Freie Universität Berlin logo

Freie Universität Berlin

Berlin, DE · Ranking #5

Freie Universität Berlin is a leading public research university established in 1948, located in Berlin, Germany. Founded during the Cold War as an alternative to Humboldt University, which was located in East Berlin, it has grown into one of Germany's most prestigious universities. The university is known for its strong emphasis on research, international cooperation, and interdisciplinary studies. With approximately 35,000 students and over 4,000 academic staff, it offers a wide range of programs across humanities, social sciences, natural sciences, and medicine. The university is a member of the German Universities Excellence Initiative and maintains numerous international partnerships.

Freie Universität Berlin logo

Freie Universität Berlin

About the university

Freie Universität Berlin is a leading public research university established in 1948, located in Berlin, Germany. Founded during the Cold War as an alternative to Humboldt University, which was located in East Berlin, it has grown into one of Germany's most prestigious universities. The university is known for its strong emphasis on research, international cooperation, and interdisciplinary studies. With approximately 35,000 students and over 4,000 academic staff, it offers a wide range of programs across humanities, social sciences, natural sciences, and medicine. The university is a member of the German Universities Excellence Initiative and maintains numerous international partnerships.

Key information

  • Location: Berlin, DE
  • Ranking #5
  • QS #99
  • THE #85
  • Institution type: public

Popular faculties

  • Political Science
  • Law
  • Medicine
  • Humanities
  • Social Sciences
  • Natural Sciences
  • Mathematics
  • Computer Science

Programs (30)

  • Medicine
  • Pharmacy
  • Psychology
  • Computer Science
  • Architecture
  • Business Administration
  • Economics
  • Marketing
  • Finance and Accounting
  • Law
  • Sociology
  • Journalism and Communication
  • Biology
  • Chemistry
  • Physics
  • Mathematics
  • History
  • Philosophy
  • Philology and Languages
  • Translation and Interpreting
  • Fine Arts
  • Education
  • Engineering
  • International Relations
  • Data Science
  • Political Science
  • Art History
  • Environmental Science
  • Anthropology
  • Linguistics

Student body

  • Total students: 36,000
  • Undergraduate: 24,000
  • Graduate: 12,000
  • International students: 20%

Campus life

Green Freie Universität Berlin's main campus is located in the Dahlem district of Berlin, featuring modern facilities, libraries, research centers, and green spaces. The campus combines historic buildings with contemporary architecture, creating a stimulating academic environment. The university offers excellent library resources, computer labs, study spaces, and research facilities. Student life is vibrant with numerous events, lectures, cultural activities, and social gatherings. The campus is well-connected to public transportation, making it easy to explore Berlin. The university fosters an international atmosphere with students from around the world, promoting cultural exchange and global perspectives. in West Berlin. Strong political sciences. Free tuition.

Housing & accommodation

Housing cost: €600 - €1,500 / per month

Housing options

  • Freie Universität Berlin offers various housing options for students
  • including university dormitories
  • private student residences
  • shared apartments (WG - Wohngemeinschaft)
  • and private apartments. The university's Student Services (Studentenwerk) manages several dormitories located throughout Berlin
  • offering affordable accommodation options. Many students also choose to live in shared apartments
  • which is a popular and cost-effective option in Berlin. The university provides housing assistance and information about available accommodation options through its housing office.

Student clubs and organizations

  • Freie Universität Berlin has a vibrant student life with numerous clubs and organizations covering various interests including academic societies
  • cultural groups
  • sports clubs
  • political organizations
  • and hobby groups. The university offers various sports facilities and teams including football
  • basketball
  • volleyball
  • tennis
  • swimming
  • and many other activities.

Sports

  • Students can join the university's sports program
  • participate in competitions
  • and engage in recreational activities. There are also numerous cultural and social clubs
  • language exchange groups
  • and student associations representing different faculties and interests.

Career & internships

Employment rate: 90%

Partner companies

  • Bayer
  • Deutsche Bank

Internships: Freie Universität Berlin provides extensive internship opportunities for students through its career services and partnerships with various organizations. The university's Career Service helps students find internships in Germany and internationally, connecting them with companies, research institutions, and non-profit organizations. Many programs include mandatory or optional internships as part of the curriculum. The university maintains partnerships with numerous companies and organizations, facilitating internship placements. Students can also participate in research internships within the university's various research centers and institutes.

Admission requirements

Required documents

  • High school diploma or equivalent
  • proof of German language proficiency (TestDaF
  • DSH
  • or equivalent)
  • university entrance qualification
  • application form
  • CV
  • motivation letter
  • transcripts
  • proof of health insurance
  • passport copy

Tuition costs

  • €0 - €500 / per year
  • Acceptance rate: 50.00%
  • Scholarships available: Freie Universität Berlin offers various scholarship opportunities for both domestic and international students. These include merit-based scholarships, need-based financial aid, and specific scholarships for international students. The university participates in the DAAD (German Academic Exchange Service) scholarship programs and offers scholarships for excellent academic performance. Additionally, there are scholarships available for specific fields of study and research projects. Students can apply for scholarships through the university's financial aid office and various external funding organizations.

Quick facts

  • Founded: 1948
  • Teaching languages: German, English, english, german
  • Study formats: offline

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