Ostfalia University of Applied Sciences

Ostfalia University of Applied Sciences is a well-established German HAW, offering practice-oriented engineering and business programmes with Germany’s characteristic converted-grade admission model.

Ostfalia University of Applied Sciences admission guide for international students
Explore Ostfalia University of Applied Sciences admissions, tuition fees, scholarships, programs, and student life.

Institution size

Mid-sized

Min. CGPA floor

2.5 or better

Tuition / yr

Near-free at public German universities

Type

Public University of Applied Sciences (HAW)

Key Facts

CategoryDetail
LocationWolfenbüttel and Salzgitter, Germany, Germany
TypePublic University of Applied Sciences (HAW)
Institution sizeMid-sized
RankingsUniversities of Applied Sciences (HAWs) are generally not covered by global research rankings such as QS/THE; Ostfalia is well regarded nationally for applied engineering and business education.
Notable featureWell-established HAW with strong engineering and business ties
Official websiteostfalia.de

Admission Requirements for Low CGPA and Backlog Applicants

  • Admission based on converted final grade rather than individual backlog review, using the Modified Bavarian Formula or equivalent uni-assist evaluation
  • Most programmes require a converted grade of approximately 2.5 or better on the German 1.0–4.0 scale
  • Backlogs cleared in later semesters generally carry limited weight in this system

Tuition and Fees

ItemApproximate Range
TuitionNear-free at public German universities
Semester contribution feeA few hundred euros, often including a public transport pass
Blocked account requirement (visa)Approximately €11.9k per year
Living costs€700–€1,000 per month, below Berlin

Figures are indicative and reviewed annually by the institution. Confirm current rates directly with the university before budgeting.

Programmes Offered

  • Mechanical and Automotive Engineering
  • International Business
  • Electrical Engineering
  • Computer Science
  • Social Work
  • Health Sciences
  • Media Management
  • Wood Technology

This list covers the primary subject areas available; it is not the full course catalogue. Confirm the complete, current list of programmes directly on the university’s official course finder.

Degree Levels Offered

  • Diploma / Certificate: Offered
  • Undergraduate (Bachelor’s): Offered
  • Postgraduate (Master’s / MSc / MA): Offered
  • Doctorate (PhD): Not offered at this institution
  • Post-Doctoral Fellowship: Not offered at this institution
  • Short Courses: Offered

Availability of Short Courses and Post-Doctoral Fellowship positions can vary by department and is not always centrally advertised; confirm current openings directly with the relevant faculty.

Scholarships and Funding

  • DAAD scholarships available for eligible applicants on a competitive national basis
  • Near-free tuition itself functions as the primary cost advantage rather than a specific institutional scholarship programme

Application Process

  1. Confirm the specific CGPA, GPA, or classification requirement for the target programme directly with the admissions office
  2. Complete required English proficiency testing (IELTS, TOEFL, or equivalent) if applicable
  3. Prepare transcripts, statement of purpose, recommendation letters or references, and a resume or CV
  4. Submit the application through the university’s official admissions portal and pay the application fee
  5. Await the admission decision and, once accepted, pay any required deposit
  6. Apply for the relevant student visa or study permit using the offer letter and financial documentation

Admission Outlook

Ostfalia’s HAW status and converted-grade admission model make it accessible for students with a moderate CGPA and cleared backlogs, while its near-free tuition remains Germany’s structural advantage regardless of institution.

Campus Life

Based across Wolfenbüttel and Salzgitter, smaller cities in Lower Saxony, Ostfalia offers lower living costs than Berlin or Munich.

International students generally have access to a dedicated international student office, orientation programming, and student clubs and societies. Housing options typically include on-campus or university-affiliated accommodation alongside private rental options; applicants should apply for housing as early as possible after accepting an offer, since availability varies by intake and city.

Other Essential Information

CategoryDetail
Typical intakesThe Winter semester (starting October) is the primary intake with the widest programme availability; the Summer semester (starting April) offers more limited choice.
English language requirementIELTS overall band 6.0-6.5 is typical for English-taught programmes; German-taught programmes require B2-C1 level German proficiency.
Student visa typeNational (Type D) Visa, followed by a residence permit for studies
Post-study work optionsGraduates may apply for an 18-month residence permit to seek qualified employment after completing their degree.

Official Resources

Compare Ostfalia University of Applied Sciences against other accessible universities on our Find a Course page, or contact us for help confirming eligibility.