Universität Duisburg-Essen
The University of Duisburg-Essen (UDE) is one of Germany's large public universities, with campuses in Duisburg and Essen. Applicants most often ask how to apply when their German is not good enough yet. This page answers that first and then covers language certificates, application channels and deadlines based on the official pages.
Short answer: for admission-free Bachelor's and Master's programmes, UDE gives applicants without sufficient German an admission to a German course. This is not admission to the degree; after passing the DSH you apply again for the programme.
Quick Facts
- University Name
- Universität Duisburg-Essen
- City
- Duisburg & Essen
- State
- Nordrhein-Westfalen
- Type
- Devlet Üniversitesi (öffentlich-rechtlich)
- Founding Year
- 2003 (Birleşme)
- Student Count
- 37.567
- HRK Member
- Evet
- How to apply
- Bachelor's: uni-assist · Master's: uni-assist or UDE portal, depending on the programme
- Without a German certificate
- Admission to a German course (admission-free programmes only)
Short answer: which route is there if your German is not good enough?
According to UDE's international admissions page, you can apply for an admission-free (zulassungsfrei) Bachelor's or Master's programme without sufficient German. Successful applicants receive a "Zulassungsbescheid zum Sprachkurs", an admission to a German course.
- You enrol as a German-course student and cannot attend lectures or take exams.
- UDE does not run its own German courses; you attend a private language school with at least 18 lessons a week. The schools charge fees.
- For admission-restricted (NC) programmes, a German-course application is not possible.
- After the course you must apply again for the degree within the deadline; no place is reserved.
See how this differs from conditional admission, and how other universities handle it, in our conditional admission comparison.
Language requirement and accepted certificates
Before the degree programme starts you need DSH-2 level; some programmes require DSH-3. Accepted certificates include DSH-2, DSD II, telc Deutsch C1 Hochschule, TestDaF with TDN 4 in all parts, and the Feststellungsprüfung.
Our guide to German language certificates compares the exams.
Application steps, deadlines and costs
- Bachelor's: through the uni-assist application portal.
- Master's: some programmes (e.g. Business Administration, Computer Science, Psychology, Economics, Business Informatics) go through uni-assist; all others through UDE's own application portal. Check your programme on the official list.
- Deadlines (official page, last updated 2 September 2026): winter semester NC programmes 1 May – 15 June, admission-free programmes 1 May – 31 July; summer semester NC 1 November – 15 December, admission-free 1 November – 31 January. Some programme pages still show older dates; if they conflict, ask the International Office.
- Costs: UDE charges no tuition fees. The semester contribution for winter semester 2026/27 is €367.80 in total.
- Visa: according to the official page, the admission notice lets you apply for a study or German-course visa; it advises against entering on a tourist visa. This is not a visa guarantee.
English-taught Master's examples
UDE also runs Master's programmes taught in English. Two examples from the official programme pages:
- Development and Governance (M.A.)
- Contemporary East Asian Studies (M.A.) (includes training in an East Asian language)
The German-course route applies to German-taught programmes; check the language requirement of English-taught programmes on their programme page.
Universität Duisburg-Essen: From Rich History to Modern Education
Universität Duisburg-Essen opened its doors on January 1, 2003, as one of Germany's youngest and most dynamic universities, formed by the merger of Gerhard-Mercator-Universität Duisburg and Universität-Gesamthochschule Essen. However, its roots trace back to the former university in Duisburg, established in 1654. This merger brought together the strengths of both institutions, significantly boosting the region's and the country's educational and research capacity.
With over 37,500 students, the university ranks among Germany's twenty largest, offering a global atmosphere with an international student body from 130 different countries. Offering a wide range of internationally focused faculties and programs, the university has become a European-renowned center, especially in nanoscience and biomedical research. It also plays a significant role in teacher education within the Nordrhein-Westfalen state. Its 194th position in the 2019 Times Higher Education World University Rankings confirms the university's academic excellence and strong international standing in research performance. As part of the University Alliance Ruhr Metropolis, it collaborates with other higher education institutions in the region, offering broader opportunities for students and researchers.
Student Life in Duisburg and Essen: One University, Two Cities
One of the most distinctive features of Universität Duisburg-Essen is its dual-campus structure, with locations in two different cities: Duisburg and Essen. This dual-campus setup offers students the chance to experience both the dynamic atmosphere of the Ruhr region and the unique cultures of different cities. Located in the Nordrhein-Westfalen state, these cities are vibrant centers where Germany's industrial heritage blends with modern student life.
Students frequently exchange information about dormitory applications and finding a WG (Wohngemeinschaft – a shared apartment). The dormitories managed by the Studierendenwerk (student services organization) offer affordable accommodation options, especially for international students. However, finding a spot can be challenging, so applying early is highly recommended. Alternatively, WGs offer both a more cost-effective and socially rich living experience. Duisburg and Essen are full of cultural events, museums, parks, and various student hangouts, offering plenty of options to explore outside of classes. Thanks to the Semesterticket (semester public transport pass), students can travel freely throughout the entire Nordrhein-Westfalen state on public transport, making it easy to commute between the two cities and surrounding areas.
Monthly Cost of Living (Estimated)
Places to Visit and Student Hangouts
Located on the Duisburg campus, this modern library is a key spot for students, offering extensive resources and study areas.
Situated in the heart of the Essen campus, this library houses a rich collection of books and digital materials across various disciplines.
This industrial park, transformed from an old iron and steel factory, offers a unique experience with walking trails, climbing walls, and event spaces.
Located in Essen, this former coal mine complex, a UNESCO World Heritage site, is now a cultural and arts center.
This renowned art museum in Essen boasts an impressive collection of 19th and 20th-century artworks.
This area, where the old harbor district has been transformed into a modern living and entertainment space, is filled with restaurants, cafes, and cultural events.
Student Life and Culture
Student life at Universität Duisburg-Essen is shaped by the diversity offered by its two campuses and the dynamic culture of the Ruhr region. With students from over 130 countries, the university boasts a highly international environment, offering you the chance to experience different cultures and build a global network. Student clubs and societies vary according to academic and social interests; you'll find active clubs in many areas like sports, music, theater, and international student groups.
Thanks to the Semesterticket (semester public transport pass), students can travel freely throughout the entire Nordrhein-Westfalen state on public transport, making it easy to commute between campuses and to surrounding cities. This greatly simplifies students' access to social and cultural events. The university's student representatives (AStA) advocate for student rights and organize various events, while the Studierendenwerk (student services organization) provides affordable cafeterias (Mensa) and dormitory services.
- Dynamic student experience with a dual-campus structure (Duisburg and Essen)
- Large international student community and cultural diversity
- Free public transport throughout Nordrhein-Westfalen state with the Semesterticket
- Active student clubs and social events
- Life intertwined with the rich industrial and cultural heritage of the Ruhr region
Frequently Asked Questions
Does the University of Duisburg-Essen offer conditional admission? ▼
UDE does not give conditional admission to the degree. For admission-free programmes it gives admission to a German course. As a German-course student you cannot attend lectures, and after the DSH you apply again for the degree.
Can I use German-course admission for an NC programme? ▼
No. According to the official page, German-course applications are not possible for programmes with NC or local NC.
Which German level do I need? ▼
DSH-2 level before the degree programme starts, DSH-3 for some programmes. Accepted certificates include DSH-2, telc C1 Hochschule, TestDaF with TDN 4 in all parts and DSD II.
Do I apply through uni-assist? ▼
Bachelor's applications go through uni-assist. For Master's programmes, a group of programmes uses uni-assist and the others use UDE's own portal; check your programme on the official list.
Next step: browse the admission-free programmes in the programmes tab on this page and confirm the route on UDE's international admissions page. For other options, see our conditional admission comparison.
Universität Duisburg-Essen — Gallery
Useful Links
Location
Programs & Departments
234 active programs · 97 NC-frei
This list shows the programmes in our catalogue and may be incomplete. Check the official programme page for the current list and the language of instruction.
Showing 1–24 of 234 programs
Bachelor
Anglophone Studies*
ENBachelor of Arts (B.A.)
The study program focuses on the English language as well as the cultures and literatures of English-speaking regions. This includes historical and contemporary contexts and their representation in va...
View details →Applied Computer Science
DEBachelor of Science (B.Sc.)
The program teaches the fundamentals of computer science, mathematics, and knowledge from specialized and application subjects. Graduates are enabled through a foundation and method-oriented education...
View details →Applied Computer Science - Systems Engineering
DE+ENBachelor of Science (B.Sc.)
The 4-semester core study includes computer science, mathematics, and business administration. A 2-semester specialization study is then completed in either Network Systems Engineering or Software Sys...
View details →Applied Philosophy*
DEBachelor of Arts (B.A.)
The goal of the Bachelor's program 'Applied Philosophy' is to orient the various areas of philosophy towards non-academic career goals (and not primarily towards the internal goals of the discipline o...
View details →Aquatic Biology
DE+ENBachelor of Science (B.Sc.)
In the new Bachelor's program 'Aquatic Biology', students learn to use modern biological methods to research biodiversity from the level of genes to ecosystems. These include methods from aquatic ecol...
View details →Biology
DEBachelor of Science (B.Sc.)
The Bachelor's program in Biology aims to provide students with the necessary professional knowledge, skills, and methods for a broad biological and career-oriented education, enabling them to work sc...
View details →Business Administration in Duisburg
DEBachelor of Science (B.Sc.)
The Bachelor's program in Business Administration provides the content and methodological foundations of business administration. Students acquire specialized knowledge and skills to recognize busines...
View details →Business Administration in Essen
DE+ENBachelor of Science (B.Sc.)
The Bachelor's program comprises 180 ECTS credits distributed over 6 semesters. Students must earn 90 credits each in the core and specialization areas. The core area consists mainly of mandatory modu...
View details →Business Education
DEBachelor of Science (B.Sc.)
The goal of the program is to provide systematic orientation and methodological foundations of economics and business education/didactics. Students acquire knowledge and skills to recognize economic r...
View details →Chemistry
DEBachelor of Science (B.Sc.)
The reformed Chemistry study model comprises a concentrated basic study (B.Sc.) of 6 semesters with essential learning content from a spectrum of core subjects in chemistry, followed by a four-semeste...
View details →Christian Studies
DEBachelor of Arts (B.A.)
The Christian Studies program focuses on the Christian faith tradition regarding its biblical origins, development in cultural and faith history, philosophical-intellectual development in the social c...
View details →Civil Engineering
DEBachelor of Science (B.Sc.)
The Bachelor's program in Civil Engineering provides solid scientific foundations and practice-oriented expertise, preparing students for the diverse requirements in the construction industry. Student...
View details →Communication Studies
DEBachelor of Arts (B.A.)
The 2-subject Bachelor's program in Communication Studies guides students to develop a scientific approach to communication processes. The study includes theoretical foundations, application-oriented...
View details →Comprehensive schools and university-preparatory secondary schools
DEBachelor of Arts (B.A.)
This is a Bachelor's program for teaching at comprehensive schools and university-preparatory secondary schools (Gymnasien und Gesamtschulen) in Germany. Students acquire a total of 180 ECTS credits d...
View details →Cultural Management
DEBachelor of Arts (B.A.)
The Bachelor's program Cultural Management (Kulturwirt) is an interdisciplinary practice-oriented program following the ECTS system (European Credit Transfer and Accumulation System), which combines c...
View details →Dutch
DEBachelor of Arts (B.A.)
The Bachelor's program in Dutch Studies includes a practice-oriented education focused on the teaching of linguistic-philological key qualifications and core content of the subject in the areas of lit...
View details →Economathematics
DEBachelor of Science (B.Sc.)
The Bachelor's program in Economathematics (Wirtschaftsmathematik) comprises studies in mathematics and economics as an application subject. The program is structured into different areas including fo...
View details →Economics
DE+ENBachelor of Science (B.Sc.)
Economics deals with the explanation and description of economic relationships and the possibilities for realizing individual and overall economic goals in individual markets or the economy as a whole...
View details →Education Science
DEBachelor of Arts (B.A.)
In the Bachelor's program 'Education Science', students acquire professional knowledge, skills, and methods that enable them to work scientifically, critically classify scientific findings, and act pr...
View details →Electrical and Electronic Engineering
DE+ENBachelor of Science (B.Sc.)
Electrical and Electronic Engineering (B.Sc.): Electrical engineering and information technology are among the most important areas in industry and business today. Engineers trained in Germany as carr...
View details →Electrical, Electronic and Communications Engineering
DE+ENElectrical, Electronic and Communications Engineering
View details →Electro-technology and Information Technology
DE+ENBachelor of Science (B.Sc.)
Electrical engineering is an extremely versatile and innovative field whose systems and components enable our modern technologies - from production facilities to communication technology to vehicles a...
View details →Energy Science
DE+ENBachelor of Science (B.Sc.)
Energy Science is an interdisciplinary program offered by the Faculty of Physics with substantial contributions from Chemistry and Engineering Sciences. The program examines energy topics broadly from...
View details →French Language and Culture*
DEBachelor of Arts (B.A.)
The study of French Language and Culture covers the areas of language practice, literature, linguistics, and cultural studies. In addition to solid language skills, which also includes a module on bus...
View details →
Essen
State: North Rhine-Westphalia
Study in Essen: Why Choose This City?
Essen is home to Universität Duisburg-Essen, one of Germany's largest universities. With two distinct campuses (one in Duisburg, one in Essen), the un...
more →Student Life and Culture
Essen's student-friendly environment promises you an enjoyable university experience. With a constant flow of students between Universität Duisburg-Es...
more →More about Essen
Cost of living, housing, transport, student life and all universities.
Student Experiences
Share yours too →No experience shared yet.
Be the first to share an experience about Universität Duisburg-Essen and help other students.
Share your experienceOther universities in Essen
All →
HAW
FOM Hochschule für Oekonomie & Management - University of Applied Sciences
45,369 students
Hochschule der bildenden Künste (HBK) Essen
317 students
Public
Folkwang University of the Arts
Public
Fernuniversität in Hagen
63,410 students
Public
Technische Universität München
55,562 students
Public
Ludwig-Maximilians-Universität München
53,609 students
Student Reviews
Verified reviews from current students, alumni and applicants.
No reviews yet. Be the first!
Verified students and alumni can share their experience below.