Study in NRW
Your future in Düsseldorf, Cologne, Duisburg and Essen
North Rhine-Westphalia (NRW) is Germany’s most populous federal state – and one of the most popular destinations for international students.
With strong universities, lively cities and a diverse range of cultural and leisure activities, NRW offers the perfect starting point for your studies in Germany.
Here you learn not only for university – but also for life..
Why NRW?
- Centrally located & well connected internationally
- Wide range of universities, technical colleges and language schools
- Many leisure and networking opportunities for students
- Cost of living cheaper than in Berlin or Munich
- High quality of life, good infrastructure & cultural diversity
Living & Studying in North Rhine-Westphalia
What you can expect
Over 60 universities
NRW offers a huge selection of universities, technical colleges and language schools – for every subject and every goal.
Excellent transport connections
Whether by train, bus or ticket app: in North Rhine-Westphalia, you can get to any city quickly and cheaply – perfect for studying and leisure.
Living space with opportunities
Compared to other federal states, it is easier to find accommodation in halls of residence or shared flats in North Rhine-Westphalia – even on a smaller budget.
International Community
Here you will meet students from all over the world – with many groups, networks and opportunities for exchange.
Culture & Nightlife
From open-air concerts to street food festivals: North Rhine-Westphalia is lively, diverse and full of experiences – not only for the campus.
Save money with student status
Germany ticket, discounts, apps & deals – students benefit everywhere. And we'll show you how to get the most out of it.
Düsseldorf
Modern, international, well connected
The state capital of North Rhine-Westphalia is known for its economic strength, international character and high quality of life.
Particularly popular with international students are Heinrich Heine University, Düsseldorf University of Applied Sciences and many language institutes.
What Düsseldorf has to offer:
- Numerous universities and international programmes
- A multicultural cityscape with Asian and Arab communities
- Perfect connections to the airport and public transport
- High recreational value: Rhine riverbank, old town, events & museums
Cologne
Creative, open-minded, student-oriented
Cologne is one of Germany’s largest and liveliest student cities – known for its tolerance, culture and carnival.
The University of Cologne is one of Germany’s oldest and most prestigious universities.
What makes Cologne special:
- Diverse degree programmes & universities
- Young, open atmosphere with many meeting places
- International scene & affordable neighbourhoods for students
- Strong links between science, media and start-ups
Duisburg
Diverse & student-friendly
Duisburg is a city undergoing change – with great cultural diversity and a growing range of educational opportunities.
The University of Duisburg-Essen (UDE) is one of the largest in Germany and has a strong focus on internationalisation.
What Duisburg has to offer:
- Excellent study conditions at the UDE
- Affordable rents and living costs
- Many international students & cultural networks
- Quieter surroundings with good connections to major cities
Essen
Science & change in the heart of the Ruhr region
Essen is a modern educational centre with great potential for the future. Together with Duisburg, it forms the seat of the University of Duisburg-Essen – strong in technology, medicine and social sciences..
What makes food appealing:
- Central location & short distances to many cities in North Rhine-Westphalia
- Wide range of courses – from engineering to health management
- A young, up-and-coming city with a wide range of cultural attractions
- Affordable housing & dynamic start-up scene
