Universität Bremen

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

Bremen's application FAQ says: "Eine bedingte Zulassung ohne ausreichende Deutschkenntnisse ist nicht möglich." Conditional admission without sufficient German is not possible.

The route that exists is the Vorbereitungsstudium (VBS):

• It is for Bachelor's and law applicants who have direct university entrance but cannot yet prove C1.
• It lasts up to 4 semesters and comes in two forms, SOLO and PALS (PALS adds a mentoring programme).
• You must show that you are booked on an intensive German course of at least 20 hours a week. The university does not run these courses itself.
• There is no application deadline for the VBS; re-registering for the third VBS semester requires B1.
• The VBS does not reserve a place. With your C1 certificate you apply separately for the degree through the MOIN portal.

To compare with other universities, see universities offering conditional admission in Germany.

Admission requirements and accepted German certificates

Bremen accepts these certificates for German-taught programmes:

• DSH-2 or DSH-3 (DSH-1 is not enough)
• TestDaF: 16 points in total and at least 3 in each of the four parts
• Goethe-Zertifikat C1 or C2, telc Deutsch C1 Hochschule, DSD II

For a Bachelor's application, the C1 certificate can be handed in up to 15 September (winter semester) or 15 March (summer semester). Our guide to German language certificates compares the exams.

Application steps, deadlines and costs

• Bachelor's (non-EU): first get a VPD from uni-assist, then apply directly to Bremen through the MOIN portal. Deadlines are 15 July (winter) and 15 January (summer); uni-assist recommends applying for the VPD by 1 June / 1 December.
• Master's: international applicants always apply directly to Bremen; deadlines are set per programme in the Master's portal.
• Costs: the semester contribution for winter semester 2026/27 is €443.40 in total. Bremen has not charged long-term study fees since winter semester 2020/21.
• Visa: according to the official page you can apply for a visa with the application confirmation, and enrolment in the VBS allows residence on a student visa. This is not a visa guarantee.

These are the official rules on the check date; confirm them on the official page before you apply.

English-taught Master's examples

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

• Artificial Intelligence and Intelligent Systems (M.Sc.)
• Marine Microbiology (M.Sc.)

Language requirements for English-taught programmes are set per programme; the German preparatory route above does not apply to them.

Why Universität Bremen?

Universität Bremen is recognized as one of Germany's most dynamic and innovative universities. Since its founding, it has stood out as a 'reform university,' emphasizing interdisciplinary work, project-based learning, and a strong research culture. It hosts internationally renowned research centers, particularly in marine sciences, space research, materials science, information technology, and social sciences.

The university's modern campus offers you contemporary learning environments, well-equipped laboratories, and extensive library facilities. Various support services and counseling units for international students aim to ease your adjustment to Germany. Plus, Bremen's student-friendly atmosphere and cultural diversity provide a rich social life alongside your academic development. Universität Bremen is an ideal place if you're looking for quality higher education in Germany, thanks to its academic excellence and student-focused approach.

Student Life and Accommodation in Bremen

Bremen, located in northern Germany, is a highly appealing city for students, blending historical charm with modern life. The university campus is situated in one of the city's green areas, easily accessible from the city center by public transport. Student clubs, sports teams, and cultural events make campus life very vibrant.

One of the most discussed topics among international students is accommodation in Bremen, especially for newcomers. Student dorms in the city are typically managed by Studierendenwerk Bremen (Student Services Organization). It's crucial to apply for dorms early and explore alternative housing options like shared apartments (WG, short for Wohngemeinschaft) or private rented rooms. The university's international office and student forums are also valuable resources for finding affordable housing in the city.