Humboldt University of Berlin
Mother of All Modern Universities Since 1810
Abitur Grade
1.0-2.8
Program dependent
International GPA
3.0-4.0/4.0
Country specific
World Ranking
#117
QS World Universities
Total Students
35,000+
Including 5,200+ international
Comprehensive Navigation Guide
About Humboldt University of Berlin
Humboldt University of Berlin (Humboldt-Universität zu Berlin) stands as the foundational institution that created the modern university model, established in 1810 by Wilhelm von Humboldt with revolutionary educational principles that transformed higher education worldwide through its emphasis on research-based learning, academic freedom, and the unity of teaching and research, fundamentally reshaping how universities operate across the globe while maintaining its position as one of Germany's most prestigious and historically significant academic institutions. Located in the heart of Berlin on the magnificent Unter den Linden boulevard, with its iconic main building and state-of-the-art facilities throughout Germany's dynamic capital city, Humboldt University has evolved into one of Europe's leading research universities, consistently ranking among the world's top institutions while serving 35,000+ students from over 100 countries who benefit from exceptional academic programs, groundbreaking research opportunities, and the extraordinary advantages of studying in Berlin, one of Europe's most vibrant, culturally rich, and historically significant capitals that offers unparalleled opportunities for intellectual growth, cultural exploration, and international networking.
Distinguished for its exceptional programs in philosophy, humanities, natural sciences, and social sciences that have shaped intellectual development worldwide, world-renowned research institutes that drive scholarly innovation across multiple disciplines, comprehensive academic offerings spanning 9 faculties with deep roots in German intellectual tradition, and strategic partnerships with leading institutions globally, Humboldt University maintains its position as the "Mother of All Modern Universities" while serving as a vital center for philosophical inquiry, scientific research, and humanistic scholarship throughout Europe and beyond. The university's unique location in Berlin provides students with unprecedented access to government institutions, cultural organizations, international businesses, and diplomatic missions while its revolutionary academic model ensures that students receive education grounded in rigorous research, critical thinking, and intellectual independence. Humboldt's holistic approach emphasizes interdisciplinary collaboration, research excellence, and academic freedom, creating graduates who are exceptionally well-prepared for leadership roles in academia, research, government, business, and cultural institutions while contributing meaningfully to human knowledge, social progress, and international understanding through innovative research, ethical leadership, and commitment to advancing the Humboldtian ideals of academic excellence, intellectual freedom, and the transformative power of education that have made this institution a cornerstone of modern higher education for over two centuries.
Humboldt University Excellence Indicators
Academic & Research Excellence
- Philosophy & Humanities: World-leading programs with centuries of scholarly tradition
- Natural Sciences: Groundbreaking research in physics, chemistry, and biology
- Social Sciences: Premier programs in sociology, psychology, and political science
- Medicine: Renowned Charité medical school partnership and research
- Law & Economics: Strong programs with European and international focus
- Interdisciplinary Studies: Innovative cross-faculty programs and research
Berlin & Capital Advantages
- Political Center: Access to government, embassies, and international organizations
- Cultural Capital: World-class museums, theaters, and cultural institutions
- Innovation Hub: Thriving startup ecosystem and technology companies
- International Gateway: Major European hub with global connections
- Historic Significance: Living history and architectural heritage throughout the city
- Student Life: Vibrant nightlife, affordable living, and diverse community
Humboldt University's Distinguished Alumni Network
Humboldt's alumni network represents one of history's most influential groups of thinkers, scientists, political leaders, and cultural figures, including 29 Nobel Prize laureates, numerous philosophers and scientists who shaped modern thought, political leaders who influenced world history, and cultural luminaries who continue to shape global understanding, scientific progress, and human development through their groundbreaking discoveries, philosophical insights, political contributions, and commitment to advancing human knowledge and understanding across all disciplines.
Nobel Prize Winners & Scientists
- 29 Nobel Prize laureates across all scientific disciplines
- Groundbreaking physics and chemistry discoveries
- Medical breakthroughs and biological innovations
- Revolutionary contributions to mathematics and logic
Philosophers & Thinkers
- Leading German philosophers and intellectual giants
- Influential sociologists and political theorists
- Revolutionary thinkers who shaped modern thought
- Critical theory pioneers and cultural critics
Political & Cultural Leaders
- German chancellors and federal presidents
- European Union leaders and international diplomats
- Cultural icons and artistic innovators
- Social reformers and human rights advocates
Academic & Research Leaders
- University presidents and research directors worldwide
- Leading scholars in humanities and sciences
- International organization heads and policy makers
- Innovation pioneers and technology leaders
Abitur & German Requirements 2025
Detailed Abitur Requirements by Faculty
| Study Program | Abitur Grade (NC) | Waiting Semesters | Additional Requirements |
|---|---|---|---|
| Psychology | 1.0-1.4 | 12+ semesters | Mathematics, Statistics |
| Law (Rechtswissenschaft) | 1.2-1.8 | 8-12 semesters | German LK, Essay |
| Business Administration | 1.4-2.1 | 4-8 semesters | Mathematics, Economics |
| Philosophy | 1.6-2.3 | 2-6 semesters | German, Philosophy LKs |
| Computer Science | 1.8-2.4 | 2-4 semesters | Mathematics LK |
| Biology | 2.0-2.5 | 0-4 semesters | Biology, Chemistry LKs |
| History & Cultural Studies | 2.2-2.6 | 0-2 semesters | History LK |
| German Literature | 2.4-2.8 | 0-2 semesters | German LK |
| Physics & Mathematics | 2.5-2.8 | 0-1 semesters | Mathematics, Physics LKs |
| Modern Languages | Free Admission | No waiting | Language proficiency |
Humboldt Excellence Standard: As the mother of all modern universities, Humboldt maintains rigorous admission standards reflecting its 215-year tradition of academic excellence and research innovation. Numerus Clausus (NC) grades from 1.0 (excellent) to 4.0 (sufficient). Programs emphasize research aptitude and intellectual independence. LK = Leistungskurs (Advanced Course). Always verify current requirements on Humboldt's official website.
Highly Competitive Programs
- Psychology: Extremely competitive with 1.0-1.4 and research focus
- Law: Highly competitive with 1.2-1.8 and excellent German skills
- Business Administration: Growing popularity with 1.4-2.1 requirements
- Medicine (Charité): Partnership program with high competition
Moderately Competitive Programs
- Philosophy: Strong tradition with 1.6-2.3 requirements
- Computer Science: Growing field with technological emphasis
- Biology: Research focus with moderate competition
- Economics: Analytical requirements with international focus
Accessible Programs
- History & Cultural Studies: Rich research opportunities
- German Literature: Strong linguistic and cultural focus
- Physics & Mathematics: Foundation sciences with research emphasis
- Modern Languages: International focus with language requirements
Humboldt Academic Excellence & Research Innovation
Humboldtian Educational Model
- Research-Based Learning: Unity of teaching and research principles
- Academic Freedom: Independent inquiry and intellectual exploration
- Critical Thinking: Emphasis on analytical reasoning and methodology
- Interdisciplinary Approach: Cross-faculty collaboration and broad education
- International Perspective: Global outlook with European scholarly traditions
- Innovation Focus: Cutting-edge research and technological advancement
Berlin Capital & Academic Life
- Political Center: Access to government, embassies, and international organizations
- Cultural Capital: World-class museums, theaters, and cultural institutions
- Innovation Hub: Thriving startup ecosystem and technology companies
- International Gateway: Major European hub with global connections
- Historic Significance: Living history and architectural heritage
- Student Community: Vibrant academic life with diverse international population
Your Gateway to Modern University Excellence
Humboldt University of Berlin represents the foundational model of modern higher education and one of the world's most influential academic institutions, where students gain access to unparalleled research opportunities, distinguished faculty, revolutionary educational principles, and over 215 years of academic innovation while experiencing the extraordinary advantages of studying in Berlin, Germany's dynamic capital and one of Europe's most culturally rich, historically significant, and internationally connected cities. As the "Mother of All Modern Universities" with exceptional programs in philosophy, natural sciences, humanities, and social sciences, Humboldt empowers students from around the world to pursue their academic passions while contributing meaningfully to human knowledge, scientific progress, and cultural understanding through rigorous research, intellectual freedom, and commitment to the highest standards of academic excellence rooted in the revolutionary Humboldtian principles of unity between teaching and research.
Ready to Join Berlin's Premier Academic Community?
Take the first step toward an extraordinary academic journey at the university that created the modern higher education model, where 215 years of innovation meets cutting-edge research in Germany's vibrant capital.
Mother of all modern universities since 1810
Germany's political and cultural center
29 Nobel Prize winners and groundbreaking discoveries
Humboldt Success Formula: The university seeks students who combine exceptional academic achievement with genuine research curiosity, intellectual independence, and commitment to rigorous academic inquiry. Your journey to Humboldt begins with outstanding academic performance, mastery of German language, meaningful engagement with research and ideas, and clear understanding of how Humboldt's revolutionary educational model, Berlin's dynamic environment, and distinguished faculty will enhance your education and prepare you for significant contributions to your chosen field through innovative research, critical thinking, academic freedom, and lifelong commitment to advancing human knowledge and understanding in the great tradition of Humboldtian scholarship and the principles that have shaped modern higher education worldwide.