Berlin's Free University: Student Population And Attendance Insights

The Free University of Berlin, founded in 1948, is a public research university located in Berlin, Germany. It is one of the eleven elite German research universities and is consistently ranked among the top universities in the country, known especially for its strength in the humanities and political science. The university has around 30,000 students and 4,000 staff members. The acceptance rate of the university is around 15%, making it a competitive university to get into. The number of students enrolled in the university has varied over the years, with 4,946 students registered by 1949, 50,298 in 1983, and 62,072 in 1991/92.

Student numbers over time

The Free University of Berlin was founded in 1948 and by 1949, the university had registered 4,900+ students. The university's student population continued to grow over the years, and by the late 1960s, it had become one of the main areas of the German student movement of '68. After German reunification in 1990, the university shifted its focus towards increasing its research activities.

By the winter term of 1991/92, following reunification, the Free University of Berlin was the second-largest university in Germany, with 62,072 students. However, shortly thereafter, the Berlin senate decided to drastically reduce enrollment. By the winter term of 2002/03, the number of students had decreased to 43,885.

Since 2000, the Free University of Berlin has undergone a period of revitalization, with significant improvements in its research performance, including an increase in the number of graduates, PhDs granted, and publications. The university has been consistently ranked among the top institutions in the country and is known for its strength in the humanities and political science. As of 2025, the university has around 30,000 students and 4,000 staff members.

Student demographics

The Free University of Berlin (FU Berlin) is a public research university in Germany. It was founded in 1948 and has since grown to accommodate nearly 30,000 students and 4,000 staff members. The university is spread across four campuses: Dahlem, Lankwitz, Düppel, and Charité - University Medicine Berlin Benjamin Franklin Campus.

FU Berlin is one of the eleven elite German research universities, known for its strength in the humanities and political science. It consistently ranks among the top universities in the country and has been included in Germany's top universities since 2007. The university has a fairly gender-balanced student population, with a ratio of 39% male to 61% female. There are over 31,500 students enrolled at the university, including 20,700 undergraduates, 8,700 postgraduates, and 4,400 doctoral students. The international student population makes up 23% of the total student body.

The university offers a wide range of undergraduate and graduate programs across various disciplines. While most courses are taught in German, there are a handful of courses taught in English, primarily offered by the Department of English Philology and the John F. Kennedy Institute for North American Studies. The acceptance rate for FU Berlin is approximately 15%, making the admissions process highly competitive.

Application process

The Free University of Berlin (often abbreviated as FU Berlin or simply FU) is a public research university located in Berlin, Germany. It was founded in 1948 and has since become one of the top universities in the world, currently ranked 98th internationally. The university has an acceptance rate of 15%, making the admissions process extremely tough and competitive.

Step 1: Visit the Official Website

Go to the official website of the Free University of Berlin. On the homepage, look for the 'Apply Now' or 'Register Here' button and click on it. This will initiate the application process.

Step 2: Fill Out the Application Form

You will need to provide detailed information about your educational background, including all your qualifications, degrees, and certificates. Additionally, you may be required to fill in your employment history and a personal statement. Make sure to review the application form thoroughly before submitting it.

Step 3: Submit the Application

After completing the application form, you will need to submit it by paying the specified application fee. For undergraduate courses, the application fee is EUR 75 for the first desired course and EUR 30 for each additional course. For international graduate applicants, the application fee is the same as for undergraduate courses.

Step 4: Wait for Processing

Once you have submitted your application, the university will take time to process it. The processing time can vary, but it generally takes around three to four weeks. During this time, your application will be reviewed by the admissions team.

Step 5: Track Your Application

You can track the status of your application through the Uni-assist portal. This portal allows you to monitor the progress of your application and see if any further action is required from your end. It is important to check your application status regularly.

Step 6: Interview and Entrance Exam

Depending on the program you are applying for, you may be invited for an interview or an entrance exam. Some departments may require both. This is a crucial step in the admissions process, as it allows the university to assess your knowledge, skills, and suitability for the chosen program.

Step 7: Await the Admission Decision

After completing all the above steps, you will need to wait for the university to make an admission decision. The admissions process at the Free University of Berlin is highly selective, so ensure your application is comprehensive and highlights your strengths.

Step 8: Accept the Offer and Enrol

If your application is successful, you will receive an offer of admission. Carefully review the offer letter and accept it to secure your place at the university. Follow the enrolment instructions provided by the university to finalise your enrolment and become a student at the Free University of Berlin.

It is important to note that the application process may vary slightly for international students and students with specific requirements. Additionally, the university may request additional documents, such as academic transcripts, language proficiency test scores, letters of recommendation, and a statement of purpose. Therefore, it is essential to review the specific requirements for your chosen program on the university's website.

Courses and subjects offered

The Free University of Berlin offers a wide range of courses and subjects across its 12 academic departments and three interdisciplinary central institutes. The university can be considered an universitas litterarum, meaning that studies in all basic sciences are possible. However, it is worth noting that engineering courses, apart from computer science, are only available at the Technische Universität Berlin or universities of applied science (Fachhochschulen).

The 12 academic departments at the Free University of Berlin are:

• Department of Biology, Chemistry, and Pharmacy
• Department of Earth Sciences
• Department of History and Cultural Studies
• School of Business and Economics
• Department of Mathematics and Computer Science
• Department of Education and Psychology
• Department of Philosophy and Humanities
• Department of Physics
• Department of Political and Social Science
• Department of Veterinary Medicine
• Medical School Charité – Universitätsmedizin Berlin
• John F. Kennedy Institute for North American Studies

The three interdisciplinary central institutes are:

• Institute for East European Studies
• Institute for Latin American Studies
• Institute for Middle Eastern Studies

Within these departments and institutes, the university offers a variety of degree programs, including bachelor's, master's, and doctoral degrees. The specific courses and subjects offered vary between departments and degree types.

For undergraduate programs, the Free University of Berlin offers a range of courses in the natural sciences, computer science, economics, mathematics, and psychology. Most undergraduate programs are taught in German, with the exception of the "North American Studies" course, which is taught in English.

At the master's level, the university offers a range of English-taught courses in various fields, including:

• Computational Sciences
• Business Administration
• European and International Business, Competition, and Regulatory Law
• Global History
• Iranian Studies
• Mathematics
• North American Studies
• Pharmaceutical Research
• Physics
• Polymer Science
• Social, Cognitive, and Affective Neuroscience
• Sociology – European Societies

In addition to these English-taught master's programs, the university also offers a variety of international programs taught in English, particularly in the life sciences.

The Free University of Berlin also offers a range of graduate degrees, including master's and doctoral programs, in various fields such as the natural sciences, humanities, social sciences, and engineering.

Student life

The Free University of Berlin, founded in 1948, is a public research university with a student-centric outlook. The university has consistently ranked among the top universities in Germany and is known for its strength in the humanities and political science. With nearly 30,000 students and 4,000 staff members, the university offers a vibrant and diverse community for its students.

Academic Life

The university offers a wide range of courses across various disciplines, including business administration, economics, history, philosophy, social sciences, biology, chemistry, and physics. The university also has a strong focus on research, with a research profile that covers fields such as liberal arts, social sciences, environmental science, artificial intelligence, and radiology.

Campus Facilities

The university is located in Dahlem, a garden district in southwestern Berlin. The campus is designed in the style of an American university, with all buildings within walking distance of each other. The campus hosts the majority of the university's 15 departments and central institutes, over 20 libraries, student cafes and dining halls, sports facilities, and the Botanic Garden.

Student Accommodation

The university does not provide on-campus accommodation. However, students can organise private accommodation in shared apartments or through the university's accommodation service, which offers dormitory rooms, shared flats, and fully furnished single apartments. Due to high demand, students are advised to apply for accommodation as early as possible.

Student Support

The university offers a range of support services for its students, including the Student Services Centre, which provides assistance with immigration issues, psychological counselling, and academic advice. The university also has a dedicated office for students with special needs, ensuring that all students have equal access to the university's resources.

Social Life and Activities

The International Club at the university organises a wide range of social events and activities across Berlin and Germany for international students. Additionally, ASTA, the student parliament, provides information on current affairs and links to student-run social groups. The university also has its own newspaper, FURIOS, which welcomes contributions from students of all backgrounds.

Sports and Recreation

The University Sports Centre offers a diverse range of sports, workshops, and short trips for students to stay active and connect with others. With over 800 courses and events representing 120 sports disciplines, students have ample opportunities to pursue their athletic interests and meet fellow students with similar passions.

International Opportunities

As one of Germany's most international universities, the Free University of Berlin offers numerous opportunities for global engagement. The university has partnerships with over 100 high-quality institutions worldwide and participates in the Erasmus+ program, providing a wealth of options for students interested in studying abroad.

Student Diversity

The university community is diverse and inclusive, with a gender ratio of 39:61 and an international student population comprising 23% of the total student body. The university welcomes students from various cultural and academic backgrounds, fostering a rich and dynamic learning environment.

In conclusion, student life at the Free University of Berlin offers a well-rounded experience that extends beyond the classroom. With a focus on academic excellence, research, and global engagement, the university provides its students with a wealth of opportunities for personal and professional growth, all while enjoying the vibrant culture and history of Berlin.

Frequently asked questions