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 145–168 of 298 programs
Master
Master of Science in International Economics (MSc)
ENMaster
Does international trade lead to increased inequality? What impact do tariffs have on employment? And how does climate change affect a country's competitiveness? Our Master's programme equips you to e...
View details →Mathematics
DE+ENMaster of Science (M.Sc.)
This research-oriented Master's degree programme in Mathematics offers numerous options for individual specialisation. The programme goes beyond the objectives of the Bachelor's programme, focusing on...
View details →Mathematics (MSc)
ENMathematics (MSc)
View details →Matter to Life
ENMaster of Science (M.Sc.)
The Matter to Life programme is a unique 5-year integrated Master/PhD program that is fully funded, covering both tuition and living costs. It consists of two phases: a 2-year Master phase (joint degr...
View details →Max Planck School Matter to Life – Master's to PhD Direct Track Programme
ENMaster
The Max Planck School Matter to Life offers an MSc to PhD Direct Track Programme. Students receive their joint Master's degree in Matter to Life by regularly studying at the two teaching universities...
View details →Max Planck School Matter to Life: Direct Track Master's & PhD
ENMax Planck School Matter to Life – Master's to PhD Direct Track Programme
View details →Modern Indian Studies
ENMaster of Arts (M.A.)
The M.A. in Modern Indian Studies is an English-language Master's degree programme that unites perspectives from the humanities, social sciences and economics. It offers students flexibility in their...
View details →Modern Indian Studies
ENModern Indian Studies
View details →Modern Sinology
ENMaster
The four-semester English-language Master’s programme in Modern Sinology / Modern Chinese Studies in Göttingen offers students a wide range of thematic specialisations relating to modern China (beginn...
View details →Modern Sinology
ENModern Sinology
View details →Molecular Biology — IMPRS (MSc/PhD)
ENMolecular Biology — International Max Planck Research School (MSc/PhD)
View details →Molecular Biology — International Max Planck Research School (MSc/PhD)
ENMaster
Study concept The integrated Master's/PhD programme offers excellent study and research conditions to prepare aspiring young scientists for a professional career in academia or science-related profess...
View details →Molecular Life Sciences (MSc)
ENMolecular Life Sciences: Microbiology, Biotechnology and Biochemistry (MSc)
View details →Molecular Life Sciences: Microbiology, Biotechnology and Biochemistry (MSc)
ENMaster
The Master's programme in "Molecular Life Sciences: Microbiology, Biotechnology, and Biochemistry (MLS-MBB)" is jointly offered by the Faculty of Biology and the Faculty of Chemistry. Building on thei...
View details →Molecular Medicine
ENMaster of Science (M.Sc.)
The Masters program in Molecular Medicine expands upon the scientific and medical knowledge basis acquired in Bachelor programs and explores in depth the molecular aspects of medicine. Its goal is to...
View details →Neurosciences
ENMaster of Science (M.Sc.)
The integrated Master/PhD program in Neurosciences is a joint venture of the University of Göttingen, the University Medical Center, the German Primate Center and the Max Planck Institutes. It offers...
View details →Neurosciences — IMPRS (MSc/PhD)
ENNeurosciences — International Max Planck Research School (MSc/PhD)
View details →Neurosciences — International Max Planck Research School (MSc/PhD/MD-PhD)
ENMaster
Study concept The integrated Master's/PhD programme offers excellent study and research conditions to prepare aspiring young scientists for a professional career in academia or science-related profess...
View details →New German Literature History - Theory- Mediation
DEMaster of Arts (M.A.)
The subject of the degree programme is Modern German Literature from the Baroque to the present. Students acquire and deepen fundamental literary-scientific competences in three fields of work: in lit...
View details →North American Studies
ENMaster of Arts (M.A.)
The Master of Arts in North American Studies is a research-oriented program designed to prepare students for further academic work such as PhD projects. The program provides advanced training for care...
View details →Philosophy
DEMaster of Arts (M.A.)
The subject of philosophy deals with the foundations of our theoretical and practical reference to reality. The degree programme is designed to impart knowledge and methodological skills that enable s...
View details →Physics
DE+ENMaster of Science (M.Sc.)
The M.Sc. Physics is a research-oriented degree program that qualifies students for challenging activities in research and development and prepares them for a doctorate in physics. The Faculty of Phys...
View details →Politics, Culture & Society in a Global Context – Euroculture
ENErasmus Mundus Joint Master's Degree Programme Euroculture: European Politics, Culture, and Society in a Global Context
View details →Prehistory and Early Archaeology
DEMaster of Arts (M.A.)
The subject Prehistory and Early Archaeology is a historical cultural science. Working with material relics, it examines environments, economics and social organizational forms of early mankind as wel...
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.