Freie Universitat Berlin: University Detail
Freie Universitat Berlin, or FU Berlin, was founded in 1948 during the post-war division of the city and was established as a symbol of academic freedom in West Berlin. Today it is one of Germany's eleven excellence universities and is particularly celebrated for its strength in the humanities, social sciences, and area studies. Located in the Dahlem district of Berlin, it sits in one of Europe's most dynamic and culturally rich cities.
Basic Facts
University name: Freie Universitat Berlin
Founded: 1948
Location: Berlin, Germany (Dahlem district)
Type: Public research university
Language of instruction: German and English, with a significant number of English-taught programs
Total students: Approximately 36,000
International students: Around 20 percent of the student body
Academic Strengths
FU Berlin is particularly well regarded in the following areas.
Humanities including history, philosophy, literature, and cultural studies, where it has a long-standing tradition of critical scholarship. Social sciences and political science, with strong research output in international relations and comparative politics. Area studies, covering Latin America, North America, East Asia, and Eastern Europe, through its network of regional institutes. Veterinary medicine, where it runs one of the few veterinary faculties in Germany. Life sciences and biochemistry, supported by close ties with Berlin's wider research ecosystem including the Max Planck Institutes.
Popular Programs for International Students
Master of Arts in History
Master of Science in Biochemistry
Master of Arts in Political Science
Master of Arts in North American Studies
Master of Science in Cognitive Neuroscience
Master of Arts in Latin American Studies
Many programs, especially in the humanities and social sciences, are available in English or in bilingual formats.
Tuition and Costs
Tuition fees: No tuition fees at FU Berlin. A semester contribution of approximately 340 euros is charged, which includes a public transport pass covering Berlin and parts of Brandenburg, which alone is excellent value given Berlin's extensive transit network.
Living costs: Berlin is one of the more affordable major European capitals. Students typically spend between 800 and 1,100 euros per month on housing, food, transport, and personal costs. Student housing through Studierendenwerk Berlin is available but in high demand, so applying early is strongly advised.
Scholarships Available
DAAD scholarships remain the most accessible route for international students. The Deutschlandstipendium at FU Berlin provides 300 euros per month to high-performing students regardless of nationality. The Erasmus Plus program supports students coming from partner universities within Europe. FU Berlin also runs the Osteuropastipendium for students from Central and Eastern Europe, and various departmental grants are available depending on the field of study.
How to Apply
Applications are submitted through the FU Berlin online portal at fu-berlin.de. Most master's programs have application deadlines in May for the winter semester. Required documents include academic transcripts, a detailed CV, a letter of motivation, proof of language proficiency, and letters of recommendation where required. German-taught programs require TestDaF or DSH certification, while English-taught programs require IELTS or TOEFL. Some departments also conduct short interviews as part of the selection process.
Why It Is Worth Considering
Berlin's status as a global hub for startups, arts, politics, and culture makes FU Berlin an especially attractive option for students who want more than just academics. The city has a very active international student community, affordable living by European capital standards, and strong connections to think tanks, NGOs, and policy institutions for those interested in social impact careers. For students coming from backgrounds in social entrepreneurship, development work, or advocacy, FU Berlin's emphasis on critical thinking and global area studies makes it a particularly strong fit.
