About the university

Kiel University (Christian-Albrechts-Universität zu Kiel) is a public research university in northern Germany, founded in 1665. It offers undergraduate, master’s, and doctoral programs across natural sciences, humanities, social sciences, law, economics, and medicine. The university is particularly known for marine sciences, environmental studies, and life sciences due to its coastal location. It emphasizes interdisciplinary research and international collaboration. Students benefit from modern facilities, laboratories, and libraries. Campus life is active with cultural events, student organizations, and sports. International students receive strong support through integration and language programs.

Key information

• Location: Kiel, DE
• Ranking #370
• QS #601
• THE #301
• US News #470
• National ranking #22
• Institution type: public

Popular faculties

• Marine Sciences
• Environmental Sciences
• Biology
• Medicine
• Law
• Economics
• Social Sciences

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: 27,000
• Undergraduate: 16,000
• Graduate: 9,000
• International students: 11%

Campus life

Campus life at Kiel University is closely connected to its coastal environment. Students engage in marine research, environmental initiatives, cultural events, and sports. The university offers modern laboratories, libraries, and waterfront facilities. International students benefit from integration programs and language support. Kiel provides a relaxed and student-friendly atmosphere with access to the Baltic Sea and outdoor activities.

Housing & accommodation

Housing cost: €250 - €600 / per month

Housing options

• Student dormitories
• shared apartments
• private apartments
• student residence halls

Student clubs and organizations

• Marine clubs
• environmental groups
• cultural associations
• international student clubs
• sports clubs

Sports

• Sailing
• football
• volleyball
• rowing
• athletics

Career & internships

Employment rate: 78%

Partner companies

• GEOMAR
• Siemens
• Bosch
• BASF
• Deutsche Bank
• Allianz

Internships: Internships are integrated into many programs, particularly in marine and environmental sciences. Students gain experience in research institutes, NGOs, and companies. Career services assist with job placement and networking. Many internships lead to employment in Germany and internationally.

Admission requirements

Required documents

• Academic transcripts
• diploma certificate
• CV
• motivation letter
• language proficiency certificate
• passport copy
• recommendation letters

Minimum GPA: 2.6

Tuition costs

• €300 - €350 / per year
• Acceptance rate: 70.00%
• Scholarships available: Kiel University offers scholarships through DAAD, Deutschlandstipendium, and faculty-based programs. Additional support for living expenses is available. International students are encouraged to apply early due to limited funding.

Quick facts

• Founded: 1665
• Teaching languages: english, german
• Study formats: offline

Contact

• Website: https://www.uni-kiel.de
• [email protected]
• +49 431 880 0