University of Cologne

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.

Student Dormitories: The Kölner Studierendenwerk operates 90 student dormitories with 5,000 spots for students from all of Cologne’s universities, including spots for students with children or families. In addition to the student dormitories, an array of private student dormitories operated by other institutions exists as well. Applications to any of the above student dormitories must be submitted by the applicant as early as possible (3-6 months prior to moving in). Prospective students must also note that the rooms are highly desired and scarce, so the probability of being assigned a room in one of the student dormitories is low.

Apartments: Students planning to rent an apartment in Cologne must keep in mind that apartments in Germany are usually leased to tenants unfurnished and that most landlords are not interested in short-term leases. Furnished apartments, especially larger in size, are harder to find and also more expensive. The rents vary considerably depending on the district, connection to public transports and equipment of the apartment.

As an alternative to renting a room in a student dormitory or renting their own apartment, students can rent a furnished or unfurnished room in an shared apartment. In shared apartments, students have to share bathroom and kitchen with their roommates. A room in an apartment share is usually cheaper than an own apartment and in most cases, affords the advantage of a completely furnished apartment.

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. 

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 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.

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. 

• 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)