Philipps-Universität Marburg

Short answer: which route is there if your German is not good enough?

According to Marburg's page on German skills, you can apply for admission-free programmes through uni-assist without German and receive conditional admission.

• You are enrolled as a language student (Sprachstudent*in) for two semesters. The university writes that conditional admission "reserves" your study place during this time.
• With proof of attendance you can continue into DSH semesters 3 and 4; re-registration for a fifth semester is not possible.
• You find and pay for the language course yourself (external or internal providers; contact: Studienkolleg Mittelhessen). The semester contribution is paid separately.
• Not for NC programmes. Changing programme or moving to an NC programme needs a new application through uni-assist.
• The Master's page refers to this option, but the official page does not state explicitly that the route covers Master's programmes; confirm before applying.

Legal framework: a residence permit for language preparation is usually granted for one year and should not exceed two years (Residence Act § 16b). To compare with other universities, see universities offering conditional admission in Germany.

Language requirement and certificate deadlines

The required DSH level depends on the programme. Certificates accepted as DSH-2 equivalents include DSD II (C1 in all parts), the Feststellungsprüfung, Goethe-Zertifikat C2 (GDS), ÖSD C2, telc Deutsch C1 Hochschule and TestDaF with at least 4 points in all parts. From summer semester 2027, combined certificates will not be accepted.

To move into the programme you were conditionally admitted to, upload the certificate in the Marvin portal by 30 September (winter semester) or 31 March (summer semester). Our guide to German language certificates compares the exams.

Application steps, deadlines and costs

• Bachelor's (foreign school certificate): admission-free programmes through uni-assist. Admission and enrolment then run through the Marvin portal.
• Master's (foreign degree): through uni-assist; deadlines vary by programme.
• Bachelor's deadlines (foreign certificate): winter semester NC 1 June – 15 July, admission-free 1 June – 15 August; summer semester NC 1 November – 15 January, admission-free 1 November – 15 February.
• Costs: Marburg charges neither tuition nor long-term study fees. The semester contribution for winter semester 2026/27 is €424.80.
• Visa: the official page makes no statement about visas; conditional admission is not a visa guarantee.

English-taught Master's examples

Marburg also offers Master's programmes taught in English. Two examples whose official pages list English as the language of instruction:

• Economics of the Middle East (M.Sc.)
• Functional Materials (M.Sc.)

The conditional admission route is described for German-taught programmes; English-taught programmes set their own language requirements.

Marburg: The City and Student Accommodation

Marburg is a charming university city of about 75,000 residents, located in the heart of Germany, in the state of Hessen. A significant portion of its population consists of students, giving the city a youthful and dynamic vibe. With its narrow medieval streets, historic buildings, and the tranquil flow of the Lahn River, Marburg offers an inspiring environment for both academic study and social life.

One of the most frequently asked questions among students in our forums and Telegram groups is "where to live in Marburg," a crucial planning step for every student. Accommodation options in Marburg include student dormitories managed by the Studentenwerk (student services organization), shared student apartments (known as a WG, short for Wohngemeinschaft), and private apartments. Student dorms are usually the most affordable option, but spots are limited, so you need to apply early. WGs offer a more social environment and help reduce rent costs. Starting your search for accommodation in Marburg as early as possible is very important, especially around the start of the semester. The official websites of the university and the Studentenwerk are the first places you should check for housing.

Academic Structure and Diversity

Philipps-Universität Marburg offers a wide academic spectrum with its 16 different faculties (Fachbereiche). While the university's facilities are spread across the city of Marburg, there's still a strong sense of a central campus. Alongside traditional fields like Medicine, Law, Social Sciences, Natural Sciences, and Theology, the university also offers modern and interdisciplinary programs. With a total of 208 programs (92 bachelor's, 81 master's), you'll find a wealth of options to match your interests. The university is also known for its research-oriented approach, offering students opportunities to participate in various research projects.

Despite its Protestant origins in 1527, Philipps-Universität Marburg is now a completely secular public university, open to students of all faiths and backgrounds. This rich history reflects the university's academic tradition and intellectual depth, combining with a modern educational philosophy to provide you with a contemporary learning environment.