Studying

Freie Universität Berlin has many libraries with outstanding research opportunities. Source: Bernd Wannenmacher

There are various opportunities for international students to study at Freie Universität Berlin, either through an exchange program or by enrolling directly in one of more than 150 degree programs. Most require a working knowledge of German, but some master's programs are taught in English. There are also some shorter-term programs designed particularly for international students.

The majority of students from abroad come to Freie Universität for a semester or two through an exchange program, the most common of these being Erasmus. Others come through a direct exchange program between their university and Freie Universität Berlin.

International students may apply directly to degree programs taught at Freie Universität Berlin. There are different procedures to follow, depending on the subject they wish to study and their educational background and geographical location. See Admissions.

Freie Universität Berlin is one of several German universities adhering to the National Code of Conduct on Foreign Students at German Higher Education Institutions. The Code of Conduct aims to ensure that students from abroad receive the quality of support and advice needed when studying in Germany.

Doctorate

According to statistics from the German Academic Exchange Service (DAAD) from 2011, Freie Universität Berlin is the preferred address in Germany for doctoral candidates from abroad. For more information, see Doctorate at Freie Universität Berlin.

Short-term Programs Designed for International Students

Two academic programs were designed for international students. Freie Universität Berlin International Summer and Winter University (FUBiS) is an intensive academic program offered in three terms with internationally recognized credits that may be counted toward students' degrees at their home institutions. Freie Universität Berlin European Studies (FU-BEST) is especially intended for students from North America, and credit arrangements have been made with colleges and universities in the United States and several other countries.

Berlin Program for Advanced German and European Studies

The Berlin Program for Advanced German and European Studies was designed for young North American scholars with specialized knowledge of modern and contemporary Germany and Europe. The Berlin Program supports scholars in all social science and humanities disciplines, including historians working on modern and contemporary German and European history. Fellowships are awarded for doctoral dissertation research as well as postdoctoral research.