The Best Universities in Berlin: A Complete Guide for Students

OUS Academy in Switzerland
Sep 15
6 min read

Berlin is one of Europe’s most exciting capitals. It is a city of history, culture, technology, and innovation. For students, Berlin offers something truly unique: high-quality education, an international atmosphere, affordable living compared to other European capitals, and a vibrant lifestyle.

Each year, thousands of students from Germany and around the world come to Berlin to study. Some are attracted by top-ranked research universities, others by creative art academies, medical schools, or universities of applied sciences offering practical skills and real-world training.

This article presents the best universities in Berlin with detailed information about each one, so you can make the right choice for your studies.

Why Berlin is a Top Choice for Students

Before we look at the universities, let’s explore why Berlin is such a popular destination for higher education:

World-Class Education: Berlin has a mix of historic universities and modern institutions, covering everything from engineering and medicine to arts and social sciences.
Affordable Costs: Most public universities charge little or no tuition fees for many programs, even for international students. Private universities charge higher fees but often offer specialized programs and English-language options.
Multicultural City: Berlin is home to students from all over the world. This makes the city lively, international, and open-minded.
Career Opportunities: With a strong economy, Berlin is a hub for technology startups, international companies, research institutes, NGOs, and cultural organizations. Internships, part-time jobs, and networking opportunities are everywhere.
Lifestyle and Culture: The city is famous for its music, arts, cafés, parks, museums, and nightlife. Students here enjoy both academic and social life.

Things to Consider When Choosing a University

When deciding on a university in Berlin, think about:

Field of Study – Some universities focus on engineering, others on humanities, arts, medicine, or public policy.
Language – Many programs are in German, but there are also English-taught programs, especially at master’s level or in private universities.
Research vs Practical Learning – Traditional universities often focus on research and theory. Universities of Applied Sciences emphasize practical skills, projects, and internships.
Location – Berlin is a big city. Some campuses are in the historic city center, others in quiet suburbs.
International Support – Check for student services like orientation, housing help, language courses, and career guidance.

Top Universities in Berlin

Here is a detailed look at the top 12 universities in Berlin, each offering excellent programs and unique advantages for students.

1. Freie Universität Berlin (Free University of Berlin)

Overview

Founded in 1948, Freie Universität is one of Berlin’s most respected universities. Located in the green district of Dahlem in the southwest, it has a beautiful campus atmosphere with modern libraries, research centers, and student facilities.

Academic Strengths

The university offers programs in humanities, social sciences, natural sciences, law, business, and languages. Many master’s programs are in English, making it popular among international students.

Research Excellence

Freie Universität is known for its research centers, especially in political science, international relations, and environmental studies. Students benefit from strong academic networks and partnerships with universities worldwide.

Student Life

The campus has cafés, student housing, sports facilities, and cultural clubs. Its green surroundings make it a peaceful place to study while still being connected to the city center by public transport.

2. Humboldt University of Berlin

Overview

Founded in 1810, Humboldt University is one of Berlin’s oldest and most prestigious institutions. It is located in the heart of the city, near the famous Unter den Linden boulevard, surrounded by museums, cultural sites, and government buildings.

Academic Strengths

Humboldt University offers a wide range of subjects including humanities, law, natural sciences, medicine (through Charité), and social sciences. It has a strong reputation for philosophy, history, and political science.

Historic Importance

Many famous thinkers, including Albert Einstein and Max Planck, were associated with Humboldt. The university played a key role in shaping the concept of modern higher education in Europe.

Student Experience

With its central location, students enjoy easy access to Berlin’s cultural life, libraries, and research institutes. The mix of tradition and modernity makes studying here a unique experience.

3. Technische Universität Berlin (TU Berlin)

Overview

TU Berlin is the leading technical university in the city. Located in Charlottenburg, it is known for engineering, computer science, natural sciences, and architecture.

Academic Strengths

The university offers strong programs in mechanical engineering, electrical engineering, IT, environmental technology, and economics. Many programs integrate practical projects and industry partnerships.

Innovation and Startups

TU Berlin is closely connected to Berlin’s startup scene and research institutions. Students interested in technology, entrepreneurship, and innovation will find many opportunities here.

Student Life

The university has a large campus with labs, sports facilities, and student organizations. It attracts students from around the world, creating a diverse academic environment.

4. Charité – Universitätsmedizin Berlin

Overview

Charité is one of Europe’s largest and most famous university hospitals. It is jointly operated by Humboldt University and Freie Universität.

Academic Strengths

It offers programs in medicine, dentistry, nursing, and public health. Charité is known for cutting-edge medical research, clinical training, and high-quality healthcare education.

Research Excellence

Charité leads many international medical studies and collaborates with top hospitals and research centers worldwide.

Student Opportunities

Medical students gain hands-on experience in hospitals, laboratories, and public health projects across Berlin.

5. Berlin University of the Arts (Universität der Künste Berlin, UdK)

Overview

UdK is one of Europe’s largest art universities, offering programs in fine arts, music, design, architecture, and performing arts.

Creative Environment

Students work in studios, theaters, concert halls, and design labs. The university organizes exhibitions, performances, and concerts where students can present their work.

International Arts Scene

Berlin is a hub for artists, musicians, and designers from around the world. UdK students benefit from this creative energy and global cultural exchange.

6. HTW Berlin (University of Applied Sciences for Engineering and Economics)

Overview

HTW Berlin focuses on practical, career-oriented education. It offers programs in engineering, computer science, business, design, and culture.

Practical Training

Courses include internships, real-world projects, and collaborations with companies. This helps students develop professional skills and industry connections.

International Programs

Many programs are available in English, attracting students from across the globe.

7. BHT Berlin (Berliner Hochschule für Technik)

Overview

Formerly known as Beuth University, BHT specializes in engineering, technology, applied sciences, and computer science.

Hands-On Education

Programs focus on laboratory work, technical projects, and industrial applications. Students graduate with strong practical skills.

Student Community

The university maintains close links with Berlin’s tech companies, offering many internship and career opportunities.

8. CODE University of Applied Sciences

Overview

Founded in 2017, CODE is a modern private university focusing on digital product development, software engineering, and entrepreneurship.

Study Method

Learning is project-based, with students working on real-world tech challenges. The environment is innovative, flexible, and startup-oriented.

International Focus

All programs are taught in English, and the university attracts students and lecturers from many countries.

9. Hertie School

Overview

Hertie School specializes in governance, public policy, international affairs, and data science.

Why Students Choose Hertie

It is ideal for students aiming for careers in government, NGOs, international organizations, or research institutions.

Global Environment

Programs are taught in English, and students come from over 90 countries, creating a highly international atmosphere.

10. Berlin School of Economics and Law (HWR Berlin)

Overview

HWR Berlin combines economics, law, business administration, and public management programs.

Applied Learning

The university emphasizes internships, case studies, and partnerships with companies and public institutions.

Career Opportunities

Graduates often work in business, finance, administration, or international trade.

11. Alice Salomon University of Applied Sciences

Overview

This university is known for social work, health, education, and early childhood studies.

Focus Areas

It trains professionals for careers in social services, community development, and education.

12. Weißensee Academy of Art Berlin

Overview

A specialized art and design school offering programs in fine arts, visual communication, product design, and fashion design.

Creative Learning

Students work in studios and workshops, combining theory with artistic practice.

Living and Studying in Berlin

Cost of Living: Student housing, shared apartments, and affordable public transport keep costs reasonable.
Transport: Excellent metro, bus, and tram networks make it easy to reach campuses across the city.
Language: Many people speak English, but learning German helps in daily life and job opportunities.
Student Life: Berlin offers concerts, museums, festivals, and sports clubs. There are also student discounts for cultural events and public transport.

Conclusion

Berlin is one of the best cities in Europe for higher education. Whether you want research excellence, practical training, or a creative arts environment, Berlin has a university for you. Public universities like Humboldt, Freie Universität, and TU Berlin offer strong academic programs, while institutions like CODE University, UdK, and Hertie School provide specialized training in modern fields.

Choosing the right university depends on your academic interests, career goals, and personal preferences. Whatever you choose, studying in Berlin offers high-quality education, international exposure, and an unforgettable cultural experience.