Goethe University Frankfurt

Last Updated on: May 8, 2025 by
Sridhar Kongara

Goethe University Frankfurt, founded in 1914, is one of the largest and most diverse universities in Germany, situated in the very heart of Europe in Frankfurt am Main. It was originally established as a distinctive “citizens’ university” with private donations — and its commitment to active engagement in society remains deeply rooted. The university cultivates the principles of democracy, European Enlightenment, and the rule of law, and is committed to promoting high-level research, professional teaching, and societal development.

The university covers five campuses, including the famous West end Campus, with state-of-the-art facilities, a rich history, and a dynamic academic know-how. Its regional and international strategic partnerships boost its position as a global scientific hub. Its progressive ethos and interdisciplinary approach to research help make the institution a leader in addressing many of the challenges of the 21st century.

Established Year: 1914

Institution Type: Public

Address: Theodor-W.-Adorno-Platz 1, 60629 Frankfurt am Main, Germany

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Courses Offered

Offers 0 Courses

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

Why choose Goethe University Frankfurt

Rich Academic Tradition

Founded in 1914, Frankfurt’s Goethe University is steeped in Germany’s academic traditions, yet has a reputation for progressive education.
Inviting students to engage with academic researchers and professionals across disciplines, with a track record of notable faculty including Paul Ehrlich and award-winning physicist Max Born,
The university offers a high quality interdisciplinary educational experience.

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Community with a Diverse and Inclusive Spirit

With about 43,000 students from various countries, it is a diverse and multicultural institution that provides opportunities for intercultural interactions and global cooperation.
It is a melting pot, welcoming students of every kind.

Learning by Doing

With research-oriented projects, state-of-the-art labs, as well as partnerships with industries, Goethe University enables hands-on learning.
These provide the link from academic theories to practical application.

Worldwide Network and Strategic Alliances

The university works with partners from the region, as well as nationally and internationally.
As a member of the Rhine-Main Universities Alliance and German U15, it aims to establish a research and academic brand of excellence with funds on an international level.

High Honors and Accolades: The goals of the university’s teaching and research are reflected in these awards: 20 Nobel Prizes, 19 Leibniz Prizes, and many other prizes testify to the quality of the university’s work.

Scholarships and Inexpensive Education

The university provides high-quality education as a well as affordable tuition fees, funded by public donations, are available for domestic and international students.
There are several scholarships available for academic and financial support.

Vibrant Urban Campus

The university’s various campuses, among them the famous West end Campus, blend state-of-the-art facilities with historic architecture.
Situated in Frankfurt, one of the world’s biggest financial centers, students benefit from the rich city life, with its social, professional and cultural offers.

Focus on Internationalization: With international faculty, exchange programs, and collaborations, Goethe University also promotes global exposure, and is a popular choice for students who want to gain such perspectives.

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Campus Facilities at Goethe University Frankfurt

Unlike other prospective students who can assess the facilities or environment before arriving, international students need more support settling into university life something that is addressed at Goethe University with the Buddy Program, during which experienced students guide newcomers as they adapt to university life, gaining familiarity with the campus facilities, academic requirements and life in Frankfurt.

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Compass International

Here you can also participate in workshops, informational events, and seminars on orienting your studies, financing your studies, intercultural skills, or presentation skills, and learning about German academic culture.
That prepares international students for academic life and cultural integration.

Digital Self-Reflection Tool

Through the “Studiencheck” tool, students are able to assess their academic progress and the state of their personal wellbeing.
The new feature also provides improvement suggestions, access to counseling services to improve study and career planning.

Goethe Start International

This project is about international students digital self-learning.
It addresses basic competencies as study habits, career planning and time management, making this change easier.

Academic Welcome Program for Refugees

The AWP program at Goethe University supports refugee students by providing free intensive German as a Foreign Language courses and preparatory subject courses as well as access to university services, such as libraries and counseling.
Psychiatric and Specialized Counseling
It also offers students access to counseling services, such as:
Psychosocial counseling for mental health support.
Wish to be transition from academics to the industry.
Support against discrimination for those in conflict or discrimination situations
And Family Services, students who are juggling family responsibilities with their studies can get assistance.

Student Services at Goethe University Frankfurt

Holistic Advisory and Counseling Services

A large number of consulting services are available to students from Goethe University, including advising services for academic, personal, and career-oriented questions.
It also offers specialized services including mental health counselling and exam preparation.

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Services for International Students

The university offers specialized help to overseas students on residency permits, visa extensions, housing, and health coverage.
International Studientreff (IST) and similar programs foster cultural exchange in an active manner by organizing excursions, museum visits, sport activities, and parties.

Buddy Program: Unlike other prospective students who can assess the facilities or environment before arriving, international students need more support settling into university life something that is addressed at Goethe University with the Buddy Program, during which experienced students guide newcomers as they adapt to university life, gaining familiarity with the campus facilities, academic requirements and life in Frankfurt.

Compass International: Here you can also participate in workshops, informational events, and seminars on orienting your studies, financing your studies, intercultural skills, or presentation skills, and learning about German academic culture. That prepares international students for academic life and cultural integration.

Digital Self-Reflection Tool

Through the “Studiencheck” tool, students are able to assess their academic progress and the state of their personal wellbeing.
The new feature also provides improvement suggestions, access to counseling services to improve study and career planning.

Goethe Start International: This project is about international students digital self-learning. It addresses basic competencies as study habits, career planning and time management, making this change easier.

Academic Welcome Program for Refugees: The AWP program at Goethe University supports refugee students by providing free intensive German as a Foreign Language courses and preparatory subject courses as well as access to university services, such as libraries and counseling.

Psychiatric and Specialized Counseling
It also offers students access to counseling services, such as:
Psychosocial counseling for mental health support.
Wish to be transition from academics to the industry.
Support against discrimination for those in conflict or discrimination situations
And Family Services, students who are juggling family responsibilities with their studies can get assistance.

Opportunities for Engaging in Volunteering: The “Engager Dich” service center Educates students involving in volunteering. These opportunities allow students to create social networks, acquire skills and improve their resumes.

Student-Led Support Programs

Nightline Frankfurt: A peer-support hotline for students to anonymously discuss their concerns.
Call-a-CAB (Come along Buddy) – A free buddy scheme, providing confidential listening support for students struggling with challenges.

Go to online resources for well-being

Here are some of the online tools that Goethe University offers:
Stud care: Self-help programs for stress, anxiety and time management
Headache Hurts: Tools for treating migraines and other headaches.
Rauchmelder: Apps zur Hilfe bei Überwachung und zuletzt zur Kontrolle des Konsums.

Student Life at Goethe University Frankfurt

Where Diverse People Come Together
- Goethe University has more than 48,000 students, including around 7,600 international students from 136 countries.
- This multicultural atmosphere encourages cross-cultural interaction and provides a diverse addition to the university’s rich community.

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Dynamic Campus Life

The parklike West end Campus has modern lecture halls, cafes and a beer garden; the Rydberg Campus is devoted to the natural sciences and the latest research.
Niederrad Campus on the River Main is the home of the Medical Faculty and University Hospital.
Campus life is vibrant with different student organizations, events, and activities. This mix includes academic seminars to cultural festivals, so students have a balanced experience.

Cafes and Cafeterias

The university’s cafeterias (Mensen) and cafes are run by the Studentenwerk and provide inexpensive meals, with lunches for about €4 or less.
Fair Trade Certified coffee is the priority in these facilities with options for vegetarians as well.
Westend Campus also has a more elegant dining option with the Cafe Sturm und Drang that offers beautiful views of the campus.

Extensive Library System

Goethe University offers the top-class library system, crowned by the Johann Christian Senckenberg University Library one of the finest independent research libraries in Germany.
It also has specialized libraries for law, natural sciences, medicine, and humanities.

Sports and Fitness Facilities

The Zentrum für Hochschulsport (ZfH) provides a broad spectrum of sporting activities, with over 40 options like rowing, fencing, skiing and tennis.
Students also have a state-of-the-art fitness center at their disposal, and organized excursions like hiking and sailing.
Throughout the semester recreational classes and excursions also assure the students stay in a healthy and active way.

Student Housing Options

The Studentenwerk operates 17 dorms with over 1,850 rooms for students. Rooms range from singles to shared apartments.
Apartments are also commonly shared with other people in what’s often called Wohngemeinschaften or WGs. The Studentenwerk offers free housing services to help students find a place to stay.

Life in Frankfurt

It has urban and green spaces, cultural landmarks, and a nightlife. Students love discovering Frankfurt’s historical sites, museums and international cuisine.
Conveniently, the university is centrally located, with quick access to public transport to quickly move into the city or to make daily travel back from school easier for students.
Submit to all Undergraduate and Postgraduate programs at Goethe University Frankfurt

Scholarships at Goethe University Frankfurt

You are not eligible if you have already received the Deutschland stipendium (Germany Scholarship).
Value: €300/month, for one year, renewable
Field of Study: All fields of study Eligibility: All nationalities, first-semester students. To apply, applicants must evidence academic achievement, social commitment, and personal successes.
Students who have overcome challenges, whether personal or cultural, receive special consideration.
Selection: Grades are assessed in two stages. In the first stage, the qualifying academic records (for instance, the Abitur or university grades) are checked.
In the second, social participation and individual skills are taken into account.
Application Process: Submission of academic transcripts, motivational letters, and evidence of social contributions are required.

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Goethe University Graduates Scholarship

Amount: €250-500/month for up to six months.
Target Group: International students in the last stage of their Bachelor, Master or State Exam program. Must be registered for Final examination or thesis Medical students working on the second part of the medical examination are similarly eligible.
Eligibility Exclusion: Doctoral students and those eligible for BAföG funding are not eligible to apply.

Scholarships for Internships

Amount: Dependent on intern needs.
Deadline: International students in Bachelor, Master, or State Exam programs.
The applicant must submit an acceptance confirmation letter from the employer and a recommendation letter confirming that the internship is related to his/her studies.
Volunteer Work with an International Context Funded by Scholarship
Amount: Varies.
Eligibility: For students involved in international initiatives at Goethe University. Engagement in international students groups, mentoring first-year international students, or organizing welcoming events for nonnative coast neighbor are example of community service.
AWP: Academic Welcome Program for Highly Qualified Refugees
Allowance: Covers certain expenses related to intensive language courses, preparatory subject courses, as well as costs related to university resources.
Conditions: At-risk students preparing for university or currently enrolled at Goethe University.
Unique Features: Integrates directly, gives spiel organizations (assistance supporting for logistical matters), and college life (academically and socially) advice.

Scholarships Offered by External Organizations

Georg-August-University in Gottingen DAAD (German Academic Exchange Service):
Provides a number of scholarships, particularly in Master’s & PhD programs, for international students.
Scholarships (full/partial) for academic course, intern and research

Political & Faith-based Foundations:

Scholarships: Some of these, through organizations like the Friedrich-Ebert-Stiftung, Heinrich-Böll-Stiftung and Cusanuswerk.
These usually involve academic excellence and a general fit with the organization’s values (e.g., social democracy, environmental sustainability, or religious affiliation).

Main Campus Stipendienwerk

Amount: Varies; us high-achieving students in specific fields like natural sciences, education, and music.
Eligibility: Professors at Goethe University nominate candidates based on their academic performance and personality.

Special Scholarship for Repatriation and Reintegration

Target Group: Students from developing countries who intend to return home after graduation.
Programs by Brot für die Welt and CIM offer financial and professional support for reintegration into local job markets.

Placements & Internships at Goethe University Frankfurt

Internships at Goethe University Individual internships.

Internships at Goethe University: International students at Goethe University have, however, the opportunity to take up internships in different departments of the University or the affiliated University Hospital.
Mandatory or voluntary, such internships offer experience, both academic and professional.
The department or University Hospital needs to set clear requirements for the internship(s).

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Intern classes: Interns may enroll as Free movers or ongoing programs such as ERASMUS+ Traineeship.
Support Services: Guidance on visas, funding, insurance, and housing in Frankfurt is available from the university’s Student Mobility Team.

Finding Internships Abroad: Goethe University also assists students in obtaining international internships via the Global Office. This includes information on planning, funding, and how to utilize internship databases.

Consulting Specialized: Identifying internships relevant to their degree programs, particularly (for course credit required by the program) are regulated by faculty-level advisors.

Internship Databases: The students can find opportunities through meinpraktikum. de, praktikum. Info, Global Placement and Erasmus Intern, World Unite.

Placement Assistance

Tailored Consultation by Faculties: A considerable number of faculties at Goethe University offer specialized consultation to students who require an internship in their curriculum.
International Internship Databases: The university partners with international organizations and companies, connecting students with global internship opportunities.

ERASMUS+ Traineeship Program

Eligibility: Open to students applying for placements in Europe.
Advantages: Financial, networking, and professional development in an international environment
Internships Available Now
Internships offers of partners and worldwide companies regularly arrive at the Goethe University.
UK: Language Assistant Program – teach English
Ireland: Teaching and special education placements at Galway Autism Partnership.
No English language sub-titles for the Non-English Videos.
While platforms like Volunteer World and World Unite! Provide placements globally. These programs allow you to develop skills while contributing to projects that matter.

Rankings at at Goethe University Frankfurt

Key Highlights:

Accessibility: You acknowledge that the university seeks academic excellence and a well-rounded profile while maintaining an acceptance rate that accommodates a broad spectrum of students.
Selection Process: Admissions at many universities are based on academic qualifications and language proficiency, and, for some programs, also require additional aspects such as motivation letters, research proposals, or interviews.
International Students: Goethe University has a cosmopolitan policy of educating students from different cultures, and it is one of the preferred institutions for students from more than 136 countries.
Program-Specific Criteria: Some programs are more competitive than others due to demand or specific requirements.

Rankings at Goethe University Frankfurt

The QS World University Rankings 2025

Ranked #309 in the world, Goethe University Frankfurt is already among the top public universities in Germany and is expected to emerge as a global player in higher education.
Times Higher Education (THE) World Unive.
Rank: Among the elite of the world’s universities.
Category Scores:
Teaching: 42.5
Research Environment: 43.3
Research Quality: 82.5
Industry: 83.9
International Outlook: 68.7
S. News & World Report (2025)

Goethe University Ranking 2023: 227 (3) in Best Global Universities. This ranking showcases the university’s consistent strength in indicators such as academic reputation, research output, and other metrics.

Academic Ranking of World Universities (SHA)

Ranked 151st in the world, it is renowned for its academic and research capabilities.
This Meta-Rank is compiled from the following university rankings (2025)
The following table presents the most relevant rankings of Goethe University (1) Ranked #1 in Frankfurt am Main281,279,247 (2) #181 in Western Europe (WWA)291 (3) #226 in the world279

Study Rankings

Ranking on the international scene and in European countries lists, Goethe University ranks among the top 200 universities worldwide, and the top 100 in Europe.

Acceptance Rate

As a moderately selective university, Goethe University Frankfurt has an approximate acceptance rate of 77%.
This rate is applicable to International and Domestic Students alike, ensuring vibrant International and Domestic communities on campus and holistically integrating the JKLU student experience.