Humboldt-Universität zu Berlin (HU Berlin)
About
Humboldt-Universität zu Berlin is a public research university charging zero tuition for international students, in a Bundesland that avoids the €1,500-per-semester non-EU surcharge charged in Baden-Württemberg. It spans an unusually broad range — humanities, law, medicine, social sciences, economics, STEM, education, and agriculture — with graduates eligible for an 18-month post-study job-seeker visa.
Berlin is Europe's liveliest university city, blending cutting-edge creative industries with historical depth. The capital draws international students in large numbers; living costs are surprisingly moderate compared to other major European centres, though rising. Public transport is extensive and affordable.
Application deadlines
- WiSeJul 15
Via uni-assist for all non-EU international applicants (restricted and unrestricted bachelor). Application period opens Jun 1. Late submissions excluded
- WiSe (higher-semester/some MSc)Sep 15
Higher-semester entries and some master's programmes. Verify per programme on HU portal
- SoSeJan 15
Most HU programmes WiSe-only — SoSe intake very limited. Verify per programme at hu-berlin.de
Accommodation
studierendenWERK Berlin — 60+ halls across Berlin. Single room in shared flat (WG): €293–363/month; single apartment: €543–599/month. Deposit €700 + €75 service fee. Long waiting list — apply immediately upon admission
Scholarships
- 🏛DAAD
- 🏛Deutschlandstipendium
DAAD: Master's/PhD, merit-based (RU/BY de-facto restricted post-2022). Deutschlandstipendium: €300/mo, all nationalities, merit + social commitment. Apply via university portal (Apr–Jun).
National funding for this destination
Honestly
Why this works
- As a public university, HU Berlin charges zero tuition for international students, unlike private alternatives.
- Berlin sits in a non-fee Bundesland, so non-EU students avoid the €1,500 per semester surcharge applied in Baden-Württemberg.
- A German EU degree is recognised across 27 member states, opening labour markets far beyond Russia or Central Asia.
- After graduating, Germany grants an 18-month job-seeker visa to stay and convert a degree into a work permit.
- HU Berlin covers humanities, law, medicine, social sciences, economics, STEM, education, and agriculture — unusually broad for one campus.
- Berlin's economy hosts major tech, media, and startup employers, giving students real internship access from day one.
What to check
- Most bachelor programmes at HU Berlin are taught in German; without C1 level, access to English-taught degrees is limited.
- Non-EU applicants whose school diploma is not directly recognised must complete a Studienkolleg or foundation year first.
- Germany requires proof of funds via a blocked Sperrkonto — approximately €11,904 for one year — before a student visa is issued.
- International students may work only 120 full days or 240 half days per year, which limits earning capacity alongside studies.
- Berlin has a well-documented housing shortage; finding affordable accommodation near campus can take months and requires early action.
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Figures are indicative and change by academic year. Always confirm tuition, deadlines and visa requirements on the official institution and government sources before applying.