University of Cologne
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University of Cologne: Rankings, Popular Courses, Fees

Shiksha popularity ranking
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#161 in World

#16 in Germany

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Dark Clock Icon Last updated on 18 Jun '26

University of Cologne
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Foreign students who want to take admission to the University of Cologne UG courses, they have to appear for TestAS (Test for Academic Studies). This is a centralised, standardized study aptitude test for foreign students. This test can be taken in English or German language. It can taken only at centralized test centers.

The test comprises of a core test and subject specific test module. Before applying to the UG courses of the University of Cologne, students have to take this test and submit the certificate to Uni-Assist with the application. Regardless of the course level, an important of the University of Cologne admission process is to submit the APS certificate

  • University of Cologne application deadline for international students is Jul 15, 2026, for Winter Semester.
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What makes University of Cologne unique?

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Year of establishment
1919
University website
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Student website
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Total foreign students
4919
No. of campus
1
Accepted exams
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Commonly asked questions
On Highlights
Q:   Is it hard to get into University of Cologne?
A: 

Yes, University of Cologne acceptance rate stands at 31%, which makes it competitive to get into. For University of Cologne admissions, Indian students must meet all the admission requirements at the university and submit proof of English language proficiency. University of Cologne has enrolled 5,000+ international students.

Q:   How is University of Cologne for international students?
A: 

The University of Cologne is among the top choice of international students to pursue higher education in Germany. Cologne University is home to over 5,000 internationals students from all over the globe. The university offer various programs at UG and PG levels for its international students.

Q:   Is University of Cologne public or private?
A: 

The University of Cologne is a public university situated in the UK. The University of Cologne offer programs at UG and PG levels for its international students. Shiksha Popularity Ranking ranks University of Cologne at #162 in world and #16 in Germany.

Q:   As an Indian applicant at University of Cologne, what German language proficiency test score can I submit?
A: 

Those Master's courses that are taught in German, Indian students have to submit the suitable language proficiency test. The University of Cologne accepts the following German language proficiency tests for the Master's courses-

  • TestDAF TDN 4 in all exam parts
  • DSH 2
  • Tele C1 Hochschule 
  • Tele C2
  • ÖSD C2 and more

University of Cologne Ranking 2026

#161

World level
Shiksha Popularity Rank
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#16

Country level
Shiksha Popularity Rank
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Commonly asked questions
On Rankings
Q:   What is the ranking of University of Cologne in the world?
A: 

The University of Cologne is one of the top ranked universities for higher education in the world. University of Cologne is ranked at #161 in world by Shiksha Popularity Rankings. Top ranking bodies worldwide ranks University of Cologne that are listed below-

Ranking Authorities

Rank

Shiksha Popularity Rankings

#162 in world and #16 in Germany

Times Higher Education 2026

#164 in World University Rankings

QS Rankings 2026

#272 in QS World University Rankings

US News and World Report 2026

#228 in Best Global Universities

Q:   What is the ranking of University of Cologne by QS ranking?
A: 

The University of Cologne is one of the best universities in Germany for higher education. Top ranking authorities all over the world rank the University of Cologne. According to QS Ranking, the University of Cologne ranks at #272 under the category “QS World University Ranking 2026”. Whereas in 2027 QS rankings, the Uni of Cologne ranks at #269. 

Q:   Where does the University of Cologne stand in THE ranking?
A: 

The University of Cologne is among the top ranked universities in the world. As per Times Higher Education (THE), University of Cologne ranks at #164 under the World University Rankings 2026. THE also ranks Cologne University programs that are listed below-

Ranking Categories by THE (Times Higher Education) 2026

Rank

World University Rankings

#164

Arts and Humanities

#97

Business and Economics

#126-150

Medical and Health

#151-175

Computer Science

#600-800

Education Studies

#201-250

Law

#85

Life Sciences

#126-150

How to get into University of Cologne from India?

  • Application fees :No Fees
  • Type of deadline :Regular
Document IconDocuments
Type of documentsApplicable for
SOPNot required
LORNeeded for few courses
EssaysNot required
CVNeeded for few courses
Additional documentsRequired
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Commonly asked questions
On Admissions
Q:   What are the University of Cologne English language requirements?
A: 

University of Cologne accepts major English exam scores as proof of English language proficiency. Students can refer to the table below for minimum score requirements-

English Language Exam

Minimum Score Required

TOEFL iBT

95 & Above

IELTS

7.0 & Above

PTE

76 & Above

Cambridge

C1 Advanced

TOEIC

Listening - 490

Reading - 455

Writing - 200

Speaking - 200

Q:   How can I get admission to the University of Cologne as an international student?
A: 

To get admission to Cologne Uni the eligibility criteria mentioned below need to be fulfilled first-

  • High school level qualification (for bachelor's courses)
  • A bachelor's degree (for master's courses)
  • Degree certificate
  • German language proficiency
  • Academic transcripts
Q:   What are the application deadlines for University of Cologne?
A: 

For UG programs, the application deadline is July 15th for the winter semester. 

For Master's programs the application deadline for the winter semester is August 20th and for the summer semester its January 15th.

The application deadlines for the following programs are-

Master of Business Administration- August 20 

Master Economics- August 20 

Master Health Economics- August 20

Master Economics System- August 20

Master in Political Science- August 20

Q:   As an Indian student, can I get into University of Cologne without the submission of APS Certificate?
A: 

No. Indian students who want to take admission to the University of Cologne have to submit APS Certificate. This is a mandatory condition. Only after submitting the APS certificate, admission is possible to the Uni of Cologne. For admission to the UG courses of this university, Indian students are also required to appear for Test for Academic Studies (TestAS). 







University of Cologne
University of Cologne Scholarships for Indian Students

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Commonly asked questions
On Scholarships
Q:   Does University of Cologne offer scholarships and awards for Indian students?
A: 

Yes, Indian student can avail DAAD Prize sponsored by German Academic Exchange Service at University of Cologne. Apart from this, University of Cologne offers a variety of programs at UG, PG and doctoral levels for its Indian students.  The university student body features 5,000 international students

Q:   What is the DAAD scholarship and how can Indian students apply for it at University of Cologne?
A: 

The University of Cologne DAAD scholarship attracts students from all over the world. The DAAD scholarship is one of the most popular funding options for Indian students wishing to study in Germany. This scholarships covers tuition fees, a monthly stipend of around EUR 850 (INR 94.6K) to EUR 1,200 (INR 1.33 L), health insurance, and travel allowance. Indian students can apply directly through the Official DAAD Portal by submitting academic transcripts, a statement of purpose, and letters of recommendation.

University of Cologne Popular Courses

MBA/PGDM
MS
M.A.
MIM
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University of Cologne
Students Ratings & Reviews

3.7/5
Verified Icon2 Verified ReviewsInfo Icon
Student Views (Based on Reviews)
  • 0% students never faced discrimination in this university
Vibe of Campus
Academically oriented
Easy going
Friendly
Sporty
Internships2.5
Part time work3.5
Post study jobs3.5
Quality of faculty4
Student Life3.5
Value for money5
Public transportation4
Safety4.5
Indian Food3.5
Permanent Immigration3
A
AnonymousVerified Icon
Master of Science in Physics - Batch of 2025
4.3
The cities are quite safe and friendly in Germany.
Tips: There are plenty of difference cultural, however it is not vast in the big cities. The BCGS scholarship is the best for Physics students coming to Bonn and Cologne. I am quite satisfied with the course and in general, I like Germany as well however finding full time jobs in 2026 is not easy. You should be aware of this.
Likes (Safety): In Germany the cities are quite safe and friendly, and the campus is open; in fact you can choose to go sit in any given class. Outside the university, most of the time it is safe, but in big cities like every part of the world, there are pretty crimes. I felt safe for the most part.
Dislikes (Internships): Finding internships is something that the college may help with only a little, as there is no placement cell, etc. However, there are possibilities to look for internships through friends and referrals, which is the best case scenario, and always try looking for connections.
Total Monthly ExpenseEuro 1000
Prepping time for classes30 hours/Week
Expected Annual SalaryEuro 35000
Reviewed on 16 Feb 2026Read more
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A
Anonymous
Master of Science (MSc) in Sociology in Social Research - Batch of 2021
3.6
University of Cologne is academically oriented.
Tips: Germans are very cold and serious. I didn't have any scholarship. Overall, I was pretty satisfied with my experience. Job market in Germany is good, but not for non German speakers. Professors and the university staff are usually very friendly and polite. It is better to learn German to better fit into the society.
Likes (Value for money): As it is super cheap compared to British or Irish or USA universities. German universities cost around 1k or 2k per year only. So it is great for value for money. However, not speaking Germany is hard for finding a job and living in Germany. Therefore up to you.
Dislikes (Part time work): Unfortunately I joined during covid so we could not experience part time work or seminars, or any online activities. We did not have the opportunity to experience ordinary student life due to the pandemic. But maybe now it should be better. Most of our classes were offline.
Total Monthly ExpenseEuro 1170
Prepping time for classes3 hours/Week
Expected Annual SalaryEuro 38165
Reviewed on 25 Apr 2023Read more
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A
AnonymousVerified Icon
MSc in Computational Sciences - Batch of 2026
3.1
Good education but not fitting exactly into job market
Tips: German culture is quite different; they are more introverted than Indian students, but they are still kind in most cases, at least in my study program. They are not as welcoming as Indians. No scholarships. Satisfied with university but could have offered or tried more in terms of placements.
Likes (Value for money): Yes, it is extremely low considering the standard of education. There is definitely a lot of effort put into improving the quality of education on a regular basis. The only issue is that the coursework doesn't directly match jobs outside academia.
Dislikes (Indian Food): I usually prefer cooking for myself. Indian food here generally costs around 15 euros or more per main dish at least, and they taste mediocre. I think I make better food, and it's cheaper and healthier to eat at home. If I eat out, it's only because I'm too tired or craving something specific.
Total Monthly ExpenseEuro 1000
Prepping time for classes10 hours/Week
Expected Annual SalaryEuro
Reviewed on 18 Jun 2026Read more
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University of Cologne Placements

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Commonly asked questions
On Placements
Q:   Who are the top employers at University of Cologne?
A: 

The University of Cologne is one of the top choice of international students. The university placement rate attracts students from all over the world. Cologne University graduates work for leading organisation that are listed below-

  • Deloitte
  • WDR
  • Uniklinik Koln
  • Selbstandig
  • University of Cologne
Q:   In which industry University of Cologne graduates work?
A: 

The University of Cologne graduates are constantly in high demand all over the globe. The university grads are highly skilled in Project Management, Microsoft Office, English, Communication, etc. University of Cologne graduates work for top sectors that are listed below-

  • Business Development
  • Education
  • Research
  • Media and Communication
  • Operations
Q:   What is the average salary of University of Cologne graduate?
A: 

University of Cologne placement rate attracts international students the most. University of Cologne graduates are constantly in high demand worldwide. According to sources available on the web, the average salary of University of Cologne graduates are given below-

Particulars

Average Salary (ROI)

PG

EUR 69,302

UG

EUR 48,000







University of Cologne Fees in Rupees for Indian Students

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Courses1st Year Tuition FeesDuration & Eligibility
MBA/PGDM(14 courses)
– / –Duration2 years
Exam AcceptedIELTS: 5.5 - 7, TOEFL: 72 - 100, PTE: 68 & Above
MS(43 courses)
– / –Duration2 years
Exam AcceptedIELTS: 5.5 - 7, TOEFL: 72 - 95, PTE: 59 - 76
M.A.(86 courses)
– / –Duration2 years
Exam AcceptedIELTS: 5.5 & Above, TOEFL: 72 & Above, PTE
MIM(3 courses)
– / –Duration2 years
Exam AcceptedIELTS, TOEFL, PTE
B.A.(56 courses)
– / –Duration3 years-42 months
Exam AcceptedIELTS, TOEFL, PTE
M.Sc.(10 courses)
– / –Duration2 years
Exam AcceptedIELTS: 5.5 - 7, TOEFL: 72 - 100, PTE: 68 & Above
BBA(13 courses)
– / –Duration3 years
Exam AcceptedIELTS: 5.5 & Above, TOEFL: 72 & Above, PTE
LL.M.(13 courses)
– / –Duration1 year
Exam AcceptedIELTS, TOEFL, PTE
Others PG(38 courses)
– / –Duration2 years
Exam AcceptedIELTS, TOEFL, PTE
B.Sc.(15 courses)
– / –Duration3-4 years
Exam AcceptedIELTS, TOEFL, PTE
Read more
View Course Wise Fees ->
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Commonly asked questions
On Fees and Eligibility
Q:   How much does it cost for Indian students to study at University of Cologne?
A: 

The University of Cologne offers programs at both UG and PG levels for its Indian students. Cologne University tuition fee can vary from one programme to another. The University of Cologne annual tuition fee for Indian students is listed below-

Course levelAnnual Tuition Fee in INR
UG
INR 0
PG
INR 60.81 L
Q:   What is the cost of attendance for Indian students at University of Cologne?
A: 

The University of Cologne is one of the most prominent universities for higher education in Germany. University of Cologne annual tuition cost may vary from one student to another. Check the table listed below for the cost of attendance for Indian students at Cologne University-

ExpensesMonthly Cost of Living in Cologne
Rent (including extra charges)EUR 442 (INR 49,568)
AlimentationEUR 200 (INR 22,429)
ClothesEUR 47 (INR 5,270)
Learning MaterialEUR 20 (INR 2,245)
Health Insurance, Medical FeesEUR 120 (INR 13,471)
Communication (Phone, Internet)EUR 33 (INR 3,704)
Leisure/Culture/SportsEUR 71 (INR 7,907)

 

Q:   Is it expensive to study at the University of Cologne?
A: 
  • University of Cologne offers programs at UG, PG as well as doctoral level to all international students each year.
  • Studying in this university can be considered extremely inexpensive or very affordable since the University of Cologne does not charge tuition fees.
  • It is mandatory for all students to pay a social contribution fee of around EUR 250 per semester or EUR 500 each year.







University of Cologne Notable Alumni

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Commonly asked questions
On Alumni
Q:   Who are the University of Cologne notable alumni?
A: 

University of Cologne is a very popular and one of the top-ranked insitutions in Germany, which counts a vast alumni network. Over the years, the Cologne University scholars have made a significant contribution in their fields and 11 Faculties have also won Leibniz Prize. Some of these notable alumni are-

  • Peter Grünberg (2007 Nobel Prize winner in Physics)
  • Kurt Alder (1950 Nobel Prize winner in Chemistry)
  • Gustav Heinemann (Federal Republic of Germany's President from 1969 to 1974)
  • Erich Gutenberg (modern German business studies' founder)
Q:   Are there any Nobel Prize winners from the University of Cologne?
A: 

Yes there are Nobel Prize winners who graduated from the Cologne Uni and some of them are as follows-

  • Kurt Alder (Chemistry 1950)

  • Peter Grunberg (Physics 2007)

  • Benjamin List (Chemistry 2021)

College comparison

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Compare University of Cologne with other similar colleges

MBA/PGDM
MS
M.A.
MIM
B.A.
M.Sc.
BBA
LL.M.
Others PG
B.Sc.
College1st Year Tuition FeesRanking
INR 0#269 QS, 2027
INR 0#209 QS, 2027
INR 0 - 3.24 L#230 QS, 2027
INR 0 - 21.95 L#104 QS, 2027
INR 15.34 L -/-
INR 0 - 51.58 L#425 QS, 2027
The values are of the latest years available with Shiksha. For more details, check detailed comparison
View comparisons
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University of Cologne
Studying in Germany

Key Facts About Germany

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60K
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Berlin
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83.63M (2026)
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University of Cologne Campus Life

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Commonly asked questions
On Others
Q:   Does the University of Cologne provide on-campus accommodation?
A: 

No, the University of Cologne does not provide on-campus accommodation opportunities to their students but help students in finding a number of housing options, which provides good facilities on a budget. Students in can reside in dormitories, private apartments, shared apartments and more while living in Cologne.

Q:   How is student life at University of Cologne?
A: 

The University of Cologne offers a vibrant student life into Germany's fourth-the largest city for its students. With over 50,000 students and a young demographic - every third resident is under 30. The city is bustling with cultural events, a legendary nightlife, and diverse student jobs.

Q:   Where do students reside at the University of Cologne?
A: 

The University of Cologne does not offer any on-campus accommodation for its Indian students. However, students at the University of Cologne have several housing options to choose from the following-

  • Student Dormitories
  • Private Apartments
  • Private Student Residences
  • Homestays
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Comments

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University of Cologne

Student Forum

chatAnything you would want to ask experts?
Write here...

Answered 3 months ago

There are 2 intakes to get into Nursing courses at the University of Cologne. Students can apply for Summer semester and Winter semester. The deadlines for summer semester are closed for this year. While the application deadline for winter semester is Jul 15, 2026. 

K

Kanishka Gambhir

Contributor-Level 10

Answered 3 months ago

No University of Cologne do not charge any tuition fee from international students who What to pursue Nursing. Instead, the students are required to pay a semester fee of EUR 335.65 to the university which is comparatively very low compared to other universities.  

K

Kanishka Gambhir

Contributor-Level 10

Answered 3 months ago

Most of the Nursing courses at University of Cologne are offered in German language. In fact, all Ug Nursing courses at this university are only German taught courses. While, PG Nursing courses offer very few courses in English language, else all the courses are offered in German. 

K

Kanishka Gambhir

Contributor-Level 10

Answered 3 months ago

Yes German language is necessary to study Nursing at the Uni of Cologne. Without the earlier knowledge of German language, Indian students would not be given admission to the university.  

K

Kanishka Gambhir

Contributor-Level 10

Answered 3 months ago

The University of Cologne Nursing courses are not ranked by any ranking body such as Shiksha, QS Ranking, THE Ranking, etc., for Nursing courses. Instead, this university is ranked for Medicine and Health courses by various top ranking bodies. 

K

Kanishka Gambhir

Contributor-Level 10

About the author

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Kartik Bisht holds a Bachelor of Computer Application degree and has worked in the field of education and study abroad for more than three years. He maintains data about major foreign universities, including the University of Oxford, Deaki... Read Full Bio

University of Cologne

University of Cologne Others(1)Main building
University of Cologne Others(2)Main building (east view)
University of Cologne Others(3)Center for organic electronics
University of Cologne Others(1)
University of Cologne Others(2)

University of Cologne
Location

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University CityCologne, Other - Germany, Germany
Size of cityLarge
Population of City10,75,935

University of Cologne
Campuses

Departments Icon1   Campuses
Cologne CampusUp Arrow Icon
Address

Albertus-Magnus-Platz, 50923 Köln, Germany

University of Cologne
Contact Information

Address

Albertus-Magnus-Platz, 50923 Köln, Germany
Cologne ( Other - Germany)

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