Quick Summary
Universität zu Köln (University of Cologne) is a public research university founded in 1388, located in Cologne, Germany. Ranked #285 globally by QS World University Rankings 2026, it enrolls 49000 students including 11% from outside Germany. Known for strengths in Business Administration, Economics, Law, it maintains an acceptance rate of 18%.
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Institutional Profile
Who they are
One of the oldest universities in Europe with no tuition fees, a Triple Crown accredited business school, and a vibrant student life in Germany's fourth-largest city.
Subject Strengths
Business AdministrationEconomicsLawPhilosophyMedicinePhysicsSociology
Founded1388
TypePublic Research University
Total Students49000
Intl Students11%
Faculty Ratio48
CampusUrban
Campus SizeNot Available
Affiliated HospitalsUniklinik Köln (University Hospital Cologne)
AccreditationGerman Accreditation Council, EQUIS, AACSB
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Global Standing
Three independent ranking systems
QS World 2026
#285
Quacquarelli Symonds
Times Higher Ed
#160
THE World University
ARWU Shanghai
#151
Academic Ranking
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Academics & Research
What you can study
Bachelor's, Master's, State Examination, PhD
Programs
Available
PhD Programs
Available
Online Programs
Cologne Excellence Cluster on Cellular Stress Responses in Aging-Associated Diseases (CECAD), Global South Studies Center (GSSC)
Research Centers
Very High
Research Output
German Accreditation Council, EQUIS, AACSB
Accreditation
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Admissions Brief
What it takes to get in
Entry Requirements
Acceptance Rate18%
IELTS6.5
TOEFL92
Min GPA2.5
GREOptional
GMATOptional
SATNot Available
ACTNot Available
Key Dates
FALLApplication Deadline · July 15
SPRINGApplication Deadline · January 15
MAR-APRDecisions Released
Required Documents
TranscriptsSOPEnglish ScoresLORsPassport
Insider Tip
International applicants must often apply through uni-assist. Business programs are highly competitive (Numerus Clausus); ensure all ECTS credit requirements in specific modules are met for Master's admissions.
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Cost Ledger
Amounts in Euro
Living Cost
€11,400/yr
per year · EUR
Application Fee
$80
one time · USD
Total Estimated Annual Cost
€12,100/yr
tuition + living + essentials · EUR
Scholarships AvailableDAAD, Deutschlandstipendium, Cologne University Foundation Scholarships
Avg Scholarship$3,900
Financial AidBAföG (for domestic/eligible students)
Work-StudyAvailable
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Featured & Popular Programs
A sample from Bachelor's, Master's, State Examination, PhD programs total
| Program | Level | Duration |
|---|---|---|
| Business Administration | BACHELOR | 3-4 YRS |
| Law | MASTER | 1-2 YRS |
| Medicine | PHD | 3-5 YRS |
| Psychology | MBA | 12-24 MO |
| Economics | BACHELOR | 3-4 YRS |
| Social Sciences | MASTER | 1-2 YRS |
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Career Outcomes
Where graduates land
$56,000
Average Salary After Graduation
88%
Employment Rate
Internship PlacementStrong connections with industry leaders in the Rhineland region; dedicated career services for Management and Law.
Industry Connections
Extensive ties to the German mediachemicaland insurance sectors located in Cologne and Bonn.
Notable Alumni
Peter Grünberg (Nobel Prize in Physics), Stefan Raab, Karl Carstens, Karsten Warholm (Olympic Gold Medalist)
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Campus & Student Life
Life beyond lectures
Housing
On-campus available
Sports Facilities
Uni-Sport Cologne offers extensive fitness centers, team sports, and outdoor facilities.
Student Clubs
Over 100 student initiatives including AIESEC, Enactus, and Radio Köln Campus.
Library Resources
University and City Library of Cologne (USB), one of the largest academic libraries in Germany.
Exchange Programs
ERASMUS+, Global Exchange Program, WEXKA
Summer Programs
Cologne Summer Schools