For students dreaming of a university education in Germany, Justus-Liebig-Universität Gießen (JLU) stands as a well-established option, ranking as the second-largest higher education institution in the state of Hessen. Founded in 1607 and named after the renowned scientist Justus Liebig, the pioneer of modern agricultural chemistry, this university boasts a rich history and a broad academic spectrum. Located in the vibrant student city of Gießen, JLU offers an international environment with approximately 25,000 students.
It promises a comprehensive educational experience with high-quality programs across numerous fields, including medicine, law, natural sciences, social sciences, and humanities. A popular choice among students applying to study in Germany, JLU Gießen stands out for both its academic excellence and student-friendly living conditions.
Quick Facts
- University Name
- Justus-Liebig-Universität Gießen
- City
- Gießen
- State
- Hessen
- Type
- Public University (Universitäten)
- Founded
- 1607
- Student Enrollment
- 24,698
- AlmanyaUni DB Programs
- 178 (Bachelor's: 52, Master's: 115)
- HRK Member
- Evet
- Uni-Assist Member
- Hayır
Historical Legacy and Academic Identity: Justus-Liebig-Universität Gießen
Justus-Liebig-Universität Gießen (JLU) is one of Germany's most established and respected higher education institutions. Founded in 1607 as Ludwigs-Universität, the university has undergone many transformations throughout its long history. In the post-World War II era, from 1946, it first operated as a College of Agriculture and Veterinary Medicine, then regained full university status in 1957. The university is named after the famous chemist Justus Liebig, who served as a professor here from 1824 to 1852 and is recognized as the inventor of modern agricultural chemistry and artificial fertilizer. This name change symbolizes the university's commitment to its scientific heritage and innovative spirit.
As the second-largest university in the state of Hessen, JLU carries the Antonius Cross on its coat of arms, continuing the tradition of the Antoniterkloster Grünberg. This deep-rooted history ensures that the university stands out not only for its academic achievements but also for its cultural and historical depth. Especially for students choosing a university in Germany, JLU Gießen's historical and scientific identity is a significant draw for those seeking a robust education.
Broad Academic Spectrum and Research-Oriented Approach
Justus-Liebig-Universität Gießen offers education and research opportunities across a broad academic spectrum, from humanities to natural sciences, law to medicine. Bachelor's, master's, and doctoral programs are available in diverse fields such as arts and humanities, business, dentistry, economics, law, medicine, natural sciences, social sciences, and veterinary medicine. The university hospital, with two campuses in Marburg and Gießen, is Germany's only private university hospital and makes significant contributions to education and research in the medical field.
JLU is internationally recognized for its research, particularly in areas like agricultural chemistry, veterinary medicine, and experimental medicine. Students have access to modern laboratories, extensive library resources, and an experienced academic staff. Thanks to its research-oriented approach, students get the opportunity to closely follow current scientific developments and contribute to their own projects. This diversity and research potential make JLU Gießen an attractive option for students considering bachelor's or master's programs in Germany.
Estimated Monthly Cost of Living
Places to Visit and Student Hangouts
One of Germany's oldest botanical gardens, owned by JLU, offering a peaceful retreat for students.
Details ↗A science museum where you can experience mathematics in a fun and interactive way, appealing to visitors of all ages.
Details ↗Located in Gießen's historic center, an important structure that sheds light on the city's past.
The central library, meeting students' academic needs with its extensive resource collection and modern study environments.
Details ↗Just outside Gießen, a historical and cultural excursion spot nestled in nature.
Student Life and Culture
With approximately 25,000 students, Gießen is truly a student city. Thanks to students making up a significant portion of the city's population, Gießen boasts a young and dynamic atmosphere. Student life at Justus-Liebig-Universität Gießen is vibrant, with a variety of clubs, cultural events, and social activities.
Special programs and counseling services for international students make it easier for newcomers to adapt to the city and the university. The university meets students' social and academic needs with sports facilities, student cafeterias (Mensa), and cafés. Gießen's central location offers easy access to other major German cities, while its surrounding natural beauty also creates opportunities for weekend getaways. Students here will find opportunities to meet people from their own culture as well as connect with students from various other nations.
- Vibrant and dynamic student city atmosphere
- Numerous student clubs and societies
- Affordable student dorms and shared apartment (WG - Wohngemeinschaft) options
- Free transportation across Hessen with the valid Semesterticket (a mandatory student fee that often includes public transport access for the entire semester)
- Life close to nature and green spaces
Frequently Asked Questions
I selected Technische Universität Chemnitz (TU) and chose informatics. It showed me the semesters, and since I'm starting from the 1st semester, I selected '1', but the screen froze. I checked my cart, and it was added. Just in case, I decided to remove it from the cart and add it again, but now I can't add it back; I'm getting an error. Has anyone else experienced this issue? ▼
Online application portals for universities in Germany can sometimes experience technical glitches. If you encounter such a problem, first try clearing your browser's cache and cookies. Trying a different browser or device might also help. If the issue persists, the best course of action is to directly contact the international student office (Akademisches Auslandsamt) or the student administration (Studiensekretariat) of the relevant faculty at the university you're applying to. Providing detailed screenshots of your issue will help speed up the resolution process. (Akademisches Auslandsamt: International Office; Studiensekretariat: Student Secretariat)
What are the application requirements for Justus-Liebig-Universität Gießen? ▼
To apply to JLU Gießen, you generally need to have your high school diploma recognized in Germany (Hochschulzugangsberechtigung - HZB), demonstrate German language proficiency (proven by exams like TestDaF or DSH), and meet additional specific requirements for some programs (e.g., internships, portfolios). For detailed and up-to-date application requirements, you should check the international students' section on the university's official website. (Hochschulzugangsberechtigung - HZB: Higher Education Entrance Qualification; TestDaF: Test of German as a Foreign Language; DSH: German Language University Entrance Examination for Foreign Applicants)
Does Justus-Liebig-Universität Gießen use Uni-Assist? ▼
No, according to our database, Justus-Liebig-Universität Gießen is not a member of Uni-Assist. You will need to submit your applications directly through the university's own application portal. You can find the most current information regarding the application process and required documents on the university's official website. (Uni-Assist: A service that processes international student applications for many German universities)
Is it difficult to find student accommodation in Gießen? ▼
Since Gießen is a student city, accommodation options are available. Student dormitories (Studierendenwerk Gießen) are among the most affordable choices, but it's crucial to apply early. Additionally, shared student apartments (WG - Wohngemeinschaft) or private rental apartments are also available. As demand can be high, especially at the start of semesters, it's advisable to begin your accommodation search early. (Studierendenwerk Gießen: Student Services Organization in Gießen)
Which programs are popular at JLU Gießen? ▼
JLU Gießen is particularly known for its strong faculties in veterinary medicine, medicine, law, and natural sciences. It also offers a wide range of programs in the humanities and social sciences. Popular programs can vary based on students' interests and career goals.
To learn more about Justus-Liebig-Universität Gießen and explore the application processes, check out our other content on the AlmanyaUni platform and take the first step on your educational journey in Germany!
Justus-Liebig-Universität Gießen — Gallery
Programs
Useful Links
Location
Programs & Departments
234 active programs · 102 English · 122 NC-frei
Showing 1–10 of 10 programs
PhD
Environmental Sciences
ENDoctorate
The Bachelor’s degree programme in Environmental Sciences offers an interdisciplinary education with a strong focus on the natural sciences. It provides in-depth training in core disciplines such as b...
View details →Global Food Systems
ENDoctorate
The Bachelor's programme in Global Food Systems provides interdisciplinary training at the interface of nutrition, agriculture, the environment and international development cooperation. Students acq...
View details →International Giessen Graduate Centre for the Life Sciences
ENInternational Giessen Graduate Centre for the Life Sciences (GGL)
View details →International Giessen Graduate Centre for the Life Sciences (GGL)
ENPre-Bachelor
The GGL provides an interdisciplinary, concisely structured graduate programme for all Life Science disciplines at the Justus Liebig University (JLU) in the fields of Human, Dental, and Veterinary Med...
View details →International Graduate Centre for the Study of Culture
ENInternational Graduate Centre for the Study of Culture (GCSC)
View details →International Graduate Centre for the Study of Culture (GCSC)
DE+ENPre-Bachelor
The GCSC study programme is designed to support you in your work on your dissertation project. The core of this programme, which aims at helping you advance and qualitatively improve your project, is...
View details →International Graduate Centre for the Study of Culture (GCSC)
DE+ENInternational Graduate Centre for the Study of Culture (GCSC)
View details →International PhD Programme Literary and Cultural Studies
DE+ENInternational PhD Programme (IPP) Literary and Cultural Studies
View details →PhD Programme Agricultural Economics
ENInternational PhD Programme for Agricultural Economics, Bioeconomy and Sustainable Food Systems (IPPAE)
View details →PhD Programme of the Faculties of Vet. Medicine and Medicine
ENPhD Programme of the Faculties of Veterinary Medicine and Medicine
View details →
Gießen
State: Hesse
Gießen: The Student Heart of Central Hessen
Gießen is strategically located in the heart of Germany, right in the middle of the Hessen state. Students make up about a third of the city's populat...
more →Universities and Study Opportunities in Gießen
Gießen hosts four public universities, making it one of Germany's significant educational centers. Among these, the most well-known are Justus-Liebig-...
more →Transportation and Ease of Living in Gießen
Gießen's central location in Germany also gives it excellent transportation links. The city has major highway and railway connections, providing easy...
more →More about Gießen
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How do I apply to Justus-Liebig-Universität Gießen (Justus Liebig University Giessen) 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.