Kempten (Allgäu)

Bavaria 1 universities

Nestled in the foothills of the Alps, in the south of Germany's Bavaria state, Kempten (Allgäu) is an attractive destination for international students, offering a blend of historical charm and modern student life. Known as one of Germany's oldest cities, Kempten stands out with its rich past and stunning natural beauty. Located in the heart of the Allgäu region, this city of approximately 68,000 residents provides a calm yet dynamic atmosphere. If you're looking to study in Germany, Kempten offers both high-quality university programs and affordable living conditions. It's particularly notable for its opportunities in applied sciences, making it an ideal choice for those seeking both an academic career and a rich cultural experience. The city's student-friendly environment, easy transportation, and surrounding natural wonders make Kempten a must-explore place for anyone considering studying in Germany.

Kempten (Allgäu) at a Glance

State: Bavyera (Bayern)
Population: ~68.000
Number of Universities: 2 (Public)
Total Programs: 8
Key Universities: Hochschule für angewandte Wissenschaften Kempten
Coordinates: 47.7333333, 10.3166667
Highlight: One of Germany's oldest cities

Kempten (Allgäu): Where History Meets Nature

Kempten (Allgäu) is an ancient city in Germany's Bavaria state, with historical roots stretching back to the Roman Empire. Dating back to 15 BC, this settlement, once known as Cambodunum, holds the distinction of being one of Germany's oldest cities. Over time, Kempten grew into a vital hub for the Allgäu region, flourishing in trade and culture. Today, with a population of around 68,000, Kempten is the largest city in the Swabia region and serves as the economic, tourist, and administrative center for a surrounding area of approximately 480,000 people. This means you'll find not just an academic environment, but also a vibrant regional center offering opportunities for internships and jobs. The city's historical fabric blends seamlessly with modern life, creating a unique atmosphere with its narrow streets, historic buildings, and green spaces. Kempten might also pique your interest as the birthplace of former national football player İlhan Mansız.

Study in Kempten: A Hub for Applied Sciences

Kempten (Allgäu) stands out for its high-quality education, especially in the field of applied sciences (Hochschule für angewandte Wissenschaften – a university of applied sciences, focusing on practical, career-oriented education). The city hosts two public universities, offering a total of 8 different programs. The leading institution is Hochschule für angewandte Wissenschaften Kempten (Kempten University of Applied Sciences). This university provides bachelor's and master's programs in various fields like engineering, business, social sciences, and design. Universities of applied sciences combine theory with practice, giving you a strong foundation for the professional world. This significantly boosts graduates' employability in Germany and internationally. The universities in Kempten are known for their modern campuses, well-equipped laboratories, and student-focused approach. The advantage of being in a smaller city means you can build closer relationships with professors and fellow students, which supports both academic success and personal growth. For international students, Kempten offers a chance to get a practical, career-oriented education in an international environment.

Life and Transportation in the Heart of the Allgäu Region

Kempten (Allgäu) is a paradise for nature lovers, thanks to its proximity to the Bavarian Alps. The city and its surroundings—lakes, mountains, and green valleys—offer countless opportunities for hiking, biking, winter sports, and other outdoor activities. These natural beauties allow you to escape academic stress and embrace an active lifestyle. Public transportation within the city is well-developed, with bus lines providing easy access everywhere. Kempten's small and compact size also means you can walk or bike to many places. You can easily reach nearby cities and major centers like Munich by train, giving you plenty of chances to explore Germany. While Kempten is a calm and safe city, it also hosts various cafes, restaurants, and events to enrich your social life. The cultural richness and local festivals of the Allgäu region offer fantastic opportunities to experience German culture firsthand.

Estimated Monthly Cost of Living

Rent (shared)

350-500 EUR

Shared apartment (WG – Wohngemeinschaft) room or student dorm

Food

200-300 EUR

Groceries and occasional dining out

Health Insurance

120-130 EUR

Student health insurance

Transportation (Semesterticket)

0-50 EUR

Varies by university, sometimes included in semester contribution (a mandatory fee paid by students each semester) or discounted

Books/Materials

30-60 EUR

Other Expenses (leisure, personal)

50-100 EUR

Average total 750-1140 EUR / mo

Places to Visit and Student Hangouts in Kempten

Residenz Kempten

Landmark

The magnificent residence of former prince-bishops, a beautiful example of Baroque architecture.

Archäologischer Park Cambodunum (APC)

Museum

An open-air museum where you can explore Kempten's Roman-era ruins and history.

St. Lorenz Basilica

Landmark

An impressive Baroque church located in the city center, one of Kempten's landmarks.

Stadtpark Kempten

Park

The city's green heart, ideal for relaxing, walking, or spending time with friends.

Kempten University Library

Library

A modern and comprehensive library where students can study and conduct research.

Forum Allgäu

Square

A popular center for shopping, dining, and socializing.

Student Life and Culture

Student life in Kempten combines the intimacy of a small city with the extensive opportunities offered by the Allgäu region. Student communities, often centered around the university campus, create a social environment through various events and clubs. Kempten provides a calmer, more focused academic setting away from the hustle and bustle of larger cities, while also allowing you to live close to nature. Especially on weekends, outdoor activities like skiing, snowboarding, hiking, and biking are very popular due to the city's proximity to the Alps. You'll find many cafes, bars, and restaurants where you can hang out with friends. Local festivals and markets also add color to Kempten's cultural life. Student dorms and shared apartments (WG – Wohngemeinschaft, a shared living arrangement) are common accommodation options. Biking is very popular in Kempten and plays a significant role in getting around the city. Overall, Kempten offers an ideal balance for students who want to focus on academic success while also enjoying a healthy and active social life.

Ideal location for nature sports and outdoor activities (proximity to the Alps)
Small and friendly student community
Strong cycling culture, easy inner-city transportation
Local festivals and cultural events
Career-focused education in applied sciences

Frequently Asked Questions

Is it difficult to find accommodation in Kempten? ▼

Kempten generally offers more affordable accommodation options compared to larger cities. Student dorms managed by the Studentenwerk (student services organization) and shared apartments (WG – Wohngemeinschaft) are the most popular choices. It's important to apply early and keep an eye on online platforms.

What is the cost of living in Kempten? ▼

Kempten has a more affordable cost of living compared to the German average. An estimated monthly budget of 750-1100 EUR should cover rent, food, insurance, and other personal expenses. Rent is typically the largest expense.

Do universities in Kempten offer English-taught programs? ▼

Kempten University of Applied Sciences (Hochschule Kempten) may offer English-taught programs, particularly for some master's degrees. The best way to find the current list of programs is to check the university's official website.

How do you get around the city? ▼

Since Kempten is a smaller city, you can walk or bike to many places. The inner-city bus network is also well-developed. With your student ID (Semesterticket – a public transport pass for students), public transportation is often more affordable or even free, depending on your university.

What are the social and cultural activities in Kempten? ▼

As the center of the Allgäu region, Kempten hosts various cultural events, festivals, and markets. Its proximity to the Alps also makes outdoor activities like hiking and skiing very popular. Student clubs and bars in the city further enrich the social scene.

Want to know more about Kempten (Allgäu) or need support with your application process? Get in touch with our AlmanyaUni team!