University of Erfurt

Last Updated on: May 17, 2025 by
Sridhar Kongara

Germany’s oldest universities, Erfurt was founded in 1379 and combines a rich medieval history with a modern academic environment. A new era of academic pride emerged with the re-establishment of the university in 1994, following its closure in 1816. Nestled in the charming city of Erfurt, the university’s campus features a blend of old buildings and modern amenities, making for an energetic environment for local and international students alike. The University of Erfurt is known for its research-led as well as innovative research in the humanities and social sciences, particularly education. To that end, it offers a high-quality degree experience from a global perspective, balanced by an emphasis on community.

Established Year: 1379

Institution Type: Public

Address: Nordhäuser Str. 63, 99089 Erfurt, Germany Founded: 1379

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Courses Offered

Offers 0 Courses

** Fees mentioned here are approximate and are per year, Unless specified otherwise

Why choose this University of Erfurt

There are numerous reasons why Uganda must consider the University of Erfurt as a destination for international students:

Join a Diverse range of Educative Programs The university offers various Bachelors and Masters programs, with emphasis on humanities, education, and social sciences.
International Environment Thanks to more than 500 international students from 87 countries study at the University of Erfurt, it provides a truly global learning environment.
They will share a class with peers from diverse cultures, which gives their academic experience a taste of international contacts.

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Campus Life and Accommodation The compact and sprawling campus of the university ensures student life is easy and convenient.
Students get to live in comfortable hostel premises and in case they do not, they can dine at the student-friendly available restaurants.
Also, the proximity of the campus to downtown Erfurt contributes to greater opportunity to explore the city and find academic and social communities.
Low Cost of Living As the capital city of Thuringia, Erfurt offers people low living costs. International students can experience high life quality without paying exorbitantly, all in a city steeped in history and culture.
Easy Mobility The students are provided with a semester ticket to travel by tram, bus, and train around the city and region of Thuringia.
It is a nice moment to discover the fine landscapes and historic locations of the area.
Student Support Program Universities bring students together or help them assimilate in German and international student groups.
This award-winning program also helps to build meaningful connections and a network with a focus on both campus and outside the university, assisting with settling into life in a new global location.

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Campus Facilities at University of Erfurt

Central facilities at the University of Erfurt provide students and university staff with the best possible conditions for studying and living. Some of the main amenities include:

Computer Centre Where students can use modern technology to conduct their studies.
Nexus of Fundamental Studies & Language Centre For international and local students, these centres offer courses and possibilities in order to improve on their academic skills and language proficiency

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Student Accommodation The university has a number of residential homes on campus such as Max Kade House.
Research Centers and Facilities The university focuses on cutting-edge research, with access to landmarks like the “Weltbeziehungen” Research Centre which gives interested visitors access to state-of-the-art research facilities.
The university also has access to the Gotha Research Campus, housed in the world-renowned Friedenstein Palace, and focusing on transcultural and historical research.
Sports Facilities The university’s sports hall and various sporting amenities motivate the pupils to do physical exercise.
Recreational sports programs also widely available through the university’s sports office.
Dining & Cafeteria Students have a choice of meals as they have a number of cafes & restaurants on campus.
Gotha Research Campus Moreover, the university owns the Gotha Research Campus, with the Gotha Research Library and Centre for Transcultural Studies, which has an international reputation, at its geographical nucleus.
Short Distances and Green Spaces The campus is relatively small and the measures between buildings are short, which allows students to move easily within the premises.
with plenty of green spaces on campus, and are great for relaxing or studying outdoors.

Student Services Offered by University of Erfurt

Student Finance: While studying at university is often financially difficult, the University of Erfurt has a number of avenues students can take advantage of in order to reduce their costs. These include:

Cost of living UBC offers housing for students, which can reduce living expenses. Universities often have websites that offer advice on local restaurants, grocery or retail stores, and entertainment.
These can help students take care of living expenses and build work experience.
BaföG (Federal Training Assistance Act) This is a student grant issued by the German government and will be granted to eligible students. This coverage helps pay for tuition fees, living expenses and other costs of study.
Student Discounts Students are offered reduced rates on public transport, food, and several other services, allowing them to keep their spending in control throughout their studies.

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International scholarships The university provides scholarships for domestic and overseas students. They might also help to cover living costs or to reduce tuition fees.
Student Loans Students requiring extra financial aid can avail themselves of favorable conditions student loans.
Students with Relevant Work Experience Relevant work experience may provide you with additional financial aid to assist you in your professional studies.
The Career Centre at the University of Erfurt can help students find part-time work and understand the job market while in-school.

Academic Support

Central Student Advisory Service These are some advisories that the university offers to students. From course selection to the examination system to study-related troubles student can find expert guidance.
Student Affairs student affairs provides administrative processes, registration, enrollment and student services
German as a foreign language and other languagesLanguage CentreVarious courses are offered to help improve students’ German or another foreign language.

Counseling and Health Support

It has counseling services for students who are struggling with personal issues, symptoms of stress, or mental health issues.
At the Student Health Center, medical experts monitor students’ health and provide medical advice.

International Student Support: The International Office serves a vital role for international students providing the services and support before and upon arrival. This includes:

Assessment of courses and visa support.
Guides to housing, travel, and settling in Erfurt.
Highschool Integration programs that help international students mingle with German and international peers.

Diversity and Inclusion

The university creates an inclusive community for all students.
The Service Centre for Gender and Diversity provides assistance to students from varied socio-cultural backgrounds, and reinforces a culture of equality and respect for all members of the university community.

Student Life at University of Erfurt

International students in Erfurt live in the state capital of Thuringia, famous for its beautiful architecture and quality of life.
The city, whose nickname is “the green heart of Germany,” offers historic charms and a lively student vibe.
Erfurt is also a great city to study in because of its low cost of living and an abundance of cultural and recreational opportunities.

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Daily Life in Erfurt

Erfurt is the ideal student city with the perfect balance between academic life and leisure.
The University of Erfurt has its main campus near the center of town, which also makes it easy for students to reach everything this town has to offer.
From medieval architecture to modern cafes, the German city has a rich cultural heritage and lively atmosphere that contribute to it being a vibrant spot to study and live.

Language and Communication

English is widely spoken at the University of Erfurt, particularly in academic contexts. But, in daily life around the city, German is the main language of communication.
Learn German Students can often cope without German being spoken (and in English), but it is worth studying some German to make the most of your time in Erfurt and Germany.
Language Center It also offers free German language courses that help international students to learn German language during the semester.
Tandem Program students are invited to speak German with native speakers and help the students with their language.

Student Outreach and Engagement

At the University of Erfurt, there are also numerous students’ associations through which students can get to know others with similar interests.
These cells provide a beautiful space and frequently hold occasions for global and local students.
International Campus Erfurt (ICE) This student body puts on various events throughout the semester to support cultural exchange and unity among international students.
ICE also organizes International Welcome Week at the beginning of each semester, a chance for students to get to know each other, meet friends, and learn about university life.
You Were Studying those interested in music and the arts could join one of the many University of Erfurt choirs, including the Chamber Choir, Jazz and Gospel Choir and the Academic Choir of Erfurt.
They are open to students from any academic background and allow students to explore creative and social activities outside the classroom.

University Sports Centre (USV): University of Erfurt promotes physical activity United Sq L9, The University Sports Centre (USV) offers a diverse range of sports and fitness activities for students. If you want to get in shape as part of a team, as an individual, or through health lifestyle practices, the USV provides:

Team Sports basketball, volleyball, football, handball and table tennis.
Individual Sports Yoga, aerobics cardio, gymnastics and swimming.
It includes martial arts such as Judo, Karate, Aikido, and self-defense classes.
These courses can be registered by students at the beginning of each semester, and serve as a good outlet for anyone who wants to stay fit, meet friends, and stay free from academics.

Health and Well-being

Germany is known for a good healthcare system and the University of Erfurt provides students with health services.
The university conducts Health Days and other well-being events throughout the year to raise awareness of physical and mental health, as well as provide students with opportunities to participate in health-related activities and seminars.

Cost of Living: Compared to other German cities, Erfurt is also quite affordable, particularly for students. Here is a snapshot of the living costs:

Groceries The price of the basic groceries is relatively low in Erfurt compared to other major German cities.
Catering and University Canteens: The university provides cost-effective meal solutions through its canteens, aiding students in controlling their expenses.
Housing Student accommodation can vary from being in a uni-owned building to sharing a private apartment with many other people where some are attending other schools.
Outdoor Activities Take advantage of the surroundings, bike and hike throughout the city.
Culture & Style Erfurt has a long history and rich culture. The city hosts numerous festivals and art galleries, theaters and music events all year long.
Students can wander around Erfurt’s medieval Old Town, tour sites such as the Erfurt Cathedral, and see performances at local theaters and concert halls.

Scholarships Offered by University of Erfurt

Scholarship Opportunities at the University of Erfurt, Germany – Towards the Master’s Program (you could have already considered the Master’s program like, o. g. MPP at the Willy Brandt School)

Helmut-Schmidt-Program (DAAD)

The Helmut-Schmidt-Program, funded by the German Federal Foreign Office, offers outstanding students from developing countries, opportunity to receive postgraduate education in Germany.
These scholarships are for the Master’s programs which focus on public policy and good governance.
Eligibility Applicants must be from developing countries of Africa, Latin America, Asia and some European countries (for a full list of eligible countries, refer to the DAAD website).
Who is it for Incoming graduate students with solid educational background, at least 1 year of relevant work experience, and a desire to help develop democratic and social progress in their country of origin after graduation.
Scholarship Benefits Tuition fee in full, living expenses, and some allowances. How to Apply: Applications can be submitted via the Brandt School online portal. No separate application to DAAD is needed.

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Deutschland stipendium

The program is funded by the Federal Ministry of Education and Research (BMBF) and private sponsors. It’s designed to help gifted students who are engaged in social causes achieve their university ambitions.
Eligibility Open to high-achieving students with a high level of commitment to social commitment. There are no income requirements.
Requirements Students at the University of Erfurt must demonstrate outstanding academic performance or active involvement in social, voluntary or cultural initiatives.
Funded per Month 300 euros (half funded by the federal government, half by private sponsors).

DAAD Study Scholarships

Eligibility Students with a good academic record and who meet the specific DAAD’s requirements for the program they choose.
Qualifications Applicants should possess a track record of academic excellence with a top ranking in their undergraduate studies and must prove their dedication to their area of concentration.
Scholarship This provides full tuition fee and living expenses and travel allowance for Winner(s).

DAAD (Various Programs) Study Scholarships

The DAAD has many other scholarships for international students of all disciplines, not just public policy. These scholarships are for students of all academic levels.
Eligibility Depends on the specific scholarship, but candidates typically should have strong grades and show commitment to their fields of study.
Criteria Certain scholarships require you to come from a certain region or academic field, and others are open to all international students.

Local Governmental grants.

There are a few local government scholarships for the International students in Germany. These are scholarships to promote international academic exchange and global cooperation.
Who is eligible International students from certain countries or regions might be eligible and more narrow fields of study might be required.
Eligibility Applicants must be enrolled at a German university and have outstanding academic performance or record of community service.
Advantages Scholarships usually include partial tuition payment and a monthly allowance for living expenses.
How to Apply Interested students must check their local German embassy or the international office of the university for additional information about applying.

Willy Brandt Scholarships

Eligibility Must have been accepted to the MPP program.
Criteria Awards are made on the basis of academic merit, future leadership potential, and professional experience in relevant fields.
Benefits Scholarships reward part of the tuition fees and other financial support.
Application Process Applications must be made directly to the Willy Brandt School as part of the MPP application.

Internships and Placement at University of Erfurt

Purpose of the Internship: The internship serves multiple important educational aims:

Transfer of Learning Students get to use skills and theories learned in class to real-world, policy related work environments.
Experience in Policy and Public Management Internships allow students to gain practical experience in policy analysis and public management, connecting academic learning with real-world application.
Career Exploration There are internships that would help students explore what they like, see what their skills are, and get a sense of what’s out there in the world of public policy.

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Internship Opportunities: Internships at the Willy Brandt School are generally completed at diverse organizations such as:

Government Agencies Interns interact with local, national, or international government agencies where they learn about the execution of policies and public governance.
International Organizations The United Nations (UN), World Bank, and regional organizations such as the European Union or African Union are other global institutions where many students obtain internships.
Non-Profits MPP students are often able to secure internships through non-profits working in the areas of development, human rights, and Public Health.
Private Sector and For-Profit Organizations Opportunities to intern for MNCs, consultancy or think tanks, serving private actors in the field of public policy.

Application Process: Although students are responsible for finding their own internships, the Brandt School provides extensive support through the process:

Application support writing cover letters, preparing CVs and applying.
Networking Opportunities: The Brandt’s broad alumni network provides students with valuable contacts across industries of public policy.
Current Openings and Previous Placements The school provides information on current internship openings, and students can learn from the previous placements of concerning alumni.

Examples of Internships Placements: MPP students have had internships with leading international organizations and institutions globally and considerable experience in public policy. Here are a few examples:

Student Experiences

The internship turned out to be an important aspect of many students’ learnings. For example, Andrea Robles, an MPP alumna from Mexico mentioned that the MPP program’s practical focus, specially its mandatory internship, allowed her to establish useful connections and gain practical experience in international organizations.
An integral part of learning, she said, was how to apply everything the students learned in the classroom to what they were doing in the real world in policy.

Support and Coordination: A voice in managing internships is Florian Heintze, the internship coordinator who works with students to help them find placements that match their career aspirations and academic interests.

Entry Requirements at University of Erfurt

Application Process: Although students are responsible for finding their own internships, the Brandt School provides extensive support through the process:

Application support writing cover letters, preparing CVs and applying.
Networking Opportunities The Brandt’s broad alumni network provides students with valuable contacts across industries of public policy.
Current Openings and Previous Placements The school provides information on current internship openings, and students can learn from the previous placements of concerning alumni.
The University of Erfurt is a partner university of the German Exchange Service (DAAD) Students may apply for the winter and summer semesters.
- It has No Application Fees It makes it easier to apply for international students as they have No Application Fees for applying
- Courses Taught in English The University of Erfurt offers a few degree programs in English for international students, especially at the Master’s level.
- GPA Requirements Admission GPA requirements can vary by program but, generally speaking, a strong academic record is often expected for entry, particularly for competitive fields.
- Supporting documents Applicants need to submit relevant supporting documents – proof of previous education (for example transcripts), proof of language proficiency (where necessary), CV and motivation letter.

Rankings of University of Erfurt

University of Erfurt university in the German state of Thuringia, one of the leading universities particularly in the fields of social sciences, education and humanities.
Although not necessarily a big global player in rankings, it does have a reputation for high-quality education and is responsible for generating some leading scholars in fields such as communication science, religious studies, and education.

Global and National Rankings

Internationally and nationally, the University of Erfurt is highly ranked — especially in its subject areas:
THE World Rankings In 2021, the university was ranked globally among the top 250 universities. This means it is a unassailable research powerhouse, it is teaching at the highest standards and it has global reach.
QS Rankings In general terms, the global standing of Erfurt is modest, while subject rankings are of much greater importance.
Arts and Humanities 1219th worldwide, 408th in EU
Psychology World 1356, EU 418
Social Sciences Global Ranking 2056 | EU Ranking 599
The humanities and social sciences are the university’s central foci, so these rankings demonstrate a core strength for the university.
CHE-University-Rankings CHE University Ranking 2024/2025: Erfurt remains soundly established in its focus areas.
The institution also stands out for its contributions to education, social sciences, and arts, and ranks top 50% in no less than 46 research topics.

Conclusion: While not competing with the top-tier of universities in global rankings, the University of Erfurt has a solid niche in the humanities, social sciences, and education. As one of the best research universities with an international focus, Toronto University is a competitive institution with a lot to offer students in communication science, politics, and international relations.

Acceptance Rate

The acceptance rate for the University of Erfurt is around 50%.
This suggests that the admission process is reasonably competitive, as half of all applicants to the university’s programs are accepted.
Keep in mind that the percentage seems relatively moderate, as acceptance varies by program and the number of applicants for that year.
The university has a strong reputation, particularly in fields like education, social sciences, and integration studies, which might impact acceptance in these fields.

Enrollment Numbers

At the time data was collected, approximately 6,052 students were attending the German University of Erfurt.
This student body is also diverse, with international students accounting for a large part of the total enrollment.
With a student-teacher ratio that favours individualized attention, the university provides a more homely academic environment that provides a balance between study and socialization, making it one of the most sought after destination for education seekers.