Otto-von-Guericke-Universität Magdeburg

Public University Magdeburg · Saxony-Anhalt

1993

Founded

12.605

Student count

Public University

Type

English-taught programs →

NC-free programs ↗

If you're dreaming of study in Germany, the Otto-von-Guericke-Universität Magdeburg offers a well-established and innovative option for you. Located in Magdeburg, the capital of the state of Sachsen-Anhalt, this modern university was founded in 1993 through the merger of several higher education institutions. It's named after the renowned scientist, inventor, and politician Otto von Guericke.

The university stands out for its strong academic staff and research-oriented approach, especially in engineering, natural sciences, and medicine. It also attracts international students with its wide range of programs. With approximately 12,605 students, Otto-von-Guericke-Universität Magdeburg provides a vibrant campus life.

It could be an ideal choice if you want to achieve academic success and gain a high-quality life experience in Germany. Here at AlmanyaUni, you'll find all the details you're curious about regarding this university.

Quick Facts

University Name: Otto-von-Guericke-Universität Magdeburg
City: Magdeburg
State: Sachsen-Anhalt
University Type: State University (Universitäten)
Founded Year: 1993
Number of Students: 12.605
Number of Programs: 126 (Bachelor's: 31, Master's: 90, PhD: 5)
HRK Membership: Evet
Uni-Assist Membership: Hayır
Official Website: http://www.ovgu.de/

History and the Legacy of Otto von Guericke

The Otto-von-Guericke-Universität Magdeburg opened its doors in 1993 as a modern research university, bringing together various higher education institutions established in the 1950s. The university is named after Otto von Guericke, a significant 17th-century scientist, inventor, and politician born in Magdeburg. Guericke's legacy, particularly his work with air pumps and vacuum experiments, symbolizes the university's commitment to scientific research and innovation.

Today, the university offers a broad spectrum of education across 9 faculties, conducting internationally recognized research, especially in engineering sciences, computer sciences, natural sciences, medicine, and economics. This rich history and modern vision make the Otto-von-Guericke-Universität Magdeburg an attractive choice for you if you want to study in Germany.

Academic Structure and Popular Programs

Otto-von-Guericke-Universität Magdeburg offers a wide academic range, from engineering to medicine, natural sciences to social sciences. The university has 9 faculties, providing students with a total of 126 different program options, including 31 bachelor's, 90 master's, and 5 doctoral programs. Engineering Sciences, Computer Sciences (Informatik), Medicine, and Economics are particularly popular among both national and international students.

The university places great emphasis on applied research and aims to involve students in innovative projects. Modern laboratories, libraries, and research centers give you the chance to work with the latest knowledge and technologies. If you're aiming for a career in technical and scientific fields in Germany, Otto-von-Guericke-Universität Magdeburg stands out with its strong academic infrastructure and practical-oriented education.

Estimated Monthly Cost of Living

Rent (shared)

300-450 EUR

Student dorm or shared apartment (WG - Wohngemeinschaft)

Food

200-300 EUR

Groceries and occasional dining out

Transportation (Semesterticket)

0-50 EUR

May be included in your semester contribution; for additional expenses

Health Insurance

110-120 EUR

Mandatory student health insurance

Other Expenses

150-250 EUR

Entertainment, clothing, phone, etc.

Average total 760-1170 EUR / mo

Places to Visit and Student Hangouts

Magdeburg Cathedral (Magdeburger Dom)

Landmark

One of Germany's oldest Gothic cathedrals and a symbol of the city.

Grüne Zitadelle von Magdeburg

Landmark

A colorful and unusual building complex designed by Friedensreich Hundertwasser.

Elbauenpark

Park

This large park, a former Federal Garden Show area, is ideal for relaxing and sports.

Alte Markt (Old Market)

Square

The city's historic center, home to the town hall and the 'Magdeburger Reiter' statue.

University Library (Universitätsbibliothek)

Library

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

Herrenkrug Park

Park

A historic park located along the Elbe River, offering beautiful views.

Student Life and Culture

With approximately 12,605 students, Otto-von-Guericke-Universität Magdeburg offers a lively and dynamic student environment. The city is known for being student-friendly, and transportation is usually by bike or public transport (often free with your Semesterticket, which is a student public transport pass included in your semester contribution). The university hosts many student clubs and societies, ranging from sports clubs to cultural groups, international student associations to hobby clubs.

These clubs offer great opportunities to meet new people, develop your hobbies, and actively participate in campus life. Student bars, cafes, and cultural events are also quite popular in Magdeburg. The green areas and parks along the Elbe River are peaceful spots where you can spend your free time. The university also provides various orientation programs and support services to help international students integrate.

Frequently Asked Questions

I'm having a technical issue on the university application portal; I can't remove an item from my cart and re-add it. What should I do? ▼

Technical issues like this can happen occasionally on different university application portals. First, try again using a different browser (like Chrome, Firefox, or Edge) or an incognito window. If the problem persists, the best thing to do is take a screenshot and send a detailed email explaining the issue to the university's international student office or application support unit. They will be able to guide you correctly.

Do Turkish companies in Germany comply with German rules regarding working hours and overtime pay? ▼

All companies operating in Germany, regardless of their nationality, are subject to German labor laws. This applies to Turkish companies as well. German Labor Law (Arbeitszeitgesetz) and relevant collective bargaining agreements (Tarifvertrag) govern working hours, overtime pay, and holiday entitlements. If there's any violation, you have the right to contact labor unions or labor courts. To understand your legal rights, you can seek support from a lawyer or relevant unions.

Has anyone received a visa from Magdeburg? How can I find out if my documents have reached Germany? ▼

Many Turkish students have received visas from Magdeburg. In the visa process, your documents reaching Germany means the consulate has forwarded your application to the Federal Office for Migration and Refugees (BAMF) or the relevant Foreigners' Office (Ausländerbehörde). To check the status of your documents, you can contact the consulate where you applied, or if your spouse lives in Magdeburg, you can ask them to contact the Magdeburg Foreigners' Office (Ausländerbehörde Magdeburg). Usually, you'll need to wait a certain period for such inquiries, and direct information might not always be immediately available. If online tracking systems exist, you can check there too.

What are the part-time work opportunities for students in Germany? ▼

As an international student, you can work part-time in Germany within certain restrictions. Generally, you're allowed to work up to 140 working days a year (Arbeitstagekonto; a day of up to 4 hours counts as half a day). This needs to be managed so it doesn't interfere with your academic schedule. You can find jobs within the university (as a Hiwi - Wissenschaftliche Hilfskraft, which is a student assistant) or outside (like waiting tables, retail, logistics, etc.). For your job search, the university's career centers, student services (Studentenwerk), or online job portals (Jobmensa, Zenjob, Indeed) can help you.

Does Otto-von-Guericke-Universität Magdeburg offer German language preparatory courses? ▼

Yes, like many German universities, Otto-von-Guericke-Universität Magdeburg may offer German language preparatory courses for international students (such as DSH preparation courses). However, the availability and application requirements for these courses can vary. For the most current and accurate information, you should check the 'International Office' or 'German Language Courses' sections on the university's official website, or contact the university directly.

For more information about Otto-von-Guericke-Universität Magdeburg and support with the application process, you can contact our expert team at AlmanyaUni!