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 49–72 of 134 programs
Master
Erasmus Mundus Joint Master's Degree Programme Euroculture: European Politics, Culture, and Society in a Global Context
ENMaster
Euroculture: Society, politics and culture in a global context is a transdisciplinary, international and inter-university Erasmus Mundus Master's course, and a Programme of Excellence supported by the...
View details →European and Transnational Law of Intellectual Property and Information Technology
ENMaster of Laws (L.L.M.)
The LL.M. in European and Transnational Intellectual Property and Information Technology Law (LIPIT) is a postgraduate program directed at providing the in-depth understanding of legal issues arising...
View details →Forest and Ecosystem Sciences (FES)
ENMaster
In the MSc programme Forest and Ecosystem Sciences (FES), students specialise in a field of their choice. Students can choose from one of the following three specialisation fields (study tracks): Ecos...
View details →Forest and Ecosystem Sciences (FES)
ENForest and Ecosystem Sciences (FES)
View details →Göttingen Master's Programme in Physics (MSc)
ENMaster
The Göttingen Master's programme in Physics offers you a broad and internationally renowned research spectrum with a highly flexible choice of subjects. This will lead you to a specialisation in one o...
View details →Göttingen Master's Programme in Physics (MSc)
ENGöttingen Master's Programme in Physics (MSc)
View details →History of Global Markets
DE+ENMaster of Arts (M.A.)
The master's programme examines the history of global markets and draws crucial lessons for shaping the future. It brings together economics, business administration, history, social and political sci...
View details →History of Global Markets (MA)
DE+ENHistory of Global Markets (MA)
View details →Integrated Plant and Animal Breeding
ENMaster of Science (M.Sc.)
The consecutive master's program "Integrated Plant and Animal Breeding" uses an interdisciplinary and research-oriented approach to convey the basic theories, methods, processes and issues of breeding...
View details →Integrated Plant and Animal Breeding (MSc)
ENIntegrated Plant and Animal Breeding (MSc)
View details →Intellectual Property and Information Technology Law (LIPIT)
ENLLM in European and Transnational Intellectual Property and Information Technology Law (LIPIT)
View details →Intercultural German Studies (MA)
DE+ENIntercultural German Studies / German as a Foreign Language (MA)
View details →Intercultural German Studies: Germany — China (MA)
DE+ENIntercultural German Studies: Germany — China (MA)
View details →Intercultural Theology
ENMaster of Arts (M.A.)
The Master's programme in Intercultural Theology offers a unique combination of theoretical insights and practical experiences. The course lasts four academic terms and is conducted entirely in Englis...
View details →Intercultural Theology (MA)
ENIntercultural Theology (MA)
View details →International Economics
ENMaster of Science (M.Sc.)
The Master's programme in International Economics equips students to explore questions related to international trade, inequality, tariffs, and climate change through their own research. Students enga...
View details →International Law
ENMaster of Laws (L.L.M.)
Göttingen Master of International Law (GOMIL) is a postgraduate program designed to provide a deeper understanding of legal rules and standards of interstate relations and so to prepare students for c...
View details →International Nature Conservation
ENMaster of Science (M.Sc.)
An integrated bi-national four-semester Master's programme in International Nature Conservation. The degree is a double degree offered jointly by Georg-August-Universität, Göttingen and Lincoln Univer...
View details →Iranian and Persianate Studies (MA)
ENMaster
The Iranian and Persianate Studies MA programme deals in depth with various aspects of Iran and the Persianate world. It provides concepts, methods and theoretical foundations for independent, special...
View details →Iranian and Persianate Studies (MA)
ENIranian and Persianate Studies (MA)
View details →Law Studies for Foreign Graduates — Master of Laws (LLM)
DE+ENMaster
Students may choose from the following areas of law: civil law, public law, criminal law, and basic subjects (such as Roman or German history of law or general political science). The broad spectrum o...
View details →Law Studies for Foreign Graduates — Master of Laws (LLM)
DE+ENLaw Studies for Foreign Graduates — Master of Laws (LLM)
View details →Linguistics
DE+ENMaster of Arts (M.A.)
The Master's Program in Linguistics is a consecutive program that builds upon a Bachelor's program in Linguistics or philology. It conveys in-depth knowledge in empirical and theoretical linguistics w...
View details →Linguistics (MA)
ENLinguistics (MA)
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.