University of Cologne: Rankings, Cost, Programs, Placements
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University of CologneWhat’s new?
For University of Cologne admissions, students must apply within the application deadlines listed below:
- Winter Semester: Jul 15, 2025
- Summer Semester: Jan 15, 2025
- About the University of Cologne (UoC)
- University of Cologne Programs
- University of Cologne Scholarships 2025
- University of Cologne Admissions 2025
- University of Cologne Fees
- University of Cologne Student Reviews
- University of Cologne Placements
- University of Cologne Rankings 2025
- University of Cologne College comparison
- Studying in Germany
- University of Cologne Notable Alumni
- University of Cologne Campus Life
- University of Cologne FAQs
University of Cologne Programs
With six academic faculties in its ambit, the University of Cologne offers an extensive portfolio of courses in more than 200 fields of study at bachelor's, master's and diploma levels. As per the historical data of the university's alumni, some popular streams of study at Cologne University include Biology, Physics, Psychology, Social Sciences, Medicine, and more.
Note: In the above pie chart, Others include History, Linguistics, Biochemistry & Molecular Biology, Genetics, and Biotechnology.
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Commonly asked questions On Popular Programs
Q: Does the University of Cologne offer courses taught in English?
University of Cologne is a top-ranked university in Germany which offers a variety of courses on undergraduate, graduate as well as Diploma level, both in German and Englilsh. However, international students must note that they do require a German language proficiency certificate at DSH-2 or higher and basic understanding of the language in order to get enrolled in the university. In order to prepare students for their studies, Cologne University offers a program named Studienstart International program to all the Non-EU/EEA students. This course includes German-language classes and introductory courses tailored to the degree programmes as well as a variety of intercultural modules, which is meant to ease the student's start at the University of Cologne. After fully completing this one-semester program, students can begin their regular studies.
Q: Which is the better university for M.A. in Germany, University of Cologne or Goethe University Frankfurt?
University of Cologne or Goethe University Frankfurt MA Course are renowned institutions offering unique campus cultures and various academic programs. While they share a great reputation, there are subtle differences between the two universities. Listed below is a table which compares the rankings, and acceptance rate of University of Cologne or Goethe University Frankfurt. Overall this information could be useful for students who are considering them.
Here is the comparison highlighting the differences between the Universities:
University Name | Ranking - Best Global Universities | Acceptance Rate |
---|---|---|
University of Cologne | #268 | 20% |
Geothe University Frankfurt | #302 | 77% |
University of Cologne Scholarships 2025
UoC helps students cover a part of the expenses of studying at the university by offering them scholarships. Some of the scholarships at UoC are DAAD Scholarships and the University of Cologne Scholarship Program, which offers grants of up to EUR 300 (INR 26.7 K) per month, depending the academic performance.
Proper online application services must be used by students to submit their applications. Using the online portal, disabled and regular students can apply jointly for a social scholarship and bursary.
Conversion Rate: 1 EUR = INR 89.13
Commonly asked questions On Scholarships
Q: What is the eligibity criteria for Indian students to avail scholarships at University of Cologne?
In order to avail of scholarships, students must use appropriate online application services to submit their applications. Online portal allows normal and disabled students to apply together for a bursary and social scholarship.
- Deutschlandstipendium: Awarded to students who are in need of financial support. Each scholarship amounts to 300 euros per month for at least two semesters. To be eligible, students must have above-average academic performance.
- Scholarship for Students with Disabilities/Special Needs or Chronic Illness: This scholarship supports students who find it more difficult to manage their studies due to a disability or chronic illness.
- University of Cologne International Scholarship: Exclusively designed for international students to undertake a PhD programme at the university. The eligibility criteria may vary depending on the program, but generally, students must have outstanding academic achievements and a well-planned research project.
Q: Can I study at the University of Cologne for free?
University of Cologne is a very popular and one of the top-ranked insitutions in Germany. Studying in this university can be considered extremely inexpensive or very affordable since the University of Cologne does not charge tuition fees. However, it is mandatory for all students to pay a social contribution fee of around EUR 250 per semester or EUR 500 per year. On top of that, UoC also offers a variety of scholarships to their students in collaboration with a number of organisations. Some of these scholarships are DAAD Scholarships and University of Cologne Scholarship Program, which offers grants upto EUR 300/month, depending the academic performance. Students can also take up loans provided by UoC as a source of financial help. However, this borrowed money must be returned to the University of Cologne. Additionally, students must also keep in mind the living cost while studying in the University of Cologne.
University of Cologne Admissions 2025
Prospective international students can apply for the University of Cologne admissions through the Application Portal available on their official website.
Steps to apply:
University of Cologne Application Deadlines for International Students
UoC has only one intake season, hence all interested applicants must be prepared with all the admission requirements to apply to the university at priority.
Program |
Applications Open |
Application Deadline (tentative) |
---|---|---|
International Management (CEMS MIM), Economic Research |
Mid-Jan, 2025 |
Mar 31, 2025 |
Double Master's Programs |
Apr, 2025 |
May 15, 2025 |
All Other Master's Programs |
Apr, 2025 |
Jun 15, 2025 |
University of Cologne Application Fee
While applying, candidates do not have to submit any money as no Cologne University application fee is charged for admissions.
University of Cologne Acceptance Rate
With the UoC acceptance rate of around 20%, the university is extremely competitive to get into, as it admits only 20/100 applicants on average.
University of Cologne Admission Requirements for International Students
All prospective international students must meet the University of Cologne entry requirements, ie; standardized test scores, English proficiency exam scores and relevant documents requirements to secure admission to this university for higher studies.
- High school certificate (UG) / Bachelor's degree (PG);
- Formal university entrance qualification to German universities (Hochschulzugangsberechtigung);
- English language proficiency score;
- German-language proficiency at level DSH-2 or equivalent; and
- Other course-specific requirements.
University of Cologne English Language Requirements: UoC accepts major English exam scores as proof of proficiency. Refer to the table below for minimum score requirements:
English Language Exam |
Required Score |
---|---|
TOEFL iBT |
95 or higher |
7.0 or higher |
|
76 or higher |
- Application fees :No Fees
- Type of deadline :Regular
Type of documents | Applicable for |
---|---|
SOP | Not required |
LOR | Needed for few courses |
Essays | Not required |
CV | Needed for few courses |
Additional documents | Required |
Intake season | Deadline |
---|---|
Fall | 31ˢᵗ Mar - 15ᵗʰ May 2024 |
Summer | 15ᵗʰ Jan 2025 |
Winter | 15ᵗʰ Jul 2023 - 31ˢᵗ Jul 2024 |
Commonly asked questions On Admissions
Q: How can I apply to the University of Cologne?
University of Cologne is a top ranking university which offers a variety of courses on bachelor's, master's as well as doctorate level. All prospective students must follow the steps listed below in order to apply to the University of Cologne:
1) To apply for Medicine and Dentistry Courses:
- Applicants can apply using the portal of the Stiftung für Hochschulzulassung (Hochschulstart).
2) To apply for DoSV Courses:
- Applicants can apply using the online application portal Klips 2.0 of the University of Cologne. Before applying, applicants must register with the Stiftung für Hochschulzulassung. There they will receive user data (BID/BAN number) which is required to enter in the Klips 2.0 application.
3) To apply for all other Courses:
- Applicants can apply using the online application portal Klips 2.0 of the University of Cologne.
While applying to the University, the candidate must submit all the relevant documents, which include:
- Signed application form (printout from the KLIPS 2.0 online application)
- Copy of passport or identification card and a passport photo
- Legally certified copy of secondary school leaving certificate and a transcript of subjects and marks (with translation if not issued in English or French)
- Legally certified copy of a German language proficiency certificate (DSH-2 or higher)
Once an applicant is admitted in the University of Cologne, they must formally accept the offer of admission within five days using their KLIPS 2.0 account (University of Cologne's online application portal). If they do not accept it within five days, the offer of admission will expire. Candidates are also advised to download their admission notification letter using their KLIPS 2.0 account.
Q: When can I start applying to the University of Cologne?
University of Cologne has only one intake season, hence all interested applicants must be prepared with all the admission requirements in order to apply to the university at priority. Students can refer to the table below for the University of Cologne application deadlines:
Program | Applications Open | Application Deadline |
---|---|---|
International Management (CEMS MIM), Economic Research | Mid-Jan, 2025 | Mar 31, 2024 |
Double Master's Programs | Apr, 2024 | May 15, 2024 |
All Other Master's Programs | Apr, 2024 | Jun 15, 2024 |
Q: Which documents do I need while applying to the University of Cologne?
In order to get enrolled at the University of Cologne, all applicants are required to submit a set of the below mentioned documents during the time of application. If the candidate fails to upload all the required documents, their application will not be able to get verified by the University of Cologne's admission committee.
- Letter of Motivation (the letter should not be longer as one A4-page and is to be written in English);
- Certified copy of School Leaving Certificate (or an equivalent degree of qualification for access to German universities);
- Bachelor's Degree (or an equivalent degree obtained at an university or technical university);
- Transcript of Records;
- APS Certificate;
- Copy of Passport & Passport Sized Photo;
- Two Letters of Academic Recommendation (the letter should provide contact information of the author and can be written in English and/or German);
- Successful University Entrance Exam;
- Proof of English Language Skills; and
- Applicants with a foreign school and university degree must also send a certified translation of degrees unless they exist in German or English.
Q: How can I enroll in the University of Cologne once admitted?
Once an applicant is admitted in the University of Cologne, they must formally accept the offer of admission within five days using their KLIPS 2.0 account (University of Cologne's online application portal). If they do not accept it within five days, the offer of admission will expire. Candidates are also advised to download their admission notification letter using their KLIPS 2.0 account. To enroll as a student in the University of Cologne post receiving the admission offer, students must follow the steps listed below:
- Pay the entire semester fee;
- Upload a photograph to KLIPS 2.0 for electronic student ID (UCCard); and
- Submit the documents needed for enrolment.
The student's KLIPS 2.0 account will specify which documents are required for their enrolment, but most students must submit the following general requirements:
- Signed enrolment application form
- Proof of health insurance coverage
- A certificate that the applicant has been removed from the student register (for students who have previously been enrolled at a German university)
- A German language proficiency certificate at DSH-2 or higher
Students admitted to Medical studies or Dentistry via Hochschulstart must submit the following additional documents for enrolment:
- Copy of passport or identification card and a passport photo
- Legally certified copy of secondary school leaving certificate and a transcript of subjects and marks and any transcripts from studies abroad (with translation if not issued in English or French)
- A signed consent form for participation in the pilot degree programme (only for Medicine)
Q: What are the some helpful tips for students starting their first semester at the University of Cologne?
As per the student alumni reviews at an unofficial source, here is what University of Cologne students keep in mind before starting their first semester:
· Make connections
· Join different clubs and societies of the college
· Stay in touch with the professors
· Do not miss the induction week
· Try to study in groups as this will broaden the knowledge
University of Cologne Placements
University of Cologne job outcomes are one of the major attractions for international students and offer a huge return on investment to graduates of the university.
ROI After Education at the University of Cologne
Return on Investment (ROI) for a university is determined by the salary a graduate can expect to earn after graduation, compared to all the costs associated with attending college, such as tuition, living expenses, and foregone earnings. Given below are the details of the fees (investment) and salary (return) at Cologne University:
Course |
Annual Fee (Investment) |
Average Salary (ROI) |
---|---|---|
Bachelor of Science |
No tuition fee required
|
EUR 215,000 (INR 1.9 Cr) |
Masters in Finance |
EUR 151,000 (INR 1.3 Cr) |
|
MBA |
EUR 140,000 (INR 1.2 Cr) |
|
Master's Degree Programs |
EUR 101,000 (INR 90 L) |
Conversion Rate: 1 EUR = INR 89.13
University of Cologne Alumni Statistics: Sectors Placed
According to the data sourced from the web, the alumni of Cologne University are currently working with some of the top organizations in the world across multiple industries. Listed below are the details:
- Graduates are working in industries such as Research, Education, Business Development, Healthcare Services, Operations, etc.
- Some of the courses preferred by the alumni are Biology, Physics, Psychology, Social Sciences, Medicine, etc.
A presentation of the sectors where the alumni of Cologne University, Germany are currently working is as follows:
Note: In the above pie chart, Others include Accounting, Information Technology, Military & Protective Services, Program & Project Management, Consulting, Human Resources, Legal, and Marketing.
Commonly asked questions On Placements
Q: Can I work while studying in the University of Cologne?
While studying at the University of Cologne, all overseas students from non-EU/EEA countries have to consider legal restrictions when working. Although financing the costs of living by working is not possible, overseas students can earn some extra money this way. International students are allowed to work up to 120 full days (4-8 hours per day) or 240 half days (1-4 hours per day) per year and this regulation also applies to paid and unpaid internships. A job as a student assistant at a university is permitted, so a student assistant is allowed to work more. If the student has a job which exceeds the regulation of 120/240 days, they have to apply for a permit at the Foreigners Registration Office.
Q: How to get a part-time job while studying in University of Cologne?
To get a part-time job while studying in University of Cologne:
Check the job portal "stellenwerk": The job portal "stellenwerk" offers job opportunities, traineeships, and Diploma projects for students. Graduates can also find their first positions through this portal.
Use the CBS Career Service job portal: CBS International Business School has its own online job portal with a plethora of vacancies for student jobs, internships, or entry-level positions.
Check the University of Cologne's job openings: The University of Cologne offers job openings for professors, postdoctoral, and doctoral positions.
University of Cologne Rankings 2025
As per the Shiksha grading, the University of Cologne Germany has obtained an overall ranking of A. When it comes to course rankings, Biology has also been awarded the rank A. Other courses such as Business Economics and Physics rank in the B+ category. However, Mathematics, Politics and Computer Science Engineering have secured the rank B, C+ and C respectively.
Given below are the comprehensive University of Cologne rankings, as per the Shiksha grading system:
Particulars | Grade |
---|---|
Overall University Rank | A |
Biology | A |
Business Economics, Physics | B+ |
Mathematics | B |
Politics | C+ |
Computer Science Engineering |
C |
NOTE: What makes Shiksha Grading stand out is that the website uses the aggregate of all the publicly available university and course rankings from top-ranking publishers and maps it into 9 buckets - A++, A+, A, B++, B+, B, C++, C+, C. In this method, universities are graded by country and courses are graded by availability at the college in a particular country.
Commonly asked questions On Rankings
Q: How is the University of Cologne ranked globally?
University of Cologne is a top-ranking university in Germany and its global rankings are listed below:
- #268 in World University Rankings 2024 - QS World University Rankings
- #244 in Best Global Universities 2023 - US News and World Report Rankings
- #101 in Best Global Universities in Europe 2023 - US News and World Report Rankings
- #18 in Best Global Universities in Germany 2023 - US News and World Report Rankings
- #146 in World University Rankings 2023 - Times Higher Education (THE)
- #201-250 in Impact Rankings: Climate Action 2023 – Times Higher Education (THE)
Q: Is the University of Cologne good for international students?
University of Cologne is a top-ranking university in Germany, which has secured the rank #268 in QS World University Rankings - Best Global Universities 2024. It offers a variety of courses on undergraduate, graduate as well as Diploma level, both in German and Englilsh. However, international students must note that they do require a German language proficiency certificate at DSH-2 or higher in order to get enrolled in the university. Apart from this, the University of Cologne offers a variety of scholarships for international students in collaboration with other organisations, to support eligible candidates financially. Students must also consider the fact that studying in this university is extremely inexpensive or very affordable since the University of Cologne does not charge tuition fees. However, it is mandatory for all students to pay a social contribution fee of around EUR 250 per semester or EUR 500 per year. This fee also includes a public transit pass for busses and rail in North Rhine – Westphalia. Overall, it is a very good university among study abroad options.
University of CologneStudying in Germany
Key Facts About Germany
Insights on education, demographics & weather.Commonly asked questions On Study in Country
Q: Is Germany safe for international students?
Generally speaking, Germany is a safe country with relatively low levels of crime. In Germany, violent crime is uncommon. Majority of Germans do not believe that terrorism poses a threat to their safety. Moreover, the requirement for security measures in public areas has grown recently as well. Due of this, security cameras are now frequently seen in public spaces as well as on buses, local trains, and trams.
Q: How can I get into a university in Germany?
International students must fulfill the admission requirements listed below for securing an admission in a German university:
- Attested copies of mark sheets of Standard X, XII, and the Bachelor's degree (if applicable)
- At least, two Academic reference letters from professors who have taught you most recently.
- If you have work experience then two letters of recommendation (LOR) from the employer/manager who knows you well and can comment on your professional abilities
- GRE/Statement of Purpose (SOP)
- Resume
- Photocopied score reports of language tests and GRE/GMAT (if applicable)
- Portfolio (in the case of students applying for art and design courses or architecture programmes)
- Others (Certificates/achievements at the state and national level and extracurricular activities)
- Proof of funds
- Health insurance
University of Cologne FAQs
Q: What is the University of Cologne acceptance rate?
University of Cologne acceptance rate is nearly 20% and this figure indicates that on an average, only 20 out of every 100 applicants manage to secure admission in the institution. Hence, this makes the University of Cologne a very competitive school to get in.
Note: The data is taken from unofficial sources and is subjected to change every year.
Q: What is University of Cologne known for?
The University of Cologne is one of the oldest and the biggest German universities, established in 1388. It is constantly ranked among the top 20 German universities in the world rankings. The University is also a member of the German U15 association of major research-intensive universities and was a university of excellence as part of the German Universities Excellence Initiative from 2012 to 2019. The university is known for its leading researchers in economics, law, and business, both for national and international rankings.
The university has produced several notable alumni, including Peter Grünberg (2007 Nobel Prize winner in Physics), Gustav Heinemann (Federal Republic of Germany's President from 1969 to 1974).
Q: Is the University of Cologne better than the University of Mannheim?
University of Cologne and the University of Mannheim are top-ranking universities in Germany and very well known institutions globally, which have their own strengths as well as weaknesses. According to the QS World University Rankings 2024, the University of Cologne ranks #268, whereas the University of Mannheim ranks #454. On the basis of rankings, the University of Cologne has an upper hand.
Mentioned below is the comparison between both the universities on the basis of some other parameters that can help you choose the better university for you:
Parameters | University of Cologne | University of Mannheim |
---|---|---|
Acceptance Rate | 20% | 36% |
Average GPA | 3.0 | 2.5 |
Annual Tuition Fee (MS) | INR 0.45 L | INR 2.7 L |
Q: Is University of Cologne cheaper than Goethe University Frankfurt?
Both the University of Cologne and Goethe University Frankfurt do not charge tuition fees for their courses, including Master's programs, but all students are required to pay a social contribution fee each semester. The social contribution fee for the University of Cologne is around €250 per semester or €500 per year, while the social contribution fee for Goethe University Frankfurt is around €300 per semester. The cost of living in Frankfurt is generally higher than in Cologne, with Frankfurt being one of the most expensive cities in Germany.
Q: Can an average Indian student from tier 2 / tier 3 cities join the University of Cologne?
Yes, an average Indian student from tier 2 or tier 3 cities can join the University of Cologne, they must meet the entry requirements. Cologne University welcomes students from all over the world, including India, and offers a variety of undergraduate and postgraduate degrees across six faculties, including Arts and Humanities, Management, Economics and Social Sciences, Mathematics and Natural Science, Law, and Medical Faculty. University of Cologne eligibility requirements for international students are:
- Bachelor's degree with a minimum GPA of 3.0 or above (on a 4.0 scale);
- Language proficiency in English or German;
- Authenticated documents; and
- Completion of the TestAS qualifying examination for some programs.
University of Cologne
Student Forum
Answered 5 months ago
Due to the German public education system, SRH North Rhine-Westphalia typically charges higher tuition than the University of Cologne, a public university that charges little to free tuition for overseas students. Nonetheless, some students may find that SRH's private, practice-focused curriculum, s
M
Contributor-Level 10
Answered 10 months ago
When deciding between Technische Hochschule Ingolstadt (THI) and the University of Cologne for a Master's programme in Germany, several factors should be considered. THI is known for its excellence in engineering and business courses, while the University of Cologne is a well-recognized institution
A
Contributor-Level 7
Answered 10 months ago
Public universities in Germany do not charge tuition fees, including both Technische Hochschule Ingolstadt and the University of Cologne
Therefore, the cost of studying at both universities would be similar, and the main expenses would be related to living costs such as accommodation, food, and healt
N
Contributor-Level 10
Answered a year ago
Both Albert Ludwigs university of Freiburg and the University of Cologne are recognised among the top universities in the world. As per the university rankings, Albert Ludwigs university of Freiburg was ranked at 113 position by THE (Times Higher Education), while the Univeristy of Cologne was ranke
M
Contributor-Level 10
Answered a year ago
The estimated cost of living on-campus are as follows:
Rent (including extra charges)- EUR 366
Alimentation- EUR 171
Clothes- EUR 47
Learning material- EUR 20
Health Insurance, Medical Fees- EUR 79
Communication (Phone, Internet)- EUR 33
Interested candidates need to submit applications for the student do
A
Contributor-Level 10
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Is SRH North Rhine-Westphalia cheaper than University of Cologne?