Georg-August-Universität Göttingen
University of Göttingen
If you're dreaming of higher education in Germany, Georg-August-Universität Göttingen stands out as a prestigious institution with a rich history and academic excellence. Located in the student-friendly city of Göttingen, in Germany's Lower Saxony (Niedersachsen) state, this university has been a beacon of science and education since 1737. Not only is it the oldest, but also the largest university in the state, boasting connections to 47 world-renowned Nobel laureates.
With its interdisciplinary approach, wide range of programs, and vibrant student life, Göttingen University promises international students an unparalleled educational and cultural experience. This could be your starting point for not just a degree, but also a global perspective and rich personal growth.
Quick Facts
- City
- Göttingen
- State
- Niedersachsen
- University Type
- State University (Universitäten)
- Founded
- 1737
- Student Enrollment
- 26,824
- Total Programs
- 136 (64 Bachelor's, 54 Master's)
- Nobel Laureate Connections
- 47
- Uni-Assist Member
- No
Georg-August-Universität Göttingen: A Deep-Rooted Tradition of Science
Georg-August-Universität Göttingen was founded by King George II of Great Britain and Elector of Hanover between 1732-1734, officially opening its doors in 1737. It quickly became one of Europe's leading educational institutions, reaching 400 students by its second semester. As the oldest and, by current data, the largest higher education institution in the state of Lower Saxony (Niedersachsen), Göttingen University is renowned for its emphasis on scientific research.
Throughout its history, the university's connection to 47 Nobel laureates (alumni or academics) is a strong indicator of its academic success and international reputation. This rich legacy provides students with an environment that fosters not only theoretical knowledge but also critical thinking and research skills. Today, the university continues to cultivate future scientists through its modern research centers and interdisciplinary approaches.
Estimated Monthly Cost of Living
Places to Visit and Student Hangouts
Göttingen's iconic fountain, famous for graduates kissing the Gänseliesel statue during graduation ceremonies.
One of Germany's largest and most important academic libraries, serving as a primary study hub for students with its extensive collection.
Details ↗A serene garden belonging to the university, home to a diverse range of plant species.
The university's historic main building, hosting important ceremonies and events.
A former church, now used as a university museum and event venue.
A vibrant city center filled with restaurants, cafes, and shops, a popular meeting spot for students.
Student Life and Culture
Göttingen is truly known as a student city. A significant portion of the city's population consists of students, creating a dynamic and youthful atmosphere. The university's long-standing tradition fosters a rich social life through its numerous student clubs and associations.
You'll find a wide array of activities, from sports clubs and cultural societies to international student groups and volunteer projects. The cycling culture is particularly strong here, and students often prefer bikes for getting around. Various festivals, concerts, and cultural events held in Göttingen ensure students have plenty of enjoyable ways to spend their time outside of classes.
Thanks to the university's Semesterticket (semester-long public transport pass), students can use public transportation within the Lower Saxony (Niedersachsen) state for free or at very affordable rates, making it easy to explore the city and its surroundings. Orientation programs and counseling services are also available for international students, helping newcomers adapt smoothly to both the city and the university.
- Strong cycling culture throughout the city.
- Vibrant student clubs and associations.
- Easy transportation within Lower Saxony (Niedersachsen) with the Semesterticket.
- Numerous cafes, bars, and cultural events.
- Highly active international student community.
Academic Diversity and Research-Oriented Approach
Georg-August-Universität Göttingen offers a broad academic spectrum, providing students with opportunities to specialize in various fields through its 64 bachelor's and 54 master's programs. Education is offered across many different disciplines, from natural sciences to social sciences, humanities, medicine, and law. The university is particularly known for its research-oriented approach.
Its close collaboration with Max Planck Institutes and other research centers allows students to participate in current research and get involved in innovative projects. This is a significant advantage, especially for master's and doctoral students. For those looking to study in Germany, Göttingen offers an ideal environment that combines theoretical knowledge with practical research skills. The university's international collaborations and exchange programs also provide students with a global perspective.
Frequently Asked Questions
I selected Technische Universität Chemnitz (TU) and then informatics. It showed me the semesters, and since I'm starting from the 1st semester, I chose 1, but the screen froze. When I checked my cart, it was added. Just in case, I tried to remove it from the cart and add it again, but now I can't add it back and I'm getting an error. Has anyone else experienced this problem? ▼
This question typically refers to a technical issue encountered on the uni-assist portal. However, Georg-August-Universität Göttingen is not a uni-assist member and processes applications directly through its own portal. Therefore, you won't encounter this specific problem when applying to Göttingen University. When submitting your applications, it's crucial to carefully review the 'International Students' or 'Application' sections on the university's official website and follow the steps outlined there. If you experience any technical issues, you should contact the university's International Office directly.
How can I apply to Georg-August-Universität Göttingen? ▼
Applications to Göttingen University are submitted directly through the university's own application portal. They do not use uni-assist. The application process and required documents (such as your high school diploma, transcripts, and language proficiency certificate) can vary depending on the program and your nationality. For the most current and detailed information, we recommend visiting the 'Admission' or 'International Students' sections on the university's official website.
How do the cost of living in Göttingen compare to other German cities? ▼
Göttingen generally has a more affordable cost of living compared to Germany's larger metropolitan cities like Munich, Hamburg, or Berlin. It's particularly more economical in terms of rent and daily expenses. You can review the estimated expenditures in the 'Estimated Monthly Cost of Living' section above. Staying in student dormitories or shared apartments (WG) will help you further reduce costs.
What are the university's admission requirements, and what level of German language proficiency is needed? ▼
While admission requirements vary depending on the program you choose, they generally include high school diploma equivalency, transcripts, and German language proficiency (B2 or C1 level, typically proven with exams like TestDaF or DSH). For English-taught programs, English proficiency exams such as IELTS or TOEFL may be required. Since each program has its specific requirements, it's best to check the page for the department you're interested in.
Are there support services for international students at Göttingen University? ▼
Yes, Georg-August-Universität Göttingen offers various support services to ease the adaptation process for international students. These include orientation weeks, counseling services, German language courses, cultural events, and international student communities. These services aim to help newcomers adjust to both academic and social life.
Take the first step to make your dream of studying at Georg-August-Universität Göttingen a reality! Visit our site now to access detailed program information and learn more about the application process.
Georg-August-Universität Göttingen — Gallery
Programs
Useful Links
Location
Programs & Departments
298 active programs · 134 English · 69 NC-frei
Showing 1–24 of 298 programs
Bachelor
Agricultural Sciences
DEBachelor of Science (B.Sc.)
The Bachelor's degree programme in Agricultural Sciences deals with fundamental knowledge of natural sciences as well as the economic and social structures of agriculture. The programme provides the s...
View details →Ancient Cultures
DEBachelor of Arts (B.A.)
The Ancient Cultures Bachelor's degree programme is offered by CORO (Centrum Orbis Orientalis et Occidentalis) at the University of Göttingen. The topics covered by the programme are the ancient cultu...
View details →Applied Computer Science
DEBachelor of Science (B.Sc.)
Computer Science is the science of systematic and automated processing of information. It deals with the structures, characteristics and description possibilities of information and information proces...
View details →Applied Data Science
DEBachelor of Science (B.Sc.)
The field of data science includes aspects of mathematics, computer science and statistics. Data science deals with data analysis and the knowledge gained from data, as well as the techniques required...
View details →Applied Statistics
DE+ENBachelor of Arts (B.A.)
The two-subject Bachelor's programme in Applied Statistics provides a solid foundation in statistics and data analysis, while offering the chance to complement this with specialised study in a second...
View details →Archaeology of the Greco-Roman and Byzantine World
DEBachelor of Arts (B.A.)
In the Bachelor's subject "Archaeology of the Greco-Roman and Byzantine World", students acquire broad knowledge of the art and cultural history of the Greek, Roman and Byzantine world. The program co...
View details →Bachelor of Arts in World Literature
DE+ENBachelor of Arts in World Literature
View details →Biochemistry
DEBachelor of Science (B.Sc.)
The Bachelor's degree programme in Biochemistry is a research-oriented, full-time course of studies over 6 semesters. It is an interdisciplinary degree programme offered by the Faculty of Biology and...
View details →Biological Diversity and Ecology
DEBachelor of Science (B.Sc.)
The Biological Diversity and Ecology program focuses on understanding how species diversity (biodiversity) originated on Earth, how it has changed throughout history, and what role it plays in ecosyst...
View details →Biology
DEBachelor of Science (B.Sc.)
From the physical and chemical processes in the individual cell to complex ecosystems: Biology is the science of living things. It studies its diversity, development, functioning, and the relationship...
View details →Business Administration
DEBachelor of Science (B.Sc.)
Business administration (BWL) takes the perspective of individual companies. During your studies, you will learn about the sub-areas in companies such as controlling, marketing or production and logis...
View details →Chemistry
DEBachelor of Science (B.Sc.)
The study programme qualifies students to become chemists in the professional areas of research and practice. The goal of the programme is to produce qualified, critical and responsible chemists who c...
View details →Computer Science
DEBachelor of Arts (B.A.)
Computer science has many faces: As a young science, computer science is subject to constant change, turning to new challenges and at the same time exploring lasting foundations of itself. The school...
View details →Digital Humanities
DEBachelor of Arts (B.A.)
The aim of the programme is to provide students with an in-depth understanding of the research and working methods of Digital Humanities (German: "Digitale Geisteswissenschaften"). After successfully...
View details →Economics
DEBachelor of Science (B.Sc.)
How should governments, institutions and businesses decide on economic issues when resources are limited and goals are often conflicting? Our economics degree programme teaches you how to find answers...
View details →Ecosystem Management
DEBachelor of Science (B.Sc.)
Ecosystem Management (ÖSM) is an interdisciplinary degree course at the interface between natural conditions and human usage. The subject-specific and methodological contents take up the concept of su...
View details →Ecosystem Sciences
ENBachelor of Science (B.Sc.)
The Bachelor programme mediates the necessary basics for research and understanding complex ecosystems. It is research-oriented and focuses on practical training in scientific methods, field and labor...
View details →Ecosystem Sciences (BSc)
ENEcosystem Sciences (BSc)
View details →Forest Sciences and Forest Ecology
DEBachelor of Science (B.Sc.)
The Forest Sciences and Forest Ecology program focuses on the protection and sustainable use of forests. Students learn how forests can be preserved as habitats and used responsibly for the benefit of...
View details →French
DEBachelor of Arts (B.A.)
French is a world language with currently about 270 million speakers, which is highly significant not only within the EU, but also worldwide. The Bachelor's degree programme in French includes languag...
View details →Gender Studies
DEBachelor of Arts (B.A.)
Gender Studies is concerned with the social category "gender". In society, gender plays a significant role in determining systems of human thinking and knowledge as well as social and cultural forms o...
View details →General Linguistics
DEBachelor of Arts (B.A.)
The subject "General Linguistics" covers the methods and theories of modern linguistics in its entire breadth. General Linguistics has the totality of the world's languages as its object of investigat...
View details →Geography
DEBachelor of Science (B.Sc.)
Geography is an exciting and multifaceted human-environment science. The Bachelor's degree programme in Geography offers a theoretically sound and practical education based on current geographical con...
View details →Geoscience PhD
DE+ENBachelor
The PhD programme Geoscience is based on three research foci of the faculty. These are: 1. Coupled processes among the geosphere, hydrosphere, atmosphere and biosphere This research focus examines geo...
View details →
Göttingen
State: Lower Saxony
Discover Göttingen: A Student City
Göttingen is known as one of Germany's most established university cities, and you'll feel this identity in every corner of the city. Students, making...
more →Universities and Study Opportunities
Göttingen is one of the first cities that comes to mind when you think of higher education in Germany, and it largely owes this reputation to Georg-Au...
more →Student Life and Culture
Göttingen is one of those rare places where student life truly beats at the heart of the city. Thanks to students making up a significant portion of t...
more →More about Göttingen
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How do I apply to Georg-August-Universität Göttingen (University of Göttingen) as an international student?
Non-EU applicants apply via uni-assist (document verification + APS certificate for some countries). EU applicants apply directly. You need a recognised degree, language certificate, motivation letter and CV. After admission, open a Sperrkonto and book a visa appointment at your local German embassy.
- Pick a programme — Browse the programme list above — filter by language, degree, field.
- Verify your eligibility — Check Anabin/APS for your country and degree-equivalence rules.
- Get language certificate — TestDaF/DSH for German, IELTS/TOEFL for English-taught programmes.
- Apply via uni-assist or directly — Submit by 15 July (winter) / 15 January (summer) deadlines.
- After admission: Sperrkonto + visa — Open the blocked account, get health insurance, attend embassy interview.