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Humboldt University Berlin: Rankings, Popular Courses, Fees
64 Scholarships for studying in Germany
1 Campus- Estd. 1810
Last updated on 10 Feb '26HU BerlinWhat's new?
- For HU Berlin admissions, the application deadline is Jul 15, 2026 (UG courses) for the Winter Semester
About Humboldt University of Berlin
Founded in 1810, the Humboldt University of Berlin is a public research university based in Berlin, Germany. Fully accredited by German System of Accreditation, it is the oldest university in Berlin. Shiksha also considers it one of the best universities in Germany. HUB Germany is divided into 9 faculties that deliver more than 170 degrees. Berlin Humboldt also partners with 375 universities.
This includes Ivy League Universities like Harvard. The University of California and the University of Melbourne are some other prominent partner universities of the HU Berlin. Students interested in higher studies here would have to perform really well in their studies. The Humboldt University of Berlin acceptance rate for international students is 18%. This means only 2 in every 10 applications received are accepted by the university.
Humboldt University of Berlin Information
Mentioned below are some key facts related to studies at HU Berlin.
| Fact | Validation |
|---|---|
| Address | Unter den Linden 6, 10117 Berlin, Germany |
| Third-Party Funding | EUR 129 million |
| Total Students | 37,222 |
| International Students | 5,203 |
| Female Students | 21,667 |
| Student to Faculty Ratio | 19:1 |
| Sporting Affiliation | Hochschulsport HU Berlin |
Humboldt University of Berlin History
HU Berlin began as the University of Berlin in the winter semester of 1810. Wilhelm von Humboldt played a key role in starting the university. In 1828, it was renamed to the Konigliche Friedrich-Wilhelms-Universitat-zu-Berlin. It took over its current name in 1949, From 1908, the university opened its doors to women students. By 1914, HU Berlin University became the largest university in Germany.
Check out the videos below to know more about studies at Berlin Humboldt.
Commonly asked questions On Highlights
Humboldt University of Berlin offers a total of 189 degree courses. An international student can study Bachelor Courses (excluding secondary subjects), Mono Bachelor, Combination Bachelor without Teacher Training Option/Reference, Combination Bachelor with Teacher Training Option /Reference, Consecutive Master courses, Postgraduate and Certificate Studies, Diploma courses in subjects such as Law, Archaeology, Art & Visual History, Social Sciences, Education Studies, Agriculture & Horticulture, Chemistry, Computer Science, Geography, Mathematics, Physics and many more.
As such, no cost to study for Humboldt University of Berlin has been mentioned. But, there are other fees that students have to pay in order to study at this university, as mentioned below.
Particulars | Fees |
|---|---|
Matriculation fees | EUR 50 (Around INR 5.3 K) |
Compulsory semester fees | EUR 10.50 (INR 1.1 K) |
Semester ticket | EUR 176.40 (INR 18.7 K) |
Cost of Living: A student needs around EUR 992 per month (Around INR 1.05 Lakhs) to stay in Germany.
1 EUR = INR 106.48
Also Check: Check Cost of Living in Germany
Humboldt University of Berlin offers a variety of courses in leading fields to their international students, where the language of instruction is English. Listed below are the HU Berlin courses, which overseas applicants can pursue:
- History;
- Philosophy;
- Sociology;
- American Studies;
- Art History;
- Economics;
- Business Administration;
- English Language & Literature;
- European Anthropology; and
- African & Asian studies.
Humboldt Uni of Berlin is one of the most prestigious universities in Germany. It is famous for its study areas like Social Sciences, Law, and Humanities. Also, HU Berlin has educated 30 Nobel prize winners. It also has the most prestigious law school in Europe. Based in Berlin, HU Berlin offers a great cultural experience.
Humboldt University of Berlin Ranking 2026
One of the top universities in the Germany, Humboldt University of Berlin ranks at #5 nationally in 2025, as per Shiksha Popularity rankings. For 2025, Humboldt University of Berlin stood at #99 in the world rankings. Subject rankings of Humboldt University of Berlin are also provided below:
| Humboldt University of Berlin Course Name | Shiksha Popularity Ranking 2025 (World) | Shiksha Popularity Ranking 2025 (Country) |
|---|---|---|
| M.A. | 33 | 1 |
| LL.M. | 31 | 2 |
| Others PG | 85 | 4 |
| MS | 236 | 12 |
By Other Ranking Bodies
Apart from Shiksha Popularity ranking, QS has also ranked the university globally. It ranks Humboldt University of Berlin at #130 in 2026. Humboldt University of Berlin ranking stood at #47 as per US News in 2025 and #89 by THE in 2026, globally.
#103
#5
Commonly asked questions On Rankings
In the latest world rankings, Humboldt University ranks among the Top 200 Universities in 2026. In Times Higher Education rankings, this university ranks at #89 in the 2026 rankings. In the QS rankings of the world. Humboldt ranks at #130 in 2026. Also, in 2025 U.S. News Global University rankings, Humboldt ranks at #47.
In the 2026 Times Higher rankings, Humboldt University of Berlin ranking is #4. Also, in 2026 QS rankings, this university ranks at #7. It can be said that for German-based universities rankings, Humboldt ranks among the Top 10 Universities in Germany.
Humboldt University of Berlin Programs
The university offers over 170 courses across the UG, PG, and doctoral levels. The Universitat Humboldt Berlin Courses can be pursued in both English and German. Most UG courses at the Humboldt University of Berlin have an average duration of 3 years. Most PG courses can be completed within 2 years.
Humboldt University of Berlin Popular Courses
Berlin Humboldt is known for its Law, Arts, Humanities, Engineering, and Social Science courses. Listed below are some of the popular courses for students to pursue at Humboldt Uni Germany.
- LLM in European Law
- Master's in Computer Science
- MS in Business Administration
- MA in Art and Visual History
Humboldt University of Berlin Online Courses
HU Berlin offers several online courses via the Humboldt Winter and Summer University online platform. These programs can be pursued at one's own pace. Social Sciences, Metropolitan Studies, Language, Literature, and History are some of the standout courses for students to pursue at the university, among others.
4.4(1)2 years
14K+ students got admitted through us.
Guided 1.3K students to Germany universities.
14K+ students got admitted through us.
Commonly asked questions On Popular Programs
The duration of the Humboldt University of Berlin MSc in Business Administration is 2 years. The language of instruction of this course is English. The admission intake of this course is Winter. To take admission to this course, the university expects students to be interested in Business-related issues, to enjoy scientific work, and to have Quantitative and Analytical skills, enough IT skills, a very good level of English, self-organizations skills, and commitment. An advantage could also be practical work.
Humboldt University of Berlin MA in English Literature course is 2 years. This course is designed to provide students with an in-depth knowledge of English literature and culture. It also offers a methodological approach to literary studies. To apply to this course, students can apply online using the university's direct link. The language of instruction for this course is English. This programme is designed to prepare and qualify for employment in the culture professions and media, academic posts, and for other jobs too.
Humboldt University of Berlin Admissions 2026
Students who want to take admission to Humboldt University of Berlin can apply via Uni-Assist (who have Non-German entrance qualification). The requirements to study at this university vary as per the course. The final review of the applications can take up to 6 weeks at Uni-Assist.
HU Berlin Application Deadlines
The admission intakes at Humboldt University of Berlin are Summer and Winter. Check the table given below to know the application deadlines:
| Particulars | UG Courses Application Deadline |
|---|---|
| Winter | Jul 15, 2026 |
| Summer | Closed |
Deadlines for Master's Degrees
| Particulars | Deadline for NC | Deadline Without NC |
|---|---|---|
| Winter | May 31, 2026 | Jun 15, 2026 |
| Summer | Closed | Closed |
HU Berlin Eligibility for Indian Students
A few of the documents required to apply to HU Berlin are given below:
- Previous studies transcripts
- APS certificate
- English and / or German language proficiency test
- CV
- Copy of the passport
Undergraduate Admission Requirements
For admission to UG courses of HU Berlin, students are required to submit a secondary school leaving certificate. A C1 German level certificate is required to study the UG courses at this university such as TestDAF, DSH-1, etc.
Postgraduate Admission Requirements
Students who want to take admission to PG courses of Humboldt University, the students should have a Bachelor's degree. English / German language proficiency skills are required.
- Application fees :No Fees
- Type of deadline :Regular
Commonly asked questions On Admissions
For Humboldt University of Berlin admissions, Indian students are required to meet the entry requirements.
- UG: The students are required to have a school leaving certificate
- PG Admissions: A bachelor's degree is required for admission to HU Berlin PG courses.
Students are also required to meet the English or German language requirements
Also Read: Requirements for Master's Degree in Germany
The required minimum level of English at Humboldt University of Berlin is B2. A higher level of English C1 or C2 has a positive effect. Minimum scores required in English language proficiency tests are:
- IELTS: 5.5
- TOEFL: 72
At the Humboldt University of Berlin, the requirement of different documents is depended on the course of choice of students. The requirements may vary from course to course. However, the following are the list of common documents that apply to all students for Bachelor applications:
- School leaving certificate: Submit the certificate and it should include an overview of subjects and grades
- Proof of university entrance examination: If students have passed the university entrance examination, they are required to submit proof of the same
- Proof of previous studies: Students must submit a complete overview of subjects and grades from their respective college/institute/university
- Language certificates: Students must provide officially certified copies of language certificates to Uni-ASSIST by post
HU BerlinHumboldt U Berlin Scholarships for International Students
Humboldt University of Berlin provides scholarship to native as well as international students on graduate and undergraduate levels. The Deutschlandstipendium supports students of all nationalities who have a good academic record. One half of the scholarship is funded by the Federal Government and the other half by the private donors. This scholarship is awarded once a year
| Scholarship Type | Scholarship Name | Amount | Grade |
|---|---|---|---|
| Merit-based | Deutschlandstipendium | Euros 300 | UG + PG |
How to get scholarship for HU Berlin?
- Students can apply for Deutschlandstipendium via online portal and submit the application as per the specified deadline
- Academic performance is considered but, social commitment or how a student has managed difficult situations in life are also considered
2 yearsHU BerlinStudents Ratings & Reviews
1 Verified Review- 0% students never faced discrimination in this university
Humboldt Universitat Berlin Graduate Outcomes
In the Global Employability University Ranking and Survey by Emerging, HU Berlin ranks at #68 worldwide and #4 in Germany. The career center offers many career services to its students to help with HU Berlin Placements. This includes workshops, counselling, and networking opportunities.
Humboldt University of Berlin Placement Rate
The university is yet to release the official data for the HU Berlin Placement Rate. Graduates of the university were able to land jobs as part of industries like Business Development. Education, Research, Legal, and Media & Communication. Given below is a breakdown of the best employing industries of HU Berlin graduates.
| Industry | Percentage of Graduates Employed |
|---|---|
| Business Development | 11.85% |
| Education | 9.9% |
| Research | 7.6% |
| Media & Communication | 6.8% |
| Legal | 5.75% |
Source: Unofficial
ROI After Studies at HU Berlin
The university has not released any official information related to the average salary earned by its graduates. However, the average salary earned by graduates is EUR 57,000 or INR 60 Lakh per year, according to Payscale.
1 EUR = INR 105.28
Commonly asked questions On Placements
IT industries tend to pay students the best salaries in Berlin. Mentioned below are some of the best paying jobs for Indian students in Berlin.
| Industry | Average Salary in EUR | Average Salary in INR |
|---|---|---|
| Senior Software Engineer | EUR 76,289 | INR 80.3 L |
| Software Engineer | EUR 60,948 | INR 64.15 L |
| Front End Developer or Engineer | EUR 58,067 | INR 61.1 L |
| Data Scientist | EUR 57,370 | INR 60.4 L |
| Data Analyst | EUR 48,883 | INR 51.45 L |
1 EUR = INR 105.26
Source: Payscale
As per the Graduate Employability rankings and Survey by Emerging, HU Berlin ranks at #68 worldwide. It also ranks at #4 in Germany. The Global Employability University Ranking and Survey mentions the Top 250 universities worldwide in terms of employabbility skills and the competencies of the graduates. As per Emerging, this ranking is based on the perspective of international employers only.
The University of Humboldt at Berlin doesnot releases its alumni data. However as per some of the unofficial sources, some of the roles for which MBA graduates are hired are
- Consulting
- Finance
- General management
- Marketing
- Sales
- Strategy/ Planning
- Operations
Humboldt University of Berlin Fees for International Students
HU Berlin charges no tuition fees from Indian students, as it is a public institution. However, there are some exceptions. The Humboldt University of Berlin Tuition fees for Master's in Social Science are EUR 10,000 or INR 10.66 Lakhs. Students should also plan for the cost of living in Germany.
Cost of Living for Indian Students in Germany
Public universities in Germany are mostly free. Students only have to budget for the living costs. It is mandatory to have a minimum blocked account balance of EUR 922 or INR 1.05 Lakhs per month to study in Germany. Given below is a sample budget for Indian students in Germany.
| Component | Monthly Cost of Living in EUR | Monthly Cost of Living in INR |
|---|---|---|
| Rent | EUR 714-EUR 1,252 | INR 76.1 K-INR 1.33 L |
| Food | EUR 250-EUR 450 | INR 26.6 K-INR 47.9 K |
| Healthcare Plan | EUR 80-EUR 130 | INR 8.5 K-INR 13.8 K |
| Transportation | EUR 52-EUR 74 | INR 5.5 K-INR 7.9 K |
| Utilities | EUR 212-EUR 519 | INR 22.6 K-INR 55.3 K |
| Mobile and Internet Bills | EUR 48-EUR 95 | INR 5.1 K-INR 10.1 K |
| Leisure and Entertainment | EUR 50-EUR 110 | INR 5.3 K-INR 11.7 K |
| Total Estimated Cost | EUR 1,406-EUR 2,740 | INR 1.5 L-INR 2.9 L |
Source: Cost of Living in Germany for Indian Students in 2026
1 EUR = INR 106.58
| Courses | 1st Year Tuition Fees | Duration & Eligibility |
|---|---|---|
MS(25 courses) | – / – | Duration: 2 years Exam Accepted: IELTS: 5.5 - 7, TOEFL: 57 - 95, Duolingo, PTE: 51 & Above |
M.A.(58 courses) | – / – | Duration: 1 year-2 years Exam Accepted: IELTS: 5 - 7.5, TOEFL: 80 - 100, Duolingo, PTE: 76 & Above |
M.Sc.(9 courses) | – / – | Duration: 24 months-2 years Exam Accepted: IELTS: 7 & Above, TOEFL: 95 - 100, Duolingo, PTE: 62 & Above |
MBA/PGDM(9 courses) | – / – | Duration: 24 months-2 years Exam Accepted: IELTS: 7 & Above, TOEFL: 95 - 100, Duolingo, PTE: 62 & Above |
B.A.(49 courses) | – / – | Duration: 3 years Exam Accepted: IELTS: 5 & Above, TOEFL: 87 & Above, Duolingo |
B.E. / B.Tech(2 courses) | – / – | Duration: 3-4 years Exam Accepted: IELTS, TOEFL, Duolingo |
BBA(4 courses) | – / – | Duration: 3 years Exam Accepted: IELTS, TOEFL, Duolingo |
LL.M.(7 courses) | – / – | Duration: 1 year-2 years Exam Accepted: IELTS: 5.5 - 6.5, TOEFL: 72 - 100, Duolingo |
Others PG(26 courses) | – / – | Duration: 2 years Exam Accepted: IELTS, TOEFL, Duolingo |
B.Sc.(9 courses) | – / – | Duration: 3 years Exam Accepted: IELTS, TOEFL, Duolingo |
Commonly asked questions On Fees and Eligibility
For international students, the HU Berlin does not ask for a tuition fee. Students only have to pay an per semester enrolment fee of EUR 320 or INR 34.1 K to study at the university. For some courses however, students may have to pay a tuition fees, as listed below.
| Courses | 1st Year Tuition Fees |
|---|---|
MS (23 courses) | INR 0 - 9.92 L |
M.A. (46 courses) | INR 0 - 9.45 L |
1 EUR = INR 106.57
Humboldt University of Berlin MA in English Literature admission requirements for international students are given below:
- English language proficiency: C1 level of proficiency / IELTS with 6.5 bands or TOEFL score of 100
- German language proficiency: B2 level proficiency in German
- A BA in English Studies or in Comparative Literature is required or an equivalent degree with a minimum of 60 credit points in English studies
Know more: Humboldt University of Berlin MA in English Literature
Humboldt University of Berlin Notable Alumni
A number of famous celebrities have studied at HU Berlin such as Karl Marx, Max Planck, Angela Davis, Max Weber, Erwin Schrodinger, Georg Simmer, etc. 57 Nobel Prize laureates are also associated with HU Berlin.
| Alumni | Best Known For | Image |
|---|---|---|
| Karl Marx | German-born philosopher, economist, political theorist, historian, sociologist, journalist, and revolutionary socialist |  |
| Arthur Schopenhauer | German philosopher |  |
| Max Weber | German sociologist, historian, jurist and political economist |  |
| Angela Davis | American Marxist and feminist political activist, philosopher, academic, and author |  |
| Erwin Schrödinger | Nobel Prize-winning Austrian and naturalized Irish physicist who developed fundamental results in quantum theory |  |
| Sahra Wagenknecht | German politician, economist, author, and publicist |  |
| Felix Mendelssohn | German composer, pianist, organist and conductor |  |
Commonly asked questions On Alumni
Yes, Max Planck did attend HU Berlin. He studied at the University for two semesters between 1877 and 1878. Back then, HU Berlin was known as the University of Berlin.
Planck is considered the "Father of Quantum Theory". He also won a Nobel Prize in 1818 and gave the Planck constant that linked energy and frequency.
A few of the alumni benefits that the Humboldt University of Berlin get are:
- Individual counselling by HU Berlin's career counselling service
- Access to networking events and job exchanges
- An alumni portal, where students can exchange, job offers, and events
- Local alumni meetings
Celebrities like Karl Marx, Max Weber, Angela Davis, Erwin Schrodinger, Ivan Turgenev, etc have studied at HU Berlin. A few others are listed below
- Philosophers Walter Benjamin and G.W.F. Hegel
- Psychoanalyst Karen Horney
- Theologian Dietrich Bonhoeffer
- Civil rights leader W.E.B Du Bois
College comparison
Compare HU Berlin with other similar colleges
| College | 1st Year Tuition Fees | Ranking |
|---|---|---|
| INR 0 - 9.96 L | #74 QS, 2026 | |
| INR 0 - 5.17 L | #39 QS, 2026 | |
| INR 0 - 10.22 L | #69 QS, 2026 | |
| INR 0 - 3.16 L | #23 QS, 2026 | |
| INR 3.16 L | #162 QS, 2026 | |
| INR 0 | #17 QS, 2026 |
CompareHU BerlinStudying in Germany
Key Facts About Germany
Insights on education, demographics & weather.
HU Berlin University Campus
The main building of Humboldt University is in centre of Berlin, on the Unter den Linden Boulevard. Campus Mitte consists of a number of faculties, institutes and interdisciplinary centres. Also, the library of HU Berlin offers access to millions of books and modern learning spaces.
Campus Location
There are four main campuses of the Humboldt University of Berlin, Campus Mitte, Campus Nord, and Campus Adlershof. Campus Mitte is home to the Arts and Humanities, Law, Economics and Business Studies and Theology. On the Campus Nord, Life Science disciplines are there. Whereas, Mathematics and the Natural Sciences are located on the high-tech campus Adlershof.
Campus Life
- While studying at Humboldt University, students can check the canteens near the campus. A wide range of balanced catering options to all the campus students of HU Berlin is offered
- HU Berlin offers 300+ sports for its students ranging from yoga to climbing to volleyball
- Students can also take part in the Musical opportunities that this university offers. There are four choirs, three orchestras, and a big band.
HU Berlin
Student Forum
Anything you would want to ask experts?Answered a month ago
All of the HU of Berlin courses are taught in German thus it is mandated by the university for the applicants to submit the proof of C1 German language proficiency. Some of the certificates accepted by Humboldt as proof of the language proficiency include Goethe-Zerifikat C1, telc C1, telc C1 Hochsc
R
Contributor-Level 10
Answered a month ago
Yes, a health insurance is mandatory for Indian students planning to study in Germany. The health insurance helps cover for doctor visits, emergency care, and hospital treatments. A public health insurance is usually more affordable. A public healthcare plan costs between EUR 120 and EUR 150 or INR
A
Contributor-Level 10
Answered a month ago
Yes, Humboldt University of Berlin accepts students belonging to both local and international level. However with an Humboldt Uni acceptance rate of just 18% it is to be noted that the admission criteria of the university are rather selective. The total no. of international students enrolled at Humb
R
Contributor-Level 10
Answered a month ago
HU of Berlin acceptance rate is 18% making it competitive to gain admission at the university. This makes admission criteria of Humboldt University of Berlin extremely tough for local and foreign students alike.
R
Contributor-Level 10
Answered a month ago
There are many ways Indian students can find part-time work in Germany. Some popular ways are mentioned below.
- Check in at the university career centers. They have access to job listings that are reserved exclusively for university students. Since there are less number of applications, this means bet
A
Contributor-Level 10
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HU Berlin
Main Building
Computer Science Building
Faculty of Mathematics & Natural Science
HU BerlinLocation
| University City | Berlin, Other - Germany, Germany |
| Size of city | Large |
| Population of City | 37,11,930 |
HU BerlinContact Information
Unter den Linden 6, 10099 Berlin, Germany
Berlin ( Other - Germany)
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