Universität Bremen

Public University Bremen · Freie Hansestadt Bremen

1971

Founded

17.793

Student count

Public University

Type

NC-free programs ↗

Universität Bremen is the largest university in the state of Bremen. This page starts with the question applicants ask most often, which route exists if your German is not yet good enough, and then covers admission requirements, language certificates and deadlines based on the official pages.

Short answer: Bremen states clearly that it does not offer conditional admission without sufficient German. Bachelor's applicants without C1 have a separate route: the Vorbereitungsstudium (preparatory studies) of up to four semesters. It does not reserve a place in a degree programme.

Quick Facts

University Name: Universität Bremen
City: Bremen
State: Freie Hansestadt Bremen
Type: Public University (öffentlich-rechtlich)
Founded: 1971
Student Enrollment: Yaklaşık 17.793
How to apply: Bachelor's: uni-assist VPD + MOIN · Master's: directly
Without a German certificate: No conditional admission · Preparatory studies available

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:

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.

Estimated Monthly Cost of Living

Rent (shared apartment/WG room)

350-500 EUR

Varies based on distance to city center and room size.

Food and Groceries

200-350 EUR

Varies based on personal preferences.

Health Insurance

110-120 EUR

Public health insurance (mandatory).

Public Transportation (Semesterticket)

0 EUR

Included in your **semester contribution** (Semesterbeitrag), valid throughout Bremen and its surroundings.

Entertainment and Social Activities

50-150 EUR

Depends on personal spending.

Phone/Internet

20-30 EUR

Student rates.

Average total 730-1150 EUR / mo

Places to Visit and Student Hangouts

University of Bremen Library (SuUB)

Library

An essential spot for students to study and research, known for its modern architecture and extensive resources.

Details ↗

Bürgerpark

Park

One of the city's largest parks. Ideal for walking, jogging, and picnics.

Schnoor Quarter

Landmark

Bremen's oldest and most picturesque district. Famous for its narrow streets, small shops, and cafes.

Marktplatz (Market Square)

Square

The heart of the city, home to the UNESCO World Heritage Town Hall and the Roland Statue.

Übersee-Museum Bremen

Museum

A large museum with rich collections on natural history, ethnology, and trade.

Details ↗

Café Unique (University Campus)

Cafe

A popular spot on campus where students socialize, grab coffee, and study.

Student Life and Culture

Universität Bremen boasts a vibrant and multicultural student life. You'll find numerous student clubs, societies, and initiatives active both on campus and in the city. Options range from sports clubs to cultural associations, political groups, and environmental activists, catering to a wide array of interests.

The university's own sports center (Hochschulsport) offers affordable courses and facilities in various sports. Bremen has a strong international student community, frequently organizing international evenings, excursions, and cultural events. The city's theaters, museums, cinemas, and concert halls also provide a rich cultural program for students. Thanks to the 'Semesterticket' (semester public transport ticket), you can use public transport for free throughout Bremen and its surroundings, letting you explore the city and region.

Strong international student community
Diverse student clubs and societies
Free public transport in Bremen and surroundings with the Semesterticket
Active campus sports (Hochschulsport)
City life full of cultural events and festivals

Frequently Asked Questions

Does the University of Bremen offer conditional admission? ▼

No. According to Bremen's official FAQ, conditional admission without sufficient German is not possible. Bachelor's applicants without C1 can use the Vorbereitungsstudium, a preparatory status that does not reserve a degree place.

How long is the Vorbereitungsstudium and who pays for the course? ▼

It lasts up to 4 semesters. You must be booked on an intensive German course of at least 20 hours a week; Bremen does not run these courses, so you choose and pay for the course yourself.

Which German certificates does Bremen accept? ▼

DSH-2 or DSH-3, TestDaF with 16 points in total and at least 3 in every part, Goethe C1/C2, telc C1 Hochschule and DSD II. DSH-1 is not enough.

Do Master's applicants apply through uni-assist? ▼

No. According to the official page, Master's applications always go directly to the University of Bremen, also for international applicants. The uni-assist VPD is required for Bachelor's and law applications.

Next step: browse the programmes tab on this page, then confirm the route on the official preparatory studies page. To compare with other universities, see our conditional admission overview.