cafe and study lounges
- Central Student Advisory Service on campus
Student Life at Paderborn University
Student Life at Paderborn University
Campus life at Paderborn University is vibrant and community-oriented, with a wide range of cultural, athletic, and social activities. The compact campus layout fosters close connections among students from diverse backgrounds.
Paderborn: A Historic University City in North Rhine-Westphalia
Paderborn: A Historic University City in North Rhine-Westphalia
Life in Paderborn
Paderborn is a city of over 150,000 residents in the East Westphalia-Lippe region of North Rhine-Westphalia. Located approximately 50 minutes from Dortmund and two hours from Cologne, it offers small-city affordability with excellent transport connections and a rich cultural heritage dating back to Charlemagne.
Affordable Cost of Living
Monthly living costs in Paderborn range from EUR 650 to EUR 950, significantly lower than major German cities like Munich or Berlin.
Heinz Nixdorf MuseumsForum
Home to the world's largest computer museum, showcasing 5,000 years of information technology history right next to the university's research campus.
Historic City Centre
Paderborn features a charming old town with the famous Paderquellen springs, the Romanesque-Gothic cathedral, theatres, galleries, and a lively arts scene.
Strong Regional Economy
The OWL region is one of Germany's major economic hubs, offering excellent internship and career opportunities in technology, engineering, and manufacturing.
Career Outcomes and Alumni Network
Career Outcomes and Alumni Network
Key Industry Partners and Employers
Practical Information for International Students
Practical Information for International Students
For International Students
The International Office is the first point of contact for international students, offering guidance on admission, visa requirements, orientation, and exchange programmes with over 140 partner universities worldwide.
Paderborn University offers preparatory German language courses (DSH) for international students who need to improve their German proficiency before starting their degree programme. Course fees are approximately EUR 500.
The InRegioFIT programme supports international students with career fairs, application training, and networking with regional employers. Graduates can stay in Germany for 18 months on a post-study job-seeking visa.
Key Contacts
- +90 5435286292
- +44 7868736984
- corporate@uni4edu.com
- info@uni4edu.com
Paderborn University World Rankings
Paderborn University World Rankings
Paderborn University has established a solid international reputation, particularly in computer science, mathematics, and engineering. The university performs strongly in research environment and industry collaboration indicators across major global ranking systems.
| Subject | Ranking Body | Rank |
|---|---|---|
| Mathematics | US News | #138 |
| Computer Science | THE Subject | #201–250 |
| Engineering | THE Subject | #301–400 |
| Economics & Business | THE Subject | #301–400 |
Features
Paderborn University is a dynamic public research institution located in North Rhine-Westphalia, Germany. It offers over 70 degree programs across five faculties, emphasizing interdisciplinary research and innovation. The university is renowned for its strengths in computer science, engineering, and the natural sciences, and it houses the "Noctua 2" supercomputer, a centerpiece of its high-performance computing center. With a commitment to internationalization, Paderborn University fosters a diverse academic community and provides extensive support services for students.\n
Accommodation
Paderborn University collaborates with the Studierendenwerk Paderborn to provide housing options for students. They manage approximately 1,602 rooms in student residences located on or near the campus. Additionally, they offer assistance in finding private accommodations in the city. \n
Work While Studying
Yes students can work up to 20 hours per week.
Co-op/Internship Participation
Internships are an integral part of many degree programs at Paderborn University. The university offers guidance and support through its Career Service and faculty-specific internship offices.
Featured Programmes
Average Time To Receive Acceptance Letter
December - January
May - July
Location
University of Paderborn, Warburger Str. 100, 33098 Paderborn, Germany
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