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Humboldt University

To get a glimpse of campus life at HU Berlin, you can watch the university's official English-language campus tour of its Mitte campus on YouTube. The video offers a great introduction to the university's historic surroundings, learning spaces, and student environment.

Founded in 1810 by the Prussian reformer Wilhelm von Humboldt, Humboldt-Universität zu Berlin (HU Berlin) is the oldest university in Berlin and one of Germany's most prestigious institutions. Originally established as the University of Berlin, it was later renamed in 1949 to honour Wilhelm von Humboldt and his brother, the renowned scientist and explorer Alexander von Humboldt.

HU Berlin is often recognised for introducing the "Humboldtian model" of higher education, a philosophy that combines teaching with research and encourages students to learn through curiosity, critical thinking, and academic freedom. This approach has influenced universities across the world and continues to shape the way higher education is delivered today.

Located in the heart of Germany's capital, the university's main campus sits on the historic boulevard Unter den Linden. Instead of being confined to one enclosed campus, HU Berlin is spread across four locations—Mitte, Nord, Dahlem, and Adlershof—each offering its own academic focus and atmosphere. Studying here means becoming part of one of Europe's most vibrant cities, where history, culture, innovation, and student life come together.

The university has built an outstanding academic reputation over more than two centuries. Its community includes 57 Nobel Prize laureates as well as influential figures such as Albert Einstein, Max Planck, Karl Marx, and the Brothers Grimm, reflecting the university's long-standing contribution to research, science, literature, and public thought.

Today, HU Berlin is a leading public research university and a member of the German Universities Excellence Initiative, the Berlin University Alliance, and the Circle U. European university network. It welcomes around 35,000 students from across the globe, creating a diverse and international learning environment. Students can choose from a wide range of programmes in the humanities, social sciences, law, economics, natural sciences, and medicine, with medical education offered through Charité – Universitätsmedizin Berlin, one of Europe's leading university hospitals.

For exchange students, HU Berlin offers much more than a strong academic experience. Its central location, internationally diverse community, and emphasis on research-based learning make it an excellent destination for students looking to experience both world-class education and life in one of Europe's most dynamic cities.

Humboldt-Universität zu Berlin offers a wide range of academic opportunities across nine faculties, along with the renowned Charité – Universitätsmedizin Berlin, which it jointly operates with Freie Universität Berlin. Students can pursue degrees in fields such as law, economics and business administration, humanities, social sciences, natural sciences, theology, life sciences, and medicine, making HU Berlin an excellent choice for students with diverse academic interests.

With more than 170 bachelor's, master's, state examination, and doctoral programmes, the university provides plenty of options for both local and international students. A growing number of master's programmes are also taught entirely in English, making the university increasingly accessible to students from around the world.

One of the defining features of studying at HU Berlin is its strong emphasis on research-based learning. Rather than focusing solely on classroom instruction, students are encouraged to actively participate in research projects and apply their knowledge to real-world challenges from an early stage in their studies. This hands-on approach helps students develop critical thinking, problem-solving, and analytical skills alongside their academic knowledge.

HU Berlin is also deeply connected to both the European and global academic community. As a member of the Circle U. alliance and the Berlin University Alliance—Germany's only university consortium to receive "University of Excellence" status—students benefit from opportunities for interdisciplinary learning, collaborative research, and academic exchange across leading European universities.
For students interested in studying abroad or building an international network, HU Berlin maintains partnerships with more than 150 universities worldwide and actively participates in the Erasmus+ programme. These collaborations create opportunities for exchange programmes, internships, research projects, and international mobility throughout a student's academic journey.

Beyond academics, the university provides strong support services to help students succeed both during and after their studies. The Career Centre offers guidance on career planning, internships, workshops, and professional development, while the International Office assists incoming exchange and international students with admissions, orientation, and settling into university life. Together, these services ensure that students are well supported throughout their time at HU Berlin.

Learn More About Academics

For detailed information about faculties, degree programmes, admission requirements, and academic opportunities, visit the official HU Berlin academics page.

Studying at Humboldt-Universität zu Berlin is about much more than attending lectures. Since the university is spread across four campuses—Mitte, Nord, Dahlem, and Adlershof—students get to experience different parts of Berlin while pursuing their studies. Rather than being confined to a single campus, university life is closely connected to the city's rich history, culture, and vibrant atmosphere, giving students the opportunity to explore one of Europe's most exciting capitals every day.

Life outside the classroom is equally dynamic. Through Hochschulsport (University Sports), students can choose from over 300 sports and fitness activities, including volleyball, climbing, yoga, dance, martial arts, and many more. Whether you're looking to stay active, learn a new skill, or simply meet new people, there are plenty of opportunities to get involved.

Students with an interest in music and the arts will also find a welcoming community at HU Berlin. The university hosts several choirs, orchestras, chamber music groups, and a big band through its "Musik an der HU" programme. Throughout the year, students can also enjoy exhibitions, cultural events, and performances that celebrate everything from art and history to science and innovation.

With students from well over 100 countries, HU Berlin offers a truly international environment. Exchange and international students are welcomed through orientation programmes, social events, and ongoing support designed to help them settle into life in Berlin and connect with fellow students. This diverse community makes it easy to meet people from different cultures while building friendships that often last well beyond the exchange experience.

Finding accommodation is another important part of student life. Exchange students have access to university-managed housing through student residences as well as accommodation provided by Studierendenwerk Berlin. For those who prefer living independently, shared apartments—known as Wohngemeinschaften or WGs—are a popular option throughout the city, allowing students to experience Berlin like a local.

Being based in Germany's capital also opens the door to countless professional opportunities. Berlin is home to a thriving start-up ecosystem, international companies, research institutes, government organisations, and cultural institutions, giving students valuable access to internships, networking events, and career opportunities. HU Berlin's Career Centre further supports students with career guidance, workshops, and professional development resources, helping them prepare for life beyond university.

Whether you're interested in academics, cultural experiences, sports, or building an international network, HU Berlin offers an environment where students can grow both personally and professionally while enjoying everything that Berlin has to offer.

Learn More About Student Life

To explore student life, accommodation, student activities, and campus facilities at HU Berlin, visit the university's official Campus & University Life page.
 

Interested in learning more about life at Humboldt-Universität zu Berlin? Whether you're looking for detailed information about academic programmes, student life, exchange opportunities, or campus facilities, the university's official resources are a great place to start.

These resources provide up-to-date information on academics, student services, accommodation, campus life, and exchange opportunities, making them a great starting point for anyone considering studying at HU Berlin.