FAU Erlangen-Nürnberg

Founded in 1743 and consistently ranked Germany's most innovative university, Friedrich-Alexander-Universität Erlangen-Nürnberg (FAU) sits at the intersection of world-class engineering, medical science, and one of Europe's most dynamic tech ecosystems. Near-zero tuition, globally respected research credentials, and 50+ English-taught programmes.

FAU Erlangen-Nürnberg Admissions Guide for

FAU Erlangen-Nürnberg — campus in pictures

Real, freely-licensed photographs of the campus (via Wikimedia Commons).

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Margrave Friedrich von Bayreuth founded the University of Erlangen in 1743. After the painting by Barthelme.

Creator:Hugo Barthelme · Public domain · via Wikimedia Commons

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Erlangen University main building viewed from the West

Hobbitschuster · CC BY-SA 4.0 · via Wikimedia Commons

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Erlangen University main building viewed from the West

Hobbitschuster · CC BY-SA 4.0 · via Wikimedia Commons

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Erlangen University main building viewed from the West

Hobbitschuster · CC BY-SA 4.0 · via Wikimedia Commons

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Erlangen University main building viewed from the West

Hobbitschuster · CC BY-SA 4.0 · via Wikimedia Commons

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Erlangen Friedrich Alexander Universität Institut fuer Klinische und Molekularische Virologie 001

Janericloebe · Public domain · via Wikimedia Commons

FAU Erlangen-Nürnberg Collegium Alexandrinum

FAU has been ranked Germany's most innovative university multiple times by Reuters and other innovation indices. Its research clusters in medical engineering, materials science, and AI generate patents and spin-offs at a rate that rivals universities twice its size.

Over 50 bachelor's and master's degrees are taught entirely in English — from Artificial Intelligence and Data Science to Medical Engineering, International Business Studies, and Human Rights — making FAU one of the most accessible German universities for non-German speakers.

Studying at FAU is essentially free for all international students. The only fee is a modest administrative semester contribution (~$300/year). This makes FAU one of the most affordable research-intensive universities in the world — ranked #193 globally by Times Higher Education.

Erlangen is the global headquarters of Siemens Healthineers and a key node for Siemens AG. The broader Nuremberg Metro Area hosts Adidas, Schaeffler, and a dense Mittelstand ecosystem. Internships, research collaborations, and direct-hire pipelines into German industry are part of daily campus life.

With 14% international students drawn from over 100 countries, FAU has built robust infrastructure for newcomers: a dedicated International Office, buddy programmes, intensive German-language courses, and an active international student body.

FAU spans Humanities & Social Sciences, Business & Law, Medicine, Sciences, and Engineering across campuses in Erlangen, Nuremberg, and Fürth. The result is genuine cross-disciplinary collaboration — AI students work alongside radiologists, economists partner with materials scientists.

FAU is not merely one of Germany's oldest universities — it is consistently Germany's most innovative institution, fusing deep academic tradition with one of Europe's densest technology and healthcare industry clusters. For ambitious international students, it offers a rare combination: near-zero tuition, research intensity, and a direct pipeline into German industry.

Innovation, Near-Zero Tuition & Industry Pipeline

Overall acceptance rate — varies widely by programme

IB minimum benchmark is 32 points university-wide

Competitive programmes (engineering, medicine, AI) require meaningfully higher

Higher Level subjects in relevant fields are assessed carefully

Grade conversion to German Abitur standard (1.0–4.0 scale)

FAU evaluates international qualifications against the German Abitur standard. The IB minimum benchmark is 32 points, but competitive programmes effectively require higher scores. Subject relevance to your chosen programme matters as much as total score.

IELTS Academic minimum 6.5 for English-taught programmes

TOEFL iBT minimum 88 for English-taught programmes

TestDaF level 4 or DSH-2 for German-taught programmes

German A1 proficiency required by end of first year for English-programme students

For English-taught programmes, IELTS 6.5 or TOEFL iBT 88 is required. For German-taught programmes, TestDaF level 4 or DSH-2 certification is required. FAU does not accept SAT or ACT scores in any admissions process.

Prerequisites in relevant subjects must be met

A-Levels, national matriculation exams, or equivalent are accepted

Some qualifications require uni-assist assessment

Master's applicants need a 'good' (gut) bachelor's result or better

FAU must confirm that your qualification is equivalent to German university entrance requirements. Some applicants must use uni-assist for formal qualification assessment. Master's applicants need a completed bachelor's degree in a related field with a strong academic record.

FAU Application Components — campo Portal, Motivation Letter & Documents

Officially certified copies of all certificates, diplomas, and transcripts. For bachelor's applicants: secondary school diploma and any prior university work. For master's applicants: bachelor's degree certificate and full transcript. Documents in languages other than German or English require certified translations.

English-taught programmes: IELTS Academic 6.5+ or TOEFL iBT 88+. German-taught programmes: TestDaF level 4 (all parts) or DSH-2. Native English speakers or graduates of English-medium schools may be exempt — verify with the specific programme coordinator.

Many international applicants must verify whether their qualification requires assessment via uni-assist or directly through FAU's International Office. This determines whether your credential is recognised as equivalent to German university entrance requirements.

A 1–2 page written statement explaining your academic background, motivation for the specific programme, and professional or research goals. Required for most master's and competitive bachelor's programmes. This is the primary written component of a FAU application.

A structured academic and professional CV in European format (Europass acceptable). Include education, work experience, internships, research involvement, language skills, and extracurricular activities. German universities expect chronological format.

An administrative application fee applies (~$80 USD). Submit payment through the campo portal. Non-EU applicants should confirm the current fee before applying.

Some master's programmes request academic letters of recommendation. Where requested, choose referees who can speak specifically to your academic ability and subject-level engagement — a substantive academic letter from a supervising professor carries significant weight.

FAU uses its own online application portal — campo (campo.fau.de) — for all applications. There is no Common App, UCAS, or Studielink. Below is every component of a complete FAU application, with strategic notes for each.

https://www.fau.eu/studying/international-students/application-and-enrollment-for-international-applicants/

Research FAU's specific programme before writing a single word

Study the curriculum, research clusters, and faculty pages for your target programme. A letter that names specific FAU research groups or curriculum modules is immediately distinguishable from one that could have been sent to any German university.

FAU evaluators read motivation letters for narrative coherence: here is my academic background; here is the specific programme content that advances my goals; here is what I intend to do after graduation. This three-part structure is what reviewers look for.

Concision is a virtue in German academic writing

1–2 pages (500–800 words) is the expected length. A three-page letter signals poor editing rather than thoroughness. German academic culture values precision and economy of expression.

Avoid starting with childhood passion clichés

'Since I was a child, I have always been passionate about engineering...' is one of the most commonly used and least effective opening lines in German university motivation letters. Programme coordinators read hundreds of these. Start with something specific and substantive.

FAU Application Statement — Writing the Perfect Motivation Letter

FAU has no set essay prompts. The primary written document is the Motivationsschreiben (motivation letter) — a 1–2 page statement required by most competitive programmes.

Address: (1) your academic background and why it prepares you for this programme; (2) why you want to study this specific subject at FAU specifically; (3) your professional or research goals after graduation. Approximately 500–800 words.

Some FAU master's programmes provide specific prompts or questions to address in the motivation letter. Always check the specific programme's admission requirements page on campo or the FAU website.

Writing a generic letter that could be sent to any German university — FAU programme coordinators read hundreds and immediately identify copy-paste applications.

The most common FAU motivation letter mistake

What FAU Admissions Evaluators Are Looking For

Your performance in subjects directly relevant to your chosen programme is the single most important factor. Engineering programmes weight mathematics and physics grades heavily; medical programmes look at biology and chemistry; business programmes assess quantitative and economics coursework.

FAU must confirm that your secondary or prior university qualification is equivalent to German university entrance requirements. A strong IB diploma, A-Levels, or equivalent international credentials generally satisfy this, but applicants must verify their specific qualification.

Many master's programmes specify prerequisite subjects or minimum credit-hour requirements in certain fields. Meeting these prerequisites is non-negotiable. Check each programme's admissions requirements on the campo portal or FAU website before applying.

For selective programmes, evaluators read motivation letters carefully for evidence that the applicant genuinely understands the programme's content and has a realistic academic or professional goal. Generic letters are immediately visible.

Research or Internship Experience (Master's)

For competitive master's applications, relevant research involvement, industry internships, or thesis-level work significantly strengthens a profile. FAU's programme coordinators are active researchers who respond to applicants who demonstrate genuine curiosity beyond coursework.

FAU requires verified language proficiency matched to the language of instruction. For English-taught programmes: IELTS 6.5 or TOEFL iBT 88. For German-taught programmes: TestDaF level 4 or DSH-2. This is a formal gate, not a suggestion.

Unlike US or UK universities, FAU admissions are primarily academic and documentary. Your qualifications, grade profile, and fit between your background and your chosen programme are the dominant factors. However, the motivation letter and CV matter — particularly for selective master's programmes where academic profiles are close.

Annual programme tuition for all students

Annual administrative semester contribution (all-in)

of international students receive some scholarship support

Annual total cost of attendance including living

FAU Cost & Funding for International Students

Cost figures are estimates from the university's facts file and official sources. Individual costs vary by lifestyle, accommodation type, and personal circumstances.

Unlike universities in the US, UK, or Australia, FAU charges no programme tuition fees — even for non-EU international students. The only payment required is a modest semester administrative contribution (~€150/semester), which includes a regional public transport pass (Semesterticket). The primary financial challenge at FAU is living costs, not tuition.

FAU represents one of the most cost-effective research-university options in the world. Scholarships are available primarily through DAAD (Germany's main scholarship body) and the Deutschlandstipendium programme. Given near-zero tuition, the German system directs support through external scholarships rather than institutional grants.

No programme tuition charged at German public universities

Includes regional public transport pass (Semesterticket)

Erlangen-Nuremberg area; varies by accommodation type

Living Costs (accommodation, food, transport)

https://www.fau.eu/international/scholarships/

Most programmes offer Winter Semester entry — widest choice of degrees

Larger incoming cohort — more orientation events and networking

October start aligns with most international school graduation timelines

More scholarship programmes open for Winter Semester entrants

Summer language course before October start possible

Summer Semester (April) entry available only for a subset of programmes

Summer entry gives less preparation time for visa and housing

Some programmes only admit in Winter Semester

German-taught programme availability may be more limited in Summer

Less international student community support infrastructure in Summer intake

FAU Intake — Winter Semester vs Summer Semester

Germany operates a two-semester academic year. Most FAU programmes admit students for the Winter Semester (October start). The Summer Semester (April start) is available for a smaller number of programmes. Exact application deadlines are published on the campo portal and vary by faculty.

Apply for the Winter Semester unless your specific programme explicitly offers Summer entry or your timeline makes Winter entry impossible. Check the campo portal for authoritative deadline dates — the English website may not have the most current information.

https://www.fau.eu/studying/international-students/application-and-enrollment-for-international-applicants/

Rarely required; some programmes may conduct selection interviews

After document review for specific, limited-places programmes

Subject knowledge, motivation, communication, programme fit

Not standard — verify on your specific programme page

FAU Admissions Interviews — What to Expect

Be specific: name a research cluster, a faculty member's work, or a curriculum module that directly relates to your goals.

Why FAU — and why this specific programme?

Demonstrate subject-level engagement: refer to a methodology, a problem, or a recent development in the field.

Describe your academic background and how it prepares you for this programme.

Be honest and concrete. FAU interviewers want realistic, considered goals — not vague aspirations.

What do you intend to do after graduation?

Show genuine reading and curiosity beyond the curriculum — name specific papers, books, or projects.

What aspect of this field interests you most, and what have you done to explore it?

Prepare for technical questions in STEM and science programmes — evaluators will test subject knowledge directly.

Walk me through a project or piece of work you are particularly proud of.

Most FAU bachelor's and master's programmes do not include formal interviews in the standard admissions process. Selection is based on documented qualifications, language proficiency, and the motivation letter. Some specialised or joint-degree programmes with limited places may conduct selection interviews — check your specific programme's admissions procedure on the FAU website or campo portal to confirm whether an interview applies to you.

University-managed halls with affordable monthly rents; apply as early as possible after acceptance

Widely available in Erlangen; shared apartments (WGs) are the most popular option among students

For students studying at FAU's Nuremberg campuses; good public transport links to Erlangen

FAU's Welcome Centre provides arriving international students with housing search guidance and temporary accommodation contacts

FAU does not have a residential college or 'house' system in the Harvard, Yale, or Oxford sense. Housing is managed independently — either through the Studentenwerk Erlangen-Nürnberg's dormitories or through the private rental market. For most international students, finding housing is one of the first practical tasks after receiving an admission offer.

Apply to the Studentenwerk dormitory waiting list as early as possible after acceptance — demand significantly exceeds supply

Erlangen is a compact, cycling-friendly city — private room rentals are widely available at student-friendly prices

The FAU Welcome Centre provides housing guidance and temporary accommodation contacts for arriving international students

WGs (Wohngemeinschaften — shared flats) are the most common and socially active housing option for FAU students

Monthly rents in Studentenwerk dormitories start from approximately €250–350; private WG rooms typically €400–600

Nuremberg and Fürth campus students have good S-Bahn and U-Bahn connections to Erlangen

Electrical Engineering, Mechanical Engineering, Medical Engineering

German & English (many English-taught MSc)

Home to FAU's flagship engineering programmes and one of Germany's first dedicated AI bachelor's degrees. Medical Engineering bridges the engineering and medicine faculties, producing graduates in high demand at Siemens Healthineers.

Physics, Chemistry, Mathematics, Materials Science

Materials science, quantum physics, chemical processes

Primarily German; some English-taught masters

FAU's sciences faculty is internationally recognised in materials science and quantum research. Several programmes operate without admissions restrictions (kein NC), making them accessible to internationally qualified applicants who meet the subject prerequisites.

University Hospital Erlangen (Universitätsklinikum)

Regulated by German law — verify annually

Highly competitive; Numerus Clausus applies

FAU Medicine is among the most competitive programmes in Bavaria. The University Hospital Erlangen provides direct clinical exposure. International students must verify the specific quota for non-EU applicants and hold verified German language proficiency before applying.

International Business Studies (BSc & MSc)

Nuremberg region — major logistics, retail, finance hub

Some master's programmes may request GMAT

International Business Studies is fully English-taught at bachelor's and master's level. Economics and Law are primarily German-taught. Business students benefit from FAU's proximity to the Nuremberg region's major employers in logistics, retail, and industrial manufacturing.

Faculty of Humanities, Social Sciences & Theology

MA Human Rights (English), MA North American Studies

History, Linguistics, Philosophy (primarily German)

Most bachelor's in this faculty require German proficiency

Medieval studies, Islamic studies, theology

FAU's humanities faculty offers several English-taught master's programmes, including Human Rights and North American Studies, which attract internationally mobile students. Most bachelor's programmes in this faculty are taught in German.

FAU hosts numerous DFG-funded research training groups (Graduiertenkollegs) spanning engineering, natural sciences, medicine, and humanities. Graduate students and advanced undergraduates can engage with structured research programmes alongside leading faculty.

FAU is home to the Erlangen Centre for Artificial Intelligence (ECAI) and the Pattern Recognition Lab — one of Germany's oldest and most respected AI research groups. International students in the AI bachelor's and master's programmes work directly alongside research faculty.

The Medical Valley Erlangen ecosystem connects FAU research directly with Siemens Healthineers, University Hospital Erlangen, and a network of medical device companies. Undergraduate and master's students regularly participate in industry-sponsored research projects.

FAU has over 100 student clubs and organisations covering sports, culture, faith, politics, and professional networking. AEGEE-Erlangen connects European and international students. Engineering societies, model UN, and international cultural associations are well-established. The Bergkirchweih (Berg) folk festival is one of Bavaria's most celebrated student events.

Research & Extracurricular Opportunities at FAU

Scroll right to explore FAU's research programmes and student life opportunities.

Graduate employment rate within 6 months of graduation

Germany's most innovative university ranking (Reuters Innovation Index)

Major employers in FAU's immediate metro region

Siemens Healthineers is headquartered in Erlangen; Siemens AG has a major presence across the region. FAU medical engineering and electrical engineering graduates are directly pipeline-recruited into one of the world's leading healthcare technology companies.

FAU's AI and Computer Science graduates pursue careers at SAP, Bosch AI, Google DeepMind's European offices, and a growing number of Munich-based and Berlin-based start-ups. Germany's AI labour market is among the tightest in Europe.

Medical graduates enter Germany's well-funded hospital and research system, with direct clinical exposure through University Hospital Erlangen. Research-track graduates pursue postdoctoral positions at DFG-funded clusters and international research institutions.

FAU graduates benefit from one of Germany's strongest industry pipelines. With Siemens Healthineers headquartered in Erlangen and the broader Nuremberg Metropolitan Region hosting major global employers, FAU has built direct-hire relationships that translate into strong employment outcomes for graduates in engineering, sciences, and business.

Our FAU Admissions Track Record & Student Success Stories

Tychr helped me structure my motivation letter around specific FAU research groups rather than general statements about loving engineering. My application to the Medical Engineering programme was accepted on the first try — the counsellor knew exactly what FAU programme coordinators were looking for.

I almost applied without doing the uni-assist qualification check — Tychr caught that my South African matric needed formal assessment before campo would process my application. That alone saved me missing the entire intake.

FAU — International Business Studies (BSc)

IB 34 · National Senior Certificate distinction

The German university process is very different from what I knew. Tychr walked me through campo, the blocked account requirements, and the German A1 language condition — things the FAU website doesn't explain clearly in English.

Do I need to speak German to study at FAU?

Not if you enrol in one of FAU's 50+ English-taught programmes. For English-taught degrees, you do not need to prove German proficiency at the time of application or enrolment. However, you will be required to reach A1 level in German by the end of your first academic year. German-taught programmes require TestDaF level 4 or DSH-2 certification before admission.

Effectively yes. Unlike universities in the US, UK, or Australia, FAU charges no programme tuition fees. You pay only a modest semester administrative contribution (Semesterbeitrag) — approximately €150 per semester — which includes public transportation in the region and student services. The facts file records the annual fee equivalent at approximately $300 USD.

What is the IB score requirement for FAU?

The minimum IB benchmark recorded in the facts file is 32 points. However, competitive programmes — particularly engineering, medicine, and AI — effectively require scores well above this minimum. Check the specific programme page for any programme-specific score expectations, and note that Higher Level subject choices in relevant fields matter as much as total points.

Neither. FAU operates its own application portal called campo (campo.fau.de). All applications — for bachelor's, master's, and doctoral programmes — are submitted directly through this portal. There is no third-party common application system.

Can I start in both the winter and summer semester?

Most programmes admit students for the Winter Semester (October start). A smaller number also offer Summer Semester (April) entry. Check the campo portal and the specific programme page to confirm which intakes are available for your chosen degree.

Overall, approximately 40% of applicants are admitted — but this average conceals wide variation. Some programmes operate with no admissions restrictions (kein Numerus Clausus), while others — particularly medicine, psychology, and law — are significantly more competitive. Research the NC (Zulassungszahl) for your specific programme.

Are there scholarships available for international students?

FAU does not offer university-wide scholarships covering the full cost of study. However, DAAD (German Academic Exchange Service) funds numerous programmes for international students, and FAU participates in the Deutschlandstipendium (€300/month stipend). Given near-zero tuition, many students find that living costs are the primary financial challenge, and part-time work rights during study provide additional support.

Non-EU/EEA applicants require a German student visa (Visum zu Studienzwecken) before entry. After arrival, a residence permit (Aufenthaltserlaubnis) must be obtained from the local Foreigners Authority (Ausländerbehörde). You must demonstrate sufficient funds — typically via a blocked account (Sperrkonto) holding the required annual maintenance amount. FAU's International Office provides guidance and connects new students with support resources.

Getting into FAU is not about being the loudest applicant — it is about being the most precisely prepared one.

Book a Free FAU Admissions Strategy Session

Germany and Europe admissions specialists

Personalised strategy — campo navigation, motivation letter, uni-assist, visa

In 60 minutes our Germany admissions specialists will evaluate your academic profile against FAU's specific programme requirements, identify your qualification equivalence pathway, guide your motivation letter strategy, and map your application timeline on the campo portal.

University-wide minimum; competitive programmes require more

FAU Academic Requirements: The Honest Breakdown for International Students

What qualifications, grade profile, and academic preparation does FAU expect from international students? And how does Germany's direct-application system evaluate IB, A-Level, and other international credentials?

FAU evaluates international qualifications through a conversion to the German Abitur grade scale (1.0 = best, 4.0 = minimum pass). The IB minimum benchmark is 32 points university-wide, but competitive programmes require meaningfully higher results. There is no US-style GPA system in German admissions.

IB minimum benchmark across FAU programmes

Overall acceptance rate — varies widely by programme

FAU and Academic Grades — What the Requirements Actually Mean

An IB score of 32 is the minimum entrance floor, not a competitive target for selective programmes. Engineering, medicine, AI, and psychology programmes effectively operate with much higher admitted profiles. Research the Numerus Clausus (NC) value for your specific programme in recent semesters — FAU's own admissions statistics provide this data.

International students from systems that don't use a points-based grading system are evaluated through grade conversion tables. FAU's International Office and uni-assist use published conversion formulas that map international grades to the German Abitur equivalent. The final converted grade (Abiturnote) is the primary admission criterion.

What this means for international students

For master's applicants, the overall grade in your bachelor's degree is the closest equivalent to GPA. A result equivalent to 'gut' (good) — typically above 2.5 on the German 1.0–4.0 scale — is a competitive baseline. The most selective master's programmes at FAU expect results in the 'sehr gut' (very good) range, equivalent to the top third of graduating students.

Germany's admissions system evaluates qualifications through a formal equivalence process rather than holistic file review. FAU applies standardised conversion formulas to international qualifications, mapping them to the German Abitur scale. Understanding how your specific qualification converts is essential planning information before you apply.

Every international qualification is evaluated against the German university entrance standard (Hochschulzugangsberechtigung). The Anabin database maintained by the German Standing Conference of Education Ministers (KMK) lists recognised qualifications and their equivalence status. Some qualifications — particularly those from less common education systems — may require formal uni-assist assessment before FAU will process the application.

How FAU contextualises your academic record

Taking the most rigorous available subjects in your chosen field is more important than maximising overall points through easier courses. An engineering applicant with strong Higher Level Mathematics and Physics is better positioned than one with the same total IB score achieved through humanities subjects. FAU's faculty-level requirements make subject-specific performance decisive.

Subject relevance matters more than total score

Qualification Equivalence — How FAU Reads International Academic Records

If your school is outside the major international qualification frameworks (IB, A-Level, French Baccalauréat, etc.), verify your qualification's equivalence status through uni-assist or FAU's International Office before investing time in a full application. Discovering an equivalence gap after missing the deadline is a common and entirely preventable error.

For students from less common education systems

FAU Erlangen-Nürnberg does not accept SAT scores in any admissions process. Germany is fully test-blind with respect to SAT and ACT. This section explains what replaces standardised testing in FAU's evaluation framework.

SAT at FAU — Not Used; What Matters Instead

For STEM programmes, the equivalent of the SAT Math signal is your IB Higher Level Mathematics or A-Level Mathematics grade. Engineering and computer science programmes weight mathematics performance in your school qualifications very heavily — a 7 in IB HL Maths AA is a strong signal; a 5 significantly weakens a STEM application.

Rather than SAT preparation, international students targeting FAU should focus on maximising their relevant subject scores in their school qualification system, ensuring their qualification is formally recognised, and preparing a strong motivation letter for their target programme.

If you hold strong SAT scores from applying to US universities as well as FAU, submitting them to FAU will have no effect — they are not assessed. Your energy is better directed toward your IB or A-Level subject performance and your motivation letter quality.

Submitting vs. not submitting — not relevant at FAU

ACT scores are not used by FAU or any German university in their admissions process. The German academic admission system uses school qualification grades and formally assessed equivalence rather than standardised testing.

ACT Scores at FAU — Why They Don't Apply and What Does

There is no superscore concept in German admissions. Admission is based on your final school-leaving certificate grades, converted to the German Abitur equivalence scale. Your qualification is assessed once, holistically, through the formal equivalence process.

Neither SAT nor ACT is considered for any FAU programme at any level. This is standard practice across all German public universities.

Your IB score, A-Level grades, or equivalent national qualification is the primary academic credential. Subject-level performance in relevant fields carries the most weight.

Some business-focused FAU master's programmes may request GMAT or GRE scores. Verify this on your specific programme's requirements page — it is not a university-wide requirement.

Focus your preparation on achieving the strongest possible results in your school qualification system — particularly in subjects directly relevant to your target FAU programme. Language proficiency tests (IELTS/TOEFL) and your motivation letter are the components of the FAU application over which you have direct control.

Tychr's recommendation for FAU applicants

FAU Erlangen-Nürnberg is test-blind: SAT and ACT play no role in any FAU admissions decision. This is the standard German university position, not an exception. Understanding what this means for how your application is evaluated is essential.

FAU Test-Blind Policy — What It Means for International Applicants

Germany's universities do not use SAT, ACT, or equivalent standardised entry tests. Admission is based on formally recognised school-leaving qualifications converted to the German Abitur scale, supplemented by language proficiency certificates. Some graduate programmes additionally require GMAT or GRE — verify on the specific programme page.

Germany's approach to standardised testing

IELTS Academic (minimum 6.5) or TOEFL iBT (minimum 88) for English-taught programmes — these are required, not optional.

TestDaF level 4 or DSH-2 for German-taught programmes — these are required before admission.

GMAT/GRE if your specific master's programme requests them — check the programme requirements page.

SAT or ACT scores — submitting them has no effect and will not be assessed.

Any standardised test not explicitly listed as a requirement on your specific programme page.

Many students from Anglo-American school systems assume that a strong SAT score will strengthen their application to a German university. At FAU, it will not — the score is simply not part of the assessment. Your school qualification grade and its formal equivalence to the German Abitur is what determines your eligibility and competitiveness.

The misconception for students from US-curriculum schools

FAU evaluates IB applicants through the official conversion formula. An IB total score of 32 is the minimum benchmark, but competitive programmes require higher. Higher Level subject choices in relevant fields matter significantly: HL Mathematics is strongly preferred for engineering, data science, and natural science programmes. Predicted scores are typically accepted at the point of application, with final results required for enrolment.

Mathematics: Analysis & Approaches HL; relevant science HL

HL subjects in fields relevant to your target programme are assessed carefully

Not formally assessed in German admissions; mention in motivation letter

British A-Levels are accepted as a university entrance qualification. Three A-Level subjects at A–C grades (or better) typically satisfy the general university entrance requirement (Hochschulzugangsberechtigung). The specific grade conversion depends on the overall result and subject combination. Contact FAU's International Office to confirm the conversion for your specific A-Level profile.

A-Level Mathematics and relevant sciences for STEM programmes

IB and A-Level at FAU — Specific Benchmarks and Evaluation

Advanced Placement (AP) courses and scores are not part of FAU's admissions evaluation. Germany's universities use the school-leaving qualification as a whole, not individual subject-level examinations like AP. However, for students in American or international AP-based curricula, this section explains how AP schools' qualifications are assessed.

Students at schools offering the US curriculum who hold or expect an American high school diploma with AP courses are typically required to demonstrate qualification equivalence through uni-assist. The high school diploma plus AP course record — and sometimes SAT II subject tests — may be assessed together to determine Abitur equivalence.

US curriculum applicants — what FAU assesses

AP scores themselves are not submitted to or assessed by FAU. What matters is whether your overall school credential is assessed as equivalent to German university entrance requirements. If your school offers the IB alongside AP, the IB Diploma is typically the cleaner path to demonstrated Abitur equivalence.

Students from American schools applying to FAU master's programmes need a recognised bachelor's degree from an accredited US institution. US bachelor's degrees are generally well recognised. The specific programme's GPA or grading expectations should be checked on the programme requirements page.

AP Courses at FAU — What Counts and How US-Curriculum Students Are Assessed

FAU does not award course credit for AP scores in the way that US universities do. All incoming students follow the full programme curriculum regardless of prior AP performance.

International students at IB or A-Level schools do not need to take AP courses to strengthen a FAU application. Your IB or A-Level qualification is the appropriate credential for your context and is evaluated accordingly.

In German university admissions, the concept equivalent to Harvard's 'rigour of secondary school record' is the quality and difficulty level of your school-leaving qualification and the extent to which your subject choices align with your target programme's requirements. FAU evaluates this through the formal grade conversion process and through programme prerequisites.

Academic Rigour at FAU — What Equivalent Challenge Looks Like

Choosing the most demanding subjects in your relevant field, and performing strongly in them, is the single most important academic decision for a FAU applicant.

Rigour at FAU is evaluated in terms of subject relevance, not just difficulty. An IB student who takes HL Mathematics, HL Physics, and HL Chemistry demonstrates the academic preparation FAU's engineering faculty expects. An A-Level student who takes Mathematics, Further Mathematics, and Physics signals the same. The parallel for business is HL Mathematics and Economics; for medicine, HL Biology and Chemistry.

Unlike the US system, there is no holistic 'rigour of curriculum' rating separate from grades. The curriculum's difficulty is embedded in the qualification's conversion formula. The key variable within your control is subject choice: ensure your Higher Level subjects (IB) or A-Level combination directly addresses your target programme's prerequisites.

How rigour is embedded in the German assessment

A FAU engineering evaluator reviewing an IB student's application is specifically looking for: HL Mathematics: Analysis & Approaches (not Applications & Interpretation) for most engineering programmes; HL Physics for electrical, mechanical, and materials engineering; strong performance in relevant sciences. An applicant who took HL Visual Arts, HL Psychology, and HL Business Studies and then applied to Electrical Engineering would face a significant qualification mismatch — regardless of total IB score.

What FAU faculty evaluators are looking for

Different FAU faculties have specific academic preparation expectations. Because admissions at FAU are programme-specific, it is essential to calibrate your subject choices to your target faculty's requirements. The following covers the five FAU faculties.

Subject Preparation by Faculty — What FAU Expects

Mathematics and physics are essential at Higher Level (IB) or A-Level for all engineering programmes. For Computer Science and AI programmes, additional evidence of programming ability — through coursework, personal projects, or prior university study — is a strong differentiator. Mathematical rigour is non-negotiable.

Biology and chemistry at the highest available level are expected. German medicine is one of the most competitive programmes in the country. International students should hold an exceptionally strong overall profile and verify the specific admission quota for international applicants, which is regulated by German law.

Strong results in the relevant science subject alongside mathematics form the expected profile. Materials science, chemistry, and physics programmes particularly value quantitative strength. Research exposure — through IB extended essay, A-Level project work, or independent reading — demonstrates the intellectual curiosity FAU research groups value.

Natural Sciences (Chemistry, Physics, Materials Science)

Mathematics and economics/business at higher levels are preferred. German language proficiency is advantageous even for English-taught business programmes, as many networking and industry events take place in German. Note that FAU Law programmes are German-taught and require DSH-2 or TestDaF certification.

FAU's humanities faculty offers English-taught master's programmes including Human Rights and North American Studies. Strong writing skills, language ability, and demonstrated engagement with the subject — through an extended essay or equivalent project — support the application. Most bachelor's humanities programmes are taught in German.

FAU requires formal proof of language proficiency matched to the language of instruction of your chosen programme. Unlike US universities where the essay itself demonstrates English ability, German universities require a standardised test certificate as a formal gate.

Language Proficiency Requirements for International FAU Applicants

English proficiency tests at FAU are administrative requirements — you cannot substitute them with strong essay writing or other signals. IELTS 6.5 or TOEFL iBT 88 must be demonstrated through an officially submitted certificate. Plan to take the test well before your application deadline.

Level 4 (all 4 parts) — for German-taught programmes

Native English speakers or students who have completed a full degree programme taught exclusively in English at an accredited English-language institution may be exempt from the IELTS/TOEFL requirement for English-taught programmes. Verify exemption eligibility with the specific programme coordinator before submitting without a language certificate.

https://www.fau.eu/studying/international-students/application-and-enrollment-for-international-applicants/

FAU admissions are programme-specific. The table below summarises the typical academic preparation expected for key programmes. Check the specific programme's requirements page on campo or the FAU website for current, authoritative requirements.

HL Maths AA / Further Maths A-Level; personal projects; competition results

HL Physics and Maths; engineering design experience

HL Maths + HL Physics or A-Level equivalent

HL Biology + Chemistry; clinical exposure; strong science profile

HL Maths + HL Physics or HL Biology; industry curiosity

HL Maths + Economics; quantitative projects; internship experience

HL Mathematics; Economics or Business at HL

HL Chemistry or Physics; materials science interest; lab experience

HL Maths + HL Chemistry; research or industry experience

Strong humanities essay; language ability; research interest

Strong language arts and social sciences profile

Academic Requirements by FAU Programme — What Different Paths Expect

The IB Diploma is one of the most clearly recognised qualifications in German university admissions. FAU applies a standardised conversion formula to map IB total scores to the German Abitur grade scale. IB Subject-level HL results are also assessed for programme prerequisite purposes. The minimum total score for FAU is 32, but competitive programmes require higher.

British and international A-Levels are well recognised. Three A-Level subjects at A–C grade or better typically satisfy the general university entrance requirement. FAU applies conversion tables to determine the Abitur-equivalent grade. Applicants should contact FAU's International Office or use uni-assist to confirm their specific conversion.

The Indian school certificates are recognised in Germany, but conversion to the Abitur scale varies by result level and subject combination. Many Indian applicants benefit from formal uni-assist assessment to confirm equivalence. Strong results in CBSE or ISC in Mathematics and relevant sciences translate well for STEM programmes.

French Baccalauréat graduates with strong results are generally eligible for German university entry. The conversion formula applies to the final Bac grade (mention très bien / bien preferred for competitive programmes). FAU is within the European academic culture and recognises French academic preparation at a high level.

National curricula from most countries are listed in the Anabin database. Students holding national secondary school certificates from countries with lower recognition levels may need to complete a foundation year (Studienkolleg) in Germany before applying for a full degree programme. Verify your specific qualification's status early.

FAU and International Education Systems — How Your Qualification Is Evaluated

Identify your target FAU faculty early and prioritise relevant subjects.

For STEM, cement mathematics and science fundamentals at the highest available level.

Explore relevant extracurriculars — robotics, olympiads, science fairs — to deepen subject engagement.

If German language study is available at your school, consider starting at A1–A2 level.

Choose Higher Level subjects strategically

If following the IB, select Higher Level subjects that directly align with your target programme's prerequisites.

Engineering applicants: Maths AA HL + Physics HL are the minimum expected combination.

Medical applicants: Biology HL + Chemistry HL.

Business applicants: Maths HL + Economics HL.

Aim for your Extended Essay to be in a relevant subject — mention it in your motivation letter.

A summer research internship, science fair project, or industry work experience in Germany or abroad significantly enriches your motivation letter and CV.

FAU values demonstrated curiosity beyond the classroom, particularly at master's level.

Begin German language study if targeting an English-taught programme — A1 is required by the end of your first year anyway.

Secure strong predicted grades — your school's predicted results form the basis of your application pending final results.

Take IELTS or TOEFL well before your application deadline.

Prepare your motivation letter and CV 2–3 months before the campo application window opens.

Verify your qualification's equivalence through uni-assist or FAU's International Office before the window opens.

Building an Academic Profile for FAU — What to Do at Each Stage

Academic Mistakes That Cost FAU Applications — And How to Avoid Them

Many applicants discover too late that their school-leaving qualification requires formal assessment through uni-assist before FAU will process their application. This takes weeks. Start the qualification check as early as possible.

Not checking qualification equivalence early enough

A student who takes IB with HL Visual Arts, HL Psychology, and HL Business Studies and then applies to FAU Electrical Engineering has a fundamental mismatch. FAU faculty evaluators check subject-level prerequisites, not just total points.

Choosing subjects that don't match your target programme's prerequisites

Medicine at FAU is among the most competitive programmes in Bavaria. Psychology and law also have significant competition. The overall 40% acceptance rate conceals programmes where competition is far more intense.

Underestimating German-taught programme competitiveness

FAU requires officially certified copies of documents and certified translations for documents in languages other than German or English. Uncertified photocopies or unofficial translations are grounds for rejection of the application.

Submitting uncertified or untranslated documents

Many FAU students wait until deadline week to gather documents — certified translations and qualification assessments take weeks to obtain. Begin document preparation 2–3 months before the application window opens.

The following profiles represent the academic backgrounds of international students Tychr has helped gain admission to FAU Erlangen-Nürnberg. They illustrate the range of academic preparation that succeeds, and what made each application compelling to FAU programme evaluators.

Academic Profiles of Tychr-Assisted FAU Admits

HL Mathematics AA (7), HL Physics (6), HL Chemistry (6). Two-month summer internship at a medical device startup in Munich. Motivation letter specifically referenced FAU's Medical Valley Erlangen research cluster.

The combination of a STEM-dominant HL profile and concrete industry exposure in the medical technology field aligned precisely with what the Medical Engineering programme coordinators were looking for.

International Baccalauréat 34 points with HL Mathematics (6), HL Economics (7), HL History (6). No research experience but a focused motivation letter linking FAU's Nuremberg location to an interest in supply chain management within the German Mittelstand.

Profile 2 — International Business Studies (BSc)

The motivation letter's specificity about FAU's location advantage and curriculum structure made a standard academic profile competitive. Generic letters at a similar score level would not have succeeded for the programme.

A-Levels: Mathematics A*, Physics A*, Computer Science A. Strong programming portfolio and open-source contributions documented in the CV. German A1 certificate obtained before application.

Profile 3 — Artificial Intelligence (BSc)

The programming portfolio and German language commitment were decisive differentiators alongside a strong A-Level profile in the expected subject combination.

The IB minimum benchmark is 32 points. However, this is the university-wide floor, not the competitive target for selective programmes. Engineering, medicine, and AI programmes at FAU effectively admit students with higher profiles. Check the programme's recent NC values on FAU's admissions statistics for realistic expectations.

FAU is test-blind with respect to SAT and ACT — these scores play no role in any FAU programme. Your school-leaving qualification grade and language proficiency certificate are the relevant credentials.

IELTS Academic 6.5 or TOEFL iBT 88 is required for English-taught programmes at FAU. This is a formal requirement, not a guideline. Native speakers and graduates of full English-medium degree programmes may be exempt — verify with the programme coordinator.

Some FAU applicants — particularly those whose qualifications are outside the major recognised frameworks — must have their credentials formally assessed through uni-assist before campo will process their application. Check the Anabin database and contact FAU's International Office early to determine if this applies to you.

Yes. For English-taught programmes, students must achieve German A1 level by the end of their first academic year. This is a formal enrolment condition, not a suggestion. FAU's Language Centre offers German courses at all levels, including intensive pre-semester courses for incoming international students.

Do English-programme students need to learn any German?

No programme fees for any international student

FAU May Be the Most Affordable Top Research University in the World — Here's the Full Picture.

FAU charges no programme tuition fees even for non-EU international students. The main financial consideration is living costs in the Erlangen–Nuremberg area — moderate by European standards. Here is exactly what FAU costs, what support is available, and how to fund your degree.

What FAU Actually Costs — The Full Annual Figure

FAU Estimated Annual Cost of Attendance (International Student)

Semester Administrative Contribution (Semesterbeitrag, includes Semesterticket)

Accommodation (Studentenwerk dorm: ~$200–300/month; private WG: ~$300–400/month)

Regional public transport (Semesterticket)

Germany's public university system is funded by the state to ensure access regardless of personal wealth. This public investment transfers directly to students in the form of near-zero programme fees. FAU, ranked #193 by Times Higher Education and Germany's most innovative university, charges essentially the same as a German regional polytechnic — because the fee structure is set by Bavarian state law, not by market pricing.

No tuition charged to any student, domestic or international.

All-in annual estimate including accommodation and living costs.

https://www.fau.eu/international/scholarships/

FAU Funding Policy — How Germany Supports International Students

Germany's public university model means that state funding already underwrites near-zero tuition for all students — this is, in effect, a universal tuition grant. International students benefit from this model on the same basis as German students. Additional scholarship support is channelled primarily through DAAD and the Deutschlandstipendium programme.

Near-Zero Tuition Applies to All International Students

At need-aware or international-differential pricing universities — most UK, US, and Australian institutions — international students pay significantly higher fees than domestic students. At FAU and German public universities generally, no such differential exists. Every student, regardless of nationality, pays the same administrative contribution.

Germany's public university fee policy treats all students equally regardless of nationality. Programme tuition is zero for EU and non-EU students alike. The Semesterbeitrag (semester contribution) covers administrative costs and public transport — it is not a tuition fee.

Why FAU's Model Is Fundamentally Different from UK/US/Australian Universities

After admission, international students at FAU should seek scholarship support primarily through DAAD, the Deutschlandstipendium, and relevant German political foundation scholarships. Approximately 10% of international students at FAU receive some form of scholarship or living-cost support.

After Admission — What Additional Support Is Available

Germany's universities are funded by Länder (state) governments as a matter of public education policy. Bavarian state funding ensures FAU can maintain its research intensity and infrastructure without charging programme tuition. This is a stable, legislated policy — not a temporary discount or a special programme.

Germany has consistently maintained near-zero tuition for all students, including internationals, across decades of policy review. The rare exception — Baden-Württemberg briefly charged non-EU students higher fees before abolishing them — reinforces how unusual and politically unpopular differential fees are in Germany.

Why Germany Can Do This — The Public University Funding Model

"Higher education should be accessible to everyone — regardless of financial background or nationality."

German Higher Education Framework (Hochschulrahmengesetz) Principle

Unlike endowment-funded models (Harvard) or market-priced models (UK universities), FAU's affordability is a function of democratic public investment in higher education. It is reliable, legislated, and does not depend on the university's financial health or strategic priorities.

Go to daad.de and filter by your country of origin, degree level, and field of study

Many DAAD programmes have application deadlines 8–12 months before the programme start — plan accordingly

DAAD is Germany's primary scholarship body for international students. Start here before looking anywhere else.

Check Friedrich Ebert Stiftung, Konrad Adenauer Stiftung, Heinrich Böll Stiftung, and Hanns Seidel Stiftung (Bavaria-specific). Each has its own eligibility criteria, political orientation, and application cycle.

Check German Political Foundation Scholarships

Friedrich Ebert Stiftung — social democratic orientation

Konrad Adenauer Stiftung — Christian democratic orientation

Heinrich Böll Stiftung — green/environmental orientation

Hanns Seidel Stiftung — Bavarian conservative orientation, active near FAU

German political foundations fund international students across a range of fields and backgrounds.

Set Up a Blocked Account (Sperrkonto) for the Student Visa

Non-EU applicants must demonstrate sufficient funds as part of their German student visa application. Open a blocked account with a German bank or recognised provider (Fintiba, Coracle) before applying for your visa.

Apply for the Deutschlandstipendium After Enrolment

Once enrolled at FAU, apply for the Deutschlandstipendium (€300/month, funded jointly by the German government and private sponsors). The application window typically opens in the autumn semester. A strong academic record and a compelling personal statement are required.

International students in Germany may work up to 120 full days or 240 half-days per year. FAU's campus, the Siemens ecosystem, and Erlangen-Nuremberg's healthcare and manufacturing employers create real part-time income opportunities.

Applying for FAU Funding — The Process Step by Step

FAU does not administer a university-wide need-based financial aid programme. Instead, funding is pursued through DAAD, German political foundations, the Deutschlandstipendium, and — where eligible — embassy and home-country government scholarships.

Visit daad.de to search scholarship opportunities

Germany's approach to international student support is structurally different from US and UK models. Rather than institutional need-based grants, support is provided through: (1) near-zero programme tuition for all students, (2) government scholarship bodies (primarily DAAD), (3) the Deutschlandstipendium, and (4) part-time work rights during study.

For international students from countries where a university education might otherwise cost $30,000–$60,000+ per year, FAU's zero programme tuition is itself the primary financial benefit. The effective saving compared to a comparable UK or US research university is typically $100,000–$200,000 over a four-year degree.

DAAD — Germany's primary scholarship body

The German Academic Exchange Service (DAAD) funds hundreds of scholarship programmes for international students coming to Germany. Programmes target specific nationalities, fields of study, degree levels, and career stages. International students should search the DAAD scholarship database (daad.de) well before their intended start date.

The Deutschlandstipendium (Germany Scholarship) provides €300/month funded jointly by the federal government and private sponsors. It is open to enrolled students — including internationals — with strong academic records. Applications are submitted after enrolment at FAU, typically in the autumn semester.

International students in Germany may work up to 120 full days or 240 half-days per year without a separate work permit. The Erlangen-Nuremberg region — with Siemens, healthcare facilities, and a dense Mittelstand economy — creates meaningful HiWi (student research assistant) and part-time employment opportunities.

Financial Support for International Students at FAU — How It Works

https://www.fau.eu/international/scholarships/

€300/month (Deutschlandstipendium, competitive)

Some DAAD programmes cover full living costs

~$10,000–$15,000 (political foundation scholarships)

What FAU Funding Actually Looks Like — A Practical Summary

Annual Support Overview for FAU International Students

The zero tuition universal benefit is worth $20,000–$40,000+ per year in real savings compared to UK or US alternatives. Scholarship support is available but competitive and requires early planning. Part-time work provides reliable supplementary income within the legal 120-day limit.

Scholarship amounts are indicative. Individual awards depend on eligibility, competition, and programme specifics. Verify current scholarship availability and amounts on DAAD and individual foundation websites.

The primary financial planning question at FAU is not tuition (zero) but monthly living costs. Budget approximately €800–1,000/month for accommodation, food, transport, and personal expenses in Erlangen-Nuremberg — manageable by European standards, and less than Munich or Frankfurt.

FAU does not offer university-controlled merit scholarships in the way that US universities do. The near-zero tuition model means the 'scholarship' is effectively already built into the fee structure. Additional merit-based support is channelled through the Deutschlandstipendium and DAAD.

All students — regardless of academic excellence — pay zero programme tuition at FAU. In this sense, FAU's universal zero-tuition policy is a merit-neutral, universal educational grant funded by the German public.

The Deutschlandstipendium (€300/month) is merit-based — awarded to students with strong academic records, social engagement, or other demonstrated achievements. It is open to all enrolled students, including internationals. Applications are submitted after enrolment, and competition is real.

DAAD scholarship programmes span need-based and merit-based criteria, often combining both. Some programmes are targeted at applicants from specific developing countries; others are available broadly. FAU encourages enrolled and prospective international students to search the DAAD database for relevant programmes.

German political foundation scholarships (Stipendien) are awarded based on academic merit, social engagement, and — importantly — alignment with the foundation's political-social orientation. They typically provide monthly stipends of €800–1,100, covering most living costs.

Foundation scholarships — merit plus orientation

Scholarships at FAU — What Exists and Who Qualifies

While FAU itself provides no institutional merit grants, a wide range of external scholarships are available to international students at FAU — from German government and foundation sources to home-country government scholarship programmes specifically funding study in Germany.

External Scholarships for FAU International Students

Tychr's scholarship guidance: As part of every full admissions programme, Tychr identifies external scholarship opportunities relevant to the student's country of origin, intended field of study, and degree level — and guides students through the application process, including DAAD application timing.

Scholarship stacking at FAU: Because FAU charges no programme tuition, scholarships received by enrolled students typically address living costs rather than tuition. A DAAD scholarship and a Deutschlandstipendium can in principle be held simultaneously — verify current eligibility rules with the relevant bodies, as regulations occasionally change.

Primary source; search by nationality, field, and degree level at daad.de

€300/month; merit-based; apply after FAU enrolment

€800–1,100/month living stipend; social democratic orientation

€800–1,100/month; Christian democratic orientation

€800–1,100/month; green/environmental orientation

Country-of-origin government scholarships

Many governments fund study in Germany specifically — search your home government's scholarship portal

Home-country government scholarships: Governments including those of India (ICCR), China (CSC), Indonesia, and many African countries offer scholarships specifically for citizens pursuing higher education in Germany. Availability and terms vary significantly — research your home government's international education scholarship database.

FAU does not offer student loans, and the German state does not extend loan programmes to international students in the same way as domestic students. However, because programme tuition is zero, the loan burden typically associated with higher education is absent from FAU's cost structure.

German domestic students can access BAföG (Bundesausbildungsförderungsgesetz) — the German state student support programme — but this is not available to most international students. International students at FAU should budget from savings, scholarships, part-time work, and family support rather than relying on loan access.

BAföG — not available to most internationals

Some German banks offer student loans (Studienkredit) to enrolled students, including in some cases international students with German residency permits. KfW's Studienkredit is one example. However, these are market-rate products, not subsidised government loans, and should be approached carefully.

The near-zero tuition model means the primary financial need at FAU is living costs — approximately $12,000/year — not programme fees. This is a fundamentally different financial planning problem from a UK or US university where tuition alone might represent $30,000–$60,000/year.

Why the loan question is different at FAU

International students are legally entitled to work up to 120 full days or 240 half-days per year in Germany. Given FAU's location in an industrially dense region, part-time work — including HiWi (student research assistant) positions at FAU itself — is a realistic income source.

Part-time work as the practical alternative

Student Loans at FAU — What's Available and Why the Question Is Different Here

International students enrolled at FAU are legally permitted to work up to 120 full days or 240 half-days per year in Germany. This is not a formal work-study programme in the US sense — it is a general work permit condition attached to the student visa.

Part-Time Work at FAU — Rights, Opportunities, and Practical Reality

HiWi (Hilfswissenschaftler — student research assistant) positions in FAU faculty labs — the most professionally valuable and commonly available option for academic students

Administrative and support roles within FAU departments

Tutoring and teaching assistant roles for undergraduate courses

Siemens Healthineers, Siemens AG, and Schaeffler student worker and intern programmes

Retail, hospitality, and service sector employment in Erlangen-Nuremberg city area

Student-run startups and the Erlangen-Nuremberg innovation ecosystem

Students are not assigned work-study positions — they must find and apply for positions themselves. FAU's career service (Karriereservicestelle) and the Studentenwerk maintain job boards for student positions. HiWi positions are typically advertised within individual faculty departments and research groups.

Working 10–15 hours per week at German minimum wage (regulated by the federal Mindestlohn) typically generates €600–900/month of income — enough to cover food and personal expenses, partially or fully offsetting living costs beyond rent.

Part-time work is entirely optional. Students who do not work must ensure their blocked account (Sperrkonto) and other funding sources are sufficient to cover all living costs. Many international students at FAU do work part-time, particularly in HiWi positions, and find the professional exposure valuable beyond the financial benefit.

~$13,000–$15,000/yr (living, Munich is more expensive)

FAU vs. International Alternatives — Cost Comparison

At FAU, there is no early decision risk — applications are programme-specific and non-binding until enrolment confirmation. You can apply to multiple FAU programmes and other German universities simultaneously.

For families with limited budgets, FAU and German public universities offer a research-quality education at a fraction of the cost of comparable UK, Australian, or US alternatives. The trade-off is that significant scholarship support (covering living costs) typically requires planning 8–12 months in advance through DAAD and foundation applications.

Zero tuition; living costs financed from savings/work/scholarships

Zero tuition; slightly higher living costs (Munich is expensive)

Need-blind, full-need — zero for qualifying income families

International fee-differential; limited aid

UK Russell Group (average international fee)

High tuition; limited aid for internationals

FAU vs. Alternatives — What You Actually Pay Over a Full Degree

Total Cost Comparison: Full Programme Duration

For the vast majority of international students, FAU is significantly less expensive over a full degree than any comparable UK, Australian, or US research university. The zero tuition model means that even without scholarships, a four-year FAU degree costs approximately the equivalent of one academic year at a UK Russell Group institution.

FAU does not administer a financial aid programme with formal appeal processes in the way that US universities do. However, there are formal channels for seeking additional support if your financial circumstances change after enrolment.

Seeking Additional Financial Support at FAU — What to Do When You Need Help

Unlike at US universities, there is no single financial aid officer to appeal to at FAU. Support is accessed through multiple channels — Studentenwerk Erlangen-Nürnberg (for hardship assistance), DAAD (for scholarship top-ups or new programmes), and FAU's Social Services and Counselling Centre (Sozialberatung).

Contact Studentenwerk Erlangen-Nürnberg's Social Services department for hardship assistance and emergency support

Contact FAU's International Student Advisory Office (Beratung für internationale Studierende) for guidance on available support programmes

Search DAAD's database for in-study scholarships and research grants available to enrolled students

Check whether your programme qualifies for a HiWi position — these provide income alongside academic experience

Your financial circumstances have changed significantly after arrival (family income disruption, medical emergency)

Your initial budget assumptions were insufficient for actual Erlangen living costs

You have successfully completed your first year and now qualify for the Deutschlandstipendium application

The Studentenwerk Erlangen-Nürnberg operates social counselling (Sozialberatung) and can advise on available emergency support, housing assistance, and state-funded support mechanisms that may be available in exceptional circumstances. Response times vary — contact as early as possible rather than waiting until the situation becomes critical.

Understand the full cost picture before applying

Total cost of attendance at FAU is approximately $12,800/year — primarily living costs. Plan your full programme duration funding (3 years for BSc, 2 years for MSc) before applying. German visa applications require proof of funds (blocked account holding ~€11,208/year — verify the current amount with your local German consulate).

Search DAAD and foundation scholarships early

Many DAAD scholarship programmes have application deadlines 8–12 months before the programme start date. Research and apply early. German political foundation scholarship timelines vary — check each foundation's website for current deadlines and eligibility criteria.

Open a blocked account with Fintiba, Coracle, or a German bank. The account must hold the legally required annual maintenance amount before the visa can be issued. This is a formal visa requirement, not optional.

Apply for the Deutschlandstipendium after enrolment

The Deutschlandstipendium application window typically opens in the first autumn semester. Prepare a strong academic record summary and personal statement for the application. €300/month provides meaningful living cost support.

Review your budget annually. Seek HiWi positions in your second and subsequent years as you build faculty relationships. Check DAAD for in-study scholarship programmes. Consider whether reduced working hours in exam periods require budget adjustment.

Planning for FAU Costs — What to Do and When

FAU Application Writing — Everything You Need to Know to Write It Well.

FAU Erlangen-Nürnberg does not use the Common App, UCAS, or a multi-essay application system. Germany's university admissions process is direct, grades-first, and centres on one key written document: the Motivationsschreiben (motivation letter). This is an honest guide to that document — what it is, what it must achieve, and how to write one that actually gets read.

Germany's Application System — What FAU Actually Asks For

Germany does not have a unified national application platform equivalent to UCAS or Common App. FAU uses its own portal — campo (campo.fau.de). Applications are made directly. The written component is significantly simpler than US or UK systems — but that simplicity raises the stakes on the motivation letter itself.

Some FAU master's programmes request letters of recommendation from academic supervisors. Where requested, choose referees who can speak to your academic ability and subject-level engagement — a substantive academic reference from a supervising professor carries significant weight.

Certain programmes with design or creative components may request a portfolio. For these, quality of presentation matters as much as content. Curate rather than compile.

The primary written document. Required for most master's programmes and competitive bachelor's programmes. A 1–2 page statement covering: your academic background and its relevance, why this specific FAU programme, and your professional or research goals.

A structured, reverse-chronological academic and professional CV in European format. Include education, work and internship experience, language skills, technical skills, publications if any, and relevant extracurricular activities.

https://www.fau.eu/studying/international-students/application-and-enrollment-for-international-applicants/

The FAU Motivation Letter — What to Write and How to Write It

FAU has no set essay prompts. The Motivationsschreiben is programme-specific and gives you control over the narrative — but that freedom is also the greatest risk. Here is what the document must contain.

Academic Background — Why You Are Prepared

FAU's individual programme pages specify whether a motivation letter is required and may provide specific guidance on content. In the absence of programme-specific instructions, the standard structure begins with your academic background: describe the qualifications you hold, the subjects you have studied, and how your academic preparation directly relates to the programme you are applying to. This should be specific — name relevant courses, projects, or results.

Do not summarise your entire academic history — focus on the academic experiences most directly relevant to this programme. An engineering applicant should highlight mathematics and physics performance and any technical projects. A business applicant should focus on quantitative coursework and any economics or business study. Keep this section factual and specific.

https://www.fau.eu/studying/international-students/application-and-enrollment-for-international-applicants/

Explain why you want to study this specific programme and why at FAU specifically. This section must demonstrate that you have researched the programme's content, curriculum structure, research focus areas, and FAU's specific strengths in this field. Generic statements about FAU's prestige add nothing.

This is the section where most applicants fail. 'FAU is a prestigious university with excellent research' could be written about any German university. Instead: name specific FAU research groups, faculty members whose work interests you, or curriculum features that distinguish FAU's version of this programme. If applying to Medical Engineering, mention the Medical Valley Erlangen ecosystem. If applying to AI, reference the Pattern Recognition Lab or FAU's specific AI curriculum structure. Do the research before you write.

Professional Goals — What You Intend to Do After

Articulate your professional or research goals after graduation. FAU programme coordinators want to understand whether the degree makes sense as a step in a realistic, considered career or research path.

Be concrete but honest. Vague goals ('I want to work in technology') are less effective than specific ones ('I intend to enter automotive AI research, and FAU's programme structure — with its industry collaboration with Siemens and BMW — provides direct preparation for this'). If your goal is doctoral research, say so and connect it to specific research themes in the programme.

The Motivation Letter at FAU — How It Compares to UCAS and Common App

Students familiar with UCAS personal statements or Common App essays will find the FAU motivation letter a different document. Understanding those differences is key to writing a strong letter.

'Since I was a child, I have always been passionate about...' — this opener is known to every German university evaluator and adds nothing

Generic praise of FAU that could apply to any research university ('prestigious institution with strong research')

Extensive personal narrative that does not connect to the programme — German academic culture values subject focus over personal storytelling

Three-page letters — German academic conventions value concision; 1–2 pages is the expected maximum

Specific references to FAU's programme content, research clusters, or faculty work

A clear, coherent line from academic background to current application to future goals

Evidence of genuine subject-level engagement — specific courses, projects, or research questions

Honest acknowledgement of any academic gaps or unusual circumstances, with brief context

The motivation letter must work for FAU specifically — unlike the Common App personal statement, which goes to multiple schools, the FAU motivation letter is submitted to one programme at one university. This means it can and must be fully tailored. Programme coordinators at selective FAU programmes read these letters knowing their own curriculum, their own research groups, and their own faculty's priorities. Generic letters are immediately obvious.

Beyond the Letter — Supporting Your FAU Application

While the motivation letter is the primary written document, the overall quality of your application package determines admission. Supporting documents can significantly strengthen or weaken your case.

Academic Transcripts — The Most Important Documents

Every grade you have earned in relevant subjects is visible to evaluators. Do not omit difficult semesters or attempt to obscure low grades — submit complete, unabridged transcripts with certified translations. Programme coordinators look at your performance in prerequisite subjects directly.

Letters of Recommendation — Where Requested

Some FAU master's programmes request letters of recommendation. Where requested, choose referees who can speak specifically to your academic ability and subject-level engagement. A substantive letter from a professor who supervised your research carries far more weight than a generic character reference from a school headmaster.

CV — Your Professional and Academic Story

A well-structured CV adds information not visible in the academic transcript: internships, research projects, publications, conference attendance, language skills, and extracurricular involvement. For technical programmes, include GitHub repositories, project portfolios, or relevant technical skills. Keep it factual and precisely formatted.

Research Publications or Conference Papers

For doctoral and highly competitive master's programmes, any peer-reviewed work, conference presentations, or significant research projects should be listed in your CV and referenced in the motivation letter. German research faculty notice and value genuine prior research engagement.

Choosing What to Write About in Your FAU Motivation Letter

The motivation letter's power lies in its specificity. Because FAU has no set essay prompts, you control the narrative — but that freedom is also the greatest risk. Here is how to think through your letter's content.

Before drafting a word, study the specific programme's curriculum, research focus areas, and faculty pages. Identify what makes FAU's version of this degree distinctive — its curriculum design, its research clusters, its industry links. Build your letter from that specificity outward to yourself, not the other way around.

The best motivation letters draw a clear line: here is the academic and professional background I have built; here is the specific programme content that advances my goals; here is what I intend to do after graduation and why this programme is the logical path. This narrative coherence is what evaluators look for.

If your background has gaps — lower grades in one semester, a period of interruption, limited prior research exposure — acknowledge the context briefly and focus on what you learned or how you recovered. Attempting to obscure weaknesses is worse than honest contextualisation. German evaluators value directness.

Saying 'I want to study at FAU because it is Germany's most innovative university' adds nothing. Saying 'I want to study in FAU's Medical Engineering programme because the Medical Valley Erlangen cluster — with Siemens Healthineers and University Hospital Erlangen — creates a research and industry training environment directly relevant to my goal of working in imaging diagnostics' is specific and credible. Do the research.

Writing a generic motivation letter that could be sent to any German university — programme coordinators read hundreds and immediately notice.

Exceeding the recommended length (typically 1–2 pages). German academic culture values concision — a three-page letter signals poor editing, not thoroughness.

Starting with 'Since I was a child, I have always been passionate about...' — this cliché opener is known to evaluators across German universities.

Failing to address programme-specific requirements or curriculum points — show that you have read the programme's content in detail.

Submitting uncertified or unverified document translations — this is a formal disqualification criterion, not an administrative preference.

Missing the campo portal opening date — programmes fill on a first-come basis in some cases; prepare all documents before the window opens.

Applying to a German-taught programme without verified German proficiency (TestDaF/DSH) or to an English-taught programme without IELTS/TOEFL above the minimum.

Not researching whether your qualification needs uni-assist evaluation — discovering this requirement after missing the deadline is a common and preventable error.

Using the same motivation letter unchanged for multiple programmes — tailoring is not optional for competitive programmes.

Does FAU require a personal statement or essays like UCAS or Common App?

No. FAU uses its own direct application portal (campo.fau.de) and does not use UCAS or Common App. Most competitive programmes require a motivation letter (Motivationsschreiben) — programme-specific and typically 1–2 pages. Some less competitive programmes with no admissions restrictions may not require any written statement at all.

Is the motivation letter mandatory for all FAU programmes?

Not for all programmes. Bachelor's programmes without admissions restrictions (kein NC) typically do not require a motivation letter — admission is largely automatic for qualifying applicants. Competitive bachelor's programmes and most master's programmes do require one. Check the specific programme's requirements on the campo portal or FAU website.

How long should the motivation letter be?

Typically 1–2 pages (approximately 500–800 words). German academic conventions favour concise, well-structured prose over expansive personal narrative. If the specific programme provides a word or page limit, follow it exactly.

Should I write my motivation letter in German or English?

For English-taught programmes, write your motivation letter in English. For German-taught programmes, write it in German (or confirm the language with the programme coordinator). The language of the letter should match the language of instruction.

Can I use the same motivation letter for multiple FAU programmes?

Technically you can submit separate applications to multiple programmes, but using the same letter is counterproductive. A strong motivation letter is programme-specific — tailored to the exact curriculum, research focus, and faculty of the programme you are applying to. Generic letters are immediately apparent to experienced evaluators.

Does FAU conduct interviews for undergraduate or master's programmes?

Most FAU programmes do not include formal interviews in the standard admissions process. Some highly selective or specialised programmes may conduct selection interviews — particularly for joint degree programmes or those with limited places. Check the specific programme's admissions procedure to confirm.

FAU uses its own online portal called campo (campo.fau.de). All applications — undergraduate, master's, and doctoral — are submitted through this portal. There is no Common App, UCAS, or Studielink involvement.

Is there guidance on navigating the campo application portal?

Yes. FAU's International Office provides guidance in English on navigating the campo portal and the application process for international students. A video tutorial is referenced on FAU's international student application page. Tychr's Germany admissions specialists can also walk you through the campo process step by step.

https://www.fau.eu/studying/international-students/application-and-enrollment-for-international-applicants/