University of Passau, Germany

"Owing to its excellent research output, an outstanding study environment and a tight-knit international network of partners, the University of Passau is a highly visible and highly respected academic and research institution in the heart of Europe. Internationally successful high-technology companies and a vibrant start-up scene, coupled with a rich culture and Lower Bavarian traditions make Passau a city with a high quality of life.  

About 11,000 students hailing from more than 100 countries and some 1,300 staff in primary employment in the academic units and academic support divisions are engaged in research, teaching and higher education support functions on our University campus, situated a stone's throw from the Old Town of Passau. This campus is not only well-equipped in terms of technical infrastructure, it has also received numerous architecture prizes.  

Internationalism has always been a hallmark for the University, as well as an important strategic aim. Our international connections are underpinned by the vibrant partnerships we maintain on a global scale, particularly the cross-border co-operative and research partnerships of our academics.  

Our students and alumni, too, are engaged in networks that reach far beyond the city limits of Passau. Many of our degree programmes offer students the chance to earn international double degrees, and all our students have access to a large range of language courses and student exchange programmes. Our subject-specific language programmes in Law, Business, Economics, Cultural Studies, International Relations, Teacher Education, Computer Science and Mathematics ideally complement our students' degree studies and give them an edge on the international labour markets.  

The University of Passau is among the leading 20% of universities worldwide. And closer to home, the University regularly attains top positions in academic rankings in Bavaria and the German-speaking world, e.g. in law, business and economics, computer science, communication studies, political science and cultural studies. Representative surveys, such as the Study Quality Monitor, regularly attest to the high level of student satisfaction at the University.  

Our graduates are highly sought after by employers, as they are not only equipped with technical knowledge needed to embark on their careers; they are also highly motivated individuals who demonstrate great initiative by seeking additional qualifications outside their degree programmes and practical skills, and through their commitment to causes outside the university. Many are active members of the University's various student clubs and societies, which provide a valuable contribution to campus life as well as the international and cross-disciplinary profile of the University.  

In the Times Higher Education World University Rankings, the University has consistently been ranked among world's best 25 percent of universities since it first participated in 2018.  

Among the ""Young Universities"", the University of Passau attained 44th place worldwide and third place among German universities in 2022.  

CHE Ranking 2023/24: The University of Passau achieves numerous top rankings in competition with German universities.  

The Faculty of Law received particularly outstanding evaluations from students and is placed in the top leading group nationwide in all 16 categories. Germany-wide, the University of Passau is No. 1 in the area of exam preparation."

Location

The modern campus is located in south-east Bavaria in verdant surroundings, a few minutes walk from Passau's historic Old Town. Here's a virtual tour for you to discover the campus: 
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Widely considered one of the most beautiful cities in Germany, Passau is situated in the southern foothills of the Bavarian Forest mountain range & national park, at the confluence of the rivers Danube, Inn and Ilz. The city's mediterranean architecture, piazzas and peninsular layout have earned it the nickname ""Bavaria's Venice"" - a nickname that feels even more accurate when tourists and cruise ships visit the city. 

Passau is located in the east of Bavaria and in the heart of Europe between Munich, Prague and Vienna. Diversity and multiculturalism are hallmarks of the city, thanks in part to our students and academics from around the world, and also due to the numerous guests from near and far who visit Passau as a holiday destination.

Why choose this university for an exchange semester?

The University of Passau offers outstanding degree programmes, taught in a family-like environment. Our excellent staff/student ratio is one of the reasons for the impressive level of student satisfaction in Passau. Another factor is the university's location in one of Germany's most beautiful cities. 
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Programmes/Courses

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Credits

Course Load per semester: 30 ECTS credits is the regular course load; incoming students are required to pass at least 15 ECTS credits.

Accommodation

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Cost of living

"Your actual cost of living will vary depending on your lifestyle. In Passau, you can use the following guideline to estimate typical monthly expenses:     

Accommodation: 250 - 450 Euros    
Groceries / food: 200 - 300 Euros    
Books and other purchases: 50 - 100 Euros    

Health insurance: 110 Euros (if you are aged umder 30) or 190 Euros (if you are aged over 30)    
At the start of each semester, you will also have to pay the semester contribution, which includes a bus pass for city busses within Passau."

Campus Life

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