Studying in the Heart of Germany
Erfurt warmly welcomes international students
Studying abroad is an exciting adventure—and Erfurt offers you the best conditions for a successful start. It doesn’t matter whether you’re coming to Erfurt for a semester or planning to complete your entire degree here: In Erfurt, you’ll find excellent study conditions and much more.
The capital of Thuringia warmly welcomes international students and impresses with its high quality of life, short distances, a vibrant academic scene, and an open-minded community. In 2026, Erfurt was even voted the happiest major city in Germany—making it the perfect place for your studies and an unforgettable chapter in your life.
On this page, you can find out what counseling and support services the University of Erfurt and the Erfurt University of Applied Sciences offer specifically for international students.
University of Erfurt | International Office
The International Office at the University of Erfurt supports you before and during your arrival, as well as upon your departure, and organizes informational and welcome events.
In good hands right from the start
The International Office advises prospective students and exchange students on:
- Applications and enrollment
- Choosing a major and planning your studies
- Learning agreements
- Visas and residence permits
- Health insurance
- Housing and finding a place to live
- Registering with the Residents' Registration Office
- Contacting the Immigration Office
Living and Networking in Erfurt
The University of Erfurt coordinates various programs and initiatives to help you settle in at the university and in Erfurt:
- The Buddy Program: a voluntary mentoring program that connects new international students with more experienced students at the University of Erfurt
- German Meet & Speak: informal get-togethers between local and international students to speak and learn German
- Die Puzzlekiste: a swap meet for household items specifically for exchange students
In addition, the University of Erfurt works closely with other programs and partners:
- “Fremde werden Freunde” (Strangers Become Friends), a mentoring project that brings together host families in Erfurt and international students
- “Café International,” a series of events organized by the Student Services Organization, where international students present their home countries
- Erfurt International Students (EIS), the University of Erfurt’s international student group, which organizes events
- Tandem Language Learning, a program offered by the University of Erfurt’s Language Center.
Would you like to learn more, or do you perhaps already have specific questions? No problem! Just contact the International Office at the University of Erfurt directly:
Website of the International Office
E-Mail: international@uni-erfurt.de
Phone: +49 361 737-5300
Erfurt University of Applied Sciences | International Office
Erfurt University of Applied Sciences offers you a practice-oriented curriculum, modern facilities, and personalized support as you make your way to Germany.
In good hands right from the start
The International Office guides you every step of the way—especially during the important preparation and orientation phases:
- Assistance with visa and application questions
- Help with finding housing and enrollment
- Advice on residence permits and insurance
- Personal contacts for international students
- Advice on exchange programs and related funding opportunities
- Support with course schedules, module selection, and academic planning
Living & Networking in Erfurt
At the start of your studies, as an incoming student, you’ll be assigned a mentor from your degree program to help ensure a smooth transition into your studies. To help you settle in, Erfurt University of Applied Sciences also offers numerous programs and activities for international students:
- Welcome events & social gatherings
- Events to retain international professionals
- Field trips, guided tours, barbecues, etc.
- Intercultural programs and language tandems
Another part of the community at Erfurt University of Applied Sciences is the “Fremde werden Freunde” (Strangers Become Friends) mentoring project that brings together host families in Erfurt and international students. It promotes social connections and cultural exchange, and is increasingly helping people launch their careers in Thuringia.
Are you interested in studying at Erfurt University of Applied Sciences and would like to learn more about it? Then feel free to contact the university’s International Office directly:
Website des International Office
E-Mail:
Telefon: +49 361 6700-7061
